Karthika Pournami Tiruvannamalai Darshan Booking Procedure At Arunachaleswarar Temple

Karthika Pournami Tiruvannamalai Darshan Booking Procedure is the step-by-step process pilgrims must know to secure special darshan tickets and participate in the sacred festivities at Sri Arunachaleswarar Temple in Tiruvannamalai during the holy Karthika Pournami and Karthigai Deepam season. Tiruvannamalai’s Karthika Pournami (full moon) event is one of the most spiritually charged days of the year and attracts lakhs of devotees from across India and the world to witness the divine light and seek blessings.

Quick Facts

Overview Of Karthika Pournami At Tiruvannamalai

Karthika Pournami is celebrated on the full moon night of the Tamil month of Karthigai, usually falling in November–December. Tiruvannamalai’s Arunachaleswarar Temple is a major centre of worship for Lord Shiva, and this night is sacred for Shiva devotees who undertake the Girivalam (holy circumambulation of Arunachala Hill) and Darshan. For official information, visit official TTD portal.

During this period, especially on the night of Karthika Pournami and the Karthigai Deepam festival, the hilltop beacon (Deepam) is lit, symbolising Shiva’s infinite light. This attracts huge crowds who seek early darshan and spiritual experiences under the open sky. Understanding Karthika Pournami Tiruvannamalai Darshan is essential.

How To Reach Tiruvannamalai

By Air

The nearest major airport is Chennai International Airport (MAA) which is approximately 170–180 km from Tiruvannamalai. From Chennai, you can hire a taxi, book a private car, or take a bus to Tiruvannamalai city, which is well connected by road.

By Train

Tiruvannamalai Railway Station is around 2 km from the city centre and connected to major cities in Tamil Nadu. Trains from Chennai, Bangalore, and other cities stop here. From the station, you can take a rickshaw/taxi directly to the temple or your hotel.

By Road

Tiruvannamalai is well linked by state and national highways. Frequent buses run from Chennai, Bangalore, Puducherry, and other towns. Private cars and taxis are also common and provide a flexible way to reach the temple town. This relates to Karthika Pournami Tiruvannamalai Darshan.

Booking/Ticket Information

Booking your tickets ahead of time is especially important during high-footfall days like Karthika Pournami and Karthigai Deepam. Regular darshan is free, but special entry and festival darshan tickets require a booking.

1. Visit The Official Portal

Open the official Tamil Nadu HR&CE temple booking portal at annamalaiyar.hrce.tn.gov.in. This is the authoritative source for online ticket booking.

2. Navigate To Temple Booking Service

On the homepage, look for the “Temple Booking Service” or a similar section which lists options such as “Special Darshan”, “Seva / Abhishekam”, or “Festival Tickets”. Learn more about Karthika Pournami Tiruvannamalai Darshan.

3. Choose The Service & Date

Select “Karthika Pournami / Karthigai Deepam Special Darshan” or the applicable category. Choose the date for which you want to book — during festival times ticket dates may open weeks before the event.

4. Enter Personal Details

Fill in details such as name, address, age, contact number, and email. Ensure accuracy as this will be used for verification at entry.

5. Complete Payment

Proceed to payment using available methods like UPI, debit/credit card, or net banking. Charges vary depending on the ticket type — e.g., special darshan tickets around ₹50, Barani/Maha Deepam tickets ₹500–₹600 (based on last published info). This relates to karthika pournami tiruvannamalai darshan.

6. Receive Confirmation

Once the payment succeeds, you will receive a confirmation message or e-ticket on your phone/email. Carry this (digital or printed) during darshan entry.

7. Onsite Ticket Counters

If online tickets are sold out, you can also try onsite counters at the temple premises for certain categories of darshan and poojas. However, queues can be long on festival days, so booking online is highly recommended.

When I Visited Karthika Pournami

When I visited Tiruvannamalai during Karthika Pournami, the energy around the temple was unforgettable. I reached the temple compound early morning after securing my special darshan ticket online — which saved me hours in line. The crowd was devotional yet organized, with volunteers guiding devotees into specific lanes based on ticket type. This relates to karthika pournami tiruvannamalai darshan.

Therefore, what surprised me was the discipline of the lines, even with lakhs of pilgrims. The procession and rituals were vibrant, and devotees walked towards the hill for Girivalam as the full moon rose overhead. I personally recommend booking at least 3–4 weeks in advance, especially if you want to witness the hilltop Deepam and Barani Deepam ceremonies.

Nearby Attractions (With Approx. Distances)

• Arunachala Hill / Girivalam Path – Walking trail around the sacred hill (~14 km full loop)
• Ramana Maharshi Ashram – Spiritual retreat and meditation centre (~2–3 km)
• Skandashram – Historic meditation cave (~9 km hiking distance)
• Sathanur Dam – Scenic dam and picnic spot (~30 km)
• Poondi Reservoir – Peaceful waterbody ideal for nature lovers (~45 km)

Best Time To Visit And Why

October to February is generally considered the best period to visit Tiruvannamalai. The weather is cooler, and festival seasons like Karthigai Deepam and Mahashivaratri fall in this timeframe. The early mornings and late evenings are pleasant for Girivalam around the hill.

On the other hand, if you prefer quieter visits with fewer crowds, weekdays during the non-festival part of the season are ideal. For devotees seeking the most intense spiritual experience, the night of Karthika Pournami and Deepam lighting is extraordinary — but requires advance planning and ticket booking due to high demand. This relates to karthika pournami tiruvannamalai darshan.

Insider Tips For A Smooth Darshan Experience

• Book special darshan tickets online as soon as they open — they sell quickly.
• Arrive at least 2–3 hours before your confirmed time to avoid crowd bottlenecks.
• Carry valid ID proofs for all members — checks are common at entry points.
• Wear comfortable and modest clothing; temple guidelines request decency.
• Hydrate well and wear walking shoes if planning Girivalam around the hill.
• If you miss online slots, check onsite counters early morning for leftover tickets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There A Fee For Basic Darshan?

No, basic darshan at Arunachaleswarar Temple is generally free. Special entry and festival tickets carry nominal fees.

Can I Book Offline Tickets For Festival Darshan?

Yes, onsite ticket counters sometimes issue limited festival and special darshan tickets, but availability is not guaranteed. Online booking is preferred.

When Does Online Booking Open For Karthika Pournami Tickets?

Booking usually opens weeks before the festival date on the official HR&CE portal. For example, Barani and Maha Deepam tickets opened on 1st December at 10:00 AM in recent cycles. This relates to karthika pournami tiruvannamalai darshan.

How Long Does Darshan Take During Festival Days?

Darshan can take longer due to large crowds. Expect waits of 1–3 hours during peak hours unless you have a special darshan ticket. Arrive early.

Is There A Dress Code?

While there isn’t a strict uniform dress code, modest attire is recommended. Avoid shorts and sleeveless tops; traditional wear like sarees and dhotis are preferred.