Surya Lingam Tiruvannamalai Location Timings Importance
Know the details about Surya Lingam Tiruvannamalai Location Timings Importance, Surya Lingam Tiruvannamalai Route Pooja Schedule Booking
Surya Lingam Tiruvannamalai: Your Complete Guide
Introduction
Surya Lingam in Tiruvannamalai is a significant spiritual site attracting devotees from all over India. Located in the sacred town of Tiruvannamalai, the Surya Lingam is one of the eight Ashtalingams connected with the planets and their respective deities. This guide will provide detailed information on its importance, location, schedule, how to reach, daily pooja timings, and more.
Surya Lingam Tiruvannamalai Location Timings Importance
Importance of Surya Lingam
The Surya Lingam represents the Sun (Surya) and is believed to bring prosperity and health to worshippers. It is one of the eight lingams installed around the Arunachaleswarar Temple in Tiruvannamalai. Devotees visit this lingam to seek blessings for good health, vitality, and success in their endeavors. Each lingam in Tiruvannamalai has its own unique significance, with Surya Lingam being revered for its association with the Sun God.
Location
Surya Lingam is located on the Girivalam path around the Arunachaleswarar Temple. The exact coordinates for those using GPS are approximately 12.2192° N latitude and 79.0730° E longitude. It’s easily accessible as part of the Girivalam pilgrimage route, which devotees walk around the sacred Arunachala Hill.
How to Reach Surya Lingam
- By Air: The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, approximately 185 km from Tiruvannamalai.
- By Train: Tiruvannamalai Railway Station is well-connected to major cities. From the station, local transportation like auto-rickshaws and taxis can take you to the temple.
- By Road: Regular bus services are available from cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and Vellore. Private taxis and auto-rickshaws are also options for convenient travel within the town.
Daily Pooja Schedule
The Arunachaleswarar Temple conducts several poojas throughout the day. Here is the daily pooja schedule:
- Ushathkala Pooja: 5:30 AM
- Kalasandhi Pooja: 8:00 AM
- Uchikala Pooja: 12:00 PM
- Sayaratchai Pooja: 6:00 PM
- Irandam Kaalam Pooja: 8:00 PM
- Ardha Jamam Pooja: 10:00 PM
Each pooja holds special significance, and attending these rituals provides a deeply spiritual experience.
Things to Know
- Dress Code: Traditional attire is recommended. Men should wear dhotis or veshtis, and women should wear sarees or salwar kameez.
- Footwear: Shoes and sandals should be left outside the temple premises.
- Offerings: Common offerings include flowers, fruits, and camphor. You can buy these from shops outside the temple.
- Photography: Photography inside the sanctum sanctorum is typically prohibited. Respect the temple guidelines.
FAQs
What is the best time to visit Surya Lingam?
The best time to visit is during early morning hours or late evening to avoid the midday heat. Special festivals like Karthikai Deepam are also ideal times to visit.
Are there any entry fees?
No, there are no entry fees to visit the Surya Lingam or the Arunachaleswarar Temple.
Can non-Hindus visit the temple?
Yes, non-Hindus can visit the temple, but they should adhere to the dress code and other temple norms.
Is there accommodation near the temple?
Yes, several hotels and guest houses are available near the temple, catering to different budgets.
What is Girivalam, and how is it related to Surya Lingam?
Girivalam is the practice of circumambulating the Arunachala Hill, covering a distance of about 14 km. Surya Lingam is one of the eight lingams located along this path, making it an integral part of the Girivalam pilgrimage.
Visiting the Surya Lingam in Tiruvannamalai is a spiritually enriching experience. Whether you are seeking blessings for health, prosperity, or simply wishing to immerse yourself in the divine atmosphere, this guide provides all the details you need for an informed and fulfilling visit.