Thiruvanamalai is a beautiful hill town located in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, India. Home to the famous Arunachaleshwar Temple, Thiruvanamalai is a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists alike. With its stunning temples, lush greenery, and colorful markets, Thiruvanamalai offers something for everyone.
Thiruvanamalai is known for hosting the annual Karthigai Deepam festival, when thousands of devotees come to pay their respects to Lord Shiva. Visitors can explore the fascinating history and culture of Thiruvanamalai by visiting its many temples, including the magnificent Sri Arunachaleshwar Temple. Other attractions include the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, which is dedicated to the great spiritual leader, and the Annamalai Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to some of India's endangered species.
Thiruvanamalai is also renowned for its vibrant street markets. From traditional items like spices, sarees, and jewelry to modern-day items like electronics and apparel, there is something for everyone. Visitors can also feast on some of the delicious local cuisine like idli, dosa, and sambar.
Thiruvanamalai is a great place for those looking for a mix of the traditional and the modern. With its ancient temples and bustling markets, Thiruvanamalai is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
1. East Fort: This is the oldest part of the city, located near the Padmanabhaswamy Temple. It is filled with many traditional shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
2. Beach Road: This is one of the most popular areas to stay in Thiruvanamalai, offering a variety of beachfront accommodation options. It also has several restaurants and nightlife spots.
3. Kanyakumari: This area is known for its beautiful beaches, temples, and other attractions. It is also a great spot for shopping and exploring the local culture.
4. Kovalam: Located on the west coast of Thiruvanamalai, this area is home to the world-famous Vivekananda Rock Memorial. It also has many luxurious resorts and excellent beachfront dining.
5. Thirumala: This is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in India, located near the Venkateswara temple. It is a great place to stay for those looking to explore the religious sites in Thiruvanamalai.
1. Arunachaleswarar Temple: One of the largest temples in India, Arunachaleswarar Temple is located in the heart of Thiruvanamalai. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is an important pilgrimage destination for Hindus.
2. Sri Ramana Ashram: This ashram was founded by Sri Ramana Maharshi, one of the most influential spiritual masters of modern India. The ashram is a place for spiritual seekers to meditate and experience peace and tranquility.
3. Pazhani Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan and is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus in South India.
4. Virupaksha Cave: This cave is located near the Arunachaleswarar Temple and is believed to be the spot where Lord Shiva performed his meditation.
5. Thiruvannamalai Lake: This lake is located near the Arunachaleswarar Temple and is a popular spot for picnics and leisurely boat rides.
1. Kothu Parotta: This traditional dish combines shredded parotta with a variety of spices and vegetables, cooked together on a hot flat griddle. It is a popular street food in Thiruvanamalai.
2. Pongal: A South Indian dish made of rice and lentils, Pongal is served with a variety of side dishes like sambar, chutney, and vadai.
3. Appam: A popular breakfast dish, Appam is a fermented pancake made of rice flour, coconut milk, and sugar.
4. Dosa: Another South Indian favorite, Dosa is a crispy pancake made of rice and lentils. It is served with chutney and sambar.
5. Idli: Idli is a steamed savory cake made of rice and lentils, and is served with chutney and sambar.