Historic Hindu temple
The Annamalaiyar Temple (Tamil: அண்ணாமலையார் திருக்கோவில்) is a very old and famous temple for Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is located at the base of Annamalai Hills in Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu, India. This temple...
Read MoreLegend
Once, a disagreement arose between Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu. Each one believed that he was greater than the other. To teach them the truth and guide them, Lord Shiva appeared as a huge pillar of endless fire, called the Jyoti Sthambha (Pillar of Light)...
Read MoreHistory
In the 7th century CE, the great Shaivite saints Sambandar and Appar, known as the Nayanmars, praised Annamalaiyar Temple in their devotional hymns called Thevaram. Sekkizhar, the famous poet of the Periyapuranam, also wrote that both Sambandar and Appar visited...
Read MoreArchitecture, Shrines, Halls
The Annamalaiyar Temple is located at the base of the Annamalai Hills and faces east. The entire temple complex spreads across 25 acres of land. The outer walls measure about 700 feet (210 meters) on the east and west sides...
Read MoreWorship and festivals
The temple celebrates many festivals every year. The four most important ones are called Thiruvizha (grand festivals). The biggest festival is held during the Tamil month of Karthikai (November–December)...
Read MoreReligious significance, Saints and literary mention
In this temple, Shiva appeared as a huge column of fire, known as Akkini Jothi. Even the powerful gods Brahma and Vishnu could not find the top or bottom of this divine flame, showing that Shiva is beyond measurement or limit...
Read More