Girivalam, also known as Giri Pradakshina, is a revered practice of encircling the sacred Arunachala Hill in Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu. This ancient ritual, deeply rooted in Hindu tradition, attracts thousands of devotees each year, especially on full moon days when the spiritual significance is at its peak. As we near the end of 2024, it's time to mark your calendars with the auspicious Girivalam dates to ensure you don't miss this spiritually enriching experience.

What is Girivalam?

The term 'Girivalam' is derived from 'Giri' meaning hill and 'Valam' meaning coming around. Devotees believe that going around Arunachala Hill, a physical manifestation of Lord Shiva, during Girivalam washes away sins and brings blessings. The circumambulation path is approximately 14 kilometers long, and devotees walk barefoot, chanting prayers and absorbing the serene energy of the hill.

Girivalam Dates for 2024

Here is the Girivalam calendar for 2024, detailing the starting and ending times for each full moon day:

Date	Day	Starting Time	Ending Time
August 19, 2024	Monday	03:04 AM, Aug 19	11:55 PM, Aug 19
September 17, 2024	Tuesday	11:44 AM, Sep 17	08:04 AM, Sep 18
September 18, 2024	Wednesday	11:44 AM, Sep 17	08:04 AM, Sep 18
October 17, 2024	Thursday	08:40 PM, Oct 16	04:55 PM, Oct 17
November 15, 2024	Friday	06:19 AM, Nov 15	02:58 AM, Nov 16
December 15, 2024	Sunday	04:58 PM, Dec 14	02:31 PM, Dec 15

Planning Your Pilgrimage

To make the most of your Girivalam experience, consider the following tips:

Travel Arrangements

Plan your journey well in advance. Tiruvannamalai is well-connected by road and rail. The nearest airports are in Chennai and Bangalore, from where you can take a bus or taxi to reach the town.

Accommodation

Book your accommodation early, especially for the peak Girivalam dates. There are various options available ranging from budget lodges to more comfortable hotels. If you are looking for a hotel that offers comfort at a reasonable rate, La Woods Resort in Tiruvannamalai offers the best of both worlds.

Timing

Start your Girivalam during the designated time slots for each full moon day. It's best to begin your walk in the early morning or late evening to avoid the heat, especially during the summer months.

What to Carry

Wear comfortable clothing suitable for walking long distances. Carry water, snacks, and any necessary medication. It’s also advisable to carry a flashlight if you plan to walk during the night.

Respect the Tradition

Girivalam is a deeply spiritual practice. Maintain silence or chant softly, respect other pilgrims, and keep the path clean.

The Spiritual Experience

Girivalam is more than just a physical activity; it's a journey of the soul. The path is dotted with numerous shrines and temples where you can offer prayers and seek blessings. The most significant among these is the Arunachaleswara Temple, a grand structure dedicated to Lord Shiva. Many devotees believe that simply being in the presence of Arunachala brings immense spiritual benefits.

As you walk the path, you'll encounter sacred spots such as the Virupaksha Cave, Skandasramam, and various lingams that represent different aspects of Lord Shiva. Each step on this sacred path is an opportunity for introspection, devotion, and spiritual growth.

Beyond Girivalam

While Girivalam is the highlight, Tiruvannamalai offers much more for the spiritually inclined. The town itself is vibrant with spiritual energy, housing numerous ashrams and meditation centers. The tranquil environment of the Ramana Maharshi Ashram, located at the foothills of Arunachala, is a perfect place to meditate and reflect on the teachings of the great sage.

For those interested in exploring further, the annual Karthigai Deepam festival, celebrated in November-December, is a spectacular event where a giant lamp is lit atop Arunachala Hill, symbolizing the divine light of Shiva.

A Journey Of A Lifetime

Participating in Girivalam is a profound spiritual experience that transcends the physical act of walking. It's about connecting with the divine, finding inner peace, and being part of a timeless tradition that has brought solace and enlightenment to countless devotees over the centuries. Plan your pilgrimage for 2024 with Welcome Tours & Travels, where we will prepare the perfect itinerary that will allow you to immerse yourself in the divine energy of Arunachala and let the sacred path guide you to spiritual fulfillment.

Mark these dates, prepare with devotion, and embrace the journey that awaits. Girivalam 2024 is not just a pilgrimage; it's a sacred voyage towards peace, devotion, and spiritual awakening.