Out of the various spiritual rituals performed in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, Girivalam, also known as Giri Pradakshina, is one that everyone should experience at least once. It is a sacred ritual performed by devotees in the holy town of Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu. This pilgrimage involves orbiting the Arunachala Hill, which is considered a manifestation of Lord Shiva. One of the significant aspects of this journey is the worship of the eight lingams, each representing a cardinal direction and associated with specific spiritual benefits.

The Eight Lingams

The eight lingams around Arunachala Hill are named Indra, Agni, Yama, Niruthi, Varuna, Vayu, Kubera, and Eesanya. Each lingam is believed to bestow unique blessings and has a distinct significance in the pilgrimage.

Indra Lingam

Location: Eastern side of the hill.
Significance: Named after the king of gods, Indra Lingam is associated with prosperity and health. Worshipping here is believed to bring success and eliminate obstacles in one’s life.

Agni Lingam

Location: Southeastern side.
Significance: Representing the element of fire, Agni Lingam is revered for its power to purify. Devotees seek blessings here for spiritual purification and inner strength.

Yama Lingam

Location: Southern side.
Significance: Named after the god of death, Yama Lingam symbolizes the control over death and rebirth. Worshipping here is believed to bestow longevity and protect against untimely death.

Niruthi Lingam

Location: Southwestern side.
Significance: Niruthi represents the direction of misfortune. The Niruthi Lingam is worshipped for protection from negative influences and to ward off evil spirits.

Varuna Lingam

Location: Western side.
Significance: Named after the god of water, Varuna Lingam is associated with rain and fertility. Devotees pray here for abundant harvests and relief from drought.

Vayu Lingam

Location: Northwestern side.
Significance: Representing the wind, Vayu Lingam is believed to bring calmness and clarity of mind. Worshippers seek mental peace and relief from stress by praying here.

Kubera Lingam

Location: Northern side.
Significance: Named after the god of wealth, Kubera Lingam is associated with prosperity and material abundance. Devotees pray here for financial stability and success in business.

Eesanya Lingam

Location: Northeastern side.
Significance: Representing the supreme ruler, Eesanya Lingam is believed to grant spiritual enlightenment. Worshipping here helps in gaining wisdom and divine insight.

The Pilgrimage Route

The Girivalam path is approximately 14 kilometres long and encircles the Arunachala Hill. Starting from the Arunachaleswara Temple, devotees walk barefoot along this sacred path, visiting each lingam in the specified order. The journey typically begins early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the heat and ensure a peaceful experience.

Starting Point: Arunachaleswara Temple

Begin your journey at the main temple, offering prayers and seeking blessings for a successful pilgrimage.

Indra Lingam

Located near the temple, this is the first stop. Spend some time in devotion, invoking the blessings of Indra for prosperity and health.

Agni Lingam

As you move southeast, you will encounter Agni Lingam. Here, meditate on the purifying energy of fire and seek inner strength.

Yama Lingam

Proceeding south, you reach Yama Lingam. Pray for protection from the cycle of death and rebirth, and seek longevity.

Niruthi Lingam

Continuing southwest, you arrive at Niruthi Lingam. Offer your prayers for protection from negative influences and evil spirits.

Varuna Lingam

Moving westward, you find Varuna Lingam. Here, pray for fertility, good harvests, and relief from drought.

Vayu Lingam

As you head northwest, Vayu Lingam awaits. Meditate here for mental peace, clarity, and relief from stress.

Kubera Lingam

Continuing north, you reach Kubera Lingam. Seek blessings for financial stability and success in your endeavours.

Eesanya Lingam

Finally, moving northeast, you arrive at Eesanya Lingam. Pray for spiritual enlightenment and divine wisdom.

Return to Arunachaleswara Temple

Complete your pilgrimage by returning to the starting point. Offer your gratitude and conclude your journey with final prayers.

Dates for Girivalam 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

Practical Tips for Pilgrims

Preparation

Wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking long distances. Carry water, snacks, and any necessary medications.

Respect the Tradition

Maintain silence or chant softly during your walk. Respect other pilgrims and the sanctity of the lingams and the path.

Accommodation

Book your stay in advance, especially during peak pilgrimage seasons. There are various lodging options available in Tiruvannamalai, such as the La Woods Resort. It is well-known for its luxurious rooms that offer the best comfort at reasonable rates. Rejuvenate and relax before the pilgrimage at La Woods Resort.

Local Guides

Consider hiring a local guide who can provide insights into the significance of each lingam and enhance your pilgrimage experience.

Get Blessed with Spirituality

Girivalam is not just a physical journey; it is a profound spiritual experience that connects you with the divine. The eight lingams around Arunachala Hill offer a unique opportunity to seek blessings for various aspects of life. Planning your pilgrimage with Welcome Tours & Travels gives you an advantage as we ensure that you are properly guided on this journey of spirituality, and get to experience it with devotion and reverence, allowing the sacred energy of Arunachala to guide you towards inner peace and spiritual fulfilment.