Arunachalam temple to kanchi kamakshi temple distance and Kanchi Kamakshi Temple (Kanchipuram) on the same trip. This guide will help you understand the distances, travel routes, transportation options, and useful tips. Both temples are renowned spiritual destinations in Tamil Nadu, attracting thousands of devotees daily.
People believe that visiting the temple and walking around the hill (Girivalam) brings peace, health, and spiritual blessings.
History of Arunachalam Temple
The history of the Arunachalam Temple dates back over 2,000 years. According to ancient scriptures:
- The temple is mentioned in the Tamil Sangam literature.
- Saints like Appar, Sundarar, Sambandar, and Manickavasagar have sung hymns praising this temple.
- The temple has been a major spiritual centre since the early centuries.
The main legend says that Lord Shiva appeared as a huge column of fire at Arunachala. This divine event is remembered every year during Karthigai Deepam, when a giant flame is lit on top of the hill.
The Legend Behind Arunachalam – Shiva’s Fire Form
According to Hindu mythology:
- Once, Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma argued about who was superior.
- Lord Shiva appeared as an endless pillar of fire and asked them to find the top and bottom.
- Vishnu tried to reach the bottom but failed to do so.
- Brahma attempted to reach the top but was unable to do so.
They both accepted Shiva as the Supreme. That fire cooled down and became Arunachala Hill.
This is why the hill itself is worshipped as Shiva.
Temple Construction Through the Ages
Many kings have expanded the Arunachalam Temple over the centuries:
- Chola Dynasty
- The Cholas built the early structures around the 9th century.
- They created the first stone walls and shrines.
- Vijayanagara Kings
- The temple grew massively during the 14th–16th centuries.
- The famous Raja Gopuram, one of the tallest temple towers in India, was built during this time.
- Nayak Rulers
- They added mandapams, tanks, and sculptures.
- The temple became an important pilgrimage site.
Today, the temple complex spans 25 acres, featuring grand architecture.
Important Parts of Arunachalam Temple
Raja Gopuram
One of the tallest gopurams (temple towers) in South India.
Thousand Pillar Hall
A beautiful hall with detailed carvings.
Sivaganga Tank
A sacred water tank inside the temple.
Shrines of Parvati (Apeethakuchambal)
Dedicated to Goddess Parvati.
Deepam Festival Area
Where lakhs of devotees gather for Karthigai Deepam.
Karthigai Deepam – The Most Famous Festival
The temple is famous for the Karthigai Deepam festival. A huge fire lamp is lit on top of Arunachala Hill, which can be seen from many kilometres away.
Devotees believe that this lamp represents the original form of Shiva’s fire.
Why is the Arunachalam Temple Spiritually Important?
- It is one of the Pancha Bhootha Sthalams (Five Elements Temples).
- Represents the Fire element (Agni).
- The hill itself is considered Shiva.
- Girivalam (walking around the hill) is believed to clear past karma.
- Saint Ramana Maharshi lived here and taught self-realisation.
Distance Between Arunachalam Temple and Kanchi Kamakshi Temple
- Distance: About 115 km to 125 km
- Travel Time: Around 2.5 to 3.5 hours by road
- The distance may vary slightly depending on the route you choose.
How to Reach from Arunachalam Temple to Kanchi Kamakshi Temple
- By Road (Best Option)
Most people prefer to travel by road because it is easy and fast.
Common Routes:
- Tiruvannamalai → Polur → Vellore → Kanchipuram
- Tiruvannamalai → Cheyyar → Kanchipuram (shorter route)
Travel Time: 2.5–3.5 hours
Road Condition: Mostly good
You can hire:
- Private car
- Taxi
- Auto + Bus combination (budget travel)
- By Bus
Direct buses are available between Tiruvannamalai and Kanchipuram, although the service is limited.
You can also travel via Vellore or via Cheyyar.
Approx Bus Fare:
- Regular bus: ₹80 – ₹150
- Express bus: ₹120 – ₹200
Total Travel Time: 3–4 hours, depending on stops.
- By Train
There is no direct train from Arunachalam (Tiruvannamalai) to Kanchipuram.
Best Option (Train + Bus/Auto):
- Tiruvannamalai → Vellore Katpadi (Train)
- Katpadi → Kanchipuram (Bus/Train)
Approx Cost:
- Train: ₹30 – ₹120
- Bus to Kanchipuram: ₹30 – ₹60
Nearby Attractions in Kanchipuram
After visiting Kanchi Kamakshi Temple, you can also visit:
- Ekambareswarar Temple
- Varadaraja Perumal Temple
- Kailasanathar Temple
- Kanchi Kudil
- Silk Saree Weaving Centres
Kanchipuram is known as the City of Temples and Silk City.
Best Time to Visit
- Early morning (less crowd)
- Evening darshan
- Avoid peak festival days if you want a calm visit
Winter months (November to February) are ideal for comfortable travel.
Tips for Devotees
- Wear traditional or modest clothing
- Carry water bottles for road travel
- Plan darshan times in both temples to avoid rush
- Check temple timings before starting
Read More:
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Warangal to Arunachalam Trains Timings Cost & Distance