Girivalam Map: Your Ultimate Guide to the Sacred Path Around Arunachala Hill

Tiruvannamalai, a holy town in Tamil Nadu, India, is very famous and has immense spiritual significance. The sacred ritual of Girivalam that takes place here attracts thousands of devotees, especially on full moon nights. Girivalam refers to the circumambulation of Arunachala Hill, which is a symbol of Lord Shiva. Millions of devotees embark on this pilgrimage every year, especially on the full moon or Pournami days in the Hindu lunar calendar. The path is approximately 14 km long. It is the belief of devotees that if they circumambulate the hill with faith, they can get divine blessings, spiritual enlightenment, and the eradication of past karmas. Having a Girivalam map can make your journey easier. In this guide, you can learn more about the Girivalam map, important locations along the path, and some tips for a smooth pilgrimage.

The Girivalam Path

The Girivalam path (also called Pradakshina) around Arunachala Hill is a distance of 14 km. On the way, there are many shrines, lingams (sacred symbols of Shiva), holy tanks, and natural spots of great spiritual significance. For first-time pilgrims, the route can be a little confusing.  But if you have a Girivalam map, it will help you identify the major landmarks on the way.

Devotees usually walk barefoot on the path, offering prayers at various shrines on the way. With the help of a Girivalam map, you will be able to understand the location of the shrines and other important points. This will enable you to prepare for the journey and avoid missing the important spots.

Major Locations on the Girivalam Map

The map identifies the main shrines and other key points along the route. Here are some of them:

Indra Lingam: This is where the Girivalam path begins. It honors Indra, the king of the Devas/gods. It can bestow blessings of prosperity.

Agni Lingam: Situated on the eastern side of the path, this shrine represents Agni, the fire element. Offering prayers here helps you to overcome obstacles and purify your inner self.

Yama Lingam: This honors the god of death, Yama. People worship it to remove the fear of death and gain a long and healthy life.

Niruthi Lingam: This lingam bestows protection from negative influences. Using the Girivalam map, you can find the exact location.

Varuna Lingam: Found near a holy tank, it is dedicated to Varuna, the god of water. Those who pray here can gain good health and purify their mind and body.

Vayu Lingam: This lingam symbolizes the air element and bestows peace and mental clarity. People also use it as a place for resting and meditation.

Kubera Lingam: This lingam is dedicated to Kubera, the god of wealth, and is found on the western side of the path. Pilgrims worship it for financial stability and prosperity.

Eesanya Lingam: It is situated at the northern part of the route. This lingam represents the last stage of the pilgrimage. Offering prayers here bestows spiritual upliftment and divine blessings.

Using the Girivalam Map

The Girivalam map is an excellent guide for planning your pilgrimage efficiently and identifying where the key shrines and amenities are located along the route. Here are some more tips to help you use the map more effectively:

Plan Your Beginning and End Point: Most devotees start their Girivalam from Indra Lingam. It is clearly marked on the map. As the path is circular, you will finally return to your starting point.

Check out the rest stops: The Girivalam map also shows major rest stops and water points. This will be very helpful during the long walk. If you know where these amenities are, your pilgrimage will be more comfortable.

Holy Tanks and Shrines: The location of holy tanks is highlighted in the map. You may worship and perform rituals there. It also identifies minor shrines on the way.

When to Perform Girivalam?

Girivalam is very auspicious during the full moon or Pournami nights. There is potent spiritual energy around Arunachala Hill at this time, and numerous devotees perform Girivalam under the radiance of the full moon. The Girivalam map is more crucial at these times as the route gets very crowded, and it can be challenging to find the key landmarks.

The walk can take 4 to 5 hours, depending on your pace. You can do it any time of the year. Full moon nights, Karthigai Deepam, and Shiva Ratri are the most popular days for this pilgrimage.

Additional Tips

• Have a Printed or Digital Girivalam Map: If you have a printed version or a digital map on your smartphone, you will be able to navigate the path easily and you won’t miss any important shrines.
• Drink Sufficient Water: Walking 14 kms can be tiring, especially if the weather is hot. Carry enough water and use the rest stops marked on the map.
• Walking Barefoot: Devotees tend to walk barefoot during Girivalam, as it symbolizes humility and devotion. Remember that there will be different types of terrain. Take breaks if needed.
• Be Respectful: Girivalam is a holy journey, so ensure a spiritual approach. Remember that it is not an adventurous trek but an act of devotion and piety.

Conclusion

The Girivalam map is a very helpful tool for those making the sacred journey around Arunachala Hill. Offering insights into the important locations along the path, it boosts the spiritual experience and enables you to have a successful and fulfilling pilgrimage.