Tiruamalai

The holy hill of Thiruvannamalai, located in the state of Tamil Nadu, is one of the most popular pilgrimage destinations in South India. The temple complex here is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and is said to be one of the most powerful places of worship in the country. The main temple at Thiruvannamalai is said to have been consecrated by the god himself and is one of the Pancha Bhoota Stalams, or five temples dedicated to the elements of nature. The other four temples are located at Kanchipuram, Chidambaram, Kalahasti, and Tiruvanaikaval. The temple complex is spread out over a large area and is said to cover an area of more than 60 square kilometers. The area is dotted with smaller temples and shrines, as well as a number of ponds and sacred wells. The most popular time to visit Thiruvannamalai is during the annual Arunachala Maha Shivaratri festival, which is held in February or March. The festival attracts tens of thousands of pilgrims from all over the country.