How to Reach Arunachalam Temple from Vellore
Arunachalam Temple, also known as Annamalaiyar Temple, is a sacred Shiva temple located in Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu. Many devotees from Vellore visit this divine site for spiritual peace and Girivalam (circumambulation of the holy hill). If you’re wondering how to reach Arunachalam Temple from Vellore, this guide covers every route, mode of transport, distance, and tips to make your journey smooth and peaceful.
Distance Between Vellore and Arunachalam Temple
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Total Distance: ~80 km (approx.)
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Travel Time: 1.5 to 2.5 hours (depending on traffic and transport mode)
1. Vellore to Arunachalam Temple by Road (Car or Taxi)
The most convenient and fastest way to reach Arunachalam Temple is by road.
Route:
Vellore → Polur → Kalasapakkam → Tiruvannamalai → Arunachalam Temple
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Highway: State Highway 9 (SH9) and local roads
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Travel Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (approx.)
2. Vellore to Tiruvannamalai by Bus (Budget-Friendly Option)
State-run and private buses frequently operate between Vellore and Tiruvannamalai.
Bus Options:
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TNSTC Government Buses
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Private Operators (like SRM, Sree Krishna Travels)
Frequency:
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Every 30–45 minutes during the day
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Night buses available but limited
Travel Duration:
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2.5 to 3 hours (depending on stops)
From Bus Stand to Temple:
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Auto-rickshaw: INR 50–INR 70
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Walk: ~15–20 minutes
3. Vellore to Arunachalam Temple by Train
There’s no direct train from Vellore to Arunachalam Temple, but you can travel via Katpadi Junction.
Route:
Katpadi Jn (Vellore) → Tiruvannamalai Railway Station
Train Frequency:
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2–3 trains daily (Check IRCTC or NTES app for latest schedules)
Travel Time:
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~2 to 2.5 hours
From Tiruvannamalai Station to Temple:
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Distance: ~2 km
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Take an auto (INR 50–INR 70) or walk 20 minutes to the temple.
Route Map Overview
| Mode | Route | Time | Cost (Approx) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car/Taxi | Vellore → Tiruvannamalai | 1.5–2 hrs | INR 2200–INR 3500 |
| Bus | Vellore Bus Stand → Tiruvannamalai Bus Stand | 2.5–3 hrs | INR 80–INR 200 |
| Train | Katpadi Jn → Tiruvannamalai Station | 2–2.5 hrs | INR 80–INR 250 |
Why Visit Arunachalam Temple?
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One of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams – represents the element of Fire (Agni).
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Girivalam Path (14 km) around Arunachala Hill is spiritually significant.
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Celebrated for Karthigai Deepam Festival and Full Moon nights.
Final Thoughts
Traveling from Vellore to Arunachalam Temple is a spiritually rewarding and scenic experience. Whether you choose a quick car ride, a budget-friendly bus, or a local train, each mode offers a glimpse into Tamil Nadu’s sacred heart. Plan ahead, start early, and let the divine energy of Arunachalam bless your journey.
