Halfway around the Girivalam path, on the far western side of the hill, lies a quiet village temple that many first-time pilgrims walk past in the dark. Yet tradition considers Adi Annamalai Temple older than the great temple in town; its very name means “the first Annamalai”. This guide explains its legends, location, timings and how to include it in your Girivalam.
Adi Annamalai Temple at a Glance
| Location | Adi Annamalai village, on the Girivalam path, on the western side of Arunachala |
| Distance | About 7 to 8 km from Arunachaleswarar Temple along the Girivalam route |
| Deity | Lord Adi Annamalaiyar (Shiva) with the Goddess in a separate shrine |
| Timings | Morning and evening darshan; usually open late on Pournami nights (confirm locally) |
| Entry | Free |
Legends of Adi Annamalai
Worshipped by Brahma
According to tradition, after the column-of-fire episode, Lord Brahma installed and worshipped a lingam here to atone for his false claim. That is why the temple is called “Adi” (first) Annamalai, and why many devotees believe it predates the town temple. Read the full legend in our article on the Agni Lingam and Pancha Bhoota Sthalams.
Manikkavasagar and Thiruvempavai
Adi Annamalai is closely associated with the saint Manikkavasagar, who is traditionally said to have composed the Thiruvempavai, the beloved hymns sung at dawn in the month of Margazhi, while staying here. A shrine to Manikkavasagar stands near the temple, and Margazhi mornings are especially atmospheric.
The hill’s western face
From Adi Annamalai, the hill’s shape looks very different from the familiar eastern view, and many devotees say this is where the hill’s “face” as Shiva is most clearly seen.
Adi Annamalai on the Girivalam Route
Walking clockwise from the town temple, you pass the Indra, Agni, Yama and Niruthi Lingams before reaching the western side. Adi Annamalai lies on the road just off the main path, roughly halfway round. Many pilgrims stop here for darshan and a rest before continuing past the Varuna, Vayu, Kubera and Esanya Lingams back to town. Use our Girivalam route map with all 8 Ashta Lingams and the Girivalam distance guide.
Note that on busy Pournami nights the inner road through Adi Annamalai village is extremely crowded; follow police directions and keep together with your group.
Architecture
The temple is modest compared with Arunachaleswarar but has a pleasing gopuram, old stone mandapams and inscriptions. Its calm courtyards, surrounded by fields with the hill rising behind, make it one of the most peaceful stops on the circuit.
How to Visit
- On foot: as part of the 14 km Girivalam. Check the dates in our Girivalam dates 2026 and 2027 calendars.
- By auto: a Girivalam auto tour from town usually includes Adi Annamalai and the Ashta Lingams.
- By two-wheeler or car: drive along the outer Girivalam road; parking is easy on ordinary days.
Tips
- Visit early morning or late evening for the best atmosphere.
- Follow the temple dress code.
- Combine with the Girivalam rules and procedure for a complete pilgrimage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Adi Annamalai Temple?
It is in Adi Annamalai village on the western side of Arunachala, along the Girivalam path, about halfway around the 14 km route.
Why is it called Adi Annamalai?
“Adi” means first. Tradition holds that Lord Brahma worshipped Shiva here first, making it older than the main temple in town.
Is Adi Annamalai part of Girivalam?
Yes. It lies on the Girivalam route, and most pilgrims stop here for darshan during the walk.
What is the connection between Adi Annamalai and Thiruvempavai?
Saint Manikkavasagar is traditionally believed to have composed the Thiruvempavai hymns while staying at Adi Annamalai.
