South India - Tourist Attractions - Girivalam Path - Tamil Nadu

On festive days like Karthigai, Tamil New Year day, first day of the Tamil month and Full Moon days,thousands of disciples walk around the mountain (GIRIVALAM) to seek the Lord Arunachala blessings.

thiruvanamalai-path

Girivalam is made up of two words, 'Giri' means hill & 'Valam' means coming around. It means coming around the hill, which is called Girivalam.

How to do Girivalam : People performing this are advised to walk around the hill barefoot.The mountain covers approximately 14 Km of distance.

All through the Girivalam process, always view the top of the Arunachala hill.If possible, Girivalam should be started only in full moon nights or also in regular nights.During Girivalam, devotees should mumble “Om Arunachala”.