The Velliangiri Hills, famously known as the “Seven Hills” of the Western Ghats, is a mesmerizing mountain range situated in the Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu. This scenic destination offers a unique blend of natural beauty, spiritual significance, and trekking adventures.
Trekking Routes and Distance:
There are several trekking routes in the Velliangiri Hills, each varying in terms of difficulty and duration. The most well-known trek is to the Velliangiri Andavar Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is located at an elevation of approximately 1,110 meters above sea level. The trek can be categorized into different sections:
Isha Yoga Center to Poondi Temple: The trek usually starts at the Isha Yoga Center, which is located at the foothills. From there, trekkers head to the Poondi Temple, covering a distance of about 3 kilometers.
Poondi Temple to Velliangiri Andavar Temple: The second leg of the trek is from the Poondi Temple to the Velliangiri Andavar Temple. This is a more challenging section, covering around 8 kilometers. Trekkers pass through dense forests, rocky terrain, and steep inclines.
Velliangiri Andavar Temple to Siva Temple: After visiting the Velliangiri Andavar Temple, some trekkers opt to continue to the Siva Temple, which is situated at a higher altitude. This extended trek offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Duration to reach Velliangiri Hills:
The duration of the trek depends on the route and the trekker’s pace. The complete trek from the Isha Yoga Center to the Velliangiri Andavar Temple and back can take anywhere from 7 to 10 hours, including rest stops and time spent at the temples.
Difficulty level to climb Velliangiri Hills :
Trekking in the Velliangiri Hills presents a moderately challenging adventure, especially when ascending towards the Velliangiri Andavar Temple. The terrain often features steep and uneven paths, and trekkers must be ready to face changing weather conditions, which may include rain. It is strongly recommended that trekkers are in good physical shape and equipped with appropriate trekking gear for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Scenic Grandeur of Velliangiri:
The Velliangiri Hills are renowned for their majestic natural beauty. The trek provides awe-inspiring vistas of dense forests, distinctive rock formations, and the serene ambiance of the Western Ghats. Many trekkers discover solace amidst this pristine landscape, embracing the hills’ tranquil serenity.
Spiritual Significance:
The Velliangiri Hills hold a special place in the hearts of many, transcending their role as a mere trekking destination. The Velliangiri Andavar Temple serves as a revered pilgrimage site, drawing devout visitors seeking the blessings of Lord Shiva. The spiritual aura that envelops the hills bestows an added dimension of meaning to the trek.
Velliangiri Hills Guided Treks:
It’s advisable for first-time trekkers to consider guided treks. Many local organizations and tour operators offer guided treks with experienced guides who are familiar with the terrain, making the trek safer and more informative.
Velliangiri Hills Trekking Visiting Hours:
The Velliangiri Hills in Tamil Nadu, India, do not have a specific opening or closing time since they are a natural destination and not a facility or attraction with fixed operating hours. However, trekking and visiting the Velliangiri Hills are typically allowed throughout the year, but it’s essential to consider the weather conditions, especially during the monsoon season when heavy rains can make trekking difficult or unsafe.
Additionally, some treks may require permission or coordination with local authorities or organizations like the Isha Yoga Center if you plan to start your trek from there. It’s advisable to check with local authorities or the Isha Yoga Center for the most up-to-date information regarding access to the Velliangiri Hills before planning your trip.
Epilogue:
Trekking in the Velliangiri Hills is an adventure that combines natural beauty, physical activity, and spiritual significance. It provides trekkers with an opportunity to connect with nature, find inner peace, and appreciate the stunning landscapes of the Western Ghats.
Check out our essential trekking gear checklist for a safe adventure.
Agni Theertham Beach: A Sacred Pilgrimage Site
There are sixty-four Theerthams (holy water bodies) in and around Rameswaram. Twenty-two of the Teerthams are within the Ramanathaswamy Temple. Bathing in these Teerthams is considered equivalent to penance and forms a major aspect of the pilgrimage to Rameswaram. Each of the Theerthams has its own significance.
The eastern sea shore opposite to the Ramanathaswamy Temple is Agni Theertham. Agni Theertham is considered to be the primary sea shore associated with the temple.
Discover the Spiritual Significance of Agni Theertham
As per the legend associated with the Theertham, Goddess Sita had to go through Agni Pariksha (ordeal in fire) to prove her chastity to Lord Rama. But being pure, sinless and chaste, the fire could not harm Goddess Sita. In order to wash his sin, having touched Goddess Sita, Lord Agni offered prayers to Lord Shiva and took a dip in the sea. This place has come to be known as Agni Theertham.
The Rituals and Beliefs Associated with Agni Theertham
- The word Agni means fire in Sanskrit and Theertham means holy water. Agni Theertham is regarded as a sacred pilgrimage centre among the Hindus.
- Devotees visiting the Theertham offer their prayers to the deity and take a dip in the holy waters for atonement of their sins.
- Sacred rituals that include rituals for the ancestors (Tharpanam) are performed by the devotees in Agni Theertham.
- Bathing in the holy water on full moon and new moon days is considered most auspicious.
- Agni Theertham is the only Theertham of the ramanathaswamy Temple which is located outside the temple complex.
How to reach Agni Theertham
Rameswaram bus stand is just 3 kilometres away from Agni Theertham. You could take a bus or even hire an auto rickshaw to reach there. The nearest railhead is at Rameswaram, 3 kilometres away.
Rameswaram is well connected by road and rail with Chennai, Madurai, Coimbatore, Trichy and other important cities. The 2.3 kilometres long Indira Gandhi Road Bridge (popularly called Pamban Bridge) connects Mandapam (a place on Indian mainland) with Pamban (fisherman town in Rameswaram). The nearest airport is at Madurai, 163 kilometres from Rameswaram.
