The Jawadhu Hills or Javadhu Hills, alternatively known as Jawadhi or Jawadhu Hills, represent an extension of the Eastern Ghats, encompassing portions of both Vellore and Tiruvannamalai districts in the northern region of Tamil Nadu, located in southeastern India. These hills form a natural boundary between Vellore district in the northwest and Tiruvannamalai district in the southeast.

Spanning approximately 50 miles (80 km) in width and 20 miles (32 km) in length, they are intersected by the Cheyyar and Agaram rivers, both of which are tributaries of the Palar River. Comprised of bluish gray granite, the peaks in this range typically reach heights of 3,600 to 3,800 feet (1,100 to 1,150 m).

Flora of Javvadu Hills:

The region is primarily covered by deciduous forests. These forests are teeming with diverse tree species, including Sal (Shorea robusta), Teak (Tectona grandis), Terminalia, and many others. Apart from the forests, the Javadi Hills feature expansive grasslands that support a range of grass species and wildflowers.

At higher elevations, shola forests can be found. These unique, stunted forests are an important part of the Western Ghats’ ecosystem and are home to various endemic species. The Javadi Hills are known for their unique and endemic plant species. Orchids, ferns, and rare herbs can be found in the shola forests, contributing to the region’s biodiversity.

Fauna of Javvadu Hills:

The hills are inhabited by a range of mammals, including predators like leopards and Indian foxes, herbivores like spotted deer and Indian bison (gaur), as well as smaller mammals like Indian pangolins and jungle cats.

Birdwatchers will be delighted by the avian diversity of the region. You can spot species like Indian paradise flycatchers, hornbills, Indian grey hornbill, and various raptors, making the Javadi Hills a birdwatcher’s paradise. The streams and water bodies in the region support a variety of amphibians, including frogs and toads.

Trekking Trails:

• Kolakarai Trek: One of the popular trekking routes in the Javadi Hills is the Kolakarai Trek. This trek takes you through the dense forests, offering a chance to witness the region’s diverse flora and fauna. The trail can be challenging in places but rewards you with stunning views.
• Jamunamarathur Trek: Another notable trek is the Jamunamarathur Trek. This trek takes you through the grasslands and forests of the Javadi Hills. The route offers opportunities for birdwatching, and you might spot wildlife along the way.
• Beemanmadavu Waterfalls Trek: If you’re interested in combining trekking with the beauty of waterfalls, the Beemanmadavu Waterfalls Trek is an excellent choice. This trek leads you to the Beemanmadavu Waterfalls, where you can cool off and enjoy the serene surroundings.

Kavalur Observatory:

The Vainu Bappu Observatory, commonly known as the Kavalur Observatory, is an astronomical observatory located near Kavalur village in the Javadi Hills of Tamil Nadu, India. This observatory is one of India’s prominent astronomical research facilities and is known for its contributions to various areas of astronomy and astrophysics.

How to reach Javvadu Hills:

By Air: The nearest major airport to the Javadi Hills is Chennai International Airport, which is well-connected to major cities in India and some international destinations.

By Rail: The closest railway station is POLUR, located approximately 40 kilometers between Tiruvannamalai and Vellore.

By Road: The nearest bus stop is POLUR, which is approximately 40 kilometers away from Tiruvannamalai. To reach the Javadi Hills from POLUR, it’s another 40 kilometers by road.

Ashta Lingams Temple is situated around the Arunachala Hill in Thiruvannamalai. Each of these temples is located around the octagonal perimeter reflected by the four cardinal and four inter-cardinal points. As per legend, it is believed that the cardinal points represent the vital aspects and qualities of life.

The Eight Temples

Arunachala hill is surrounded by eight Lingam Temples, each temple built in one of the eight directions. Moopanar Swamy played a vital role in the renovation and restoration of the Ashta Lingam Temples.

Temple located at the Cardinal Points:

• North – Kubera Lingam Temple
• East – Indra Lingam Temple
• West – Varuna Lingam Temple
• South – Yama Lingam Temple

Temple located at the Intercardinal Points:

• North West – Vayu Lingam Temple
• North East – Esanya Lingam Temple
• South West – Niruthi Lingam Temple
• South East – Agni Lingam Temple

Each of the Lingam is dominated by Navagrahas (the nine planetary deities) to whom they are associated with. It is believed that, by worshipping a particular Lingam, devotees receive blessings that are associated with the respective Navagraha. Here’s a look at each of the Ashta Lingam.

Kubera Lingam (North)

• The Kubera Lingam temple is dedicated to Lord Kubera (The God of Wealth) and is located on the north side.
• The temple is located on the girivalam or circumambulation path around the Arunachala Hill.
• Kubera Lingam is believed to be dominated by the Navagraha Deity – Lord Brihaspati (Guru or Jupiter).
• Devotees are believed to be blessed with peace of mind and economical growth on worshipping this deity.

Indra Lingam (East)

• The Indra Lingam temple is dedicated to Lord Indra (The God of Heaven) and is located on the east side.
• The temple is found on Car Street close to the eastern tower of Arunachaleswarar Temple.
• Indra Lingam is believed to be dominated by the Navagraha Deities – Lord Surya (Sun) and Lord Shukra (Venus).
• Devotees are believed to be blessed with long life and prosperity on worshipping this deity.

Varuna Lingam (West)

• The Varuna Lingam temple is dedicated to Lord Varuna (The God of Water and Rains) and is located on the west side.
• The temple is located on the outer girivalam or circumambulation path about one kilometer before the village of Adi – Annamalai.
• Varuna Lingam is believed to be dominated by the Navagraha Deity – Lord Shani (Saturn).
• Devotees are believed to be cured from illness, freed from committed sins on worshipping this deity.

Yama Lingam (South)

• The Yama Lingam temple is dedicated to Lord Yama (The God of Death) and is located on the south side.
• The temple is located beside the cremation ground on Chengam Road.
• Yama Lingam is believed to be dominated by the Navagraha Deity – Lord Mangal (Mars).
• Devotees are believed to be blessed with long life and to get rid of financial constraints on worshipping this deity.

Vayu Lingam (North West)

• The Vayu Lingam temple is dedicated to Lord Vayu (The God of Wind) and is located on the north-west side.
• The temple is located on the girivalam or circumambulation path about one kilometer before the village of Adi Annamalai.
• Vayu Lingam is believed to be dominated by the Navagraha Deity – Lord Kethu (Neptune).
• Devotees are believed to find relief from illness on worshipping this deity.

Esanya Lingam (North East)

• The Esanya Lingam temple is dedicated to Lord Esanya (one of the Rudra forms of Lord Shiva) and is located on the north-east side.
• The temple is located on the old girivalam path beside the cremation grounds.
• Esanya Lingam is believed to be dominated by the Navagraha Deity – Lord Budha (Mercury).
• Devotees are believed to be blessed with peace of mind on worshipping this deity.

Niruthi Lingam (South West)

• The Niruthi Lingam temple is dedicated to Lord Niruthi (The Lord of Asuras/Demons) and is located on the south-west side.
• The temple is located on the girivalam path near to Shantimalai compound.
• Niruthi Lingam is believed to be dominated by the Navagraha Deity – Lord Rahu.
• Devotees are believed to be blessed with health, wealth and fame on worshipping this deity.

Agni Lingam (South East)

• The Agni Lingam temple is dedicated to Lord Agni (The Lord of Fire and Knowledge) and is located on the south-east side.
• The temple is located on the right side of girivalam path, close to Seshadri Ashram on Chengam Road.
• Agni Lingam is believed to be dominated by the Navagraha Deity – Lord Chandra (Moon).
• Devotees are believed to be blessed with long life and better health on worshipping this deity.

Sathanur Dam, one of the major dams in Tamil Nadu, is located around 30 kilometers from Thiruvannamalai. The dam is constructed across the Pennaiyar or Thenpennai River in Thandrampet Taluk of Tiruvannamalai District.

Image Attribute : Jeganila

More about the Sathanur Dam

• The dam was constructed in the year 1958.
• The dam is 119 feet high, and the water is used primarily for irrigation purposes.
• There is a fish grotto and a crocodile farm near the dam.
• Botanical garden, Children’s Park, mini zoo, flower park and swimming pool add to the attraction of the place.
• The dam and its picturesque surroundings offer a visual treat to the tourists.

How to reach Sathanur dam

Sathanur dam is well connected on the road from Thiruvannamalai. The nearest railways station is at Thiruvannamalai (around 39 kilometres away) and nearest airport is at Chennai (around 203 kilometers away).

Beemanmadavu Waterfalls also known as Bheema Falls, are the most prominent and frequent waterfalls in Javadu Hills. The falls are located 5 kilometres from Jamanamaruthur village and 80 kilometres from Thiruvannamalai.

Reference to Mythology

Beemanmadavu is believed to have been named after one of the Pandavas brother Bhima. Bhima is said to have worshipped the Sun God at this location. According to legend, Pandava brothers (of the epic fame Mahabharata) had visited this region during their exile from kingdom.

More about the Waterfalls

The altitude of the Beemanmadavu Falls ranges from 300 to 1000 meters. The water in the falls cascades for more than 8 months in a year. The falls is at its best during the rainy season. To reach the falls one has to trek for about 12 kilometres in the thin forest. The trail leading upto the falls is a great place for hiking, trekking and photography. Tourists are allowed to take a refreshing bath in the pool under the cascade.

How to reach Beemanmadavu Waterfalls

Beemanmadavu Falls is located at a distance of 80 kilometres from Thiruvannamalai and about 218 kilometres from Chennai. The nearest railway stations are at Thiruvannamalai (79 kilometres away) Katpadi (89 kilometres away) and Villupuram (140 kilometres away). The nearest airport is at Chennai (209 kilometres away).

The Javadu Hills spread across parts of Vellore and Thiruvannamalai districts in the northern part of Tamil Nadu. The Javadu Hills is a total of about 3600 to 3800 feet above sea level. The hills exhibit a purple colour due to the colour of the bluish-grey granite. The hills are sparsely populated with some spectacular views to offer.

Why should you visit Javadu Hills?

• It is a far less crowded place when compared to other hill stations in Tamil Nadu.
• The dense forests cover a wide variety of flora and fauna that include some rare and endangered ones. It’s a perfect place for wildlife lovers and photographers to explore.
• Tranquil villages, silent streams, water bodies and perceptible trails are some of the striking features of Javadu Hills.
• Venture into the distinct landscape of Javadu Hills by travelling through the river, jungle and finally the rocky cliffs.
• Trekking through the rocky cliffs, enjoying a bath in the falls and climbing up the rocks affirms a wholesome experience for nature lovers.
• The region is home to numerous indigenous tribes that are involved in growing plantations that include gooseberry, coconut, jackfruit, tamarind, guava and mango. We can also find beautiful farm fields enroute.
• Be it the tranquility of the forest or the innate sounds of nature, Javadu Hills in the Eastern Ghats is a trail worth exploring.

Nearby Attractions

Beemanmadavu Waterfalls – Near to Javadu Hills and 5 kilometres from Jamanamaruthur village is the Beemanmadavu Waterfalls. It is the most frequented waterfalls in Javadu Hills.

Kavalur Observatory – It has Asia’s largest telescope, the Vainu Babu Telescope, named after the famous astronomer Vainu Babu. The telescope offers a view of the baffling horizon of sky.

Amrithi Forest – It has some very intriguing places for trekking.

Komutteri/Kolappan Lake – A perfect place for having a picnic and enjoy a boat ride. There is a man-made island in the center of the lake.

How to reach Javadu Hills

Javadu Hills is located about 75 kilometres from Thiruvannamalai and about 208 kilometres from Chennai. The nearest railway stations are at Katpadi (around 78 kilometres away) and Villupuram (around 145 kilometres away). The nearest airport is at Chennai (around 198 kilometres away).

Virupaksha cave is one of the ancient caves in India with its history dating back to the 13th century. The cave is located on the eastern slopes of the Arunachala Hill. The history of the cave dates back to the time when it was the abode of Sage Virupaksha Deva. It later gained importance after Sri Ramana Maharshi stayed in the cave for 16 years.

History of Virupaksha Cave

The cave derives its name from Virupaksha Deva, who was a renowned 13th century saint. It is believed that Saint Virupaksha spent most of his life in this cave and its surroundings. It is also said that his body turned into ashes just after his Samadhi (a state of complete oneness). The holy ash is supposed to be preserved here on the altar.

Sri Ramana Maharshi & the Cave

Sri Ramana Maharshi spent 16 years in the cave from 1899 to 1916. Many significant events took place in his place during his stay in the cave. While at Virupaksha, Sri Ramana Maharshi also wrote in prose a Tamil translation of Vivekachudamani, a sacred scripture composed by Adi Sankara. He also wrote ‘Self-inquiry’ and ‘Who am I’ while residing in the cave.

More about the Virupaksha cave

Virupaksha cave is protected by constructed premises that also allow its visitors to have a peaceful time and a spiritual experience. Many devotees come here to meditate and feel the spiritual vibrations within. The Ashram is open at 8:00 AM. The cave is a year round destination and one of the popular places for Sri Ramana Maharshi devotees. It gets really hot during the day and hence it is advisable to climb up to the cave before daybreak. It is also advisable for tourists to wear trekking shoes. From the cave surroundings, one can enjoy a breathtaking view of the Thiruvannamalai Temple.

How to reach Virupaksha cave

The cave can be reached through two routes. One is through Ramana Ashram and the other is by walk from Thiruvannamalai Temple. The area also has some trekking routes. Thiruvannamalai town is well connected to major cities in Tamil Nadu through roadways. Thiruvannamalai Railway Station is connected to cities including Chennai, Madurai, Pondicherry, Vellore and Tirupati. Chennai International Airport is the nearest airport to Thiruvannamalai (around 155 kilometres away).

Sri Ramanasramam was home to Sri Ramana Maharshi, a master of Advaita Vedanta (a school of Hindu Philosophy). He stayed in the Ashram from 1922 until his death in 1950. The Ashram is located at the foot of Arunachala hill in Tiruvannamalai District.

Image Attribution : Vyacheslav Argenberg

The Ramanasramam

• The Ashram has a huge courtyard bounded by shady trees. To the left, stands two towers built in the traditional Dravidian style of architecture. One of these towers leads to the Matrubhuteswara Shrine and the other tower over the New Hall.
• The New Hall was used by Sri Maharshi for a few months leading to his Mahanirvana. The hall has a life-sized statue of Sri Maharshi and a large couch that was used by him. This hall was built to accommodate the increasing number of devotees. The hall is open everyday from 5:00 AM to 12:30 PM and from 2:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
• Towards the west of the New Hall is the Matrubhuteswara Shrine. The impressive shrine was constructed under the supervision of the famous temple sculptor, Vaidyanath Stapati. The sanctum sanctorum of the temple houses a Shiva Linga and a Sri Chakra Meru consecrated by Sri Maharshi, with Nandi facing the entrance of the sanctum sanctorum. The outer walls of the sanctum sanctorum are the sculpted images of Dakshinamurthi, Lingodbhava Murthi, Lord Vishnu and his consort Goddess Lakshmi. The temple also has little shrines of Lord Ganesha and Lord Murugan. The Navagrahas and Chandikeswara shrine find their place on the northern side. The temple is open everyday from 5:30 AM to 12:30 PM and from 3:30 PM to 8:00 PM.
• Through the northern wall of the temple, one reaches the Samadhi Hall. This hall consists of a raised platform or Mandapam with a tower above it. The Mandapam has a Shiva Linga installed in it and is surrounded by a large marble-floored meditation hall. This hall is open everyday from 5:00 AM to 12:30 PM and from 2:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
• A door on the north side of the Samadhi Hall leads to the Old Hall. Sri Maharshi spent almost all his time here until about a year before his passing. The hall is open from 4:00 AM to 12:30 PM and from 2:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
• To the north of this hall is a large open area with some shady trees, a flower garden, a large dining kitchen block to the east, a dispensary on the west and a path leading to Skandasramam on the Arunachala Hill.
• To the east of the New Hall is the small Nirvana Room. This is the room where Maharshi spent his last days.
• Guest rooms are available in and outside the Ashram.
• A dispensary providing free medical aid for the ashram inmates and local people is found within the Ashram.
• Sri Ramana Library has Sri Ramana literary works, photographs, souvenirs, audio-tapes and videos. An extensive collection of books on spirituality is also available in many languages.

How to reach Ramanasramam

The town of Tiruvannamalai is connected to various cities in Tamil Nadu through roadways. It is located on the Villupuram-Katpadi branch line. The Ashram is at a distance of 3 kilometres from Tiruvannamalai Railway Station. The nearest airport is at Chennai (around 175 kilometres away).

Overview

Arunachaleswarar or Annamalaiyar Temple is located at the base of Arunachala Hills (2668 feet tall) in Tiruvannamalai. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is of immense importance to the Hindu sect of Saivism. The temple is one of the Pancha Bhootha Sthalangal of Lord Shiva who is worshipped as Agni Lingam, symbolizing fire – one of the five primordial elements. His consort Parvati is worshipped as Unnamalai Amman.

The temple is maintained and administered by the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of the Govt. of Tamil Nadu.

History of Arunachaleswarar Temple

Let’s have a look at the history of the temple under the various ruling dynasties –

• The temple was initially built by the Chola kings back in the 9th century CE.
• The inscriptions in the temple reflect that further expansions were made during the reign of Vijayanagara kings.
• Subsequently, the temple came under Hindu and Muslim stewardship at different periods of time.
• The town of Tiruvannamalai came under the control of the French in 1757 before it was occupied by the British in the year 1760.
• The town was later captured by Tipu Sultan in 1790 CE.
• During the first half of the 19th century, the town along with the temple came under British rule.
• From 1951, the temple has been maintained by the Hindu Religions and Endowment Board.

Legend

According to Hindu mythology, Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma once argued amongst themselves about who was supreme, ignoring their duties. On seeing this, Lord Shiva appeared in the form of fire and told them that whoever it is that finds the top or bottom of the fire is the greatest. While Lord Vishnu took the form of a boar (Varaha) and delved into the earth to find the bottom of flame, Lord Brahma took the form of a swan (Annam) and flew up towards the skies. Both their efforts were in vain and when finally they gave up their ego, Lord Shiva appeared before them. The day on which Lord Shiva appeared as a pillar of fire is celebrated as Thirukarthigai/Karthigai Deepam.

Reference to Literature

Lord Shiva at this temple is revered in the 7th century Tamil Saiva canonical work, the ‘Tevaram’ written by the Tamil poets Nayanars. The temple is revered as Paadal Petra Sthalam. The famous work of Manikkavasagar, ‘Tiruvemparai’ was composed here.

The Arunachaleswarar Temple Structure and Shrines

The temple is one of the largest in India covering around 10 hectares of land. One of the main attractions of the temple is its four Gopurams. The tallest Gopuram is at the Eastern side with 11 stories and a height of 217 feet.
The most prominent features of the temple its numerous halls (the thousand-pillared hall being the most notable one) and its numerous shrines.

Arunachaleswarar Temple Timings

The temple is open from 5:30 AM to 12:30 PM and from 3:30 AM to 9:30 PM.

Arunachaleswarar Temple Pooja Timings

Name of the Pooja	Timing
Ushakala	5:30 AM
Kalasandhi	8:00 AM
Uchikalam	11:30 AM
Saayaratchai	5:30 PM
Irandam Kalam	7:30 PM
Artha Jama Pooja	9:00 PM

Arunachaleswarar Temple Festivals

Major festivals observed in the temple are:

• Chitirai Utsavam – 10 days festival during the Tamil month of Chitirai (April-May)
• Ani Brahmotsavam – 10 days festival during the Tamil month of Ani (June-July)
• Adi Pooram Brahmotsavan – 10 days festival during the Tamil month of Adi (July-August)
• Kanda Shashti Utsavam – 6 days festival during the Tamil month of Aippasi (October-November)
• Karthigai Deepam Brahmotsavam – 17 days festival during the Tamil month of Karthigai (November-December)
• Uthrayana Punyakala Brahmotsavam – 10 days festival during the Tamil month of Thai (January-February)
• Panguni Uthiram Thirukalyana Utsavam – 6 days festival during the Tamil month of Panguni (March-April)

Tiruvannamalai Karthigai Deepam

Karthigai Deepam is observed during the Tamil month of Karthigai (November-December). To mark the festival, a huge fire lamp (Mahadeepam) is lit up on the Arunachala hills, which is visible for several kilometres around the area. Thousands of devotees throng Tiruvannamalai during Karthigai Deepam.

Girivalam

Girivalam or circumambulation path around the Arunachala hill covers a distance of 14 kilometres. The term ‘Arunam’, in Tamil language, means sun and denotes the red colour of fire. ‘Asalam’ means mountain or hill. Thus ‘Arunachalam’ is the holy hill which is red in colour denoting fire (the form in which Lord Shiva graces this place).
Pilgrims are engaged in Girivalam throughout the year. Every full moon day, pilgrims from various parts of the State worship Arunachaleswarar by circumambulating the hill barefoot. By doing this, it is believed that one’s desires are fulfilled. There are eight lingams devotees offer their worship to, in the 14 kilometres circumference of the hill. These lingams are associated with the 15 moon signs and are collectively termed as Ashta Lingam.

How to reach Tiruvannalamai Arunachaleswarar Temple

Buses to Tiruvannalamai are available from all major towns in Tamil Nadu. Tiruvannamalai Bus Station and Railway Station is at walkable distance from the temple (2 kilometres away). Chennai is the nearest airport at a distance of around 185 kilometres

Epilogue

One of the largest temple complexes in the country, the Annamalaiyar Temple leaves its devotees mesmerized with its beauty and elegance. The air of spirituality around the hill and the intricately embellished halls and shrines, not only satisfies one’s religious pursuits but also offers an experience of peace and tranquility.