Darshan and pooja

Quick answers

Question	Answer
When is the temple open?	5:30 AM – 8:00 PM daily (official site); entry may close around 7:30 PM on busy days
Is darshan free?	Yes, general darshan is free. Paid special-entry tickets are sold at the temple
Is there a dress code?	Modest traditional dress is expected; no shorts or sleeveless tops
Can I take photos?	No, not inside the temple
When is it least crowded?	Weekday mornings, from opening until about 9 AM

Guides in this section

• Temple timingsArunachaleswarar Temple timings from the official HR&CE website: 5:30 AM to 8:00 PM daily, how hours change on Pournami, Pradosham and festivals, and when to go.
• Pooja timingsThe six daily poojas at Arunachaleswarar Temple with approximate times, what happens at each, abhishekam and special poojas, and how festival days change the schedule.
• Dress code & rulesWhat to wear at Arunachaleswarar Temple, and the rules on phones, photography, footwear, bags and offerings, plus etiquette that helps your visit go smoothly.
• First-time visitor guideA first visit to Arunachaleswarar Temple, step by step: arriving, entrances, queues and tickets, the order of darshan, prasadam and annadhanam.

Before you go

• Check the calendar. Pournami, Pradosham and festival days bring long queues. The Pournami calendar and festival calendar show what’s coming up.
• Book only through official channels. Sevas, special-entry darshan and donations are handled by the temple and the HR&CE e-services. This website does not sell tickets.
• Combine it with Girivalam. Many pilgrims take darshan first and then set out from the east gopuram to walk around the hill. See the Girivalam guide.