The sacred Tiruvannamalai Temple, also known as Arunachaleswarar Temple, is one of the most powerful Shaivite temples in India and attracts thousands of devotees every day. Dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Agni Lingam, this ancient temple holds immense spiritual significance, especially for those seeking peace, liberation, and divine blessings at the holy Arunachala Hill.
Due to heavy crowds on weekends, full moon days, Pradosham, and festival occasions, waiting for regular darshan can take several hours. To help devotees have a smoother and quicker temple visit, Tiruvannamalai Temple VIP Darshan online booking offers a convenient option for faster entry and comfortable darshan. By booking VIP Darshan tickets in advance, pilgrims can save time while maintaining the sanctity of their spiritual experience.
What is VIP Darshan at Tiruvannamalai Temple?
VIP Darshan is a special paid darshan facility provided by the temple administration. It allows devotees to have darshan of Lord Arunachaleswarar through a separate queue with reduced waiting time.
Benefits of VIP Darshan
- Less waiting time compared to free darshan
- Separate queue system
- Useful for elderly people, families, and working devotees
- More organized darshan experience
VIP Darshan does not mean private darshan inside the sanctum but provides faster access.
Tiruvannamalai Temple VIP Darshan Ticket Price
The VIP Darshan ticket price may vary depending on temple administration decisions and festival seasons.
Approximate Charges
- VIP Darshan Ticket: ₹200 – ₹500 per person (subject to change)
- Special pooja or abhishekam: Higher charges based on type of seva
👉 Always check the official temple booking portal for the latest prices.
Tiruvannamalai Temple VIP Darshan Timings
VIP Darshan is available during selected hours of the day.
General Darshan Timings
- Morning: 5:30 AM to 12:30 PM
- Evening: 3:30 PM to 8:30 PM
VIP Darshan Slot Timings
- Morning VIP slots: 6:00 AM – 11:00 AM
- Evening VIP slots: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
⏰ Timings may change on festival days and special occasions.
Tiruvannamalai Temple VIP Darshan Online Booking – Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps to book VIP Darshan tickets online.
Step 1 – Visit the Official Booking Website
Open the official Tamil Nadu HR&CE or Arunachaleswarar Temple online booking portal using your mobile or computer.
Step 2 – Select “VIP Darshan”
From the list of services, choose:
- “VIP Darshan”
- Or “Special Entry Darshan”
Step 3 – Choose Date and Time Slot
- Select your preferred darshan date
- Choose available time slots
Festival days may show limited availability.
Step 4 – Enter Devotee Details
Fill in:
- Name of devotee
- Mobile number
- Email ID
- Number of persons
Some bookings may require ID proof details.
Step 5 – Make Online Payment
- Pay using UPI, debit card, credit card, or net banking
- After successful payment, you will receive a confirmation message and e-ticket
Step 6 – Visit Temple for Darshan
- Carry your e-ticket (SMS or printout)
- Carry valid photo ID
- Reach the VIP Darshan entry point at least 30 minutes early
Offline VIP Darshan Ticket Booking
If online tickets are not available, you can try offline booking.
Offline Booking Location
- Temple ticket counters near main entrance
- VIP darshan counters inside temple premises
⚠️ Availability depends on crowd conditions and daily quota.
Eligibility for VIP Darshan
Who Can Book VIP Darshan?
- All Indian citizens
- NRIs and foreign devotees
- Families and group pilgrims
Senior Citizens & Physically Challenged
- Separate assistance may be available
- VIP Darshan is recommended for elderly devotees
Children below a certain age may not require separate tickets (confirm at counter).
Important Rules for VIP Darshan
Dress Code
- Men: Dhoti, pyjama, or full pants with shirt
- Women: Saree, salwar kameez, or modest dress
- Avoid shorts, mini skirts, and sleeveless tops
Temple Rules
- No mobile phones inside sanctum
- No leather items (wallets, belts, bags)
- Maintain silence and discipline
- Follow temple staff instructions
Reporting Time
- Late arrival may result in cancellation
- No refund for missed slots
Best Time to Choose VIP Darshan
Ideal Days
- Weekdays (Tuesday to Friday)
- Non-festival days
Avoid Heavy Crowds On
- Mondays
- Full Moon (Girivalam days)
- Pradosham
- Karthigai Deepam festival
VIP Darshan helps during crowded days but waiting time may still increase.
Girivalam and VIP Darshan – Planning Tips
Many devotees combine VIP Darshan with Girivalam (14 km sacred walk).
Tips:
- Complete darshan first, then Girivalam
- Start Girivalam early morning or late evening
- Carry water and light snacks
- Senior citizens may use vehicles for partial Girivalam
Accommodation Near Tiruvannamalai Temple
Options include:
- Tamil Nadu government guest houses
- Temple cottages (subject to availability)
- Private lodges and hotels near Girivalam path
Advance booking is strongly recommended during festival seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is VIP Darshan available every day?
Yes, VIP Darshan is usually available daily, but slots depend on temple schedule and crowd conditions.
Can I book VIP Darshan on the same day?
Sometimes yes, but availability is limited. Online advance booking is safer.
Is VIP Darshan worth it?
Yes, especially for elderly devotees, families, and those with limited time.
Are refunds allowed?
Generally, VIP Darshan tickets are non-refundable if you miss the slot.
Can foreigners book VIP Darshan?
Yes, foreign devotees can book using passport or valid ID.
Is VIP Darshan available during Karthigai Deepam?
VIP Darshan rules may change during festivals. Limited or restricted slots may be offered.
Important Tips for Devotees
- Always book from the official website only
- Avoid agents and unauthorized sellers
- Carry physical ID proof
- Follow dress code strictly
- Reach temple early
Conclusion
Tiruvannamalai Temple VIP Darshan online booking is a great option for devotees seeking a peaceful and faster darshan of Lord Arunachaleswarar. With proper planning, online booking, and adherence to temple rules, your spiritual visit can be smooth and fulfilling.
This guide is written especially for Indian devotees in simple language to help you plan your Tiruvannamalai pilgrimage with confidence and devotion.
🙏 Om Namah Shivaya 🙏