Thiruvannamalai -- also spelled Tiruvannamalai -- is a sacred town in Tamil Nadu, India, best known for the majestic Arunachala Hill and the revered Arunachaleswarar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Over time, this holy place has been known by several names. While they may appear different, each name reflects a unique spiritual or cultural aspect of the same sacred location.
To help visitors from other states and regions understand these terms better, here's a simple guide:
| Name | Meaning / Reference | What it Refers To |
| Thiruvannamalai / Tiruvannamalai | "Sacred Infinite Hill" | The town and its sacred surroundings. "Thiru" means sacred, and "Annamalai" refers to the eternal hill -- Arunachala. |
| Tvmalai | Informal abbreviation | Common shorthand or casual form used in local speech or digital platforms. |
| Arunachala | "Hill of Dawn" or "Hill of Fire" | The spiritual name of the hill itself. It is considered a living manifestation of Lord Shiva. |
| Annamalaiyar | "Lord of Annamalai" | The name of Lord Shiva as worshipped in the Arunachaleswarar Temple. |
| Unnamulai (Amman) | Nourishing Mother | The consort of Annamalaiyar, a form of Goddess Parvati, enshrined alongside him in the temple. |
Why So Many Names?
The many names associated with Thiruvannamalai arise from:
- Cultural and Linguistic Nuances: Tamil words like "Thiru" (sacred) often get simplified in English, leading to variants like "Tiruvannamalai."
- Spiritual Depth: Different names reflect different divine aspects -- the sacred geography (Arunachala), the deity (Annamalaiyar), and the nurturing goddess (Unnamulai).
- Local Usage: Short forms like Tvmalai are commonly used among locals, in signage, and in digital communications.
A Place of Eternal Flame and Inner Light
Whether you call it Arunachala, Tiruvannamalai, or Annamalai, all these names point to one spiritually vibrant place. The sacred hill is believed to be a manifestation of Lord Shiva in the form of fire, symbolizing divine light, truth, and liberation. Pilgrims from around the world come here to walk the 14 km Girivalam path, visit the grand temple, and meditate in the stillness of this ancient energy center.
Visit with Clarity, Experience with Devotion
When you see any of these names -- Arunachala, Tiruvannamalai, Annamalaiyar, Unnamalai -- know that they all represent the same sacred space that has drawn saints, sages, and seekers for centuries. Each name opens a window to the rich spiritual heritage and divine presence of this timeless town.
Let your journey begin with understanding -- and unfold in peace.
