Tue Oct 15 13:23:26 UTC 2024: ## Thiruvannamalai’s October Full Moon Girivalam: auspicious time for devotees
**Thiruvannamalai**, renowned as the “fire” element of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalam, is gearing up for the full moon (Pournami) Girivalam on **October 17th**. This annual event attracts thousands of devotees who walk around the sacred hill, believing it holds the power of enlightenment.
The **Girivalam** is a ritual walk around the hill where Lord Shiva is said to reside in the form of the mountain itself. The path is said to be home to numerous Shiva Lingas, each believed to grant specific benefits. It is also believed that powerful Siddhas reside on the hill, blessing devotees on their pilgrimage.
The **auspicious timings** for the October Girivalam have been announced by the Arunachaleswarar Temple administration. The full moon falls on October 16th evening at 07.56 PM and ends on October 17th at 05.25 PM. The most favorable period for the Girivalam is between 08.40 PM on October 16th and 04.55 PM on October 17th, when the moon’s influence is at its peak.
This October 17th marks the **end of the Purattasi month**. Devotees who missed the full moon earlier this month can experience its benefits by participating in the Girivalam on the 17th. Those who walked the hill on the first day of Purattasi can gain the advantage of performing the Girivalam twice in the same month by participating on the 17th.
As **Thursday** is considered an auspicious day for gaining wisdom, those seeking spiritual enlightenment are encouraged to participate in the Girivalam on October 17th.
First Piper 