Desur is located in Thiruvannaamalai district of the southern state of India, Tamil Nadu. It is located on the road to Vallam from Malaiyur, 7 km. from Malaiyur and 20 km. from Vallam. This town is around 50 km. north east of Thiruvannaamalai and is easily accessible by airways and railways.

The nearest airport is the Chennai International Airport and the Tindivanam Railway Station is the nearest railway station. Desur is located at a height of 114 metres (374 feet) above mean sea level. It is located at 12.43° North latitude and 79.48° East longitude.

According to the 2001 census report, Desur had a population of 5156 inhabitants. Males and females constitute 50% of the population each. In Desur, 10% of the population is under six years of age. Desur has an average literacy rate of 70% higher than the national average literacy rate is 59.5%. The male literacy rate is 79% and the female literacy rate is 60%.

Ponnurmalia Teerth, Thennangur and Thoosi Mamandoor are located nearby. The Hindu religious center of Devikapuram is accessible from here. Chetpet, Thellar and Valathi are places located within15 km.