Several pilgrimage sites are to be around the region of Tiruvannamalai. Essentially South Indian in style these temples are dedicated to lord Shiva. Each temple has its own significance and is related to stories from the Puranas.
Sri Ramana Maharshi Ashram: The hill is considered as the symbol of spiritual knowledge and enlightenment. The hermitage where the silent saint Sri Ramana Maharshi lived is half way up the hill. He exerted great spiritual power on those who came in search of him. Thousands of followers visit the world-famous Sri Ramana Ashram round the year to pursue profound themes of meditation.
Vellore: Here is a Shiva shrine dedicated to Jalakanteswara that is safely situated inside a 13th century fort.
Thiruvennainallur: Lord Shiva is said to have stopped the marriage of Sundarar at this particular site and made him one of the three Shaivite saints.
Thiruvathigai: This Shiva shrine is one of the Ashta Veerattanams. The Lord is said to have burned Thripurams. With His blessings, Appar was cured of his stomach ailment and he became a Shaivite saint.
Thirukkovilur: The Vishnu shrine here is dedicated to Ulagalantha Perumal (Thrivikrama). The Alwars have sung in praise of the Lord in the celebrated Naalaayira Divya Prabandham.
