It is indeed the process of understanding the journey from Hyderabad to Arunachalam.
The distance between Hyderabad and Arunachalam (Tiruvannamalai) is about 650 to around 700-odd kilometers, depending on the route taken. One may say that this appears to be a long stretch, and in truth, it is. But then it is that kind of journey wherein the destination starts shaping the traveler even before he/she begins his approach to it. Most travel aficionados would say that much of it is weaning away from the vices of city life and traveling much less.
Why Arunachalam Seems to Pull Its Pilgrims From So Far
Arunachalam Temple is not an ordinary temple to people; it has an attraction that they cannot explain logically. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, right in the shadow of the Arunachala Hill, which is a holy hill. People come here for answers, for peace, or perhaps just a little silence. Perhaps the emotional weight has enough value to cause the long distance from it to fade into the background.
Travel Distance and Feelings on the Road
A highway that can actually be 12-14 hours long, taking breaks whenever you want to choose it. The usual road comes through Karnataka and Tamil Nadu with a changing landscape through mountains, valleys, and then plains in the other state. Long stretches of highways are themselves meditative, especially at sunrise. In any case, rushing through this distance is just not the way to go. One shade of caution is never to underestimate fatigue setting in.
Slow-Moving Alternatives
The usual train travel from Hyderabad to neighboring stops such as Katpadi or Villupuram, and then a small land journey, is prevalent. So is the slower option of buses, take government and private carriers. Night travel is the best option, but it also adds to that confusion upon arrival. Overnight journeys seem to be underrated in terms of taxing your body.
Best Travel Time and the Seasons Considered
In general, the weather could not be more pleasant from October to February. Summers could be pretty tough, especially in terms of Tiruvannamalai. And it is important to plan around full moon days since the town gets quite filled up for Girivalam (circumambulation) on those dates. Depending on one’s temperament, that energy could be either invigorating or too much to handle.
Reading in Preparation Beyond the Distance
Now, the distance from Hyderabad to Arunachalam does not only show on the outside. The distance has to be mental as well: Go light, expecting a lot of surprises, and grant open-mindedness with respect to delays. The journey essentially demands a lot of patience; however, it offers something deep and calm in return. Sometimes it feels more like you are settling into journey as you reach Arunachalam instead of the other way.
