Arunachala Maha Deepam 2026: Lighting Time, Significance and Where to Watch

The sacred flame of the Arunachala Maha Deepam will once again light up the night sky over Tiruvannamalai on Tuesday, 24 November 2026. It is the climax of the ten-day Karthigai Deepam Brahmotsavam at the Arunachaleswarar Temple, when a great beacon is kindled on the 2,668-foot summit of Arunachala Hill, visible for many kilometres around.

Maha Deepam 2026 lighting time

• Bharani Deepam: about 4:00 AM IST on 24 November 2026, inside the Arunachaleswarar Temple sanctum
• Maha Deepam: about 6:00 PM IST on 24 November 2026, just after sunset (about 5:45 PM) on the summit of Arunachala Hill
• Pournami tithi: from about 11:42 PM on 23 November to 8:23 PM IST on 24 November; Krittika nakshatra lasts until 11:25 PM IST

The exact moment of lighting follows the temple's rituals on the day. The Maha Deepam is lit from the flame of the Bharani Deepam, carried symbolically from the sanctum. A huge cauldron holding several thousand kilograms of ghee and a very long cloth wick is ignited, creating a towering flame that keeps burning for several days.

Maha Deepam time for devotees abroad

If the Maha Deepam is lit at about 6:00 PM IST on 24 November, here is the equivalent time for live viewers overseas:

For the date of Karthigai Deepam at home in each country, see our Karthigai Deepam 2026 abroad guide.

Spiritual significance of the Arunachala Maha Deepam

Arunachala is one of the five Pancha Bhoota Sthalams, representing the element of Fire (Agni). According to sacred tradition, Lord Shiva appeared here as an infinite column of light (Jyoti) to settle the dispute between Brahma and Vishnu. Neither could find the beginning or the end of that column, and the hill is revered as the cooled, solid form of that original divine fire. Read the full story of the Karthika Deepam and Arunachala.

Lighting the Maha Deepam every year re-enacts this cosmic event. Devotees believe that simply witnessing the flame is darshan of Lord Shiva in his formless, luminous aspect. It is said to burn away accumulated karma, grant inner clarity and bestow the grace of liberation. The chant of "Annamalaiyarukku Arohara!" rising from the crowds as the flame appears is one of the most moving moments of the Hindu year.

Where to watch the Maha Deepam

The flame on the summit can be seen from a wide area, so there is no single best spot. Each location offers a different experience.

Temple precincts

The Arunachaleswarar Temple is closest to the rituals and the energy of the festival, including the Bharani Deepam and the processions. Expect very heavy crowds, controlled entry and strict security.

Girivalam path

The 14-km circumambulation route around the hill offers open views of the summit as the flame is lit, and many devotees walk Girivalam while watching the Deepam.

Ramana Ashram area

The area around Sri Ramanasramam has a calmer, more contemplative atmosphere with good views of the hill, ideal for a quieter experience.

Rooftops and open grounds

Many guest houses and open spaces away from the main town give clear, less crowded views of the glowing beacon against the night sky.

Live streaming

For those who cannot travel, the Maha Deepam is usually broadcast live by Tamil television channels and streamed online, including on official temple and Tamil Nadu HR&CE platforms. Search for "Arunachala Maha Deepam live" or "Karthigai Deepam live" closer to 24 November 2026 and prefer the official links.

Note: Climbing the hill to the summit is restricted on Deepam day for safety. See why devotees are barred from climbing Arunachala Hill.

Festival overview and practical tips

The ten-day Brahmotsavam begins with the flag hoisting (Kodiyetram) on 15 November 2026. The deities are taken in procession each day on different vahanas, building up to the Maha Ratham chariot festival a few days before the Deepam. The full day-by-day plan is in our Tiruvannamalai festival guide.

• Book accommodation early; the town fills up weeks in advance.
• Expect very large crowds on Deepam day and on Pournami night.
• Wear comfortable clothes and footwear, or walk Girivalam barefoot as tradition allows.
• Carry water, light snacks and a torch.
• Follow the instructions of the police and temple authorities.

Experience the eternal flame

As the Maha Deepam rises on the summit of Arunachala and the full moon shines above, the whole landscape becomes a living temple of light. Whether you stand among the chanting crowds, walk the Girivalam path or watch from afar, the experience leaves a lasting imprint on the heart. For the wider festival, see Karthigai Deepam 2026.

May the light of Arunachala illuminate your path.

Om Namah Shivaya | Annamalaiyarukku Arohara!

Frequently Asked Questions

What time is the Arunachala Maha Deepam lit in 2026?

At about 6:00 PM IST on Tuesday, 24 November 2026, just after sunset.

What time is the Bharani Deepam in 2026?

At about 4:00 AM IST on 24 November 2026, inside the Arunachaleswarar Temple.

Can I climb Arunachala Hill to see the Maha Deepam?

No. Access to the summit is restricted on Deepam day for safety. Watch from the temple, the Girivalam path or the town.

How can I watch the Maha Deepam live?

Through Tamil television broadcasts and official online streams. Search for "Arunachala Maha Deepam live" on 24 November.

What time is the Maha Deepam in the USA and UK?

About 7:30 AM in New York and Toronto, 4:30 AM in San Francisco and 12:30 PM in London on 24 November 2026.