Tiruvannamalai Karthigai Deepam 2026: Hill Climbing Ban to Continue on November 24 Due to Northeast Monsoon

The Tiruvannamalai district administration has announced that devotees will not be permitted to climb the Annamalai Hill on November 24, during the Karthigai Deepam festival. The restriction will continue this year due to the intensity of the Northeast Monsoon.

Karthigai Deepam 2026: Hill Climbing Restriction

The Karthigai Deepam festival is celebrated every year at the Arulmigu Arunachaleswarar Temple in Tiruvannamalai. Thousands of devotees visit the temple during the festival to witness the lighting of the Maha Deepam on the hill.

As part of the festival, devotees traditionally climb Annamalai Hill. However, the district administration has decided to continue the restriction on hill climbing on November 24 this year.

Why Are Devotees Not Allowed to Climb Annamalai Hill?

The restriction has been imposed due to the intensity of the Northeast Monsoon. The possibility of heavy rainfall and related safety concerns has led the district administration to prohibit public access to the hill.

District Collector Vandana Garg announced the restriction and advised devotees to follow the administration`s instructions.

Devotees planning to visit Tiruvannamalai for Karthigai Deepam should take note of the hill climbing ban and cooperate with the authorities.