Tamil Nadu forest department restricts climbing hours at Parvathamalai hillock

The Forest Department in Tiruvannamalai has announced revised visiting hours for the sacred Parvathamalai hillock, restricting devotees to a specific window each day in response to prevailing weather conditions. Beginning immediately, visitors will be permitted to climb the 4,560-foot elevation between 5:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. daily.

Forest officials cited safety concerns associated with the current rainy season as the primary reason for the time-based restrictions. The hillock, a significant pilgrimage destination in the Tiruvannamalai district, experiences challenging terrain and weather-related hazards during the monsoon months. By limiting access to daylight hours and the morning period, authorities aim to reduce risks to devotees navigating the steep pathways.

The restrictions prohibit evening and night climbs, a practice previously undertaken by some devotees. Officials have appealed to visitors to adhere strictly to the new timings to ensure their safety. The temporary measure is expected to remain in effect for the duration of the heavy rainfall period, with further updates likely as weather conditions evolve.

Parvathamalai remains an important religious and trekking destination for residents of Tamil Nadu and visitors from across the region. The Forest Department has urged devotees to check official announcements before planning their visits to the hillock during the current monsoon season.