Tiruttani Step Festival, New Year's Eve at the 365 Steps

What happens

1. The steps are washed and turmeric is applied to them on New Year's Eve.
2. Bhajan groups gather and climb the hill together, and devotees light camphor on each of the 365 steps, one for each day of the new year.
3. A special puja is held at midnight as the new year begins.
4. The custom began during British rule.

Sources: en.wikipedia.org, tiruvallur.nic.in · checked 30 Oct 2026

Where families go

• 

  Thiruthani Murugan Temple

  Thiruthani

  The hilltop Murugan temple holds the Step Festival on its 365-step stairway every 31 December.

  Timings and guide

When to go

The festival is held every year on the night of 31 December, into New Year's Day.

Sources: tiruvallur.nic.in · checked 30 Oct 2026

Before you go

• SafetyLakhs of devotees fill the hill for the festival. Keep elders and children close, agree a meeting point and allow plenty of time on the steps at night.
• Good to knowThe temple says festival darshan and puja times may change. Check its notice for 31 December and the temple page for the hill road and buses.

• OfficialTiruttani Subramaniya Swamy Temple, official HR&CE site
• OfficialTiruvallur district, Tiruttani temple page

Rituals, fees and timings are set by each temple. Where the temple sells a seva or ticket, book it only on its official channel.

Sources: tiruvallur.nic.in, tiruttanimurugan.hrce.tn.gov.in · checked 30 Oct 2026