Tiruvannamalai
Overview
This short spiritual escape immerses you in the aura of Tiruvannamalai, one of the five Pancha Bhoota Sthalas of Lord Shiva, representing the element of fire.
Experience darshan at the towering Arunachaleswarar Temple, join the sacred Girivalam parikrama around Arunachala hill, and spend contemplative hours at the Sri Ramana Maharshi Ashram.
Route
Bengaluru (Trip start point) → Tiruvannamalai (Day 1–3 – Arunachaleswarar Temple & Girivalam)
Highlights
- Arunachaleswarar Darshan
- Girivalam Parikrama
- Ramana Maharshi Ashram
- Skandashram Cave
- Yogi Ramsuratkumar Ashram
- Panchamukha Darshan
Day-wise Itinerary
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Day 1 Arrival at Tiruvannamalai — Arunachaleswarar Temple
Arrive at Tiruvannamalai and check into your hotel close to the temple. Freshen up and proceed for the darshan of Lord Arunachaleswarar. Explore the massive temple complex, thousand-pillared mandapa and temple tanks. Attend the evening deeparadhana. Overnight in Tiruvannamalai.
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Day 2 Girivalam & Ramana Maharshi Ashram
Early morning, undertake the sacred 14 km Girivalam around Arunachala hill (walking or by vehicle). Post breakfast, spend a quiet forenoon at the Sri Ramana Maharshi Ashram and trek up to Skandashram cave. Evening return to the main temple for darshan. Overnight in Tiruvannamalai.
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Day 3 Yogi Ramsuratkumar Ashram & Departure
After breakfast, visit the Yogi Ramsuratkumar Ashram and any remaining shrines around Arunachala. Check out and drive back to your onward destination with cherished spiritual memories.
Inclusions
- 2 nights accommodation in comfortable hotels near the temple
- Daily breakfast
- Private air-conditioned vehicle for the entire trip
- Experienced driver-cum-guide
- All toll, parking and driver charges
- Pick-up and drop from Bengaluru / Chennai
- Phone and WhatsApp assistance during your journey
Exclusions
- Airfare and train tickets
- Lunch and dinner (unless specified)
- Special darshan and archana charges
- Personal expenses, tips and laundry
- Anything not listed under inclusions
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time for Girivalam?
Girivalam is done on every full moon night (Pournami) and attracts lakhs of devotees. For a peaceful experience, choose a non-Pournami date. Karthigai Deepam (Nov–Dec) is spiritually significant but very crowded.
Is Girivalam walkable for seniors?
The full 14 km parikrama is on level roads and takes 4–5 hours to walk. Seniors can complete it by vehicle in about 1 hour with brief halts at eight lingam shrines along the way.
Is there a dress code at the temple?
Traditional attire is recommended — dhoti / saree or salwar-kameez. Modest western clothing is also accepted but strictly no shorts or sleeveless tops.
Do you arrange Ashram accommodation?
Ashram accommodation is limited and booked directly through the Ramana Ashram. We book comfortable hotels close to the temple for our guests.
Can the itinerary be extended?
Yes. We can extend the trip to include Kanchipuram, Vellore Golden Temple or Pondicherry / Auroville based on your preferences.