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Tiruvannamalai Day Tour
5 days
Age 12+
Sep, Oct, Nov
Availability 50
Sacred Journey: Tiruvannamalai’s Spiritual Wonders in a Day
DAY 1
Your guide will arrive at your accommodation to pick you up at 6:30 am. The day begins with an auspicious visit to Sri Ramana Ashram, the place where the revered sage, Bhagavan Sri Ramana Maharshi, resided since 1922. The atmosphere here is imbued with his teachings, creating a space for profound reflection. Thousands of lives have been transformed through a single visit to the ashram, as visitors gain a deeper understanding of life, spirituality, and the divine.
RAMANA ASHRAM
Known locally as “Ramanashramam” in Tamil Nadu, a visit to Ramana Ashram is a deeply introspective and spiritual experience. As you step into the serene grounds, you are greeted by an overwhelming sense of peace, contrasting sharply with the lively town outside. The simplicity of the ashram mirrors Sri Ramana Maharshi’s philosophy of self-inquiry—”Who am I?”—and inner tranquility. Key places of interest include the Samadhi Hall, where the sage’s tomb lies, and the Old Hall, where he spent many hours meditating and imparting wisdom. There is also a shrine dedicated to his mother, Alagammal, over which a Shivalingam, called Matrubhuteswarar, was installed.
The ashram’s library provides further insights into Ramana’s teachings, while the Nirvana Room, where he attained enlightenment, emanates a deep, palpable energy. As you wander through the peaceful surroundings, you might spot peacocks and monkeys, adding to the natural beauty of the place. A goshala (cow shelter), often visited by Ramana, reflects his compassion for all creatures. You’ll also come across memorials for animals like Jackie the dog, Lakshmi the cow, Valli the deer, and a crow, all of whom found liberation under Ramana’s guidance. The ashram also houses a Veda Patasala, established in 1934, where Vedic chanting is taught. The overall atmosphere fosters a sense of connection to something beyond oneself, offering space for quiet reflection and self-inquiry.
TREK TO ARUNACHALA HILL
SKANDASHRAM
After leaving Ramana Ashram, the journey continues to Skandashram, located further up the Arunachala Hill. The trail to Skandashram is steep but manageable, covering about 1.5 kilometers, and takes around 30-45 minutes. As you ascend, the scenic views of the landscape below and the peaceful ambiance of nature accompany your trek. Ramana Maharshi spent seven years here in deep meditation, and today, the ashram retains a quiet serenity, perfect for reflection.
Upon arrival, Skandashram offers a simple yet powerful setting. The small structure, partially built into the mountain, presents stunning views of the Arunachala Temple. The cool breeze and stillness make it an ideal location for meditation. Ramana Maharshi lived in this sacred space from 1916 to 1922, and a spring nearby, which is believed to have appeared miraculously, provided water for him and his devotees. The simplicity of Skandashram, with its main hall and small kitchen, reflects Ramana’s teachings on self-realization through self-inquiry.
Today, Skandashram is a place of pilgrimage and quiet meditation, with regular pujas performed in honor of Ramana Maharshi. Visitors often engage in meditation or the practice of self-inquiry (Atma Vichara), in line with his teachings. The spiritual energy here continues to attract seekers from around the world, making it a place of profound peace and contemplation.
VIRUPAKSHA CAVE
Further up the hill lies Virupaksha Cave, where Ramana Maharshi lived for 17 years, from 1899 to 1916. Named after the ancient sage Virupaksha Deva, who meditated here centuries ago, the cave has deep spiritual significance. Upon entering the cave, the shift from the sunlit path to the cool, shaded interior creates an ideal environment for meditation and introspection. The cave’s simplicity belies its spiritual depth, making it a powerful place for seekers of truth.
The trek to Virupaksha Cave, which takes around 1-2 hours depending on your pace, is best enjoyed in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat. The journey offers panoramic views and a chance to immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of Arunachala.
As you descend, you will carry with you the peace and serenity from these sacred spaces, leaving a lasting imprint on your spirit and offering insights that linger long after your time in Tiruvannamalai.
BREAKFAST AT ARPANA HOTEL
After this enriching experience, you’ll head to Arpana Hotel for breakfast. Here, a wide selection of dishes awaits, blending traditional South Indian flavors with Western and Continental options. Whether you opt for a crispy dosa or a classic English breakfast, Arpana Hotel caters to both local and international tastes, providing a satisfying start to your day in this spiritual town.
POST BREAKFAST
After enjoying a delightful breakfast, the tour continues with a visit to the revered Arunachaleswarar Temple, also known as the main temple of Tiruvannamalai.
ARUNACHALESWARAR TEMPLE
As you approach the majestic Arunachaleswarar Temple, its towering gopurams stand tall against the backdrop of the sacred Arunachala Hill, beckoning devotees and visitors alike. This ancient Shaivite temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva—referred to as Arunachaleswarar or Annamalaiyar—also honors Goddess Parvati, known here as Unnamulai Amman. A marvel of Dravidian architecture, the temple’s present form dates back to the 9th century CE, with remnants of inscriptions from the Chola dynasty.
Spanning an impressive 25 acres (10 hectares), the temple’s scale reflects the centuries of devotion and artistry that went into its construction. The five main prakarams (concentric enclosures) guide worshippers on a spiritual journey. Entering through the grand eastern gopuram, or Raja Gopuram, which soars 217 feet (66 meters) high with a granite base measuring 41 by 30 meters, you are immediately captivated by the detailed carvings that narrate stories from Hindu mythology. The temple’s perimeter walls stretch over 210 meters east to west and 480 meters north to south, creating a sense of grandeur and spiritual immersion.
Inside, the expansive courtyards lead you to many smaller temples and shrines, each holding its own charm. As you explore, you encounter several large statues of Nandi, Shiva’s sacred bull, standing guard at various points, including a colossal one before the inner sanctum. One of the most spiritually significant places within the temple is the Pathala Lingam, located in an underground chamber where Ramana Maharshi is said to have meditated for extended periods, deepening the temple’s mystical aura.
The temple also features a shrine dedicated to Goddess Parvati, beautifully adorned with intricate carvings, creating an atmosphere of peace and reverence. Another highlight is the temple tank, its still waters reflecting the majestic gopurams above. This blend of architectural magnificence and spiritual depth makes Arunachaleswarar Temple a symbol of Tamil Nadu’s rich heritage and devotion.
YOGI RAMSURATH KUMAR ASHRAM
Located in the spiritual heart of Tiruvannamalai, the Yogi Ramsuratkumar Ashram is a peaceful sanctuary dedicated to the saint Yogi Ramsuratkumar, affectionately known as the “Beggar Saint” or “Visiri Samiyar” for his constant fan-carrying habit.
Upon entering the ashram, the tranquil atmosphere invites introspection. The central hall, where the Yogi would give darshan, is a spacious, circular building topped with a unique conical roof that allows natural light and air to flow freely, creating an ideal setting for meditation and spiritual practice.
Established in the early 1990s at the request of devotees, the ashram honors the simple and surrendered life that Yogi Ramsuratkumar led. His primary teaching, “My Father alone exists. Nothing else. Nobody else,” encapsulates his profound belief in the omnipresence of the divine and the illusion of individual identity. He encouraged the chanting of the divine name, particularly the mantra “Om Sri Ram Jai Ram Jai Jai Ram,” as a path to spiritual awakening.
A pivotal moment in the Yogi’s spiritual journey came in 1948 when he met Ramana Maharshi at Sri Ramanasramam. Though brief, this encounter left a lasting impression, with Ramsuratkumar often referring to Ramana as his “Father.” He believed that Ramana’s gaze had awakened him to deeper truths, and throughout his life, he embodied many of Ramana’s teachings, including the practice of self-inquiry. He encouraged his followers to study Ramana’s teachings and visit his ashram for further spiritual nourishment.
The ashram also features a life-sized statue of Yogi Ramsuratkumar, capturing his humble posture with a fan and coconut shell in hand. This serene space serves as both a place of reverence and a retreat for spiritual seekers. It offers visitors an opportunity to reflect, meditate, and immerse themselves in the Yogi’s simple yet profound wisdom, making it a key stop for those on a spiritual pilgrimage to Tiruvannamalai.
PACHAIAMMAN TEMPLE
Tucked away along the Girivalam path that circles Arunachala Hill, the Pachaiamman Temple in Tiruvannamalai is a serene, lesser-known gem. This ancient temple is dedicated to Pachaiamman, a form of Goddess Parvati, and offers a peaceful contrast to the bustling Arunachaleswarar Temple in the heart of town. The name “Pachai” translates to “green” in Tamil, symbolizing the temple’s lush natural surroundings and the goddess’s connection to nature and healing powers. Inside the main shrine, the green-hued idol of Pachaiamman radiates a comforting and nurturing energy.
The temple’s architecture reflects classic Dravidian elements, with a colorful gopuram (gateway tower) and detailed stone carvings that captivate the eye. The tranquil courtyard, shaded by age-old trees, provides a soothing space for meditation and reflection. This temple holds special significance for devotees of Ramana Maharshi. In 1905, during a plague in Tiruvannamalai, the young sage spent six months here in meditation. It was within the temple walls that he composed the revered “Arunachala Padikam” (Eleven Verses to Arunachala). The cave where he meditated still exists, drawing spiritual seekers who wish to connect with his presence.
More than just a place of worship, Pachaiamman Temple is a haven of natural beauty and spiritual history. Its peaceful ambiance, combined with its connection to Ramana Maharshi, makes it a must-visit spot for pilgrims walking the sacred path around Arunachala. The temple beautifully intertwines devotion to the divine feminine with the enduring legacy of one of India’s greatest spiritual figures.
LUNCH AND REST
After a satisfying lunch, take a well-deserved rest until 4 PM.
ADI ANNAMALAI TEMPLE
Resting at the base of the sacred Arunachala Hill, the Adi Annamalai Temple stands as a timeless symbol of devotion and ancient architecture. Predating the larger Arunachaleswarar Temple, it holds a unique place in the spiritual landscape of Tiruvannamalai. The word “Adi” translates to “original” or “first,” marking this shrine as one of the oldest dedicated to Lord Shiva in the area. Historical records suggest its construction dates back to the Chola dynasty, possibly as early as the 9th century CE. Here, Lord Shiva is worshipped as Annamalaiyar, and the temple is known as the Adi Annamalai or Aadhi Arunachaleswara Temple, indicating its status as the original temple of Arunachala.
The heart of the temple is the sanctum sanctorum, where a svayambhu (self-manifested) lingam of Lord Shiva is enshrined, exuding powerful spiritual energy that draws devotees into deep states of meditation and reflection.
As you approach, the temple’s modest grandeur captivates. Unlike the towering structures of the larger temples, Adi Annamalai enchants visitors with its intimate scale and exquisite artistry. The mandapam (pillared hall) leading to the inner sanctum is supported by intricately carved columns, each a testament to the craftsmanship of ancient artisans. Light and shadow dance across the walls, adding a mystical aura to the sacred space.
The temple’s most remarkable feature is its stone carvings, which depict various forms of Shiva, celestial dancers, and mythological scenes. Each panel is a visual masterpiece, showcasing the precision and creativity of ancient sculptors. The figures, carved with lifelike expressions and dynamic poses, bring the temple’s walls to life. The Adi Annamalai Temple’s significance extends beyond its architectural beauty.
For spiritual seekers, the temple offers a profound sense of connection with Tiruvannamalai’s sacred energy. Its ancient stones seem to tell stories of devotion, and its peaceful atmosphere invites introspection and inner peace. Nestled in the shadow of Arunachala, this temple remains a testament to enduring devotion, a link to a glorious past, and a source of spiritual solace for all who visit.
TEA
SESHADRI SWAMIGAL ASHRAM
Sri Seshadri Swamigal Ashram in Tiruvannamalai is a serene sanctuary that honours the memory and teachings of Sri Seshadri Swamigal, a revered saint who lived during the times of Ramana Maharshi. The ashram is located near Ramana Ashram and offers visitors a glimpse into the life of this enigmatic mystic.
The main shrine houses a life-size statue of Seshadri Swamigal, often adorned with flowers and vibhuti (sacred ash). The ashram preserves many stories of his miraculous deeds and cryptic teachings, which continue to inspire spiritual seekers.
The link between Seshadri Swamigal and Ramana Maharshi is particularly significant. Seshadri Swamigal, often looked after the young Ramana, sometimes protecting him from overzealous devotees , playful boys and curious onlookers during Ramana’s early years of deep meditation in the Pathala Lingam vault in the main Arunachaleswara temple.He would protect Ramana from bad people and those who wanted to disturb or harm him. It was Seshadri Swami who with his other disciples gently lifted and carried Ramana Maharshi out from the Pathala Lingam vault, where Ramana Maharshi was in deep meditation with his body covered with blood and pus caused by bites of mosquitoes, insects and scorpions. Ramana was unaware of the wounds caused to his body while in deep meditation. Seshadri Swami himself cleaned Ramana’s wounds and instructed his disciples to protect and nurture him.
The ashram includes a small museum displaying personal items of Seshadri Swamigal and photographs depicting his life. Regular bhajans (devotional songs) and readings from his teachings are conducted, maintaining the spiritual ambiance.
Visiting Sri Seshadri Swamigal Ashram offers a unique perspective on Tiruvannamalai’s spiritual heritage. It provides insight into the life of a saint who, though less internationally known than Ramana Maharshi, played a significant role in the town’s spiritual landscape. The ashram stands as a testament to the diverse expressions of spirituality that Tiruvannamalai has nurtured over thousands of years.
RETURN TO RAMANA ASHRAM
WITNESS THE DAILY SINGING AT RAMANA ASHRAM
At Ramana Ashram, the daily singing of Ramana Maharshi’s devotional songs creates an atmosphere of deep serenity and spiritual elevation. The melodious hymns, filled with profound teachings, resonate through the air, inviting those present to connect with the divine essence within. As the voices rise in unison, a sense of stillness and introspection naturally envelops the ashram, making it an ideal time to meditate and engage in self-enquiry with the question, “Who am I?” The sacred vibrations of the songs, combined with the peaceful surroundings, offer a deeply transformative experience, guiding seekers toward inner clarity and self-realization.
PRADAKSHINA AROUND ARUNACHALA MOUNTAIN IN OUR CAR – VAN
After we the singing in finished in Ramana Ashram, we will embark on a pradakshina (circumambulation) around the sacred Arunachala Mountain by car which will help us cover the remaining time of the day tour and it offers a serene yet spiritually enriching experience. The journey around this revered mountain, known as the embodiment of Lord Shiva, is traditionally undertaken by devotees to seek divine blessings. Along the way, you will encounter the Ashta Lingams—
Indra Lingam: Positioned in the east
Agni Lingam: Situated in the southeast
Yama Lingam: Found in the south
Niruthi Lingam: Placed in the southwest
Varuna Lingam: Located in the west
Vayu Lingam: Set in the northwest
Kubera Lingam: Standing in the north
Esanya Lingam: Situated in the northeast
– The eight sacred Shiva lingams positioned at different points around the mountain, each representing a different direction and aspect of life. Stopping at each lingam, you can offer prayers, absorb the calm energy, and reflect on the profound connection between nature and spirituality that Arunachala represents.
As the evening deepens, the soft glow of twilight begins to illuminate the surrounding landscape, casting a magical aura over the mountain and its surroundings. The streetlights along the Girivalam path gradually flicker on, bathing the Ashta Lingams and the sacred road in a gentle, golden light. The calm evening breeze and the distant sound of temple bells enhance the tranquil atmosphere, offering a perfect moment for reflection and peace. Whether you’re a spiritual seeker or simply enjoying the scenic beauty, this drive around Arunachala during the evening offers both a sense of devotion and quiet fulfillment.
As the spiritual journey in Tiruvannamalai draws to a close, a profound sense of peace and fulfillment fills the heart. The sacred vibrations of Arunachala, the blessings from the temples, and the serene moments of self-reflection leave an indelible mark on the soul. Each step, prayer, and meditation during this pilgrimage feels like a divine gift, a blessing that will continue to guide us through life’s journey. The connection to this sacred land lingers, and we leave with immense gratitude, knowing that the grace of Arunachala and the wisdom of the sages have touched our lives in ways that will last a lifetime.
AS A ALTERNATIVE, IF YOU WISH TO DO A GIRIVALAM – PRADASKHINA BY WALK AROUND THE ARUNACHALA MOUNTAIN AS PART OF THE DAY TOUR, WE COULD CUSTOMIZE AND ORGANIZE IT ACCORDINGLY.
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DepartureSan Francisco International Airport
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Departure TimePlease arrive by 10:20 AM for a prompt departure at 10:50 AM
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Return TimeApproximately 8:30 PM
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IncludedAirfareLocal transportation5 Star AccomodationProfessional Guide
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Not IncludedDeparture TaxesEntry Fees
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