Start your day early to catch the breathtaking sunrise atop Arunachala Hill. The trek to the top of the hill takes about 2-3 hours, and the panoramic view of the city is worth the effort. There are several trails leading up the hill, but the most popular route is the one starting from the Ramana Ashram. After the trek, spend the afternoon exploring the ancient Arunachaleswarar Temple located at the foothill of the mountain. In the evening, head to the nearby Seshadri Swamigal Ashram to attend the aarti and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Start your day early and head to Pichavaram Mangrove Forest, one of the largest mangrove forests in the world. Take a boat ride through the interconnecting waterways and enjoy the scenic beauty of the mangrove forests. After the boat ride, explore the beaches of nearby Chidambaram and indulge in some water activities like surfing and paddleboarding. In the evening, head back to Thiruvanamalai and spend some time at the popular Yogi Ramsuratkumar Ashram.
Don't miss out on visiting the Virupaksha Cave, where the famous sage Ramana Maharshi spent many years meditating. You can also take a day trip to the nearby Gingee Fort, which is about 40 km from Thiruvanamalai. The fort is a popular trekking spot and offers a stunning view of the surrounding hills and forests. Another interesting place to visit is the Sri Seshadri Swamigal Ashram, known for its beautiful gardens and peaceful environment.