The Annamalaiyar Temple is a must-visit destination in Tiruvannamalai. This ancient temple is located at the foothills of Mount Annamalai, and is home to several deities. The temple is well-maintained and is an excellent example of Dravidian architecture. You can spend several hours exploring the temple and enjoying the peaceful and spiritual atmosphere around it. Make sure to visit the temple during the mornings or evenings to avoid the crowds and the heat.
Sathanur Dam is an excellent place to visit with family in Tiruvannamalai. The dam offers scenic views of the surrounding hills, and the water here is clean and inviting. You can spend a few hours swimming, boating, and picnicking here. The place is open from 9 am to 5 pm, and you need to purchase entry tickets to enter the dam premises. Pack your swimming gear and food if you want to spend the day here.
Mt. Annamalai is the spiritual centre of Tiruvannamalai and is an excellent place for trekking. There are many trekking trails here, and you can choose one based on your experience and fitness level. Most of the treks here are family-friendly and have scenic views of the surrounding hills and forests. Don't forget to pack your snacks and water bottles as the trek can take a few hours. It's best to start early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.
If you want to experience the spiritual side of Tiruvannamalai, the Ramana Ashram is the perfect place to visit. This ashram is dedicated to Ramana Maharishi, a renowned spiritual master, and houses several shrines and meditation halls. You can take a free tour of the ashram and participate in the spiritual practices here. Make sure to dress modestly and maintain silence inside the ashram premises.
If you have more time, you can visit other nearby attractions such as the Gingee Fort and the Arunachaleswarar Temple. If you have less time, you can skip Sathanur Dam and spend more time at the other attractions. Don't forget to carry sunscreen, hats, and water bottles, as the sun can be quite harsh here.