A Day at the Sacred Arunachaleswarar Temple in Tiruvannamalai

  1. 6:00AM: Arunachaleswarar Temple
    Located in the heart of Tiruvannamalai

    Begin your day early by visiting Arunachaleswarar Temple, one of the most ancient and revered temples in India. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to be one of the five elements of nature - Fire. The temple is surrounded by the picturesque Annamalai Hills and has four entrances that signify the four Vedas.

  2. 9:00AM: Virupaksha Cave
    10 minutes (2.5 km) from Arunachaleswarar Temple

    Prepare to be transported to another world by visiting Virupaksha Cave, located on the eastern side of the Annamalai Hills. This cave is believed to be the abode of the great saint, Virupaksha Deva, who is said to have meditated here for several years. You can feel the positive energy in the air and witness the beautiful sunrise from the entrance of the cave.

  3. 11:00AM: Girivalam Path
    5 minutes (1 km) from Virupaksha Cave

    Take a walk around the base of the Annamalai Hills on the Girivalam Path. The path stretches for 14 km and has several ancient temples and shrines along the way. It is considered to be a form of worship and is believed to cleanse the body and mind. You can walk or hire a bicycle and witness the stunning views of the hills and the temple from different angles.

  4. 1:00PM: Ramana Maharshi Ashram
    10 minutes (3.5 km) from Girivalam Path

    Visit the ashram of one of India's most revered saints, Ramana Maharshi. He spent several years in Tiruvannamalai and his teachings of self-enquiry and non-duality have inspired millions of people around the world. The ashram has a serene atmosphere and houses a meditation hall, a library, and several buildings where the saint lived and taught.

  5. 3:00PM: Aurobindo Ashram
    15 minutes (4 km) from Ramana Maharshi Ashram

    End your day by visiting the Aurobindo Ashram, founded by Sri Aurobindo and the Mother. It is a spiritual community that focuses on integral yoga, which aims to bring together all aspects of life - physical, mental, and spiritual. The ashram has several buildings, gardens, and a meditation hall. You can attend a meditation session or explore the library that has a vast collection of books on yoga, spirituality, and philosophy.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Entrance fee to Arunachaleswarar Temple (Free)
  • Estimated cost of breakfast (Rs. 100)
  • Estimated cost of bicycle rental (Rs. 50)
  • Estimated cost of lunch (Rs. 200)
  • Entrance fee to Ramana Maharshi Ashram (Free)
  • Entrance fee to Aurobindo Ashram (Free)
  • Total Estimated Costs (Rs. 350)
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