Start your journey by visiting the ancient Arunachaleswar Temple. The temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is considered one of the largest and most revered Shaivite shrines in South India. Devotees believe that a visit to the temple grants them blessings and redemption.
Take a 14-kilometer walk around the base of Arunachala mountain known as Girivalam. Round the mountain path is considered a sacred practice that offers peace, serenity, and purification of the soul. Don't forget to visit the Kapila Theertham and Virupaksha cave on your way.
Explore the majestic Gingee Fort, also known as Senji Fort, nestled atop three different hills. It's a fascinating architectural marvel with a rich history steeped in the Chola, Nayaka, Maratha, and Vijayanagar eras. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from the top.
Escape to the hill station of Yercaud, surrounded by verdant coffee plantations, orange groves, and fragrant spice gardens. Take a boat ride on Emerald Lake, hike through Kiliyur Falls, visit the Shevaroy Temple, and enjoy breathtaking views from Pagoda Point.
Visit the Annamalaiyar Temple, yet another significant Shiva shrine located at the base of Arunachala hill. The temple sprawls over ten hectares and boasts of ten gopurams with intricate carvings depicting Hindu mythology. The Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar temple nearby is also worth a visit.
Get lost in the serene beauty of Jawadhu Hills, a range of hills extending closer to the Eastern Ghats. The hills are home to a large variety of flora and fauna, and you can spot exotic peacocks, flying squirrels, and porcupines. Visit the ancient Shiva temple, and take a dip in the Agaya Gangai waterfall to soak in nature's glory.
Take a kayak ride on the Pichavaram Mangrove Forest, one of the world's largest and healthiest mangrove forests. The dense mangrove vegetation forms a labyrinth of waterways, and you can witness diverse aquatic and birdlife while enjoying the peaceful surroundings. Do not miss visiting the nearby ancient temple of Thillai Kali Amman.
End your journey with a visit to Rock Beach in Pondicherry. The beach is known for its unique black volcanic rocks and a tranquil promenade that offers a scenic view of the Bay of Bengal. The charming town boasts of its French heritage and ambiance, and you can wander around the city's colorful streets and shops.
Most of the attractions require a private car or taxi, and rates may vary depending on the season and the demand. It is advisable to book a car in advance and confirm the availability before starting the journey. A private car for eight days may cost around ₹13,000 - ₹18,000, excluding fuel charges. There are multiple car rental options available online.
For those with more time, consider adding a visit to the holy town of Kanchipuram, which is around 80 km from Arunachala. Also, take an early morning hike to Parvathamalai or Skandashram for a sunrise view. For those with less time, consider skipping Gingee Fort and adding a day trip to Mahabalipuram or Chennai. Check the weather conditions and pack comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and water bottles for the trip.
The nearest airport to Tiruvannamalai is Chennai International Airport (MAA), which is around 190 kilometers away. Flights from major hubs like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore are available with multiple airlines like Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet. Tiruvannamalai does not have an airport or train station, and the nearest railway station is around 12 km away at Villupuram Junction (VM).