Unwind and Explore: A 2-Day Road Trip Itinerary in Tiruvannamalai

Day 1: Sacred Exploration

Tiruvannamalai, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Ramana's Coffee Shop

Start your day with a wholesome breakfast in the peaceful setting of Ramana's Coffee Shop, known for its delicious South Indian meals and refreshing coffee.
Located near the Ashram, it’s an easy walk or short auto-rickshaw ride.
INR250, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Arunachala Temple

Explore the magnificent Arunachala Temple, a vital pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva, where you can admire intricate sculptures and participate in morning rituals.
The temple is centrally located and within walking distance from the coffee shop.
Free, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Hike Up Arunachala Hill

Embark on a moderate hike up Arunachala Hill, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, making it a vital spiritual journey for many.
Follow the well-marked path leading up the hill; don't forget to wear comfortable shoes.
Free, 2.5 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at Hotel Ashoka

Recharge with a delicious South Indian Thali at Hotel Ashoka, which is well-known for its authentic flavors and abundant portions.
A 10-minute auto-rickshaw ride from Arunachala Hill.
INR400, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Explore Sri Ramana Ashram

Visit the quiet and serene Sri Ramana Ashram, where you can meditate and reflect on the life and teachings of the revered sage Ramana Maharshi.
A short ride back, around 5 minutes from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Sunset at Skanda Ashram

Make your way to Skanda Ashram which offers a tranquil environment to watch the sunset and soak in the beauty of nature.
Around 15 minutes walk from Sri Ramana Ashram.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at Hotel Anandha Bhavan

Enjoy local vegetarian cuisine at Hotel Anandha Bhavan, famous for its tasty, affordable dishes, especially the dosas.
Just a 10-minute auto-rickshaw ride from Skanda Ashram.
INR350, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Cultural Delights

Tiruvannamalai, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Aakash Restaurant

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Aakash Restaurant, which serves a mix of Continental and South Indian delights.
Head over within a short 10-minute walk.
INR300, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Virupaksha Cave

Explore the ancient Virupaksha Cave, where Ramana Maharshi lived for several years; the serene atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for meditation.
Take an auto-rickshaw for about 15 minutes to the cave.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Visit the Arunachala Hill Circumambulation

Enjoy a spiritual experience by walking the 14-km path around the Arunachala Hill, a practice cherished by pilgrims.
Starting point is around Virupaksha Cave; it's a scenic loop.
Free, 3 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at Sadhana Restaurant

Stop for a soothing lunch at Sadhana Restaurant, which is known for its organic and Ayurvedic menu.
About 15 minutes away by auto-rickshaw.
INR500, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Visit the Girivalam Path

Spend the afternoon walking the sacred Girivalam Path, filling your spirit with the energy of this holy hill and observing various shrines along the way.
The path begins close to Sadhana Restaurant.
Free, 3 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Arunai Anantha

End your wonderful trip with a delightful dinner at Arunai Anantha, famous for its varied menu and beautiful garden setting.
Around 15 minutes by auto-rickshaw from Girivalam Path.
INR600, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability