6-Day Unforgettable Rail Journey to Thiruvanamalai, India

Day 1: Chennai to Thiruvanamalai

Thiruvanamalai, India

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Ratna Cafe

Begin your culinary adventure with a traditional South Indian breakfast at Ratna Cafe, known for its crispy dosas and aromatic filter coffee.
Located in T Nagar; take a local auto-rickshaw to Chennai Central Station.
INR 300, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Train to Thiruvanamalai

Catch the train from Chennai Central to Thiruvanamalai, enjoying the scenic landscapes en route.
Book your tickets in advance on IRCTC.
INR 150, 3 hours

12:00 PM

Check-in at Hotel Sri Ramana Residency

Relax and freshen up at your accommodation before exploring the town.
Hotel is a short auto-rickshaw ride from the railway station.
INR 1800, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Lunch at Hotel Ramana's Kitchen

Delight in a flavorful vegetarian thali at this local restaurant that serves authentic South Indian cuisine.
5 minutes walk from the hotel.
INR 400, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Visit Arunachala Hill

Take a peaceful walk around the sacred Arunachala Hill, known for its religious significance and stunning views.
15-minute auto-rickshaw ride from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Ananda Bhavan

Enjoy a wholesome dinner featuring South Indian staples and delicious desserts at Ananda Bhavan.
10 minutes walk from Arunachala Hill.
INR 500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Temple Exploration

Thiruvanamalai, India

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel Restaurant

Fuel your day with a buffet breakfast at your hotel, offering traditional and continental options.
Dining area is within the hotel.
Included with stay, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit Sri Ramanasramam

Explore Sri Ramanasramam, the sacred ashram of the great sage Sri Ramana Maharshi, and meditate in its tranquil surroundings.
10-minute auto-rickshaw from your hotel.
Free, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Bhuvaneshwari Hotel

Savor a traditional vegetarian meal that represents the local cuisine.
20-minute walk from the ashram.
INR 350, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Visit Annamalaiyar Temple

Admire the intricate architecture and spiritual ambiance of the Annamalaiyar Temple, a key pilgrimage site.
5 minutes by auto-rickshaw from the restaurant.
Free, 3 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Sangeetha Veg Restaurant

Experience a hearty meal with a wide variety of vegetarian dishes and local specialties.
15-minute auto-rickshaw ride from the temple.
INR 450, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Nature and Spirituality

Thiruvanamalai, India

6:30 AM

Sunrise at Arunachala Hill

Witness a breathtaking sunrise while hiking around Arunachala Hill, an energizing start to your day.
Walk from your hotel; it’s a short distance.
Free, 2 hours

9:00 AM

Breakfast at Ayyangar's Bakery

Grab some local pastries and hot coffee at Ayyangar's Bakery, a popular spot among locals.
15-minute walk from your hotel.
INR 200, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Visit Skandashram

Explore Skandashram, a serene cave retreat offering profound spiritual experiences.
30-minute hike from Arunachala Hill.
Free, 2 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Murugan Canteen

Enjoy a simple yet filling vegetarian lunch popular for its purity and taste.
30-minute hike back to Thiruvanamalai.
INR 300, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Meditation at Adi Annamalai Temple

Spend the afternoon meditating in the serene surroundings of Adi Annamalai Temple to recharge spiritually.
20-minute auto-rickshaw ride.
Free, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Vasant Restaurant

End your day with flavorful dishes at Vasant Restaurant, known for its diverse Indian menu.
15-minute auto-rickshaw ride.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Travel to Bangalore

Bangalore, India

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel Restaurant

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel, refueling for your journey.
Dining area in the hotel.
Included with stay, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Train to Bangalore

Board an early train from Thiruvanamalai to Bangalore, enjoying views of the countryside as you travel.
Book tickets in advance.
INR 300, 4 hours

1:00 PM

Check-in at Hotel Brigade Royale

Rest and refresh at your hotel upon arrival in Bangalore.
Hotel is near Bangalore City Railway Station.
INR 2000, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Lunch at MTR (Mavalli Tiffin Rooms)

Dine at this legendary restaurant known for its traditional South Indian meals served on banana leaves.
5-minute auto-rickshaw ride from the hotel.
INR 450, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Explore Cubbon Park

Stroll through the lush greenery of Cubbon Park, enjoying nature amidst the city.
15-minute auto-rickshaw from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Nagarathna Restaurant

Savor delicious vegetarian cuisine at this popular Bangalore eatery with a vibrant atmosphere.
20-minute auto-rickshaw ride from the park.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Kodaikanal Adventure

Kodaikanal, India

6:30 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a breakfast buffet before setting out for Kodaikanal.
Dining area in the hotel.
Included with stay, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Bus to Kodaikanal

Take an early morning bus from Bangalore to Kodaikanal, known for its scenic hill station atmosphere.
Book tickets at the local bus station.
INR 800, 7 hours

3:00 PM

Check-in at Hilltop Hotel

Settle into your hotel and relax after your journey.
Located in Kodaikanal town.
INR 2500, 1 hour

4:30 PM

Explore Kodai Lake

Enjoy a leisurely walk and boat ride around the picturesque Kodai Lake.
10-minute walk from your hotel.
INR 300 for boat rental, 2 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at The Clouds Restaurant

Dine with a view at The Clouds Restaurant, famous for its stunning lake vistas and varied menu.
10-minute auto-rickshaw ride from the lake.
INR 700, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Madurai and Departure

Madurai, India

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Indulge in a delicious breakfast at your hotel for your last day in Kodaikanal.
Dining area in the hotel.
Included with stay, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Bus to Madurai

Take a scenic bus ride from Kodaikanal to Madurai, soaking in the mountains before descending.
Book tickets at the local bus station.
INR 600, 4 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Enjoy Madurai’s famous idlis and sambar at this iconic eatery.
5-minute walk from Madurai bus station.
INR 250, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

Explore the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its stunning architecture.
5-minute walk from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Departure

Conclude your trip by heading to Madurai Airport or Railway Station for your onward journey.
Taxi or auto-rickshaw from the temple.
Varies, 1 hour
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