5-Day Adventure Itinerary in Arunachalam

Day 1: Temple Exploration

Tiruvannamalai, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Ramana's Garden

Start your day with a wholesome breakfast featuring South Indian delicacies like idli and sambar at this serene café.
Walk to the café from your accommodation.
INR250, 1 hour

8:30AM

Visit Arunachaleswarar Temple

Marvel at the majestic architecture of this sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, a must-visit for spiritual seekers.
Short walk from the café.
Free, 2 hours

10:30AM

Explore the Girivalam Path

Take a leisurely walk along the 14 km circumambulation path around the sacred hill, surrounded by stunning nature.
Trail starts from Arunachaleswarar Temple.
Free, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Hotel Arunachala

Savour traditional Tamil meals in a comfortable setting, with thali being the highlight.
Auto-rickshaw ride from the Girivalam Path.
INR400, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Sri Ramana Ashram

Feel the serene and peaceful atmosphere of the ashram founded by the revered saint Sri Ramana Maharshi.
Short drive from the hotel.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at a local café

Take a break at a nearby café, perhaps sipping a chai while enjoying a view of the sacred hill.
Walk to the café.
INR150, 1 hour

5:30PM

Climb to the top of Arunachala Hill

Reward yourself with a breathtaking sunset view from the hill's peak after a refreshing climb.
Follow the marked trails to the top.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Palace Restaurant

Enjoy a lovely dinner with a variety of Indian and international dishes that cater to all tastes.
Auto-rickshaw ride back into town.
INR600, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Spiritual Awakening

Tiruvannamalai, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at the ashram

Enjoy a simple yet fulfilling breakfast at Sri Ramana Ashram, where spiritual vibes complement your meal.
Walk to the ashram dining area.
Free, 1 hour

9:00AM

Attend a meditation session

Partake in a morning meditation session led by the ashram’s guides to centre yourself for the day.
Join a group at Sri Ramana Ashram.
Free, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Sri Kateri Amman Temple

Explore this lesser-known temple dedicated to the goddess Kateri, known for its beautiful architecture.
Auto-rickshaw ride to the temple.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Azhagar Kovil

Enjoy some spiced rice and local delicacies in a nearby quaint eatery, immersing yourself in local flavours.
Auto-rickshaw ride from the temple.
INR300, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Virupaksha Cave

Discover these mystical caves featuring ancient inscriptions and a tranquil atmosphere ideal for reflection.
Hike for approx. 30 minutes uphill from the temple.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore local markets

Stroll through the vibrant local markets, immersing yourself in the culture and picking up handicrafts.
Auto-rickshaw to the market area.
Free (shopping varies), 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Sunset at Arunachala Hill

Return to the hill to witness yet another spectacular sunset, now with an even deeper appreciation.
Drive or walk to the base of the hill.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Annamalai Restaurant

Conclude the day with delicious South Indian meals, such as dosa and a rich coconut chutney.
Auto-rickshaw back to town.
INR500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Nature and Culture

Arempachir, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast including poha and fruit at your accommodation before setting out.
Stay overnight or drive from Tiruvannamalai.
INR300, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Arempachir Lake

Spend your morning relaxing by the tranquil lake, perfect for a leisurely walk or bird watching.
Drive or walk to the lake.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore local village

Take a guided tour of the local village, learning about their customs and way of life.
Local guide provides transportation.
INR350, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Village Dhaba

Relish freshly cooked dhal and roti at a charming village roadside eatery.
Part of the village tour.
INR150, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Kottai Mariamman Temple

Discover this stunning temple dedicated to the rain goddess, populated with intricate carvings and vibrant colours.
Drive from the village.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Local craft workshop

Participate in a traditional craft workshop, learning skills passed down through generations.
Walk to the workshop nearby.
INR500, 2 hours

5:30PM

Enjoy evening tea

Savour a local cup of chai while exchanging stories with the locals you met throughout your day.
At the workshop venue.
INR100, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Local Home

Dine with a local family, enjoying a home-cooked Tamil meal enriched with love and traditions.
Pre-arranged by your guide.
INR700, 2 hours
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Day 4: Art and Performance

Kalashethra, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Guest House

Begin your day with a nourishing breakfast at your guest house before heading out to explore.
On-site at your accommodation.
INR300, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Kalashethra Arts Centre

Dive into the rich traditional arts of Tamil Nadu, exploring music, dance, and art exhibitions.
Short auto-rickshaw ride to the centre.
INR300, 2 hours

11:00AM

Participate in a dance workshop

Join a classical dance workshop in an immersive experience that shows you the beauty of Bharatanatyam.
Book in advance at Kalashethra.
INR600, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Kalashethra Café

Enjoy a light lunch with a selection of healthy options in a beautiful garden café setting.
On-site at Kalashethra.
INR400, 1 hour

2:00PM

Art exhibition tour

Tour the latest exhibitions showcasing local artists and their stunning creations.
Inside the Kalashethra complex.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit nearby village arts

Support local artisans by visiting surrounding villages and witnessing traditional craftsmanship.
Auto-rickshaw ride to nearby villages.
Free (shopping optional), 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Classic

Finish your day with a fusion food experience, blending traditional and modern Tamil cuisine.
Auto-rickshaw back to Kalashethra.
INR700, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Cultural Farewell

Tiruvannamalai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Ashram

Indulge in a relaxed breakfast, sampling local pastries and coffee amidst tranquil surroundings.
Back to Tiruvannamalai.
INR250, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Adi Annamalai Hill

Spend your morning hiking to Adi Annamalai Hill for panoramic views over the town.
Hike from the café along the marked paths.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan

Delight in a sumptuous South Indian buffet that caters to all tastes, perfect for refuelling post-hike.
Auto-rickshaw ride back into town.
INR500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Farewell shopping in local stores

Find unique souvenirs to remember your journey as you explore local shops one last time.
Walk to nearby shopping areas.
Free (shopping varies), 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit local art galleries

Explore local art galleries showcasing the region's talent, perfect for art lovers.
Auto-rickshaw ride to galleries.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at a Local Eatery

End your adventure with a final taste of Tamil Nadu cuisine, soaking in the ambiance of this vibrant place.
Auto-rickshaw back towards accommodation.
INR600, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability