Ultimate 2-Day Itinerary in Thiruvannamalai

Day 1: Exploring Temples

Thiruvannamalai, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Ramana's Cafe

Start your day with a healthy breakfast at Ramana's Cafe, known for its delicious South Indian dishes and peaceful ambience.
Head towards the cafe located near the main Ramana Maharshi Ashram.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Annamalaiyar Temple

Explore the magnificent Annamalaiyar Temple, which boasts stunning architecture and is a key pilgrimage site.
Located about 2 km from the cafe, a 30-minute walk or 10-minute auto ride will take you there.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Climb Arunachala Hills

Embark on a spiritual hike up Arunachala Hills which is a significant element of local spirituality and offers panoramic views from the top.
It's a 5 km trek from the temple; plan for around 2 hours of trekking.
Free, 3 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Hotel Aakash

Refuel with a hearty lunch at Hotel Aakash, famous for its thali meals and local cuisine.
Located near the base of the hill; it's a simple 10-minute auto ride back.
INR 500, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Ramana Maharshi Ashram

Learn about the spiritual teachings of Ramana Maharshi at the ashram, known for its serene environment.
Located approximately 1 km from the restaurant, a short walk will get you there.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Evening Aarti at Annamalaiyar Temple

Experience the enchanting evening Aarti ceremony at the Annamalaiyar Temple, a mesmerizing spiritual event.
Head back to the temple; it’s just a 15-minute walk from the ashram.
Free, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Saravana Bhavan

End your day with a delicious dinner at Saravana Bhavan, renowned for its authentic South Indian meals and dosas.
It’s a quick 10-minute walk from the temple.
INR 400, 1 hour
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Day 2: Nature and Spirituality

Thiruvannamalai, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel Ramakrishna

Enjoy a traditional breakfast at Hotel Ramakrishna, offering a range of South Indian breakfast options.
Located near the main town center, about a 15-minute walk from your accommodation.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore Virupaksha Cave

Visit the mystical Virupaksha Cave where Ramana Maharshi spent years in meditation.
Located on the Arunachala Hills, it requires a moderate hike of about 1 hour to reach.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Vasantha Bhavan

Recharge with a tasty lunch at Hotel Vasantha Bhavan, famous for its vegetarian options and friendly staff.
After your hike, head back down and travel 10 minutes by auto to reach the hotel.
INR 350, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Sacred Lake (Ponni Theertham)

Stroll around the tranquil Sacred Lake, performing rituals for peace and enlightenment, a beautiful backdrop for reflection and peace.
The lake is located about 2 km from the hotel, easily accessible via auto or a leisurely walk.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore the local market

Immerse yourself in the local culture by exploring the bustling markets filled with handicrafts, clothing, and fresh produce.
The market is nearby, about a 1 km walk from the lake.
Variable, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Sunset at Arunachala Hill

Make your way back to Arunachala Hill to witness a beautiful sunset, a spiritual and serene experience.
It's a 3 km distance from the market, easily accessible by auto which will take around 10 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Dhanam Restaurant

Finish your day with a sumptuous dinner at Dhanam Restaurant, famous for its North and South Indian cuisines.
Only 5 minutes from the sunset viewpoint, a quick auto ride will get you there.
INR 500, 1 hour
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