Weekend Getaway: Bengaluru to Thiruvannamalai

Day 1: Arrival & Exploration

Thiruvannamalai, India on April 5, 2025

5:30 AM

Check-in to hotel

After your arrival, settle into your hotel. I recommend checking into the 'Hotel Arunachala' for its proximity to the temple and comfortable stay.
INR3000, 1 hour

6:30 AM

Visit Arunachala Temple

Start your day with a visit to the Arunachala Temple, one of the most significant temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, famous for its towering gopurams and serene ambiance.
Free, 2 hours

8:30 AM

Breakfast at Ramana Ashram

Enjoy a simple breakfast at the Ramana Ashram cafeteria where you can relish traditional South Indian dishes in a peaceful environment.
INR200, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Explore Ramana Ashram

Explore the peaceful surroundings of Ramana Ashram, where you can learn about the teachings of Sri Ramana Maharshi and meditate in serene settings.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Visit the Skandashram

Hike uphill to Skandashram, a small hermitage providing stunning views of the Arunachala hill and a chance to connect with nature.
Free, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Hotel Sri Venkateshwara

Savor authentic South Indian meals at Hotel Sri Venkateshwara, renowned for its delicious thalis and vegetarian fare.
INR500, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Visit Virupaksha Cave

After lunch, visit Virupaksha Cave, where Ramana Maharshi spent many years in meditation.
Free, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Explore local markets

Stroll through the vibrant local markets to shop for handicrafts, spiritual artifacts, and souvenirs before further exploring the area.
Variable, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Visit the Annamalaiyar Temple

Pay a visit to Annamalaiyar Temple, known for its rich history and architectural beauty.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30 PM

Sunset at Arunachala Hill

After a day of exploration, sit back and enjoy the breathtaking sunset view from Arunachala Hill.
Free, 1 hour

6:30 PM

Dinner at Karthik Mess

Indulge in a hearty dinner at Karthik Mess, famous for its non-vegetarian fare and local delicacies.
INR700, 1 hour

8:00 PM

Evening Aarti at Arunachala Temple

Experience the divine atmosphere during the evening Aarti at the Arunachala Temple, a sight not to be missed.
Free, 1 hour

Day 2: Spiritual Encounter

Thiruvannamalai, India on April 6, 2025

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a buffet breakfast at your hotel providing a variety of South Indian and continental options.
INR300, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Climb Arunachala Hill

Embark on an early morning climb of Arunachala Hill, a popular pilgrimage route offering stunning views, ideal for spiritual seekers.
Free, 3 hours

11:00 AM

Visit local Ashrams

Explore other local Ashrams such as the Sundaramurthy Nayanar Ashram, enriching your spiritual journey.
Free, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Aasai Café

Have lunch at Aasai Café, known for its healthy options and cozy atmosphere.
INR400, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Visit the Shiva Lingams

View the numerous Shiva Lingams located across the town, which are an important aspect of local worship and culture.
Free, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Visit the Agni Lingam

Visit Agni Lingam, which is known for its intense energy and spiritual significance, often less crowded than other sites.
Free, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Afternoon Coffee at Coffee Bar

Relax with a cup of coffee at one of the local coffee bars, perfect for resting and taking in the ambiance.
INR150, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Last-minute Shopping

Spend your last hours in Thiruvannamalai shopping for souvenirs and gifts to take back home.
Variable, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at Hotel Murugan

Enjoy your dinner at Hotel Murugan, famous for its thali meals and local dishes before departure.
INR600, 1 hour

Day 3: Return to Bengaluru

Thiruvannamalai, India on April 7, 2025

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Have a light breakfast at your hotel to gear up for the return journey.
INR300, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Check-out and Depart

Check out of your hotel and head back to Bengaluru, cherishing unforgettable memories from your trip.
Free, 1 hour for check out