4-Day Cultural and Nature Tour: Thiruvannamalai Temples, Jawadhu Hills, Gingee Fort, and Yelagiri

Day 1: Temple Exploration

Thiruvannamalai, India on May 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop

Enjoy a traditional South Indian breakfast focused on idlis and dosas, popular and close to main temples with fresh and quick service.
INR100, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Arunachaleswarar Temple

This magnificent Shiva temple is the heart of Thiruvannamalai, renowned for its impressive gopuram and vibrant spiritual atmosphere, perfect for cultural immersion.
INR50, 2h0m

12:00pm

Visit Sri Ramana Maharshi Ashram

A peaceful ashram dedicated to the sage Ramana Maharshi, offering a serene environment and insight into Indian spirituality and philosophy.
Free, 1h30m

1:30pm

Lunch at Sri Ramana Restaurant

Savor authentic local vegetarian dishes including thali platters with fresh ingredients and traditional flavors.
INR150, 1h0m

3:00pm

Explore Annamalaiyar Temple and surrounding smaller temples

The temple complex is vast with many shrines and ornate carvings to explore; ideal in the afternoon when crowds lessen.
INR50, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Hotel Saravana Bhavan

Enjoy a well-known South Indian vegetarian meal with a variety of dosas, chutneys, and filter coffee in a clean, comfortable setting.
INR200, 1h0m
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Hill Nature Escape

Jawadhu Hills, India on May 20, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at local eatery in Thiruvannamalai

Simple & quick breakfast like pongal or upma to fuel the day’s hill trekking.
INR80, 0h45m

8:00am

Drive to Jawadhu Hills (Approx 2.5 hours)

Scenic drive ascending into the Eastern Ghats, known for tribal settlements and panoramic views.
Transport cost depends on vehicle, 2h30m

10:30am

Trek and explore Jawadhu Hills viewpoints

Enjoy moderate trekking trails with spectacular views, waterfalls, and tribal culture exploration opportunities.
Free, 3h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at local hilltop restaurant

Taste freshly prepared local tribal cuisine and fresh vegetables sourced from the hills.
INR200, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit tribal villages and learn about local crafts

Interact with local communities, see handmade crafts and traditional lifestyles in Jawadhu Hills.
Free, crafts for sale, 2h0m

5:30pm

Drive back to Thiruvannamalai

Return journey with scenic views in the evening light.
Transport cost depends on vehicle, 2h30m

8:00pm

Dinner at Hotel GRT Grand

Relax with a variety of Indian and continental dishes served in a comfortable hotel setting.
INR350, 1h0m
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Historical Fort Visit

Gingee, India on May 21, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast in Thiruvannamalai at Hotel Vasantha Bhavan

Enjoy South Indian favourites including fresh idlis, vadas and coffee for a hearty start.
INR120, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive to Gingee Fort (Approx 1.5 hours)

Short trip north to the historic Gingee Fort, a majestic fortress known as the ‘Troy of the East’.
Transport cost varies, 1h30m

10:30am

Explore Gingee Fort

Explore the expansive fort complex with temples, granaries, and watchtowers offering stunning views and rich history.
INR40, 3h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Gingee local restaurant

Enjoy homemade South Indian dishes in a simple local setting near the fort.
INR150, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit nearby Kanchipuram Chariot Museum (if time permits)

A small museum showcasing the historical chariots and artifacts from the region, open until 5pm.
INR30, 1h0m

5:00pm

Drive to Yelagiri Hills (Approx 3 hours)

Evening scenic drive south-west towards the tranquil hill station Yelagiri.
Transport cost varies, 3h0m

8:00pm

Dinner at Yelagiri resort restaurant

Relax with a quiet dinner featuring both Indian and continental dishes after the day’s travel.
INR300, 1h0m
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Hill Station Leisure

Yelagiri, India on May 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at the resort

Start the day with a hearty breakfast buffet including fresh fruits and hot South Indian delicacies.
INR250, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Yelagiri Nature Park and Lake

Enjoy gentle walks, boat rides on the lake and relaxing in landscaped gardens, open from 9am to 6pm.
INR100, 2h0m

11:30am

Visit Jalagamparai Waterfalls

A scenic spot for trekking and nature photography, about 2.5 km from town, ideal during the morning hours to avoid crowds.
Free, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Hilltop Restaurant

Enjoy local hill cuisine with fresh vegetables and tasty South Indian rice dishes.
INR200, 1h0m

3:00pm

Paragliding Experience or Leisure Walk

Optional paragliding over the hills or a quiet walk through local village paths to absorb the peaceful environment.
INR1000 for paragliding, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at The Summer Green

Dine on a terrace with views, serving Indian and continental cuisine for a relaxed final evening.
INR350, 1h0m
View Hotel Availability