Two-Day Spiritual and Scenic Journey from Bangalore to Arunachala Temple and Pondicherry

Day 1: Spiritual Exploration

Bangalore to Tiruvannamalai, India on May 21, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at MTR Bangalore

Start your day with a traditional South Indian breakfast at MTR, known for its delicious dosas and idlis, enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.
INR300, 1h

8:30am

Drive from Bangalore to Arunachala Temple, Tiruvannamalai

Embark on a 4 to 5-hour scenic drive (~210 km) to Tiruvannamalai, famous for the Arunachala Hill and the revered Arunachala Temple, a significant pilgrimage site.
INR1500 (fuel/taxi), 4h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Sri Ramana's Garden Cafe

Enjoy a wholesome vegetarian meal in a serene garden setting, close to the Sri Ramana Ashram, offering simple and tasty South Indian dishes.
INR400, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Arunachala Temple

Explore the famous Arunachala Temple, an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is open till 8:00pm, so enjoy the peaceful afternoon ambience and spiritual atmosphere.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Walk around Arunachala Hill

Take a sacred circumambulation (Girivalam) around Arunachala Hill, a deeply spiritual practice believed to bring blessings and peace.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Hotel Selvam

Dine at Hotel Selvam, known for its authentic Tamil Nadu meals including thalis and fresh local delights, perfect for a relaxing end to the day.
INR450, 1h
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Day 2: Scenic and Coastal

Tiruvannamalai to Pondicherry, then back to Bangalore on May 22, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at your hotel in Tiruvannamalai

Enjoy a light breakfast featuring fresh fruits and traditional South Indian fare to fuel your day ahead.
Included in hotel, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Pondicherry

Travel approximately 3 hours (~100 km) to Pondicherry, known for its French colonial heritage and beautiful coastline.
INR1000 (fuel/taxi), 3h

11:30am

Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram

Explore the serene Sri Aurobindo Ashram, a peaceful spiritual community and meditation centre that draws visitors from around the world.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Le Café

Dine by the sea at Le Café, famous for its French baguettes, croissants and relaxing seaside ambience.
INR600, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Promenade Beach and French Quarter

Stroll along the scenic Promenade Beach and wander the quaint streets of the French Quarter, admiring colonial architecture and vibrant shops.
Free, 2h

3:30pm

Early Tea at Café des Arts

Take a relaxing break with a cup of tea or coffee at this charming café featuring a mix of French and Indian décor.
INR300, 30m

4:00pm

Drive back to Bangalore

Start the journey back to Bangalore, approximately a 6-hour drive (~310 km). Ensure you leave Pondicherry by this time to reach Bangalore safely late at night.
INR2000 (fuel/taxi), 6h
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