Start the journey early morning from Bengaluru to maximize the time at Arunachalam and Giri Pradakshina. The drive is approximately 6-7 hours each way.
Begin with the darshan of Sri Arunachaleswarar Temple, a significant Shaivite shrine known for its breathtaking architecture and spiritual importance. The temple is open from 6:00am to 12:30pm and reopens from 4:00pm to 8:30pm.
Enjoy traditional South Indian cuisine such as idli, dosa, and thali at a nearby restaurant like Bhavan's or Sri Saravana Bhavan, which remain open for lunch till 3:00pm.
Begin the Giri Pradakshina, a sacred circumambulation around the Arunachala hill. This trek takes around 4-6 hours depending on pace; start early to complete it in daylight safely.
Arrive back at the Sri Arunachaleswarar Temple for the evening pooja and sunset darshan, open till 8:30pm. This is a beautiful spiritual experience with special rituals.