3-Day Budget-Friendly Trip from Tiruvannamalai Exploring Spirituality and Nature

Day 1: Spiritual Sites & Local Culture

Tiruvannamalai, India on June 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Ramana's Ashram Cafeteria

Enjoy a simple, wholesome South Indian breakfast at the Ramana Ashram cafeteria, known for affordable, fresh meals served to pilgrims.
INR50, 0h30m

8:45am

Visit Sri Ramana Maharshi Ashram

Explore the tranquil ashram dedicated to the saint Ramana Maharshi, soak in spiritual ambience and philosophy teachings. Open from 6:30am to 8:00pm.
Free, 2h0m

11:00am

Hike to Arunachala Hill Base

Walk around the base of the sacred Arunachala Hill, known for its spiritual significance and scenic views. Ideal for light hiking and meditation.
Free, 2h0m

1:15pm

Lunch at Sri Ramana Bhavan

Have an affordable, delicious South Indian thali meal here, popular among locals and visitors for its quality and value.
INR100, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit Annamalaiyar Temple

Explore the famous ancient Annamalaiyar Shiva temple, one of the Pancha Bhoota Stalas, magnificent for its Dravidian architecture and spiritual aura. Open until 8:30pm.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Evening Walk & Meditation at Girivalam Path

Experience the spiritual ritual of circumambulating Arunachala hill while enjoying sunset views and meditative silence. The path is open 24/7.
Free, 1h30m

8:00pm

Dinner at Hotel Sri Ram

Dine on budget-friendly local South Indian dishes in this cozy and well-rated hotel restaurant near the town center.
INR150, 1h0m

Day 2: Pondicherry Day Trip

Tiruvannamalai to Pondicherry, India on June 13, 2025

6:30am

Bus to Pondicherry

Take an early public bus from Tiruvannamalai to Pondicherry, approximately 2.5 hours journey.
INR120, 2h30m

9:00am

Breakfast at Café des Arts

Start your Pondicherry exploration with a French-style breakfast at this quaint café located in the French quarter.
INR200, 1h0m

10:15am

Explore French Quarter and Promenade Beach

Walk through the colonial architecture of the French Quarter and relax at the scenic Promenade Beach. Both are free and open all day.
Free, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Surguru Sri Krishna Bhavan

Enjoy a budget-friendly South Indian vegetarian meal at this popular local eatery well known for its quality food.
INR150, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Auroville

Take a short local bus or taxi to Auroville, an experimental township devoted to human unity and sustainable living. Open 9am-5pm.
INR50 for transport, 2h0m

4:30pm

Bus back to Tiruvannamalai

Return bus ride from Pondicherry to Tiruvannamalai arriving before evening.
INR120, 2h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Hotel Ramalakshmi

Conclude the day with a simple and affordable dinner of local dishes in this respected local restaurant.
INR150, 1h0m

Day 3: Historical Exploration

Tiruvannamalai to Gingee Fort, India on June 14, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Local Parotta Stall

Start your day with a budget South Indian breakfast of parotta and curry from a local street stall famous for early morning meals.
INR50, 0h30m

8:00am

Bus to Gingee Fort

Catch a public bus or shared vehicle for the 40km journey to Gingee Fort, taking about 1.5 hours.
INR60, 1h30m

9:30am

Visit Gingee Fort

Explore the extensive and historic Gingee Fort complex, famous for its architectural brilliance and hilltop views. Open 9am-5:30pm.
INR25, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Local Eatery near Gingee

Enjoy a simple South Indian meal at a small local restaurant nearby, ideal for budget travelers.
INR100, 1h0m

1:30pm

Return to Tiruvannamalai

Travel back to Tiruvannamalai by public transport, allowing rest in the afternoon at your accommodation.
INR60, 1h30m

4:00pm

Relaxation and Shopping at Tiruvannamalai Market

Spend your afternoon relaxing or buying souvenirs and local items from the vibrant market in Tiruvannamalai.
Varies, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Hotel Sri Ram

Enjoy your final dinner with affordable and tasty South Indian cuisine in a cozy setting close to your stay.
INR150, 1h0m