• Arunachaleshwara Temple - Guests will be picked up in the morning from their hotel in Chennai. The journey to Thiruvannamalai takes approximately 2.5 hours. Enjoy the scenic views of the countryside as you pass by charming villages and lush farms.

Upon arrival in Thiruvannamalai, proceed to the renowned Arunachaleshwara Temple. Constructed by the Vijayanagar Kings between the 16th and 17th centuries, it is the largest Shiva temple in India. The temple is believed to be situated at a location where the five elements of life - earth, water, fire, air, and sky - are present.

The temple spans 25 acres and features four majestic gateways, each topped with large towers (gopurams). The eastern gopuram is eleven stories high and reaches a height of 217 feet. The main hall of the temple contains 1,000 pillars. There is also a grand sculpture of the Nandi bull, Lord Shiva’s divine vehicle, and two large water ponds within the temple grounds.

• Sri Ramana Ashram - Next, visit the Ashram of the saint Sri Ramana Maharshi, located at the base of the hills, outside the town. Guests can explore the cave where the saint is believed to have meditated. Within the ashram, visit the saint’s final resting place and the Matrubhuteswara Temple. The ashram also includes a cow-shed, library, and bookstore.

After touring the ashram, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant (at your own expense).

Following lunch, guests will be driven back to Chennai and dropped off at their hotel.

• Complimentary mineral water (2 bottles per person)
• Local English-speaking guide provided
• Transport in a private, air-conditioned vehicle
• Convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off

• Additional food or drink, unless specified
• Gratuities

Thiruvannamalai is a town 120 miles from Chennai in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu. On this day trip from Chennai visit two of the most famous historical sites of Thiruvannamalai - the Arunachaleshwara Temple and the Ashram of Sri Ramana Maharshi. The Arunachaleshwara Temple is the largest temple dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva.

Highlights

• 217 feet temple tower (gopuram)
• Temple hall with 1 000 pillars
• Cave where Sri Ramana Maharshi meditated
• Not recommended for pregnant women and people with back problems.
• Consider wearing comfortable clothes and walking shoes.
• Visit to the temple is from 06:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m, and then from 04:00-09:00 p.m.
• Children must be accompanied by an adult

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.