Overview
On this day excursion from Pondicherry, visit the largest Shiva temple in the world. The temple is situated in the town of Thiruvannamalai, about 60 miles from Pondicherry. After a tour of the temple, visit the nearby Ashram (monastery) of the Saint and Philosopher, Sri Ramana Maharshi, who lived here until his death in 1950.
Highlights
• Drive through the South Indian countryside
• Visit to Arunachaleswarar Temple, the largest Shiva temple in the world
• Visit to Sri Ramana Maharshi Ashram
- Recommended by 98% of travelers
- Badge of Excellence
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Mobile ticket
What's included
02 bottles of mineral water per person
Local English speaking guide
Transport by private air-conditioned vehicle
Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Food or drinks, unless specified
Gratuities
Meeting and pickup
Pickup is offered, or you can meet at the meeting point.
Meeting point
We will pick up traveler from their hotels / fixed point within city center.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
Good to know
Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation.
What to expect
-
Girivalam, Arunachaleswarar Temple
1 hour
You will be picked up from your hotel in the morning for the two-hour drive to the town of Thiruvannamalai, situated 60 miles away from Pondicherry.
Visit the 9th century Arunachaleswarar temple that is dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva. Besides being the largest temple in the world dedicated to Shiva, the temple also has the distinction of having a 216 feet high tower, the second tallest temple tower in the world. The temple complex is spread over an area of 25 acres and has several pillared halls, including a hall with a thousand pillars. -
Sri Ramana Ashram
2 hours
Next visit the Ashram of Sri Ramana Maharshi which is situated at the foot of the Arunachala hills, outside the town. You can also visit the cave on the Arunagiri slope, where the saint is said to have meditated. Amongst the early visitors to the Ashram were the British writers Paul Brunton in 1931 and Somerset Maugham in 1938. The latter used Sri Ramana Maharshi as the model for the character of Shri Ganesha in his novel, The Razor’s Edge.
After the Ashram visit, enjoy lunch (own expense) at a local restaurant.
After lunch you will be driven back to Pondicherry and dropped off at your hotel.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
Times are local to the experience (Asia/Kolkata).
Additional Information
- Temple visit timings are 06:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon in the morning and from 04:00 - 09:30 p.m. in the evening.
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Up to 8 travelers per booking
- Each booking must include at least one adult.
FAQs about Day trip to Tiruvannamalai Temple and Sri Ramana Ashram from Pondicherry
Can I cancel Day trip to Tiruvannamalai Temple and Sri Ramana Ashram from Pondicherry for free?
Yes. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
How long does it take?
It takes about 8 hours.
Is pickup offered?
Pickup is offered, or you can meet at the meeting point.
What's included?
- 02 bottles of mineral water per person
- Local English speaking guide
- Transport by private air-conditioned vehicle
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
What's not included?
- Food or drinks, unless specified
- Gratuities
Which places does it visit?
It visits Girivalam, Arunachaleswarar Temple, Sri Ramana Ashram.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is offered in English.
Is it suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Operated by SITA World Tours
