From Chennai 3 days Temple and Ashram Tour with Tiruvannamalai

Day 1 · Chennai – Kanchipuram – Vellore – Tiruvannamalai

1. 1

   Kailasanatha Temple

   3 hours Admission included

   Pickup from your hotel in Chennai and drive towards Kanchipuram, one of the most sacred temple towns in South India. After sightseeing, continue to Vellore and later proceed to Tiruvannamalai for an overnight stay.

   Kailasanathar Temple

   This 8th-century temple is one of the oldest surviving temples in Kanchipuram, built by the Pallava dynasty. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is famous for its beautiful sandstone architecture and intricate carvings. The temple complex features numerous small shrines and detailed sculptures depicting Hindu mythology. Visitors can admire the early Dravidian style of temple construction. It is considered an important heritage monument in Tamil Nadu.

2. 2

   Vaikunda Perumal Temple

   30 min Admission included

   Built in the 8th century by the Pallava king Nandivarman II, this temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple is known for its unique three-tier sanctum representing Vishnu in different postures. Historical inscriptions and carvings depict scenes from Pallava history. The architecture reflects the evolution of early South Indian temple design. It is an important pilgrimage site for Vaishnavite devotees.

3. 3

   Ekambareswarar Temple

   30 min Admission included

   One of the Pancha Bhoota temples representing the element Earth (Prithvi). The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and features a massive 59-meter-high gopuram. A sacred mango tree inside the temple is believed to be over 3,500 years old. The vast temple complex covers nearly 25 acres with impressive corridors and halls. It is one of the largest temples in Tamil Nadu.

4. 4

   Sri Lakshmi Narayani Golden Temple

   2 hours Admission included

   Located in Sripuram near Vellore, this temple is famous for its golden architecture. The entire sanctum and temple structure are covered with gold plates. Devotees walk through a star-shaped pathway before reaching the shrine of Goddess Lakshmi Narayani. The temple emphasizes spiritual teachings and peaceful meditation. It attracts thousands of pilgrims every year.

   Proceed to Tiruvannamalai for overnight stay.

OVERNIGHT AT THIRUVANNAMALAI

Day 2 · Tiruvannamalai Spiritual Visit

1. 1

   Sri Ramanasramam

   one hour Admission included

   After breakfast, explore the sacred ashrams and temples around Arunachala Hill, an important spiritual center for seekers and devotees.

   Sri Ramanasramam

   This peaceful ashram is dedicated to the teachings of the great sage Ramana Maharshi. It attracts spiritual seekers from around the world who come for meditation and self-inquiry. The ashram includes the samadhi shrine of Ramana Maharshi and a serene meditation hall. The environment is calm and ideal for spiritual reflection. Visitors can also explore the library and peaceful gardens.

2. 2

   Skandashramam

   one hour Admission included

   Skandasramam is a peaceful hillside ashram located on the sacred slopes of Arunachala Hill in Tiruvannamalai. It is closely associated with the life of the revered sage Ramana Maharshi, who lived here from 1916 to 1922 along with his mother. Surrounded by natural rocks, trees, and quiet surroundings, the ashram became an important place for meditation and spiritual practice. Visitors usually reach Skandasramam by a short uphill walk from Sri Ramanasramam, enjoying scenic views of the town and the famous Arunachaleswarar Temple below. Today, the ashram remains a serene spiritual retreat for devotees and seekers who wish to experience the calm atmosphere connected to Ramana Maharshi’s teachings

3. 3

   Virupaksha Cave

   45 min Admission included

   This ancient cave on Arunachala Hill was where Ramana Maharshi lived for many years. The cave has deep historical and spiritual significance for devotees. The quiet surroundings make it ideal for meditation and contemplation. Pilgrims climb the hill to visit this sacred cave. The experience offers a sense of peace and connection with the saint’s spiritual journey.

4. 4

   Arunachaleswarar Temple

   one hour Admission included

   One of the largest Shiva temples in India and associated with the fire element among the Pancha Bhoota temples. The temple complex features massive gopurams and impressive Dravidian architecture. It is located at the base of the sacred Arunachala Hill. Devotees perform the famous Girivalam (circumambulation) around the hill. The temple becomes especially vibrant during the Karthigai Deepam festival.

   Overnight stay in Tiruvannamalai.

OVERNIGHT AT THIRUVANNAMALAI

Day 3 · Tiruvannamalai – Chennai Sightseeing – Departure

1. 1

   Stop 1

   4 hours Admission included

   Located in Mylapore, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and dates back several centuries. It is a fine example of Dravidian temple architecture with a colorful gopuram. The temple is closely associated with ancient Tamil Shaivite traditions. The surrounding streets are lively with flower markets and traditional shops. It is one of Chennai’s most important religious landmarks.

2. 2

   Government Museum

   one hour Admission included

   Established in 1851, it is one of the oldest museums in India. The museum houses impressive collections of archaeology, art, and numismatics. Highlights include the famous Amaravati Buddhist sculptures. The complex also contains the National Art Gallery and Bronze Gallery. It offers valuable insight into South Indian history and culture.

3. 3

   St Thomas English Church

   30 min Admission included

   This beautiful neo-Gothic church is built over the tomb of St. Thomas the Apostle. It is one of only three churches in the world built over an apostle’s burial site. The white cathedral with tall spires is a major Christian pilgrimage destination. The church also houses a small museum about St. Thomas. It stands close to the Bay of Bengal coastline.

4. 4

   Fort St. George

   30 min Admission included

   Constructed in 1644 by the British East India Company, it is the first British fortress in India. The fort played an important role in the colonial history of the region. Inside the complex is St. Mary’s Church, one of the oldest Anglican churches in Asia. The site now houses the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly and a museum. It reflects the early European influence in Chennai.

5. 5

   Marina Beach

   one hour Admission included

   Marina Beach is one of the longest urban beaches in the world. The wide sandy shoreline stretches along the Bay of Bengal for several kilometers. It is a popular place for evening walks and enjoying sea breezes. The beach also features statues, memorials, and local food stalls. It offers a lively glimpse of Chennai’s coastal culture.

   After sightseeing, drop at Chennai hotel / airport.