A two-day tour package from Chennai to Tiruvannamalai typically includes visits to the key spiritual and historical sites in and around Tiruvannamalai. Here’s a general overview of what such a tour package might include:
Day 1: Departure from Chennai and Tiruvannamalai Sightseeing
Morning:
- Departure from Chennai:
- Early morning departure from Chennai by car, bus, or train.
- The journey to Tiruvannamalai takes approximately 4-5 hours by road (about 200 km from Chennai).
Arrival in Tiruvannamalai:
- Check-in at Hotel:
- Upon arrival, check in at the hotel for refreshment and relaxation.
- Have breakfast (if included in the package).
Afternoon:
- Arunachaleswarar Temple:
- Visit the grand Arunachaleswarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Explore the temple’s architecture, visit the sanctum, and offer prayers.
- Spend time exploring the various shrines within the temple complex.
- Girivalam (Optional):
- If time permits and you are interested, you can start the Girivalam (circumambulation) of Arunachala Hill. It is a 14-kilometer route around the hill, visiting the eight Shiva lingams located along the way.
- Some packages may offer transportation assistance for Girivalam.
Evening:
- Ramana Maharshi Ashram:
- Visit the Ramana Maharshi Ashram, a serene place for meditation and spiritual reflection.
- Explore the ashram, visit the meditation hall, and learn about the life and teachings of Ramana Maharshi.
- Virupaksha Cave and Skandashram (Optional):
- Depending on time and interest, visit these sacred caves where Ramana Maharshi spent several years in meditation.
- These spots require a short trek on the Arunachala Hill.
- Return to Hotel:
- Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 2: Additional Sightseeing and Return to Chennai
Morning:
- Seshadri Swamigal Ashram:
- Visit the Seshadri Swamigal Ashram, another spiritual spot dedicated to the saint Seshadri Swamigal.
- Yogi Ram Surathkumar Ashram:
- Explore the ashram dedicated to Yogi Ram Surathkumar, also known as the “Visiri Samiyar.”
- Spend time in meditation or explore the ashram grounds.
Afternoon:
- Lunch at a Local Restaurant:
- Enjoy traditional South Indian cuisine at a local restaurant.
- Gingee Fort (Optional):
- If time permits, take a detour to visit Gingee Fort, about 35 km from Tiruvannamalai. Explore the historic fort, its ramparts, and scenic views.
- Sathanur Dam (Optional):
- Another optional visit is the Sathanur Dam, a scenic spot for relaxation and nature lovers.
Evening:
- Departure for Chennai:
- Begin your return journey to Chennai.
- Arrival in Chennai by late evening or night, marking the end of the tour.
Inclusions:
- Round-trip transportation from Chennai to Tiruvannamalai (by car, bus, or train).
- Accommodation in Tiruvannamalai (1 night stay).
- Meals as per the package (breakfast, lunch, dinner).
- Entry fees to the temples and other attractions.
- Local guide services (if included).
Exclusions:
- Personal expenses (shopping, additional meals, etc.).
- Optional activities like Girivalam transportation, special poojas.
- Any other services not specifically mentioned in the package.
Price Range:
- The price for such a package can vary depending on the type of accommodation (budget to luxury), the mode of transportation, and the services included. Typically, it could range from ₹5,000 to ₹8,000 per person for a basic package.
For booking this package, you would need to contact a travel agency like Vishnu Balaji Travels or any other service provider offering spiritual tours.
