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Chennai to Thiruvannamalai Taxi: Girivalam & Ramana Ashram Guide
Spiritual journey to the sacred Arunachala hill
Sigivahan Pilgrimage TeamSpiritual Travel CoordinatorThursday, 19 February 20268 min read
Thiruvannamalai: Where spirituality meets the sacred mountain
Arunachala hill draws spiritual seekers from around the world. Whether for full moon Girivalam (circumambulation), Ramana Maharshi Ashram, or Arunachaleswarar Temple darshan, the 200 km journey from Chennai is a pilgrimage unto itself.
Journey overview
- Distance: 200 km via Tindivanam
- Duration: 4-5 hours
- Routes: Via Villupuram or via Vellore
- Recommended: Villupuram route (better roads)
What draws people here
Arunachaleswarar Temple - One of the largest temples in India - Represents fire element (Agni Lingam) - 1,000+ years of unbroken worship - Timing: 5:30 AM - 1 PM, 3:30 PM - 10 PM
Girivalam (Hill Circumambulation) - 14 km sacred walk around Arunachala - Full moon nights: 100,000+ pilgrims - Walking time: 4-6 hours - Barefoot tradition observed by many
Ramana Maharshi Ashram - Where the great sage lived 1922-1950 - Meditation hall, samadhi shrine - Free accommodation for spiritual seekers - Timing: 5 AM - 9 PM
Fare structure
| Vehicle | One Way | Round Trip | Overnight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sedan | ₹4,500 | ₹6,500 | ₹5,800 |
| SUV | ₹6,000 | ₹8,500 | ₹7,500 |
| Tempo | ₹10,000 | ₹14,000 | ₹12,000 |
*Overnight: Driver stays, full moon Girivalam support*
Full moon Girivalam special
On Pournami (full moon), we offer:
- 5 PM pickup from Chennai (reach by 10 PM)
- Driver standby during 6-hour Girivalam
- Return trip next morning after rest
- Special fare: ₹7,500 sedan package
Monthly Girivalam dates (2026)
- January: 13th (Thai Pournami - biggest)
- February: 12th
- March: 14th
- April: 12th
- May: 12th
- June: 11th
Accommodation near temple
- Ramana Ashram rooms: Free (advance booking)
- Arunachala Guest House: ₹800-1,500
- Hotel Arunachala Inn: ₹2,000-3,500
- Sparsa Resort: ₹5,000+ (luxury)
What to bring
- Comfortable walking footwear for Girivalam
- Light cotton clothes for temple
- Water bottle and light snacks
- Small torch for night Girivalam
- Medicine if walking 14 km
Ready to book a ride?
Sigivahan offers 24x7 chauffeur-driven airport transfers, corporate shuttles, and curated outstation trips across Tamil Nadu. Plan your next journey with a ride expert on standby.