2 day itinerary for Arunachaleswara Temple

Itinerary

Day 1:

• Start your day early and head straight to Arunachaleswara Temple, one of the most prominent and ancient temples in Arunachal Pradesh.
• Take your time to explore the temple complex, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Marvel at the stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and the spiritual ambiance that surrounds the temple.
• Don't miss the main sanctum where the presiding deity, Lord Arunachaleswara, is worshipped. Offer your prayers and soak in the divine energy of the place.
• After visiting the main temple, take a leisurely stroll around the temple complex. Admire the various smaller shrines, beautiful gardens, and the serene atmosphere.
• If you're interested in history and culture, visit the temple museum nearby. It houses a collection of ancient artifacts, sculptures, and paintings that provide insights into the rich heritage of the region.
• For lunch, try some authentic local cuisine at one of the nearby restaurants. Don't forget to savor the traditional dishes like dosa, idli, and sambar.
• In the afternoon, you can explore the surrounding areas. Visit the Annamalaiyar Temple Tank, also known as the Patala Ganga. Take a dip in the holy waters or simply sit by the tank and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
• As the evening approaches, make your way back to the temple for the evening aarti (prayer ceremony). Witness the mesmerizing rituals, the chanting of mantras, and the lighting of lamps, which create a magical atmosphere.
• After the aarti, you can take a leisurely walk around the temple complex, enjoying the illuminated surroundings. If you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the temple's annual festival, Karthigai Deepam, when the entire temple is lit up with thousands of oil lamps.
• End your day by indulging in a delicious dinner at one of the local eateries, where you can savor the flavors of the region.

Day 2:

• Start your second day by visiting the Arunachala Hill, which is considered sacred and is believed to be a manifestation of Lord Shiva himself. You can either trek up the hill or take a vehicle to reach the top.
• As you ascend, enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the town below. The hill is also dotted with several small shrines and meditation caves, which you can explore along the way.
• Once you reach the summit, take a moment to soak in the panoramic views and the spiritual energy that emanates from the hill. It's a perfect spot for meditation or simply to connect with nature.
• After descending from the hill, head to the nearby Ramana Maharshi Ashram. This ashram is dedicated to the renowned sage Ramana Maharshi, who spent most of his life here. Explore the ashram, visit the meditation hall, and learn about the teachings of this great spiritual master.
• For lunch, you can try some delicious South Indian thali at one of the local restaurants. Indulge in a variety of flavors and spices that will tantalize your taste buds.
• In the afternoon, you can visit the Seshadri Swamigal Ashram, another important spiritual center in the area. This ashram is dedicated to the saint Seshadri Swamigal and offers a serene and peaceful environment for meditation and reflection.
• If you have some time left, you can explore the local markets and shops, where you can find traditional handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs to take back home.
• Finally, end your two-day journey at Arunachaleswara Temple by attending the evening aarti and offering your prayers one last time. Reflect on the spiritual experiences you've had during your visit and carry the divine blessings with you as you leave.

Remember, this itinerary is just a suggestion, and you can customize it based on your preferences and time constraints. Enjoy your visit to Arunachaleswara Temple and have a memorable trip!