Tiruvannamalai

Tiruvannamalai is one of Tamil Nadu’s most important spiritual centres. The town is dominated by the sacred Arunachala hill and is best known for the Arunachaleswarar Temple, but its spiritual character extends well beyond the temple complex.

Several ashrams associated with renowned saints and seekers are located around the hill. Among them, Sri Ramana Ashram and Seshadri Ashram attract visitors from India and abroad. Both are closely connected with the modern spiritual history of Tiruvannamalai and offer a very different experience from the bustle of the temple streets.

The region also has scenic attractions outside the town. Sattanur Dam, built across the Thenpennai River, is one of the best-known nearby excursions and provides a contrasting landscape of water, hills and open space.

Explore these places in and around Tiruvannamalai:

Spiritual Places

Ramana Ashram

Sri Ramana Ashram is associated with Ramana Maharshi, whose teachings drew seekers from around the world to Tiruvannamalai. The ashram remains a quiet place for meditation, prayer and reflection at the foot of Arunachala.

Seshadri Ashram

Seshadri Ashram is dedicated to Seshadri Swamigal, another important saint closely associated with Tiruvannamalai. Located near Ramana Ashram, it offers a peaceful spiritual setting and continues to attract devotees and visitors.

Around Tiruvannamalai

Sattanur Dam

Sattanur Dam is a popular excursion from Tiruvannamalai. Surrounded by hills and open countryside, the reservoir offers a scenic break from the town’s temple and ashram circuit.