Set out on a captivating private day tour from Chennai to Gingee Fort and Thiruvannamalai, blending history and spirituality in a seamless 12-hour experience. This excursion, priced at $90.39 per person, takes you on a journey through the scenic Tamil Nadu countryside, guided by a professional English-speaking expert. Discover the impressive ramparts of Gingee Fort, immerse in meditation at Ramanarishi Ashram, and marvel at the grandeur of Arunachaleswarar Temple. With roundtrip transportation and entry fees included, this tour promises to be a day filled with unforgettable moments, leaving you with a deeper understanding of the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Key Points
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This private day tour covers the historical Gingee Fort and the spiritual hub of Thiruvannamalai, providing a blend of history, culture, and spirituality.
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The tour includes roundtrip transportation, entry fees, a professional English-speaking guide, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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Highlights of the tour include exploring the strategic and architectural marvels of Gingee Fort, visiting the Ramanasramam ashram, and admiring the grand Arunachaleswarar Temple.
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The itinerary allows for a well-paced exploration of these sites, with a mix of sightseeing, meditation, and refreshment breaks.
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The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or individuals over 95 years old, and guests are responsible for tips and personal expenses.
Tour Overview and Pricing
This private day tour from Chennai offers visitors the opportunity to explore the historic Gingee Fort and the spiritual destination of Thiruvannamalai.
Priced at $90.39 per person, the tour provides significant savings of up to 20% from the original $112.99.
The 12-hour excursion includes roundtrip transportation, entry fees, and a professional English-speaking guide.
Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, as well as the option to reserve now and pay later.
With a well-curated itinerary, this tour promises a unique blend of history, spirituality, and scenic countryside vistas.
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Itinerary Details
The tour begins with a prompt 6:00 AM pick-up from Chennai, whether it’s from the airport or a hotel.
After a 3-hour drive, guests arrive at the historic Gingee Fort, exploring its impressive structures over 2 hours.
Next, they depart for Thiruvannamalai, reaching the town in an hour.
Here, they take a refreshment break before visiting the serene Ramanarishi Ashram for 1.5 hours of meditation and spiritual insight.
Following a 1-hour lunch break, the tour continues to the grand Arunachaleswarar Temple, marveling at its intricate carvings for 1.5 hours.
Attractions and Highlights
Explorers can discover the historic Gingee Fort, often referred to as the "Troy of the East" due to its impressive defensive structures.
Visitors will then journey to the serene Ramanarishi Ashram, where they can engage in meditation and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
The tour culminates with a visit to the magnificent Arunachaleswarar Temple, known for its grand architecture and intricate carvings.
Throughout the day, guests will enjoy scenic drives through the picturesque Tamil Nadu countryside, seeing the rich history and spirituality of South India’s temples and ashrams.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour package includes air-conditioned transportation, entry fees to all the attractions, 2 complimentary bottled water, and a professional English-speaking guide.
These inclusions ensure a comfortable and hassle-free experience throughout the day. However, the tour doesn’t cover lunch expenses and personal expenses like shopping and leisure activities.
Guests are also responsible for providing their own tips and gratuities. It’s important to note that the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or individuals over 95 years old.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyImportant Information and Guidelines
Typically, pick-up and drop-off are available from designated locations in Chennai, so guests should confirm their preferred pick-up point when booking the tour. The tour is conducted in English, but visitors can request guides in other languages in advance. While exploring the sites, it’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes, carry a camera, some cash, and a copy of one’s passport. Certain items are not permitted on the tour, including weapons, smoking, drinks, alcohol, explosive substances, and nudity. Plus, the tour may not be suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or individuals over 95 years old.
Recommended Items | Not Permitted |
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Comfortable shoes | Weapons |
Camera | Smoking |
Cash | Drinks |
Passport copy | Alcohol |
Explosive substances | |
Nudity |
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Discovering Gingee Fort
Gingee Fort, known as the "Troy of the East," stands as a testament to the region’s rich history.
Situated atop three hill ranges, the fort’s strategic location made it a formidable defensive structure. Visitors can explore its impressive ramparts, ruined palaces, and intricate architectural details.
The tour showcases the fort’s diverse influences, from the Vijayanagar Empire to the Marathas. Climbing to the top of the fort’s towers offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, allowing guests to appreciate the majesty of this historical site.
The tour provides an opportunity to explore Gingee’s captivating past and understand its significance in the annals of South Indian history.
Exploring Thiruvannamalai
After exploring the historic Gingee Fort, the private day tour takes visitors to the sacred town of Thiruvannamalai.
The group first stops at the Ramanasramam, the ashram of the renowned spiritual master Ramana Maharshi. Here, they can experience the tranquility of the ashram and learn about Ramana’s teachings on self-inquiry and enlightenment.
Next, they visit the iconic Arunachaleswarar Temple, one of the largest temples in India. Marveling at the temple’s intricate carvings and soaring towers, the group discovers the rich spiritual heritage of Tamil Nadu.
The tour concludes with a scenic drive back to Chennai, offering a glimpse into the region’s countryside and culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?
Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to accommodate your preferences. The tour operator offers flexibility to adjust the duration, activities, and timings based on your interests and requirements.
Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available for Group Bookings?
Yes, group discounts are available for this tour. Customers can save up to 20% when booking the tour as a group of 4 or more people. The tour operator offers flexible payment options and free cancellation for added convenience.
How Do I Get to the Meeting Point if I’m Not Staying in Chennai?
The tour operator offers pick-up and drop-off from designated locations in Chennai. If you’re not staying in Chennai, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point, which the operator can confirm when you book the tour.
Are There Any Vegetarian or Dietary-Friendly Meal Options Available?
The tour includes a lunch break, and the guide can accommodate vegetarian and other dietary requirements with advance notice. Guests should notify the tour operator of any special dietary needs when booking.
What Is the Dress Code or Attire Recommended for the Tour?
The recommended attire is comfortable, modest clothing. Visitors should avoid revealing or sleeveless garments, especially when visiting temples. Comfortable walking shoes are suggested for navigating the historical sites and exploring the spiritual destinations.
Recap
This private day tour from Chennai to Gingee Fort and Thiruvannamalai offers a captivating blend of history and spirituality. Visitors can explore the impressive ramparts of Gingee Fort, immerse in meditation at Ramanarishi Ashram, and marvel at the grandeur of Arunachaleswarar Temple, all while enjoying the scenic Tamil Nadu countryside. The tour’s $90.39 per person price includes roundtrip transportation and entry fees, with a professional English-speaking guide to enhance the experience.
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