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Bus, Airlines
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Feb, Mar, Apr & May
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All meals during the trek
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Easy to Moderate
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2-15
Overview
Embark on a sacred journey to the revered Shiva temples of the Pancha Bhoota Stalam, where the divine energies of the five elements—earth, water, fire, wind, and space—manifest in breathtaking architectural wonders. This pilgrimage through South India offers a unique opportunity to connect with the cosmic forces that shape our universe, experiencing the profound spirituality and rich cultural heritage associated with these ancient shrines. Discover the unique significance of each temple, marvel at their intricate craftsmanship, and immerse yourself in the divine presence that permeates these sacred spaces.
Itinerary
Upon arrival at the Chennai airport, you will be received by our representative and transferred to Tirupati (approx. 140km, 03h: 30m) and check-in to the hotel. Overnight stay at the hotel.
After breakfast, we will visit one of the five element temples known as Srikalahasteeswara Temple which is dedicated to Lord Shiva and it is represents the element wind or Vayu. Rest of the evening is free for leisure.
Today after breakfast will head towards Kanchipuram (approx. 110km) upon arrival check-in to the hotel. Later in the evening visit Ekambareswarar Temple which is dedicated to Lord Shiva and it is associated with the element Earth (Prithvi) and attend the evening arti. Later back to the hotel.Â
After breakfast we will proceed for Tiruvannamalai (approx. 160 km) when we arrive check-in to hotel, in evening we will visit the visit the Annamalaiyar Temple, which is dedicated to Agni the five element, here we will perform rituals and take blessings from Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.Â
Today morning we will take a small hike for the Arunachala Hill and visit the Ramana Maharishi cave and later his ashram – he was one of India’s greatest saints from the last century. In evening we will explore the local and colorful markets.
Today after breakfast will proceed for Tiruchirappalli (approx. 225km, 04h) via surface. Upon arrival check in to the hotel, in the evening explore the local market or leisure at hotel.
After breakfast visit another five-element temple known as Jambukeshwarar Temple which represents the element Water or Neer. The sanctum has an underground water stream and it is always filled with water. After Pooja and ritual return to hotel for leisure.
After breakfast leave for Chidambaram (approx. 165 04 h) via visiting Brihadisvara Temple with the history of more than 1000 years, this UNESCO world heritage site is considered to be one of the significant temples in Tamil Nadu. On arrival check-in to the hotel and relax at hotel.
Today you will visit our last Five elements temple Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram, it is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva who is present in the form or Nataraja or the lord of dance represents to Space/Sky. After Pooja and ritual back to the hotel and in evening attend evening Aarti at the same.
After breakfast check-out from hotel and drop at Chennai airport (Approx 210 kms, 05:h) to board the connection flight for your onward destination.
Cost
The Cost Includes
- Pick-up or Drop-off service from and to Airport(in our own vehicle)
- Transportation to and from!!
- Food all along the trip(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and a cup of coffee or tea) and accommodations during the trip in hotels with family environment
- Transportation, food, accommodation and insurance of Guide during the trip
- Down jacket, all-season sleeping bag, duffel bag and trekking map(in case if you don’t have your own. Down jacket, sleeping bag and duffel bag must be returned after completion of the trip)
- First Aid Medical Kit(Your guide will carry the Medical Kit but we also advise to bring yourself for your own use, as far as possible)
- All the required permits and paperwork
The Cost Excludes
- International Airfare
- Visa Charges
- Hotel Expenses(In Kathmandu, some packages do include hotel expenses)
- Your travel and medical insurance
- Personal Expenses such as shopping, bar bills, hot shower, telephone, laundry, titbits etc
- Food and accommodations in Kathmandu
- Services not mentioned or not promised by the agent/agency
- Emergency expenses such as expenses on chartered helicopter.
FAQs
Annapurna Base Camp is a Grade B or a moderately difficult trekking route. So any fit person can do this trek, even if you do not have any previous experience. You should be aware of what to expect and mentally prepare for it. Then, as long as you will too, you can.
On average, you walk about 4 to 6 hours per day. One or two days can be as less as 3hrs and one or two days can be as long as 7hrs.
The highest altitude reached is 4190m. This is the elevation of Annapurna Base Camp. ABC is the highest we will climb in this trek.
Yes, you can charge batteries en route. Charger should be brought. There are hot shower facilities as well. You may have to pay a certain amount for both ($1-$2). Negotiate. Also, a hot water facility could be free at a lower elevation.
No. There are no ATMs on this trek route. You will have to draw enough cash in Pokhara or Kathmandu. There are a number of ATMs in these cities. Everything is paid in Nepali rupees. So money should be exchanged before the start of the trek.
Yes. The Internet can be accessed in most places. Sometimes, there might be some technical problems. The Internet in Nepal is not as fast as you are used to and at times you can just lose connection.
Not really. It depends on you. If you want, ABC trekking can be done independently. You could hire a guide and a porter by yourself instead of going through an agency or not hire a guide at all. Although, not having a guide can be a little problematic during the offseason.
It really depends on you. Is it your first time in Nepal? How confident are you of being able to find your way around? How pressed on time are you? If you go through an agency, it will be costlier but everything will be planned. You will only have to come, trek and return.
For the Annapurna region, pay for guides range from $20 to $30 per day and porters take $15 to $25 per day.