Tamil Nadu is a state located in the southern part of India. It is known for its rich cultural heritage which survived the English Invasion. There are around one hundred thousand historical sites and ancient temples in Tamil Nadu. The state has a distinct language and culture, with Tamil being the official language.

Chennai is the capital city of Tamil Nadu and one of the major cultural, economic, and educational centers in South India.  The city has a rich history and offers a blend of rich history, cultural heritage and modern infrastructure.

The ashram has a perfect location – on one hand, in nature, away from the rush of the big city, and on the other hand, only a one-hour drive from the International Airport in Chennai.

The Ashram is a unique venue with a peaceful serene ambience, it is situated near the ocean and perfect for contemplation and meditation.

Ashram is suitable for westerner life style and has:

• Air-conditioned rooms
• Western style bathrooms
• Hot water
• Beautiful garden and view
• Spacious yoga and meditation hall 
• A main temple and little temples
• lightly spiced Indian-style yogic vegetarian meals 
• Dining hall and outdoor dining terrace with a view to a garden

At the last 5 days of the program we shift to Tiruvannamalai to visit spiritual places and monks there.

Tiruvannamalai is a town located in the state of Tamil Nadu, India. It is situated at the foothills of the Annamalaiyar Temple, an ancient and sacred temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The town is known for its spiritual significance, attracting thousands of devotees and tourists every year.

The Annamalaiyar Temple is a major pilgrimage site and is believed to be one of the Pancha Bhoota Stalams, representing the element of fire. The temple complex is spread over a vast area and features stunning architecture and intricate carvings. The annual Karthigai Deepam festival, celebrated here, is a grand event that draws devotees from all over.

Apart from the temple, Tiruvannamalai is also known for its natural beauty. The town is nestled amidst the Annamalai hills, offering picturesque landscapes and trekking opportunities. The nearby Arunachala Hill is considered to be a sacred site and is believed to be the embodiment of Lord Shiva.

Tiruvannamalai is a serene and spiritual destination, where visitors can immerse themselves in the divine atmosphere and explore the cultural and natural treasures it has to offer.

The schedule is based on the Vedic Wisdom holistic approach as a whole with all the beautiful aspects of it that help us connect to our inner nature: yoga, Pranayama, meditation, Kirtan (singing), Vedanta (wisdom), mythology (hearing healing stories), mantras, rituals (pujas, and homas), Vastu Shastra, Ayurveda, Joyitishe, Kriyas.

Daily, there are two meditation sessions, two Kirtan sessions, at least one yoga class (sometimes 2), three lectures, one visit to a temple/ spiritual place/ monk, one workshop on a different subject, and being in the presence and studying scriptures/talking with the monk.

Yoga mat (or 2 mats if you want it soft), meditation pillow and big summer shawl, sandals, sweat pants and sweat shirts, writing pad, torch, alarm clock, private toiletry items, soap, money belt.
It is advisable to keep a copy of your visa, passport and plane ticket separately in your luggage.

Comfortable clothing adapted to the traditional lifestyle of India is required: No figure-hugging clothes, no halter tops, shorts or short skirts.

Please pack a sunscreen and sun hat. 

Please ask your pharmacy for a small kit of medicines appropriate for India.

Please consult with your physician or tropical medical service about vaccinations in advance. 

Included are the transportation during the tour to the places in the program, accommodation, meals, tea and snacks, meditation classes, yoga classes, pranayama classes, guided imagery classes, kitten sessions, study of Vedanta, Hindu Monks Lectures and meetings, Visiting Temples, Rituals, visiting spiritual places

Not included are ground transportation to and from Chennai, tips, kriya kit, laundry service as well as any other additional service. Please book your own flight to Chennai.
It is recommended to purchase a travel cancellation insurance policy in your travel agency.