Perched above Virupaksha Cave on the slope of Arunachala, Skandashram was Ramana Maharshi's home for several years in the early twentieth century before he moved to the ashram established below. The modest stone dwelling has a small garden and a cave, and its elevated position gives visitors clear views over the Arunachaleswarar Temple and the town spread out below. The short climb up from Girivalam road is a popular stop for pilgrims. Skandashram sits at an elevation of 192 m and is typically explored in about 1-2 hours. The most favourable months to visit are December, January, February, and March, when conditions are best suited for sightseeing. Nearby points of interest include Skandashram Cave, Arunachala Hill Viewpoint, and Skandashram Ashram Dining Hall. Other notable highlights include ramana Maharshi’s original meditation cave with stone platform, panoramic view of Tiruvannamalai’s temple gopurams, and cool, shaded grove of mango and tamarind trees. It falls within Tiruvannamalai, Tiruvannamalai district, and Tamil Nadu, India.
State: Tamil Nadu
Ideal Duration: 1-2 Hours
December, January, February, March
The ashram is open from around 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily, with no entry fee. The best time is early morning (6 to 9 AM) when it is cool and less crowded, or late afternoon (4 to 5:30 PM) to catch the sunset views over the plains. Avoid midday heat, especially between March and June, as the climb can be exhausting.
Yes, most visitors trek from Ramanashram to Skandashram and then continue a short 20-minute walk uphill to the older Virupaksha Cave, which is also associated with Ramana Maharshi. After descending, you can visit the massive Arunachaleswarar Temple at the base of the hill, which is about a 10-minute drive or 30-minute walk from the starting point. Plan for a half-day trip (4 to 5 hours) if you want to cover both caves and the temple without rushing.
There are basic restrooms and a small drinking water point at the base near the Ramanashram, but not along the main trek path. At Skandashram itself, you will find a simple water tap and occasionally a small stall selling tea, biscuits, and coconut water, but it is wise to carry your own water and light snacks. For a proper meal, return to the town or eat at the Ramanashram dining hall before or after your visit.
The trek is about 2.5 kilometres from the Ramanashram base, with a well-laid stone path and gradual steps, taking roughly 45 to 60 minutes at a gentle pace. It is moderately challenging due to the incline, but many seniors manage it comfortably by taking frequent rests and carrying water. For those with knee or heart issues, a porter or a shared jeep (up to a certain point) can be hired at the base.
Yes, it is a sacred cave where Ramana Maharshi lived, and it is treated as a shrine with a small meditation hall and a statue of the sage. There is no strict dress code, but modest clothing (covering shoulders and knees) is respectful, and you must remove your shoes before entering the cave area. You can sit in silent meditation, offer flowers, or simply pay respects, but loud conversations and photography inside the cave are discouraged.