Journey to the Holy Mountain Arunachala: 15-Day Retreat and Pilgrimage in South India

A Sacred Pilgrimage to Arunachala, the Heart of South India ✨

This 16-day retreat is a profound immersion into the living spiritual traditions of India, centered around the holy mountain Arunachala—the radiant heart of Tiruvannamalai, revered by Sri Ramana Maharshi as both Guru and guide.

From the moment you arrive, you’ll be enveloped in the sacred atmosphere of this ancient town, where centuries of devotion, meditation, and pilgrimage still echo through the streets and caves. This is more than a retreat—it is a pilgrimage of the heart.

Over the course of our journey, you will:

-Begin each day with Hatha Yoga and silent meditation, cultivating clarity, strength, and stillness

-Attend teachings on the life and wisdom of Sri Ramana Maharshi

-Sing devotional kirtan and bhajans, awakening joy and love in the heart

-Learn to interpret your Vedic Astrology chart for deeper self-understanding

-Visit sacred temples, mountain caves, and the revered Ramana Ashram

-Walk the traditional Girivalam pilgrimage path around Arunachala

-Enjoy free time to explore Tiruvannamalai—wander vibrant streets, discover hidden shrines, or experience the healing touch of Ayurvedic massage

A Sacred Time to Visit:

Our pilgrimage coincides with Karthigai Deepam, the most celebrated festival of the year in Tiruvannamalai. During this time, a beacon of sacred fire is lit atop Arunachala, visible for miles—symbolizing the eternal light of consciousness. To stand in that atmosphere, surrounded by devotion, is an unforgettable blessing.

Two Weeks of Immersion:

Week 1 – The Path of Self-Inquiry

Led by Paramesh, this week is dedicated to daily yoga and meditation, chanting, and a deep study of Ramana Maharshi’s teachings. Through guided practice, silent retreat, and visits to sacred sites, you’ll be gently guided into the stillness and clarity of the Heart.

Week 2 – The Wisdom of the Stars

Led by renowned Vedic astrologer Oana Gonzalez, this week explores the ancient science of Jyotish. You’ll study your own chart, learn the art of interpretation, and discover how the movement of the stars reflects the deeper currents of your soul’s journey.
This retreat is an invitation to journey inward while being held by one of the most sacred places on earth. Arunachala has called seekers for centuries—perhaps now it is calling you.

What Makes This Retreat Special:

This retreat is held in a place unlike any other—Arunachala, one of the most sacred and powerful mountains in all of India, long revered as a living presence of silence and transformation. Our home will be Sangam House, a beautiful retreat space offering comfort, modern amenities, and breathtaking views of the holy mountain—an ideal sanctuary for deep practice.

Your guides on this journey are both rooted in authentic traditions and bring decades of experience. Paramesh, who will lead Hatha Yoga, meditation, and classes on the life and teachings of Sri Ramana Maharshi, has been teaching for nearly 20 years and is known for his clarity, warmth, and depth of practice.

Oana Gonzalez, a Vedic Astrologer with over 15 years of experience, was trained in the respected Jyotish lineage of K.L. Mantri and Hart deFouw, carrying forward this profound wisdom with integrity and care.

In today’s world, where true depth and lineage are often missing, this retreat offers the chance to study and practice with teachers who are deeply rooted in living Vedic lineages—within the embrace of one of India’s most sacred landscapes.

Testimonials:

"Paramesh is one of the best, if not the best teacher I ever had. He transmits his theoretical and lived experience with the spiritual in a way that is genuine, humble and funny.
His teaching is both true to the original sutras as well as leaving room for the individual living in the modern world. I feel privileged that I had Paramesh as my teacher and recommend him with no hesitation."
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​ Anders, 42, Psychologist, PhD, Denmark

"Paramesh’s teachings radiate from his very presence, reaching you on a profound level.
Attending his philosophy classes has been an absolute gift!
He beautifully draws you into the wisdom of Yoga, transforming each class into a joyous and enriching experience.
His way of being inspires me deeply, and I’m endlessly grateful to have him as a guide on this incredible journey. I can’t wait for the next meditation and chanting session - just magical."

​​Ludovica, Italy

“I have had the opportunity to work with several high ranking, even famous, astrologers. Without doubt working with Oana was the most insightful and helpful look at my chart by far.
I was given understanding and direction that had not previously been revealed. Oana has an unusual ability to stick to the point, to see the nuances and subtleties in a situation."
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E.D., Colorado

“My reading with Oana has been both insightful and extremely helpful at a time when I needed some input into some issues in my life. I would definitely recommend her to anyone looking for a fresh perspective with profound insight.”

Amartya B., Paris, France