Next Cleaning Event
Upcoming Seva — Monday 20 April 2026
When
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Date | Monday 20 April 2026 |
| Assembly Time | 6:30 AM |
| Start Time | 6:35 AM |
| Expected End | 9:30 AM |
| Duration | ~3 hours |
April is an off-season month — we clean every Monday. During peak season (October — March), we clean on both Mondays and Thursdays.
Where
Meeting Point: Ramanashram Back Gate, Tiruvannamalai
Route: Ramanashram Back Gate → Skandashram → Virupaksha Cave
We ascend via the hill path behind Ramanashram, clean the trail and surroundings up to Skandashram, continue to Virupaksha Cave, and descend back to the starting point.
Instructions for Volunteers
Before You Come
- Wear comfortable clothes — just be aware of the thorns and sun.
- Wear sturdy shoes — the trail is uneven and rocky at some places. Sandals may help as well.
- Carry water — The hill gets warm quickly in summer.
On Arrival
- Come to the Ramanashram Back Gate by 6:30 AM
- Look for volunteers near the steps leading to back gate
- Collect your gloves, trash bag
- Listen to the 5-minute briefing on the route and safety
During the Seva
- Stay on the trail — do not venture off-path
- Work in pairs where possible
- Collect all waste into the provided bags except the plastic bottles. Plastic bottles should be placed inside one of the sacks on the trail.
- Do not disturb wildlife — we share the hill with monkeys, birds, and other creatures
- Pace yourself — this is seva, not a race. Take breaks as needed.
- Stay hydrated — drink water regularly
After the Seva
- Bring all filled bags to the collection point at the descent - currently it is opposite to the Dispensery
- Share your experience — first-timers, we would love to hear how it went
Safety Notes
- Medical conditions: If you have heart conditions, severe asthma, or mobility issues, please consult your doctor before joining. The climb is moderate but sustained.
- Weather: In heavy rain or storms, the event is postponed — check this page for updates.
- Monkeys: Do not carry visible food, water bottles or plastic bags with food. Monkeys on the hill are bold and will snatch items.
No Registration Required
It would be helpful (to arrange supplies) if you can inform us in advance. Otherwise you can just show up. Everyone is welcome — individuals, families, groups, tourists, locals. No prior experience needed. We will show you what to do.
If you are bringing a group of 10 or more, please let us know in advance so we can prepare enough supplies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is there a fee to participate?
A: No. This is free, volunteer-driven seva. We accept donations for supplies (gloves, bags, tools) but there is no obligation.
Q: Can children participate?
A: Yes, children aged 10 and above can participate with a parent or guardian. The trail requires some physical effort.
Q: How fit do I need to be?
A: You should be able to walk uphill for about 45 minutes at a moderate pace. The total elevation gain is roughly 200 metres.
Q: What if I can only stay for part of the event?
A: That is perfectly fine. Come for as long as you can. Even 30 minutes of seva makes a difference.
Q: Is this affiliated with Ramanashram?
A: We are an independent volunteer group. We start at the Ramanashram back gate because it is the natural trailhead, but we are not formally affiliated with the ashram.