Next Cleaning Event
Next Cleaning Event
Upcoming Seva — Monday, 20 April 2026
When
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Date | Monday, 20 April 2026 |
| Assembly Time | 6:15 AM |
| Start Time | 6:30 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 — preferably long pants and a full-sleeve shirt to protect against thorns and sun.
- Wear sturdy shoes — the trail is uneven and rocky. Sandals and flip-flops are not recommended.
- Carry water — at least 1 litre. The hill gets warm quickly after sunrise.
- Eat a light breakfast — we start early and the climb is moderate. A heavy meal will slow you down.
- Apply sunscreen — even at 6:30 AM, UV exposure on the hill is significant.
On Arrival
- Come to the Ramanashram Back Gate by 6:15 AM
- Look for volunteers in orange vests — they will guide you
- Sign the attendance register (optional, for our records)
- Collect your gloves, trash bag, and pick-up tool from the supply station
- Listen to the 5-minute briefing on the route and safety
During the Seva
- Stay on the marked trail — do not venture off-path
- Work in pairs where possible
- Collect all waste into the provided bags — segregate if you can (plastic separate from organic)
- 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
- Return gloves and tools to the supply station
- Join us for refreshments and chai — this is our favourite part
- Share your experience — first-timers, we'd 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: We proceed in light rain. In heavy rain or storms, the event is postponed — check this page for updates.
- Emergency: A first-aid kit is always available. In case of emergency, contact the seva coordinator at the assembly point.
- Monkeys: Do not carry visible food or plastic bags with food. Monkeys on the hill are bold and will snatch items.
No Registration Required
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: info@arunachalaseva.org
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's 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.