Comprehensive Madurai & Rameshwaram Temple Circuit with Cultural Sights and Scenic Stops - July 17-19, 2025

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Day 1: Temple Circuit & Shopping

Madurai, India on July 17, 2025

6:00am

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

Start your day early at Meenakshi Amman Temple to experience the morning poojas in a peaceful atmosphere before the crowds arrive; the temple opens at 5am.
INR0, 1h30m

7:30am

Breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop

Savor a traditional South Indian breakfast including freshly made idlis, dosas, and strong filter coffee at this popular spot, open from 6am to 12pm.
INR150, 1h0m

8:45am

Visit Samayan Hills Temples

Explore the serene Samayan Hills area that houses several revered smaller temples and offers tranquil surroundings for spiritual reflections.
Free, 1h0m

10:00am

Visit Koodal Azhagar Temple

Discover this historic temple famous for its intricate sculptures and Vaishnavite worship, open from early morning to evening.
INR0, 1h0m

11:15am

Lunch at Sri Sabarees

Enjoy a variety of authentic Tamil vegetarian dishes in a clean, family-friendly environment, open from 12pm to 3pm.
INR300, 1h0m

12:30pm

Visit Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal

Spend some time visiting this grand 17th century palace showcasing Indo-Saracenic architecture and royal heritage, open from 9am to 6pm.
INR50, 1h30m

2:15pm

Shopping at Madurai Local Markets

Browse through local markets specializing in textiles, handicrafts, and souvenirs, ideal for picking up authentic gifts from 10am to 8pm.
Varies, 2h0m

5:00pm

Evening at Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam

Relax by the large temple tank with a refreshing cool breeze during the evening, a peaceful way to end your day before dinner.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Konar Mess

Enjoy a hearty South Indian dinner with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available, open till 10pm.
INR350, 1h0m
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Day 2: Rameshwaram Temples & Scenic Bridge

Madurai to Rameshwaram, India on July 18, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Quick breakfast at your hotel before embarking on your journey; typically served from 6:30am.
Included, 0h30m

7:30am

Drive to Rameshwaram via Pamban Bridge

Drive 170 km to Rameshwaram. Stop at Pamban Bridge sightseeing point to admire the engineering marvel and the views over the sea, perfect for photos.
INR100 (parking/viewpoint fee), 4h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Hotel in Rameshwaram

Rest and enjoy a delicious South Indian meal at your hotel or nearby restaurant, open till 3pm.
INR350, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Dhanushkodi Temples

Explore key temples near Dhanushkodi including the Church of Our Lady of Ransom ruins, Ramalinga Swamy Temple, and the ghost town remains, all reflective of the area's spiritual and tragic history.
Free, 2h0m

3:45pm

Visit Other Small Temples in Rameshwaram

Visit smaller temples such as Nambu Nayaki Amman Temple, and Erwadi Dargah nearby, known for their local religious significance and peaceful settings.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Local Restaurant

Dine on fresh seafood and vegetarian Tamil delicacies at a local eatery typical to Rameshwaram, open till 9pm.
INR400, 1h0m
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Day 3: Temples & Return Trip

Rameshwaram to Madurai, India on July 19, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with an early breakfast to prepare for your temple visits and travel ahead.
Included, 0h30m

8:00am

Visit Ramanathswamy Temple

Explore this famed temple with its longest corridor among Hindu temples and sacred water tanks; open 5am-12pm and 4pm-9pm.
INR20, 2h0m

10:30am

Visit Gandhamadhana Parvatham

Climb this hill to visit the Hanuman temple and enjoy panoramic views over the island and sea, open all day.
Free, 1h0m

11:45am

Visit Sri Kothandaramaswami Temple

Stop on the way for a quick visit to this historic temple famous for religious lore and scenic location near the seashore.
Free, 0h45m

12:45pm

Lunch at Shri Raghavendra Restaurant

Enjoy a fulfilling vegetarian lunch specializing in Tamil Nadu cuisine before your return drive, open till 3pm.
INR300, 1h0m

2:00pm

Drive back to Madurai

Depart for Madurai allowing about 4 hours to reach in time for your 7pm flight, optionally stopping at scenic points along the highway for photos and refreshments.
INR2500 approx., 4h0m
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