2-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary for Madurai, Kodaikanal, and Palani

  1. Day 1: Madurai
    Estimated driving time and distance from Kodaikanal - 3 hours (80 km)

    Begin your day with a visit to the Meenakshi Amman Temple, a historic Hindu temple with towering gopurams (gateway towers) adorned with thousands of colorful sculptures. Next, explore the impressive Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, once the residence of the Nayak dynasty rulers of Madurai. Finally, end your day with a relaxing stroll through the Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam, situated amidst picturesque gardens with a large tank ideal for boating.

  2. Day 2: Kodaikanal and Palani
    Estimated driving time and distance from Madurai to Kodaikanal- 3.5 hours (120 km); Kodaikanal to Palani - 3 hours (113 km)

    Begin your day with a visit to the Kodaikanal Lake, where you can take a peaceful boat ride or simply relax amidst tranquil surroundings. Afterwards, head to the Bryant Park, a beautifully landscaped garden with a wide variety of flora and the Coakers Walk, a serene pathway offering stunning views of the surrounding hills. Finally, head to Palani to visit the famous Arulmigu Dandayudhapani Swamy Temple, known for its sacred hill shrine and impressive architecture.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Meenakshi Amman Temple (2 hours, free entry)
  • Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace (1 hour, INR 50 per adult)
  • Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam (1 hour, free entry)
  • Kodaikanal Lake (2 hours, INR 34 per adult for boat ride)
  • Bryant Park (1.5 hours, INR 30 per adult)
  • Coakers Walk (1 hour, INR 10 per adult)
  • Arulmigu Dandayudhapani Swamy Temple (2 hours, free entry)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 124 per adult

Useful Tips

If you have more time in Madurai, add a visit to the Gandhi Memorial Museum or the Samaya Puram bird sanctuary. If you have more time in Kodaikanal, consider taking a trip to the Pillar Rocks or the Guna Caves. For those with less time, consider only visiting the Meenakshi Amman Temple and the Kodaikanal Lake.

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