Exploring Madurai and Kodaikanal: A 5-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary
Tuesday, August 29: Arrival in Madurai
Begin your journey in Madurai, a city known for its rich history and stunning temples. In the morning, visit the famous Meenakshi Amman Temple, an architectural marvel adorned with intricate carvings and colorful sculptures. Explore the bustling markets around the temple, where you can find traditional handicrafts and delicious street food. In the afternoon, take a peaceful boat ride on the Vaigai River, offering picturesque views of the city. In the evening, witness the grandeur of the evening prayer ceremony at the Meenakshi Temple.
Meenakshi Amman Temple: Entrance fee - INR 50 per person | Approximate time spent - 2-3 hours
Vaigai River Boat Ride: INR 200 per person | Approximate time spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
Ambika Mess: A popular breakfast spot offering traditional South Indian dishes like idli, dosa, and vada. Average cost for a meal is about 80 INR per person.
Murugan Idli Shop: Enjoy a delicious lunch at this iconic restaurant known for its fluffy idlis and flavorful chutneys. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
Punjabi Dhaba: Experience a taste of North India with a dinner at Punjabi Dhaba. This restaurant serves a variety of Punjabi dishes like butter chicken and naan. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Wednesday, August 30: Madurai Cultural Exploration
Immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of Madurai today. Start your morning with a visit to the Gandhi Memorial Museum, dedicated to the life and teachings of Mahatma Gandhi. Then, head to the Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, a magnificent palace known for its Indo-Saracenic architecture. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant streets of Madurai and indulge in some local cuisine. In the evening, witness a traditional dance performance at the Kalaikoodam Cultural Center.
Gandhi Memorial Museum: Entrance fee - INR 10 per person | Approximate time spent - 1-2 hours
Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace: Entrance fee - INR 50 per person | Approximate time spent - 1-2 hours
Kalaikoodam Cultural Center: Entrance fee - INR 100 per person | Approximate time spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
Ambika Bakery: Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Ambika Bakery, known for its fresh and delicious baked goods. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
Rudra Vegetarian Restaurant: For lunch, head to Rudra Vegetarian Restaurant and savor a variety of authentic vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Oxygen Rooftop Restaurant: Enjoy a memorable dinner at Oxygen Rooftop Restaurant, offering a cozy ambience and a wide range of delectable dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Thursday, August 31: Journey to Kodaikanal
Today, you will embark on a scenic drive from Madurai to Kodaikanal, a hill station nestled amidst the Western Ghats. Enjoy the picturesque landscapes as you make your way up the hills. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and spend the afternoon exploring the serene Kodai Lake, where you can go boating or simply relax by the water. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through the bustling Coaker's Walk, a charming promenade offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys.
Kodai Lake: Boating charges - INR 150 per person | Approximate time spent - 2-3 hours
Coaker's Walk: Entrance fee - INR 20 per person | Approximate time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast, head to Cloud Street Bakery and Cafe, known for their freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. The average cost for a meal here is about $8 per person.
Savor traditional South Indian cuisine for lunch at Astoria Veg Restaurant, offering a wide range of dosas, idlis, and curries. A meal at this restaurant will cost you around $6 per person on average.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at Tava Restaurant, serving a variety of Indian and Chinese dishes. With its cozy ambiance and friendly staff, this restaurant offers meals at an average cost of $12 per person.
Friday, September 1: Nature and Adventure in Kodaikanal
Get ready to explore the natural beauty and adventure activities of Kodaikanal. Start your morning with a visit to the enchanting Bear Shola Falls, a serene waterfall nestled amidst lush greenery. Then, head to the beautiful Bryant Park, known for its colorful flower beds and horticultural exhibits. In the afternoon, embark on a thrilling trek to the Dolphin's Nose viewpoint, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. In the evening, enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the serene Berijam Lake.
Bear Shola Falls: Entrance fee - INR 10 per person | Approximate time spent - 1-2 hours
Bryant Park: Entrance fee - INR 30 per person | Approximate time spent - 1-2 hours
Dolphin's Nose: Entrance fee - INR 10 per person | Approximate time spent - 3-4 hours (including trek)
Berijam Lake: Entrance fee - INR 20 per person | Boat ride charges - INR 200 per person | Approximate time spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
A perfect spot for breakfast is Cloud Street, offering a variety of tasty and healthy options. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For a delicious lunch, head to Astoria Veg Restaurant that serves flavorful vegetarian dishes in a cozy ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Enjoy a delightful dinner at Ten Degrees, a rooftop restaurant with a romantic setting and a diverse menu of Indian and international cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Saturday, September 2: Exploring Kodaikanal's Attractions
Spend your last day in Kodaikanal exploring its top attractions. Start your morning with a visit to the iconic Pillar Rocks, a set of three massive rock pillars offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Then, head to the serene Guna Caves, believed to have been formed by a meteorite. In the afternoon, visit the picturesque Silver Cascade Falls, where you can enjoy the cascading waters and capture memorable photographs. End your day with a visit to the tranquil Kurinji Andavar Temple, dedicated to Lord Murugan.
Pillar Rocks: Entrance fee - INR 20 per person | Approximate time spent - 1-2 hours
Guna Caves: Entrance fee - INR 10 per person | Approximate time spent - 1-2 hours
Silver Cascade Falls: No entrance fee | Approximate time spent - 1-2 hours
Kurinji Andavar Temple: No entrance fee | Approximate time spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Astoria Veg Restaurant, known for its wide variety of vegetarian options. Average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Cloud Street Restobar, offering a fusion of Indian and Continental cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For dinner, visit the popular Royal Court Restaurant, known for its extensive menu of Indian and Chinese dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Madurai and Kodaikanal, make sure to visit the lesser-known attractions and experience the local culture. In Madurai, venture off the beaten path and visit the Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple, a rock-cut shrine dedicated to Lord Murugan. In Kodaikanal, take a nature walk through the Pine Forest, a peaceful retreat away from the crowds. Don't miss the opportunity to try the local delicacies, such as Madurai Jigarthanda and Kodaikanal Homemade Chocolates, which are loved by both locals and visitors alike.
For hotel and flight bookings, you can check the prices and availability on Kayak.