Start your tour with a visit to the Meenakshi Amman Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases the incredible architectural style of South India. The temple complex houses several worship halls, an art museum, a tank, and a pillared hall. Afterward, head to the Tirumalai Nayak Mahal, an Indo-Saracenic palace with beautiful arches and stucco work, located 2.5 kilometers away. Go for a sound and light show in the palace, which takes place at 6.45 pm and 8 pm every day.
Start early to visit the Thiruchendur Murugan Temple, located on the shore of the Bay of Bengal. The temple is one of the six prominent temples dedicated to Lord Muruga and is an important pilgrimage site. After darshan at the temple, head to the Kulasekharapatnam Beach, a picturesque and untouched beach, located 5 kilometers away. All-day long, dine at local seafood joints to experience the culture of the small hamlet.
On the final day of the trip, visit the Thirupparamkunram Murugan Temple, an ancient rock-cut temple located 10 kilometers away from Madurai, and also visit the Gandhi Memorial Museum of Madurai which is 6 kilometers away and shares an authentic story about India's struggles for independence. You can end the tour with shopping at Puthu Mandapam, an old heritage market situated at Madurai's center, just 1 kilometer away.
For those who have more days, can visit the Pazhamudhir Solai Temple and Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam in Madurai. Consider staying overnight near Thiruchendur Beach or in Madurai for a more leisurely trip.
If you have less time, you can consider excluding Thiruchendur or the Gandhi Memorial Museum from your itinerary, or cut short your time at the beaches. It is advisable to travel in personal vehicles or hire cabs to make the most of your trip.