Family Friendly 5-Day Itinerary in Madurai

Day 1: Exploring Madurai

Madurai, India

9:00AM

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple, known for its stunning architecture and spiritual significance.
Meenakshi Amman Temple is located in the heart of Madurai city, easily reachable by a short taxi ride or walking distance from most hotels.
Free entry, but donations appreciated, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Enjoy a delicious South Indian meal at Murugan Idli Shop, famous for its fluffy idlis and variety of chutneys.
Murugan Idli Shop is a short walk from Meenakshi Amman Temple.
Approx. £5 per person, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

Visit the historic Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, known for its architectural grandeur and cultural significance.
Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace is a quick taxi ride from the temple area.
Approx. £2 per person, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Evening at Gandhi Memorial Museum

Spend the evening at the Gandhi Memorial Museum, learning about India's freedom struggle and Mahatma Gandhi's life.
Gandhi Memorial Museum is a short drive from the palace.
Approx. £1 per person, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Amma Mess

End the day with a hearty dinner at Amma Mess, serving authentic Tamil Nadu cuisine.
Amma Mess is a popular restaurant located in the city centre.
Approx. £7 per person, 1 hour
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Day 2: More of Madurai

Madurai, India

9:00AM

Visit Pazhamudhir Solai

Start your day with a visit to Pazhamudhir Solai, a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Subramanya.
Pazhamudhir Solai is located on the outskirts of Madurai, accessible by taxi or rental car.
Free entry, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Konar Mess

Enjoy a traditional Tamil Nadu meal at Konar Mess, known for its authentic flavours and generous portions.
Konar Mess is a short drive from Pazhamudhir Solai.
Approx. £6 per person, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Gandhi Memorial Museum

Spend the afternoon exploring more of the exhibits and galleries at the Gandhi Memorial Museum.
Return to Gandhi Memorial Museum for further exploration.
Approx. £1 per person, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Shop at Puthu Mandapam

Take a leisurely stroll and shop for souvenirs at Puthu Mandapam, a bustling market near the temple.
Puthu Mandapam is a short walk from the temple complex.
Shopping costs vary, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Ammachi Mess

Enjoy a traditional dinner at Ammachi Mess, known for its homely ambiance and authentic dishes.
Ammachi Mess is located in the city centre.
Approx. £8 per person, 1 hour
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Day 3: Rameswaram Day Trip

Rameswaram, India

8:00AM

Travel to Rameswaram

Embark on a day trip to Rameswaram, a sacred island known for its temples and scenic beauty.
Take a private car or public bus from Madurai to Rameswaram, approximately 3.5 hours journey.
Transportation costs vary, 3.5 hours

12:00PM

Visit Ramanathaswamy Temple

Explore the majestic Ramanathaswamy Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Ramanathaswamy Temple is located in the heart of Rameswaram town.
Free entry, but donations appreciated, 2 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Temple City Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional South Indian thali at Temple City Restaurant, offering a variety of local dishes.
Temple City Restaurant is located near the temple.
Approx. £6 per person, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Agni Teertham Beach

Relax at Agni Teertham Beach, known for its sacred waters and picturesque views of the Indian Ocean.
Agni Teertham Beach is a short walk from the temple.
Free entry, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Return to Madurai

Head back to Madurai in the evening after a day of exploration in Rameswaram.
Take the return journey by the same mode of transportation.
Transportation costs vary, 3.5 hours
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Day 4: Day Trip to Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal, India

7:00AM

Travel to Kodaikanal

Embark on a day trip to Kodaikanal, a charming hill station known for its scenic beauty and pleasant climate.
Take a private car or public bus from Madurai to Kodaikanal, approximately 3 hours journey.
Transportation costs vary, 3 hours

11:00AM

Explore Coaker's Walk

Take a leisurely stroll along Coaker's Walk, a picturesque pathway offering panoramic views of the valley below.
Coaker's Walk is a short walk from the town centre.
Entry fee: Approx. £1 per person, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Astoria Veg Restaurant

Enjoy a vegetarian meal at Astoria Veg Restaurant, known for its delicious food and serene ambience.
Astoria Veg Restaurant is located in the town centre.
Approx. £5 per person, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Bear Shola Falls

Experience the natural beauty of Bear Shola Falls, a serene waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.
Bear Shola Falls is a short drive from the town centre.
Entry fee: Approx. £1 per person, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore Bryant Park

Spend some time exploring the botanical wonders at Bryant Park, known for its diverse collection of flowers and plants.
Bryant Park is located near the town centre.
Entry fee: Approx. £2 per person, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Return to Madurai

Head back to Madurai in the evening after a day of exploring the hill station.
Take the return journey by the same mode of transportation.
Transportation costs vary, 3 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Final Day in Madurai

Madurai, India

9:00AM

Visit Samanar Malai

Explore the ancient rock-cut caves and sculptures at Samanar Malai, showcasing the region's rich history.
Samanar Malai is located on the outskirts of Madurai, accessible by taxi or rental car.
Free entry, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Konar Mess

Enjoy a final meal at Konar Mess before departure, savouring the authentic flavours of Tamil Nadu cuisine.
Return to Konar Mess for lunch.
Approx. £6 per person, 1 hour

2:00PM

Shop at Puthu Mandapam

Spend the afternoon shopping for souvenirs and local handicrafts at Puthu Mandapam market.
Return to Puthu Mandapam for shopping.
Shopping costs vary, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple

Explore the Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple, a sacred pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Murugan.
Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple is a short drive from the city centre.
Free entry, but donations appreciated, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Amma Mess

End your trip with a farewell dinner at Amma Mess, reminiscing about the wonderful experiences in Madurai.
Return to Amma Mess for dinner.
Approx. £7 per person, 1 hour
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