Family Friendly Rail/Train Trip: Madurai, Megamalai, Theni, Kodaikanal

Day 1: Exploring Madurai

Madurai, India

8:00AM

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple, known for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings.
Meenakshi Amman Temple is located in the heart of Madurai city and can be reached by a short auto-rickshaw ride from the railway station.
Free entry, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

Afterward, explore the grand Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, a blend of Dravidian and Islamic styles, showcasing the region's rich history.
Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace is a short walk or auto ride from Meenakshi Amman Temple.
INR 50 per person, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Enjoy a delicious South Indian meal at Murugan Idli Shop, known for its authentic and tasty idlis.
Murugan Idli Shop is a popular eatery located near the temple.
INR 200 for a family of 4, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Gandhi Memorial Museum

Spend the afternoon at the Gandhi Memorial Museum, showcasing the life and struggle of Mahatma Gandhi through photographs and artifacts.
Gandhi Memorial Museum is a short drive from the city center.
INR 20 per person, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Amma Mess

End the day with a hearty dinner at Amma Mess, a local favorite for traditional Tamil Nadu cuisine.
Amma Mess is easily accessible within the city.
INR 500 for a family of 4, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Nature Retreat in Megamalai

Megamalai, India

8:00AM

Travel to Megamalai

Embark on a scenic train journey from Madurai to Megamalai, a serene hill station known for its tea plantations and lush greenery.
Take a morning train from Madurai to Theni, then hire a local taxi to reach Megamalai. The journey takes approximately 4-5 hours.
Train ticket: INR 100 per person, Taxi: INR 800, Full day

1:00PM

Lunch amidst Nature

Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the picturesque tea gardens of Megamalai, surrounded by tranquility and fresh mountain air.
Find a peaceful spot in the tea estates for a relaxing lunch break.
INR 300 for a family of 4, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Suruli Falls

Visit the stunning Suruli Falls, a cascading waterfall amidst the lush forests, perfect for a refreshing dip or nature walk.
Suruli Falls can be reached by a short drive from Megamalai town.
INR 20 per person, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner and Relaxation

Enjoy a cozy dinner at a local eatery and unwind in the serene surroundings of Megamalai, away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Choose a nearby restaurant for dinner and head back to your accommodation for a peaceful evening.
INR 600 for a family of 4, 2 hours
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Day 3: Exploring Theni and Kodaikanal

Theni and Kodaikanal, India

8:00AM

Visit Theni Grape Vineyards

Start your day with a visit to the lush grape vineyards in Theni, known for producing some of the finest grapes in the region.
Take a local bus or taxi from Megamalai to Theni, which is approximately a 2-hour journey.
Free entry, 2 hours

11:00AM

Travel to Kodaikanal

Head to the charming hill station of Kodaikanal, famous for its pleasant climate, scenic beauty, and picturesque lakes.
Take a bus or taxi from Theni to Kodaikanal, which takes around 3 hours.
Bus ticket: INR 150 per person, Taxi: INR 1000, Full day

1:00PM

Lunch at Cloud Street

Enjoy a scrumptious lunch with a view at Cloud Street, a cozy restaurant offering delicious multi-cuisine dishes.
Cloud Street is located in the heart of Kodaikanal town and is easily accessible.
INR 800 for a family of 4, 1 hour

3:00PM

Boating at Kodaikanal Lake

Spend the afternoon boating at the serene Kodaikanal Lake, surrounded by lush greenery and a cool breeze.
Rent a boat at the lakefront and enjoy a leisurely ride on the tranquil waters.
INR 200 per boat, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Astoria Veg Restaurant

End the day with a delightful dinner at Astoria Veg Restaurant, known for its vegetarian dishes and cozy ambiance.
Astoria Veg Restaurant is a popular dining spot in Kodaikanal town.
INR 600 for a family of 4, 1.5 hours
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