Enchanting South India: Madurai & Kodaikanal 5-Day Itinerary

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 religious significance.
Meenakshi Amman Temple is located in the heart of Madurai city and is easily accessible by local transport or a short walk from most hotels.
Free entry, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

Continue to the Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, a beautiful example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, and explore its grand halls and intricate carvings.
Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace is a short drive from Meenakshi Amman Temple.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Enjoy a traditional South Indian lunch at Murugan Idli Shop, known for its delicious idlis and variety of chutneys.
Murugan Idli Shop is a popular eatery in Madurai, easily reachable by local transport.
INR 200, 1 hour

3:00PM

Walk around Gandhi Memorial Museum

Spend the afternoon learning about India's history at the Gandhi Memorial Museum, showcasing artifacts and exhibits related to Mahatma Gandhi.
Gandhi Memorial Museum is a short distance from the city center.
INR 20, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Amma Mess

End your day with a hearty dinner at Amma Mess, a local favorite known for its authentic Tamil Nadu cuisine.
Amma Mess is located in the bustling streets of Madurai and offers a true taste of the region.
INR 300, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Immersion in Madurai

Madurai, India

9:00AM

Visit Pazhamudhir Solai

Start your day by visiting Pazhamudhir Solai, a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Murugan, surrounded by lush greenery and serene atmosphere.
Pazhamudhir Solai is a short drive from the city center of Madurai.
Free entry, 2 hours

11:30AM

Shop at Puthu Mandapam

Explore the bustling market at Puthu Mandapam, where you can shop for traditional handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs.
Puthu Mandapam is located near Meenakshi Amman Temple and is easily accessible by walk or local transport.
Variable, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Hotel Sri Sabarees

Enjoy a delicious Chettinad meal at Hotel Sri Sabarees, known for its authentic flavors and warm hospitality.
Hotel Sri Sabarees is a popular dining spot in Madurai, offering a range of South Indian dishes.
INR 250, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Koodal Azhagar Temple

Visit the ancient Koodal Azhagar Temple, known for its intricate sculptures and religious significance in Madurai.
Koodal Azhagar Temple is located in close proximity to the city center.
Free entry, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Murugan Mess

Indulge in a traditional dinner at Murugan Mess, a local eatery famous for its wide range of dosas and South Indian delicacies.
Murugan Mess is a short distance from the main market area.
INR 300, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Nature Retreat in Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal, India

9:00AM

Visit Coaker's Walk

Start your day with a peaceful walk along Coaker's Walk, offering stunning views of the valleys and lush landscapes of Kodaikanal.
Coaker's Walk is a popular tourist spot in Kodaikanal and can be reached by local transport or a short walk from the city center.
INR 20, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Bryant Park

Visit Bryant Park, a botanical garden showcasing a variety of exotic plants, flowers, and a serene lake perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Bryant Park is located near Coaker's Walk and is easily accessible by walk or local transport.
INR 30, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Cloud Street Cafe

Enjoy a relaxing lunch at Cloud Street Cafe, known for its cozy ambiance and delicious continental and Indian cuisine.
Cloud Street Cafe is a popular dining spot in Kodaikanal, offering a range of dishes to suit various tastes.
INR 400, 1 hour

3:00PM

Boating at Kodaikanal Lake

Spend the afternoon boating at Kodaikanal Lake, a picturesque spot surrounded by greenery and offering paddle boat rides for a serene experience.
Kodaikanal Lake is a short distance from the city center and is a must-visit attraction in the region.
INR 200, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Astoria Veg Restaurant

End your day with a vegetarian dinner at Astoria Veg Restaurant, known for its North and South Indian delicacies and cozy ambiance.
Astoria Veg Restaurant is located in the heart of Kodaikanal town and offers a variety of dishes to choose from.
INR 300, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Scenic Beauty of Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal, India

9:00AM

Visit Pillar Rocks

Start your day by visiting Pillar Rocks, a natural rock formation offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and lush greenery.
Pillar Rocks are a short drive from the city center of Kodaikanal and offer mesmerizing views of the landscape.
INR 10, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Guna Cave

Discover the mysterious Guna Cave, known for its unique rock formations and intriguing history, providing an adventurous experience for visitors.
Guna Cave is located near Pillar Rocks and can be accessed by a short trek or local transport.
INR 5, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Altaf's Cafe

Enjoy a relaxed lunch at Altaf's Cafe, a cozy eatery offering a variety of Indian and continental dishes with a beautiful view of the valley.
Altaf's Cafe is a popular dining spot in Kodaikanal known for its scenic location and delicious food.
INR 300, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Bear Shola Falls

Explore the enchanting Bear Shola Falls, a serene waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, offering a peaceful and refreshing experience in nature.
Bear Shola Falls are located a short distance from the main town area and can be reached by a short hike or local transport.
INR 20, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Tava Vegetarian Restaurant

End your day with a delicious vegetarian dinner at Tava Vegetarian Restaurant, known for its wide range of North and South Indian dishes.
Tava Vegetarian Restaurant is located in the town center and offers a cozy ambiance for a relaxed dining experience.
INR 250, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Culinary Delights & Departure

Kodaikanal, India

8:00AM

Cooking Class at Altaf's Cafe

Start your day with a fun cooking class at Altaf's Cafe, where you can learn to prepare traditional South Indian dishes and savor your creations.
Altaf's Cafe offers cooking classes for visitors interested in learning the art of South Indian cuisine.
INR 500, 2 hours

11:00AM

Shop for Local Spices

Explore the local markets in Kodaikanal and shop for a variety of aromatic spices to take back home as souvenirs of your culinary journey.
Visit the markets near the town center to find a wide range of local spices and culinary delights.
Variable, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pastry Corner

Enjoy a light lunch at Pastry Corner, a cozy bakery offering a selection of pastries, sandwiches, and beverages to satisfy your cravings.
Pastry Corner is a popular bakery in Kodaikanal known for its delicious baked goods and quick bites.
INR 150, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Chettiar Park

Explore the serene Chettiar Park, a peaceful garden showcasing a variety of flora and fauna, perfect for a leisurely stroll and relaxation.
Chettiar Park is located near the town center of Kodaikanal and offers a tranquil setting for nature lovers.
INR 30, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Ten Degrees

End your culinary journey with a delectable dinner at Ten Degrees, a cozy restaurant offering a fusion of Indian and international cuisines.
Ten Degrees is a popular dining spot in Kodaikanal, known for its diverse menu and pleasant ambiance.
INR 400, 1.5 hours
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