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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
INR 300, 1.5 hours

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
INR 300, 1.5 hours

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
INR 300, 1.5 hours

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
INR 250, 1.5 hours

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
INR 400, 1.5 hours