4-Day Nature Adventure: Chennai to Madurai and Kodaikanal Road Trip

Day 1: Chennai Exploration

Chennai, India

6:30AM

Breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop

Start your day with a delicious South Indian breakfast of idli and sambar at the iconic Murugan Idli Shop.
Start your journey in Chennai and fuel up before hitting the road.
INR 150, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Madurai

Embark on the approximately 8-hour drive to Madurai, enjoying the scenic views along NH38.
Head south on NH38 from Chennai.
INR 0, 8 hours

4:30PM

Check-in at Heritage Madurai

Relax after your long journey at this beautiful heritage hotel that offers a glimpse into the city's history.
Driving through Madurai, use local directions to reach the hotel.
INR 3,500, 1 hour

6:00PM

Visit Meenakshi Temple

Explore the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple, famous for its magnificent architecture and vibrant colors.
It’s a short drive from the hotel to the temple.
Free, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Sakkarai Sarangabani

Indulge in authentic Tamil cuisine at this local favorite restaurant known for its mutton briyani and desserts.
Driving distance from the temple.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Madurai to Kodaikanal

Madurai, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at New Taj群

Recharge with a hearty breakfast featuring dosas and chutneys at the bustling New Taj.
Driving distance from the hotel.
INR 200, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

Discover the grand architecture of this 17th-century palace, once the residence of a king.
A short drive from New Taj in Madurai.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Drive to Kodaikanal

Set off for Kodaikanal, a picturesque hill station, a 3-hour drive through lush countryside.
Take NH44 and onwards to Dindigul-Kodaikanal Road.
INR 0, 3 hours

2:00PM

Check-in at The Carlton

Unwind in style at The Carlton, located right on the banks of the serene Kodaikanal Lake.
The hotel is easily found through local directions.
INR 6,500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Boat Ride on Kodaikanal Lake

Enjoy a tranquil boat ride with stunning views around the serene lake.
Just a short walk from your hotel.
INR 300, 1 hour

5:00PM

Explore Coaker's Walk

Stroll along Coaker's Walk for breathtaking views of the valleys; this walk is a perfect way to unwind.
Drive or a short walk from the lake.
INR 10, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Eco Nut Cafe

Savor delicious, healthy options amid nature at Eco Nut Cafe, known for its cozy ambience.
A short drive from Coaker's Walk.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Kodaikanal Adventures

Kodaikanal, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at The Carlton

Start your day with an enjoyable breakfast buffet at The Carlton, with options catering to every palate.
Breakfast is served in the hotel’s dining area.
INR 800, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Pillar Rocks

Marvel at the towering rock formations, adorned with lush greenery - an ideal spot for photos.
Drive from the hotel to reach this popular viewpoint.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Guna Caves

Venture into the mystical Guna Caves, surrounded by dense forests, a perfect adventure for nature lovers.
Short drive to the caves.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Hilltop Inn

Stop by Hilltop Inn to enjoy a delicious meal while surrounded by stunning hill views.
A drive back to town.
INR 700, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Berijam Lake

Experience the tranquil beauty at Berijam Lake, perfect for a peaceful afternoon surrounded by nature.
About a 30-minute drive from Kodaikanal.
INR 150, 3.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Aasai Veg Restaurant

Delight in a wholesome vegetarian meal with local flavors and spices.
Short drive from Berijam Lake to the restaurant.
INR 500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Return to Chennai

Kodaikanal, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at The Carlton

Enjoy one last breakfast at The Carlton, relishing the culinary delights one more time.
Enjoy breakfast again at your hotel.
INR 800, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive back to Chennai

Begin the journey back to Chennai, reflecting on the picturesque memories of Kodaikanal.
Take the Dindigul-Kodaikanal Road back to NH44.
INR 0, 9 hours

6:00PM

Arrive in Chennai

Arrive back in Chennai and drop off your rental car, concluding your 4-day adventure.
Return to the car rental location.
INR 0, N/A
View Hotel Availability