6-Day Family Friendly Road Trip Itinerary to Madurai

Day 1: Explore Madurai

Madurai, India

8:30AM

Breakfast at Ayyappan Mess

Start your day with a hearty breakfast of idli, pongal, and filter coffee at the well-known Ayyappan Mess.
Located near Meenakshi Temple.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Meenakshi Amman Temple

After breakfast, delve into the architectural beauty of the famous Meenakshi Amman Temple with your family.
Just a short walk from Ayyappan Mess.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Surya Veg Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious vegetarian buffet at Surya Veg Restaurant; their thali is a family favorite.
A 10-minute drive from the temple.
INR 600, 1 hour

1:00PM

Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

Visit Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace to admire its grand architecture and learn about its royal history.
Approximately 15 minutes from the restaurant.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Gandhi Memorial Museum

Explore the Gandhi Memorial Museum which offers insights into India's freedom struggle, especially for children.
A 10-minute ride from the palace.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Evening snacks at Durga Cafe

Relax with some evening snacks of fresh local delicacies at Durga Cafe while discussing your day.
Around 10 minutes away.
INR 500, 1 hour

6:30PM

Evening at Meenakshi Temple

Visit the Meenakshi Temple again for the evening rituals; the atmosphere is mesmerizing.
Return to the same location.
Free, 1 hour

8:00PM

Dinner at Nair's Mess

Indulge in a traditional South Indian dinner at Nair's Mess; their fish curry is a must-try.
Approximately a 15-minute drive.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Day in Madurai

Madurai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ayswarya Restaurant

Enjoy a mix of South Indian breakfast options like dosa and uttapam to kickstart your day.
A 10-minute drive.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit to Samanar Hills

Explore the historical rock-cut caves at Samanar Hills, an intriguing spot for family adventures.
30-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Heritage

Relish the distinct flavors of Madurai cuisine at Hotel Heritage with family-friendly options.
A 20-minute ride back to the city.
INR 700, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Maya Bazaar

Spend your afternoon shopping for local handicrafts and souvenirs at Maya Bazaar, a fun experience for the kids.
15 minutes drive from the restaurant.
Varies, 2 hours

4:00PM

Meenakshi Temple Shopping

Take this time to shop around the Meenakshi Temple for some religious items and curios.
Walking distance from Maya Bazaar.
Varies, 1 hour

5:00PM

Evening Tea at Madurai City

Relax and enjoy some evening tea with biscuits at one of the local tea stalls.
Near the temple locale.
INR 100, 30 mins

6:30PM

Watch Traditional Dance Performance

Experience a traditional Tamil dance performance, a great way to immerse in the local culture.
Check for schedules at the temple.
INR 300, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Sree Sabarees

Savor a delightful vegetarian fare at Sree Sabarees, known for their thalis.
Approximately 10-15 minutes from the performance venue.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Nature Excursion in Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal, India

6:30AM

Departure to Kodaikanal

Early morning drive to Kodaikanal to enjoy the hills and cool weather.
A scenic drive of about 3 hours.
INR 0 (self-drive), 3 hours

9:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel Hilltop

Indulge in a buffet breakfast at Hotel Hilltop before starting the day's explorations.
Just upon arrival in Kodaikanal.
INR 800, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Kodaikanal Lake

Take a leisurely stroll around Kodaikanal Lake and opt for a pedal boat ride for some fun family time.
5-minute drive from the hotel.
INR 200 for boat rental, 2.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Treetops

Lunch at The Treetops Cafe, a lovely place set amidst nature, ideal for families.
A short drive to the cafe.
INR 700, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Bear Shola Falls

Visit Bear Shola Falls for some adventure amidst nature; kids will love splashing in the water.
Approx. 10-minute drive from the cafe.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Coaker's Walk

Walk along Coaker's Walk for splendid views of the hills, it’s a family-friendly spot.
15-minute ride from the falls.
INR 20, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Evening Snacks at Kodaikanal Homemade Chocolates

Treat your family to some delicious homemade chocolates from a local shop; a sweet reward after a long day.
In the town center.
INR 300, 30 minutes

7:00PM

Dinner at Vegan Planet

Enjoy a wholesome meal with your family at Vegan Planet, which offers a variety of vegan options.
A nearby eatery close to your lodging.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Adventure in Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Hilltop

Recharge with another delicious breakfast at Hotel Hilltop before embarking on adventures.
Start at your hotel.
INR 800, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Pillar Rocks

Head to Pillar Rocks, a set of three granite boulders, ideal for family photos and enjoying nature.
Around 30 minutes from the hotel.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Guna Cave

Explore the intriguing Guna Cave which has interesting rock formations that will amaze the family.
A short drive from Pillar Rocks.
INR 10, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Altitude

Dine at Altitude for a scenic view while enjoying their varied menu.
Close to the cave.
INR 900, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Green Valley View

Marvel at the breathtaking views from Green Valley View, an excellent spot for photography.
A 20-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Silver Falls

Visit the picturesque Silver Falls, where families can enjoy nature's beauty and take a refreshing dip.
30 minutes from the valley view.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Snack Time at Pastry Corner

Take a break with some pastries and coffee at the delightful Pastry Corner.
A quick ride back to town.
INR 400, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Hilltop International

End your day with a family-friendly dinner at Hilltop International, offering delicious continental food.
A short distance from the cafe.
INR 700, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Spiritual Journey to Rameswaram

Rameswaram, India

6:00AM

Departure to Rameswaram

Begin your journey early to Rameswaram, a sacred site known for its temples.
A scenic drive taking about 3 hours.
INR 0 (self-drive), 3 hours

9:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Tamil Nadu

Upon arrival, enjoy breakfast at Hotel Tamil Nadu for a taste of local cuisine.
Just near the entrance to the town.
INR 600, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Ramanathaswamy Temple

Visit the famous Ramanathaswamy Temple, known for its unique architecture and spirituality.
A short walk from the hotel.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at the temple canteen

Grab a simple yet wholesome lunch at the temple canteen, providing an authentic experience.
On-site at the temple.
INR 200, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Dhanushkodi

Head towards Dhanushkodi, a ghost town offering stunning views of the sea and unique landscapes.
Approx. 30-minute drive.
INR 50 for entry, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Evening snacks at a local stall

Enjoy some delicious street snacks from a local vendor as you wander through Rameswaram.
Back in the main town area.
INR 150, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Visit the Beach

Spend a relaxing evening at the beach, perfect for family bonding and taking in the sunset.
A short distance from the town center.
Free, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Hotel Tamil Nadu

Conclude your day with dinner back at Hotel Tamil Nadu, where you can relish some seafood.
Return to the same location.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Return to Madurai

Madurai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Tamil Nadu

Start your last day with breakfast at the hotel, preparing for the return journey.
At the hotel.
INR 600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Agnitheertham

Visit Agnitheertham, the sacred water body where pilgrims reflect; it’s a serene experience.
Nearby the temple.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Departure to Madurai

Drive back to Madurai, take in the countryside views along the way.
Approx. 3 hours drive.
INR 0 (self-drive), 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Ayyappan Mess

Revisit Ayyappan Mess for a nostalgic lunch of your favorite dishes.
Back in Madurai.
INR 600, 1 hour

3:30PM

Shopping at Madurai

Take the time to shop for local goods and treats, perfect for family souvenirs.
Around the Meenakshi Temple area.
Varies, 2 hours

5:30PM

Visit a Local Park

Enjoy an evening in a local park for relaxation before concluding your trip.
Choose a park nearby your hotel.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Sri Sarvana Bhavan

End your road trip with a delightful dinner at Sri Sarvana Bhavan, offering extraordinary South Indian delights.
A 15-minute drive.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
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