Family-Friendly Road Trip Itinerary: Madurai, Thiruvananthapuram, Kanyakumari, and Rameshwaram

Day 1: Exploring Madurai

Madurai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sri Saravana Bhavan

Start your day with a delightful South Indian breakfast at Sri Saravana Bhavan, famous for its crispy dosas and steaming idlis.
Located in the heart of Madurai, just a 15-minute drive from the Gandhi Museum.
INR 600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

Explore the stunning Meenakshi Amman Temple, a marvel of architecture and spirituality that will mesmerise both young and old.
It's just a 10-minute drive from your breakfast spot.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Kumar Mess

Savour the authentic Tamil Nadu cuisine at Kumar Mess, known for its mouth-watering meals served on banana leaves.
A quick 5-minute drive from the temple.
INR 800, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Gandhi Museum

Take an insightful tour of the Gandhi Museum to learn about Mahatma Gandhi's life and contributions during the independence movement.
Located just 15 minutes away from the lunch spot.
INR 10, 1.5 hours

3:15PM

Stroll through Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

Wander around the grand Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, known for its magnificent Indo-Saracenic architecture.
Only a 5-minute drive from the museum.
INR 50, 1 hour

5:00PM

Evening at the Local Market

Experience local life at the Madurai market, perfect for souvenirs and local snacks.
A short 10-minute drive from the palace.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Sree Sabarees

Enjoy traditional South Indian thali at Sree Sabarees, a family-friendly place well-loved for its rich flavours.
Just 10 minutes away from the market.
INR 700, 1 hour
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Day 2: Thiruvananthapuram Adventure

Thiruvananthapuram, India

7:00AM

Drive to Thiruvananthapuram

Begin your drive to Thiruvananthapuram, known for its enchanting beaches and vibrant culture.
The distance is around 3 hours (about 130 km) via NH 44.
Fuel costs vary, 3 hours

10:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel Arya Nivas

Upon arriving, enjoy a hearty breakfast at Hotel Arya Nivas featuring Kerala delicacies like appam and stew.
Located near the city centre, just a 15-minute drive from the highway.
INR 500, 1 hour

11:30AM

Visit Padmanabhaswamy Temple

Visit the historic Padmanabhaswamy Temple, an impressive architectural gem dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
Approximately 10 minutes' drive from breakfast.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Narmada Restaurant

Dig into a delicious lunch with a variety of vegetarian options at Narmada Restaurant.
Just a 10-minute drive from the temple.
INR 600, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Kowdiar Palace

Visit Kowdiar Palace, a beautiful location perfect for family photos amidst lush greenery.
Located just 15 minutes from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Relax at Kovalam Beach

Unwind at the famed Kovalam Beach, known for its tranquil waters and vibrant atmosphere.
A 30-minute drive from Kowdiar.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Fisherman's Wharf

Enjoy dinner at The Fisherman's Wharf, renowned for its fresh seafood and delightful ambience.
Just a 15-minute drive from Kovalam Beach.
INR 1000, 1 hour
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Day 3: Journey to Kanyakumari

Kanyakumari, India

7:00AM

Drive to Kanyakumari

Set off for Kanyakumari, the southernmost tip of India, known for its stunning sunrise views.
The distance is around 2 hours (approximately 85 km) via NH 66.
Fuel costs vary, 2 hours

9:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Seashore

After arriving, indulge in a delicious breakfast at Hotel Seashore offering views of the Arab Sea.
Located close to the beach, just a 10-minute drive from the main attractions.
INR 600, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Vivekananda Rock Memorial

Take a short ferry ride to the iconic Vivekananda Rock Memorial, a serene place of meditation.
Ferries available nearby the hotel.
INR 300 per person, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Annapoorna Café

Refuel with a hearty lunch at Annapoorna Café, known for its superb thalis.
A 5-minute drive from the ferry terminal.
INR 700, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Kanyakumari Beach

Spend the afternoon at Kanyakumari Beach, enjoying some local snacks and the vibrant atmosphere.
Located right next to the café.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Thiruvalluvar Statue

Admire the impressive Thiruvalluvar Statue, a landmark symbolising Tamil culture.
A short walk from the beach.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Sangam

Enjoy a delightful dinner at Hotel Sangam with a mix of local and North Indian dishes.
Just 10 minutes' drive from the statue.
INR 800, 1 hour
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Day 4: Rameshwaram Day Trip

Rameshwaram, India

7:00AM

Drive to Rameshwaram

Set out early for Rameshwaram, known for its ancient temples and stunning beaches, while enjoying the beautiful coastal drive.
The distance is approximately 2 hours (about 120 km).
Fuel costs vary, 2 hours

9:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Daiwik

Start the day with a hearty breakfast at Hotel Daiwik; try their dosa and filter coffee.
Located conveniently on your way to key attractions.
INR 500, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Ramanathaswamy Temple

Experience the spiritual atmosphere of the Ramanathaswamy Temple, famous for its 22 holy wells.
A quick 15-minute drive from breakfast.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Aasai Mess

Indulge in a local meal at Aasai Mess, offering delicious seafood dishes and a local experience.
Less than 10 minutes from the temple.
INR 600, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Dhanushkodi

Take a short drive to Dhanushkodi, an abandoned town that showcases the ruination from the storms; don't forget your camera!
About a 30-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Evening at Rameshwaram Beach

Spend a relaxing afternoon at Rameshwaram Beach, perfect for children to play and enjoy the sea.
Close to the Dhanushkodi return route.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Marg Swarna

Conclude your unforgettable road trip with a lovely dinner featuring a mix of South Indian and continental dishes.
Just a 15-minute drive from the beach.
INR 800, 1 hour
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