Explore South India: A 6-Day Journey through Madurai, Thanjavur, Kumbakonam, and Chidambaram

Day 1: Explore Madurai

Madurai, India

7:30 AM

Breakfast at Azhagar Special Coffee

Start the day with a traditional South Indian breakfast featuring idli and filter coffee, providing an energizing start to your exploration.
Walk to Meenakshi Amman Temple.
INR 200, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

Marvel at the stunning architecture of one of the most famous temples in India, with its intricately carved towers and vibrant sculptures.
Walk to Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

10:00 AM

Explore Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

Discover the history of Madurai as you stroll through the grand courtyards and halls of this 17th-century palace.
Car to Meenakshi Amman Temple vicinity.
INR 100, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Lunch at Sree Sabareesh Restaurant

Enjoy an authentic South Indian thali that includes rice, sambar, and a variety of vegetables and snacks.
Car to Madurai Meenakshi Dining.
INR 400, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Visit Gandhi Museum

Dive into India's history by exploring artifacts related to Mahatma Gandhi’s life and his role in India's independence.
Short 15-minute drive.
INR 10, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Shop at Avani Moola Street

Experience Madurai's vibrant market scene while purchasing textiles, handicrafts, and local spices.
Walk around the area.
Free, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Hotel Heritage Restaurant

Indulge in local specialties while enjoying the reflective ambiance of the restaurant.
Car to the restaurant.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: More of Madurai

Madurai, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Vinayak Coffee House

Savor crispy dosas and creamy coconut chutney, the perfect way to fuel up.
Car to nearby location.
INR 200, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit the Alagar Kovil

Worship at this beautiful hilltop temple, offering stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere.
30-minute drive.
INR 0, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Explore the Tirumalai Nayakkar Palace Gardens

Wander the serene gardens adjacent to the palace, capturing the beauty and tranquility.
Short drive back.
INR 20, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Relish fresh, soft idlis and fragrant sambar in this popular local eatery.
Car to restaurant.
INR 300, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Visit Pazhamudircholai Temple

Take in the views and the spirituality at this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Murugan.
Drive away from Madurai.
INR 0, 2 hours

3:30 PM

Return to Madurai and Visit the local markets

Experience the dynamic markets of Madurai filled with colorful offerings and friendly locals.
Drive back towards Madurai.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at The River Side Restaurant

Enjoy dinner with a view of the river, serving a mix of traditional and modern cuisine.
Car to restaurant.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Journey to Thanjavur

Thanjavur, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Banana Leaf Restaurant

Start your day with a hearty and traditional breakfast featuring rice dishes and local delicacies.
30-minute drive to Thanjavur.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit Brihadeeswarar Temple

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its grand architecture and rich history.
Walk around the temple grounds.
INR 50, 2 hours

11:00 AM

Visit Thanjavur Palace

Learn about the history of the Maratha kings and admire the impressive architecture combined with beautiful gardens.
Short walk to the palace.
INR 200, 1.5 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Anandhaas Restaurant

Satisfy your appetite with a delicious Thanjavur-style thali, rich in flavor and variety.
Walk to the restaurant.
INR 500, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Explore the Tanjore Painting Art Gallery

Witness the intricate and unique art form that originated in this region, a perfect way to appreciate local culture.
Car to the gallery.
INR 100, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Visit Schwartz Church

Visit this beautiful church and take in the historical nuances of its architecture.
Short drive.
INR 10, 1 hour

4:30 PM

Relax at the local park

Take a respite in the park, watching locals and soaking up the atmosphere.
Short drive or walk.
Free, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at Suddha Restaurant

Indulge in a multi-course meal featuring local delicacies and a friendly ambiance.
Car to dinner location.
INR 700, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Cultural Kumbakonam

Kumbakonam, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Edamavadi Idli Shop

Sip on coffee while savoring soft idlis served with tangy chutney, a beloved local breakfast.
Car to nearby Kumbakonam.
INR 150, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit Adi Kumbeswarar Temple

Feel the spiritual atmosphere of this ancient temple, renowned for its intricate architecture.
Travel to the temple.
INR 0, 2 hours

11:00 AM

Explore Mahamaham Tank

Enjoy the serenity and historical significance of this large temple tank, perfect for photography.
Walk around the tank area.
Free, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Lunch at Hotel Venkatesh Bavan

Savor the Kumbakonam filter coffee and some delicious meals, a local favorite.
Car to the restaurant.
INR 300, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Visit the Kumbakonam Temples

Explore the famous temples in the vicinity, known for their unique architecture and serene ambiance.
Take a local cab to visit multiple temples.
INR 200, 3 hours

4:30 PM

Relax at a local café

Unwind at a quaint café enjoying local snacks and discussing the day’s highlights.
Short drive to café.
INR 150, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at Comfy Restaurant

Enjoy a cozy dinner with a menu featuring traditional and local dishes.
Car to dinner location.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Spiritual Chidambaram

Chidambaram, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Chidambaram Temple Canteen

Kickstart your day with delicious rice-based dishes and traditional sambar at the temple canteen.
Short drive to restaurant.
INR 100, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit Nataraja Temple

Admire the architectural marvel of this famous temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its dancing posture.
Walk to the temple.
INR 20, 1.5 hours

10:30 AM

Explore Chidambaram's local markets

Wander through vibrant streets filled with local vendors and unique handicrafts, for authentic local experiences.
Short walk to markets.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Hotel Saradharam

Taste well-prepared Chettinad cuisine known for its spices and aromas, a must-try in this locality.
Car to restaurant.
INR 400, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Visit Thillai Kali Amman Temple

Engage with the divine atmosphere of this revered temple, dedicated to the goddess Kali.
Short drive to the temple.
INR 0, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Relax at a local café

Take a break in a local café sipping on traditional beverages, enjoying the atmosphere.
Short walk to café.
INR 150, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Explore the local libraries and art galleries

Delve deeper into the rich culture of Chidambaram by visiting local libraries and galleries showcasing artistic expressions.
Car to locations.
Free, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at Hotel Purnima

Conclude your day enjoying a diverse spread of North and South Indian culinary delights.
Car to dinner location.
INR 700, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Wrap Up in Chidambaram

Chidambaram, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Saradha Bhavan

Enjoy a light breakfast of upma and coffee to prepare for your final day of adventures.
Car commute.
INR 150, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Attend a temple ritual at Nataraja Temple

Experience the vibrant local culture by attending one of the morning rituals and absorbing the divine ambiance.
Walk to the temple.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:30 AM

Visit the nearby Pichavaram Mangrove Forest

Enjoy boating in one of the largest mangrove forests and immerse yourself in nature's splendor.
30-minute drive.
INR 300, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at a local roadside dhaba

Experience authentic South Indian meals at a roadside eatery, indulging in local flavors.
Car to lunch spot.
INR 250, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Relax and prepare for departure

Take some time to relax and cherish memories from your trip before considering your next destination.
Stay at your accommodation.
Free, 2 hours
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