5-Day Itinerary from Trivandrum to Madurai: Temple Visits & Cultural Delights

Day 1: Explore Trivandrum

Trivandrum, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Villa Maya

Start your day with a delicious breakfast featuring South Indian specialties at this beautifully set heritage restaurant.
Head northwest towards Fort Santa Cruz after breakfast.
INR750, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Padmanabhaswamy Temple

Witness the architectural splendor of one of India's richest temples, dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
Located just a short drive from Villa Maya, follow the main road to the temple.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore the Napier Museum

Enjoy a collection of antique artifacts and art pieces in this unique museum showcasing the cultural heritage of Kerala.
From the temple, it's a 10-minute car ride to the museum.
INR20, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Spice Route

Relish authentic Kerala cuisine at The Spice Route, known for its flavorful dishes and elegant ambiance.
A quick 10-minute drive from the museum.
INR1200, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Kanakakkunnu Palace

Stroll through the beautiful gardens and the historic palace that hosts art exhibitions and cultural events.
Just a stone's throw away from The Spice Route.
INR30, 1 hour

4:30PM

Evening at Kovalam Beach

Relax on the iconic beaches with golden sands or enjoy water sports while soaking up the sunset.
15-minute drive from the palace.
Free, 2.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Leela Kovalam's Reef

Dine overlooking the sea and enjoy fresh seafood and local cuisine in a luxurious setting.
Located at Kovalam Beach, perfect for an evening meal.
INR2500, 2 hours
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Day 2: Journey to Kanyakumari

Kanyakumari, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel before departing for Kanyakumari.
Check out and head south on NH66.
INR500, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Kanyakumari

Travel to the southernmost tip of India for stunning coastal views.
Continue south on NH66.
INR1000 (for fuel and tolls), 2.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Vivekananda Rock Memorial

Take a ferry ride to this iconic memorial dedicated to Swami Vivekananda.
From the ferry point, it’s a short boat ride.
INR150, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Hotel SeaView

Savor local seafood while enjoying breathtaking views of the sea.
Back to the mainland and a quick walk to the restaurant.
INR1200, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Kanyakumari Temple

Explore this ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Kanyakumari, featuring intricate sculptures.
A short drive from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore the Sunset Point

Enjoy stunning sunset views while relaxing at the beach.
Just down the road from the temple area.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Evening Stroll at Kanyakumari Beach

Walk along the shore and take in the sights of the Arabian Sea, the sun, and the setting.
On the same beach area.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Ganga Hotel

Indulge in a wide variety of South Indian dishes at this quaint and budget-friendly restaurant.
Just a short walk from the beach.
INR700, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Nagercoil Adventures

Nagercoil, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fill up on a scrumptious breakfast before departing for Nagercoil.
Check out of the hotel and head to Nagercoil via NH66.
INR500, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Nagercoil

Enjoy a scenic drive through lush landscapes and coastal views.
46 km drive on NH66.
INR500 (for fuel and tolls), 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Bhagavathy Amman Temple

A revered temple showcasing stunning architecture, dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathy.
A quick 10-minute drive from the entry of Nagercoil.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Nagercoil Fort

Explore the historical fort that houses beautiful gardens and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Just a short drive from the temple.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Ganesh Bhavan

Enjoy classic South Indian meals at this popular local eatery, loved for its authentic flavors.
Close by the fort, a comfortable walk.
INR600, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit the Suchindram Temple

Marvel at this temple's striking architecture and intricate sculptures just outside Nagercoil.
20-minute drive from Ganesh Bhavan.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Thirparappu Falls

Enjoy a refreshing dip and a relaxing afternoon at this beautiful waterfall.
A scenic 30-minute drive towards Thirparappu.
INR20, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit Padmanabhapuram Palace

Discover the erstwhile palace of the Travancore royal family, adorned with impressive woodwork.
Less than a 30-minute drive back towards Nagercoil.
INR20, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Royal Court

Savor delicious local cuisine in a family-friendly atmosphere.
Just a 10-minute drive from the palace.
INR800, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Explore Thoothukudi

Thoothukudi, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a cozy breakfast at your hotel before heading towards Thoothukudi.
Check out and drive along NH44.
INR500, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Thoothukudi

Experience a breezy journey to the port city, known for its beaches and fishing industry.
47 km drive via NH44.
INR600 (for fuel and tolls), 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Tuticorin Port

Explore India's second-largest port and learn about its maritime significance.
A short drive from your entry point into Thoothukudi.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Our Lady of Snows Basilica

Marvel at the stunning architecture of this iconic basilica while soaking in the theology and art.
Close by the port area, a comfortable drive.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Shantham Restaurant

Dine on authentic South Indian seafood dishes at this well-known restaurant.
Around 10-minute drive from the basilica.
INR900, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Kattabomman Memorial Fort

Discover this captivating fort commemorating the legendary freedom fighter, Veerapandiya Kattabomman.
Just a 15-minute drive from the restaurant.
INR20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Beach

Unwind at a local beach with pristine sands and picturesque views of the Arabian Sea.
Short drive from the fort.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Drive to Madurai

Make your way to the historic city of Madurai, known for its temples.
Under an hour’s drive on NH38.
INR500 (for fuel), 1 hour

6:00PM

Check-in at Hotel in Madurai

Settle into your accommodation for a comfortable stay.
Choose a central location for easy access to attractions.
Depends on hotel choice, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Murugan Idli Shop

Experience Madurai’s famous idlis and other South Indian fare in a charming setting.
Easily reachable from most central hotels.
INR500, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Discover Madurai

Madurai, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a refreshing breakfast at your hotel.
Enjoy the hotel amenities before heading out.
INR500, 1 hour

8:00AM

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

Marvel at the grand architecture and vibrant sculptures of this historic temple, a must-visit in Madurai.
Short drive from your hotel to the temple vicinity.
Free, 2 hours

10:00AM

Explore Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

Uncover the historical richness of this 17th-century palace that reflects the grandeur of the Nayak dynasty.
A quick 10-minute drive from the temple entrance.
INR50, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit Gandhi Memorial Museum

Learn about the life and contributions of Mahatma Gandhi at this informative museum housed in a palace.
10-minute drive from the palace.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Tiffin Room

Savor freshly made dosas, idlis, and local flavor at this popular eatery.
Located near the museum.
INR800, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Alagar Kovil

Absorb the serene surroundings of this ancient temple located on the hills.
30-minute drive from Madurai city.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Return and Relax

Take some time to relax at your hotel or explore local markets for souvenirs.
Drive back towards Madurai.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Surya Cafe

End your trip with a relaxed dinner filled with local specialties and a warm ambiance.
Drive towards the cafe, it's centrally located.
INR700, 1.5 hours
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