11-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary: Thiruvanamalai, Vellore, Madurai & Rameshwaram

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Thiruvanamalai, India

10:00AM

Check-in at Hotel

Arrive at your chosen hotel and freshen up to start exploring Thiruvanamalai.
Hotel Name
INR2000, 1 hour

11:30AM

Visit Arunachaleswarar Temple

Experience the spiritual vibes and architectural beauty of one of the largest temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Walk from hotel to the temple, approx. 15 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Aakash Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious South Indian thali or dosa at this family-friendly spot.
Short walk from the temple.
INR600, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Virupaksha Cave

Take a short trek to the historic caves where Ramana Maharshi stayed, suitable for family adventure.
Local transport or a taxi ride.
INR100, 2 hours

5:30PM

Evening Aarti at Temple

Join the locals in the evening prayer rituals, an enchanting experience.
Back to Arunachaleswarar Temple.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Hotel

Savor dinner at your hotel, relax and discuss the day's experiences.
On-site restaurant.
INR800, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Nature and Culture

Thiruvanamalai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start the day with a hearty South Indian breakfast at your hotel.
On-site restaurant.
INR600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Sri Ramana Maharshi Ashram

Explore the serene grounds of this ashram and understand Maharshi's teachings.
Local transport or a short taxi ride.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Explore Local Markets

Stroll through the local markets shopping for handicrafts and souvenirs.
Walk to the markets, approx. 15 minutes.
Varies, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan

Relish a traditional vegetarian meal at this well-known restaurant.
Near the local markets.
INR700, 1 hour

3:00PM

Climb to the Annamalai Hills

Family-friendly hike with stunning views of the temple and surrounding area.
Short drive to hiking point with taxi.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Evening Relaxation at Hotel Pool

Spend time unwinding by the pool with family before dinner.
On-site facility.
Free for guests., 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Vasantha Bhavan

Enjoy a variety of Indian dishes in an inviting atmosphere.
Short drive from hotel.
INR800, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Historical and Scenic

Vellore, India

8:00AM

Travel to Vellore

Check out from the hotel and travel to Vellore, enjoying scenic views along the way.
2-hour drive.
INR1200 for transport., 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit Vellore Fort

Explore this grand fort that has withstood the test of time, perfect for family explorations.
Local guide and accessible routes.
INR100, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Tamil Nadu

Taste authentic Tamil cuisine at this well-rated family restaurant.
Short walk from the fort.
INR700, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Jalakandeswarar Temple

Visit this beautiful temple known for its architectural elegance and intricate carvings.
15 minutes drive from restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Vellore Science Park

Enjoy educational fun with interactive exhibits and activities suitable for children.
Short drive from the temple.
INR300, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Anjappar

Delight in Chettinad cuisine at this highly-rated eatery, perfect for family dinners.
short drive from the park.
INR800, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Cultural Exploration

Vellore, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel to fuel up for the day.
On-site restaurant.
INR600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Sripuram Golden Temple

Marvel at the golden architecture of this spiritual place, ideal for family visits.
30-minute taxi ride.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Cultural Activity: Traditional Pottery

Engage in a family-friendly pottery-making session arranged with a local artisan.
Local transport organized.
INR2000 for the family., 2 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Aasai Meals

Enjoy a wholesome meal in a family-friendly setting.
Return to Vellore city, about 20 minutes away.
INR600, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore Vellore Botanical Garden

Relax in the natural beauty of this garden, perfect for kids to explore.
Short drive from the restaurant.
INR100, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Return to Hotel and Relax

Spend some downtime with your family to unwind.
Back to hotel.
Free, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Hotel

Cap off the day with delightful dinner at the hotel restaurant.
On-site.
INR800, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Journey to History

Madurai, India

8:00AM

Travel to Madurai

After breakfast, check out and drive to Madurai, known for its vibrant culture.
2-hour journey via private transport.
INR1200, 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

Marvel at the stunning architecture and intricate artistry of this iconic temple.
Accessible via taxi from hotel.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Savor southern special idlis and meals, a favorite among families.
Short walk from the temple.
INR600, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

Discover the grandeur of this palace and its royal heritage.
Short taxi ride.
INR200, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Visit Gandhi Museum

Learn about Mahatma Gandhi's life and impact in this well-curated museum.
Local transport.
INR50, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Sree Sabarees

Enjoy delicious meals with a focus on vegetarian options in a casual ambiance.
Short drive from the museum.
INR700, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Exploration and Relaxation

Madurai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start the day with a nutritious breakfast buffet.
On-site restaurant.
INR600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam

Explore this beautiful temple tank, great for a leisurely stroll.
Local transport to the site.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Family Workshop: Traditional Dance

Participate in a family-friendly traditional dance workshop for memorable experiences.
Organized session in Madurai.
INR2000 for family., 2 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Vintage Cafe

Indulge in cozy eats and hand-crafted coffee; perfect for families.
Short ride from workshop location.
INR800, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit the Potters' Village

Experience the local pottery artisans creating beautiful pottery.
Short taxi ride.
INR100, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Hotel

Return to the hotel for a relaxing family dinner.
On-site.
INR800, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Sacred and Scenic

Rameshwaram, India

8:00AM

Travel to Rameshwaram

Check out and enjoy the scenic coastal route to Rameshwaram.
3-hour drive by private vehicle.
INR1500., 3 hours

11:30AM

Check-in at Hotel

Arrive and settle in at your chosen hotel.
Assigned hotel.
INR2000, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Restaurant on the Beach

Enjoy a refreshing meal with a stunning ocean view.
Local beachfront restaurant.
INR800, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Ramanathaswamy Temple

Explore this sacred site with unique architecture and history.
Short walk from restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Dhanushkodi Beach

Spend the evening enjoying the beautiful beach and stunning sunset.
40-minute drive to Dhanushkodi.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Sea View Restaurant

Cap off the day with a delicious family dinner by the coast.
Back to Rameshwaram.
INR900, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Wildlife and Relaxation

Rameshwaram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up for the day with a breakfast spread at the hotel.
On-site restaurant.
INR600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Pamban Bridge

Experience views from the iconic bridge, a great spot for photography.
30-minute drive.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Wildlife Safari at Gulf of Mannar

Join a boat tour to explore the vibrant marine life in this biosphere reserve.
Local boating service.
INR3000 for family., 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Circuit House

Enjoy authentic South Indian food in a historical setting.
Short journey from the harbor.
INR800, 1 hour

3:30PM

Relax at Hotel or Pool

Take some time to unwind and relax by the hotel pool or nearby beaches.
On-site.
Free for guests., 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Explore the Local Market

Discover local handicrafts and souvenirs at Rameshwaram market.
Short drive or walk.
Varies, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Hotel

Enjoy a relaxing dinner after an adventurous day.
On-site.
INR800, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Beach Day and Leisure

Rameshwaram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a lovely breakfast at the hotel.
On-site restaurant.
INR600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Beach Time at Kothandaramaswamy Temple Beach

Relax at this beautiful temple beach, great for some family fun.
Short drive.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Paradise Restaurant

Enjoy an array of seafood dishes in a vibrant atmosphere.
Near the beach, quick access.
INR900, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Annai Indira Gandhi Road Bridge

Experience the views from this remarkable bridge connecting Rameshwaram to the mainland.
30-minute drive.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Back to Hotel to Relax

Take some time to relax and refresh after a fun day at the beach.
Return to hotel.
Free., 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Hotel

Enjoy a final dinner in Rameshwaram, reflecting on your journey.
On-site.
INR800, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Return Journey to Madurai

Madurai, India

8:00AM

Travel Back to Madurai

Check out and enjoy the drive back, appreciating scenic views en route.
3-hour drive.
INR1500., 3 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Hotel in Madurai

Check in at the hotel and refresh with lunch.
Revisit your accommodation.
INR700, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit Alagar Kovil

Explore this serene temple surrounded by scenic beauty.
Taxi ride from hotel.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Traditional Puthukkudi Adigal

Join an interactive session learning about traditional crafts and methodologies.
Organized workshop with local artisans.
INR1500 for family., 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Heritage Restaurant

Enjoy a meal blending tradition and modernity in a beautiful setting.
Short drive.
INR800, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Departure Day

Madurai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast as you prepare for departure.
On-site restaurant.
INR600, 1 hour

10:00AM

Last Minute Shopping

Explore local markets for last-minute souvenirs before departing.
Taxi to local markets.
Varies, 2 hours

12:30PM

Check-out and Departure

Check out from the hotel and head to the airport for your journey home.
Transport organized for airport drop.
INR1200., 1 hour
View Hotel Availability