Family-Friendly Road Trip Itinerary: Madurai to Rameshwaram to Pondicherry

Day 1: Explore Madurai

Madurai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sree Kanniya Shunmugam Hotel

Start your day with a delicious South Indian breakfast featuring their famous idli and sambar, loved by locals.
Located in the city center, easy to reach from most hotels.
INR200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

Explore the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple, known for its stunning architecture and vibrant sculptures.
A short drive from the breakfast spot.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Enjoy a hearty lunch featuring a variety of idlis and dosas at this popular eatery.
Nearby the temple, easy to find.
INR300, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore the Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

Take a tour of this 17th-century palace, famous for its grand architecture and gardens.
5-minute drive from lunch spot.
INR50, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Shopping at Puthu Mandapam

Stroll through this bustling market, perfect for picking up local handicrafts and souvenirs.
Short drive or a 15-minute walk from the palace.
Free (Shopping costs vary), 1 hour

5:00PM

Evening Snacks at Taika

Enjoy delicious street food snacks such as 'sundal' and 'bonda' to recharge after a day of sightseeing.
Nearby shopping area.
INR150, 1 hour
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Day 2: Journey to Rameshwaram

Rameshwaram, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Heritage

Indulge in a traditional Tamil breakfast of pongal and chutney to fuel up for the journey.
Close to your hotel in Madurai.
INR250, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Rameshwaram

Enjoy a scenic 3-hour drive through beautiful coastal landscapes, connecting Madurai to Rameshwaram.
Take the NH87 route for a smooth trip.
Gas cost varies, 3 hours

11:00AM

Check-in at Hotel Royal Residency

Arrive and settle into your hotel in Rameshwaram, ready for the day’s adventures.
Located near the beach.
INR3000/night, 30 minutes

12:00PM

Lunch at Ameen Daba

Delight in a seafood lunch, sampling fresh catch dishes that Rameshwaram is famous for.
5-minute drive from your hotel.
INR600, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Ramanathaswamy Temple

Explore the famous Ramanathaswamy Temple, with its sacred ‘tirthams’ and beautiful carvings.
10-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Dhanushkodi

Head to the ghost town of Dhanushkodi for stunning views and sandy beaches, perfect for family photos.
Drive to the tip of Rameshwaram island.
INR50 (Entry fee), 2 hours
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Day 3: Explore Rameshwaram

Rameshwaram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Royal Residency

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel with a choice of South Indian and North Indian dishes.
On-site at your hotel.
INR400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Agnitheertham

Experience a sacred ritual at Agnitheertham, near the temple, considered an important pilgrimage spot.
Just a short drive from the hotel.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Boat Ride to Pamban Bridge

Take a boat ride and enjoy spectacular views of the iconic Pamban Bridge, a fun experience for the family.
Available at the local dock.
INR800 for a family, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ameen Daba

Enjoy lunch back at Ameen Daba savoring local eats together as a family.
Return to the restaurant from your morning activities.
INR600, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Rameshwaram Marine National Park

Take the family on a nature trail and explore the beautiful marine life in the protected park.
Drive to the National Park entrance.
INR20 per person, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Royal Residency

Enjoy a relaxing dinner at your hotel with a view and delicious local cuisine.
On-site at the hotel.
INR800, 1 hour
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Day 4: Travel to Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at your Hotel

Savor a nutritious breakfast at your hotel before checking out.
Hotel Royal Residency.
INR400, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Pondicherry

Set off for Pondicherry in a scenic 4-hour drive along the coast to enjoy the views.
NH 36 is the main route.
Gas cost varies, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Surguru

Arrive and enjoy some tasty South Indian thali for lunch at this well-known local favorite.
Easily accessible upon arrival.
INR400, 1 hour

2:30PM

Check-in at Palais de Mahe

Relax and freshen up at your hotel located in the heart of Pondicherry.
Walking distance from the lunch spot.
INR5000/night, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit Aurobindo Ashram

Experience the tranquility of Aurobindo Ashram, a peaceful place for reflection and family bonding.
A short drive or 15 minutes walk.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Evening stroll at Promenade Beach

Enjoy a family-friendly stroll along the iconic Promenade Beach, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the sea breeze.
Walking distance from the ashram.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Le Cafe

End the day with dinner over the water at Le Café, serving a variety of dishes with a French twist.
Located right by the Promenade.
INR700, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Explore Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Start your final day with a delicious breakfast featuring both local and continental options.
Palais de Mahe.
INR500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Botanical Garden

Spend the morning exploring the lush greenery and unique plant species in the Botanical Garden.
Short drive or 15-minute walk from your hotel.
INR30, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore French Quarters

Take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of the French Quarter, admiring the architecture and colors.
Walking around the vicinity.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Villa Shanti

Engage your taste buds with an eclectic mix of Indian and French cuisine at Villa Shanti.
Easily accessible from French Quarters.
INR800, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Serenity Beach

Spend some relaxing time at Serenity Beach, a lovely spot for families to enjoy the sun and surf.
30-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Shopping for Handicrafts

Visit local artisan shops to pick up souvenirs and unique handicrafts to commemorate your family journey.
Back to the city center.
Free (Shopping costs vary), 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Cote Jardin

Enjoy a delicious farewell dinner in a charming garden setting as you recap the highlights of your trip.
Close to shopping areas.
INR700, 1.5 hours
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