Family-Friendly Itinerary from Madurai to Kodaikanal and Pondicherry

Day 1: Explore Madurai

Madurai, India

9:00 AM

Breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop

Start your day with the iconic soft idlis and steaming sambar at the famous Murugan Idli Shop.
Located near Meenakshi Temple, it’s just a short drive away.
INR 500, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

Explore the stunning architecture and vibrant sculptures of Madurai's historic Meenakshi Temple.
The temple is within walking distance from the breakfast spot.
Free, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at the Surya Hotel

Enjoy traditional South Indian Thali, filled with a variety of flavorful dishes.
A short 10-minute drive from the temple.
INR 800, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Explore Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

Discover the beautiful architecture and gardens of this historic palace.
Just a 10-minute drive from the restaurant.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Evening Stroll at Gandhi Museum

Learn about Mahatma Gandhi's life and role in India’s freedom struggle.
A quick trip by car, about 15 minutes away.
Free, 1 hour

6:30 PM

Dinner at Hotel Sree Sabarees

Savor delectable dosas and other South Indian street food options.
15-minute drive back towards the city center.
INR 600, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Pathala Sembu Murugan Temple Visit

Pathala Sembu, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel Sree Sabarees

Fuel up with South Indian dishes before departing for Pathala Sembu.
Best to start early, as it is a bit of a drive.
INR 600, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Travel to Pathala Sembu Murugan Temple

Head towards the serene Pathala Sembu, famous for its beautiful temple set amidst lush greenery.
Approximately 2.5 hours' drive from Madurai.
N/A, 2.5 hours

12:00 PM

Visit Pathala Sembu Murugan Temple

Experience tranquility and spirituality at this offbeat temple.
The temple is the main attraction once you reach.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Local Eatery

Enjoy authentic homemade meals provided by the locals near the temple.
Look for local eateries nearby.
INR 400, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Explore Surrounding Nature

Take a nature walk around the area; the scenery is breathtaking.
Start near the temple grounds.
Free, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Return to Madurai

Travel back to Madurai for the night.
Head back the same way.
N/A, 2.5 hours

8:00 PM

Dinner at Vellai Poonthottam

Savor family-friendly North Indian and South Indian dishes.
Quick drive from your stay.
INR 700, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Travel to Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy a hearty buffet breakfast before heading to Kodaikanal.
In-built hotel restaurant.
INR 600, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Leave for Kodaikanal

Set off for the scenic hill station of Kodaikanal.
A beautiful drive lasting approximately 3 hours.
N/A, 3 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at The TBiG Café

Relax and recharge with delicious coffee and continental cuisine.
Located centrally in Kodaikanal.
INR 600, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Visit Kodaikanal Lake

Spend the afternoon enjoying a peaceful boat ride on the lake.
Easily accessible from the cafe.
INR 200, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Explore Bryant Park

Stroll through this beautiful botanical garden, perfect for family photos.
A short walk from Kodaikanal Lake.
INR 30, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Check into Hotel

Get settled and refresh at your hotel in Kodaikanal.
Choose from a range of family-friendly hotels.
Varies, 1 hour

7:30 PM

Dinner at The Royal Cafe

Indulge in home-cooked style meals for a comforting dining experience.
Within walking distance from your hotel.
INR 800, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Kodaikanal Adventures

Kodaikanal, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a buffet breakfast to prepare for a day of exploration.
At the hotel.
INR 600, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Coaker's Walk

Experience stunning panoramic views of the hills while walking along this scenic pathway.
A short drive or walk from the hotel.
INR 10, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Hilltop Restaurant

Enjoy delicious local cuisine while overlooking the breathtaking hills.
A short ride from Coaker's Walk.
INR 700, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Explore Pillar Rocks

Visit the majestic rock formations and take in the stunning views.
A 30-minute drive from the restaurant.
INR 10, 2.5 hours

4:00 PM

Visit Bear Shola Falls

Relax and enjoy the natural beauty of this serene waterfall.
A brief drive from Pillar Rocks.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Return to Hotel

Relax and freshen up after a day of adventure.
Head back your hotel.
N/A, 30 minutes

7:30 PM

Dinner at The Chocolate Factory

Enjoy some delightful desserts and a light meal in a cozy atmosphere.
Easily accessible from your hotel.
INR 600, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Travel to Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast before heading for the long journey to Pondicherry.
At the hotel restaurant.
INR 600, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Leave for Pondicherry

Travel to the charming coastal town of Pondicherry.
Drive is approximately 7 hours, make stops for breaks.
N/A, 7 hours

4:30 PM

Check into Hotel

Arrive and check into your hotel, preparing for evening exploration.
Choose a family-friendly hotel by the beach.
Varies, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Stroll at Promenade Beach

Enjoy the sunset views while relaxing on the beach.
A short walk from the hotel.
Free, 1 hour

7:30 PM

Dinner at Villa Shanti

Dine in a vibrant setting with a menu offering a mix of French and Indian cuisines.
Near the beach area.
INR 1000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability