Ultimate Family Getaway: Madurai to Kodaikanal Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Madurai

Madurai, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Sree Sabarees

Start your day with authentic South Indian breakfast at Sree Sabarees, known for its delicious idlis and dosas.
Located in the heart of the city, easily accessible by taxi or auto-rickshaw.
INR200, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

Explore the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple, renowned for its stunning architecture and bustling atmosphere.
A short taxi ride from breakfast, around 10 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at The Modern Coffee House

Enjoy a light lunch at The Modern Coffee House, famous for their filter coffee and snacks.
Just a 5-minute drive from the temple.
INR300, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Explore Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

Visit the historic Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace and admire its grandeur and beautifully maintained gardens.
A quick 10-minute taxi ride from lunch.
INR50, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Shopping at Madurai

Stroll through the local markets of Madurai and pick up some unique textiles and handicrafts.
Walking distance from the palace — around 15 minutes.
Variable, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Saravana Bhavan

End your day with a hearty dinner at Saravana Bhavan, serving a variety of Indian dishes.
15-minute taxi ride; can be pre-arranged for convenience.
INR500, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Delights and Scenic Views

Madurai, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Sri Preamurthy Café

Begin your morning with delicious Pongal and chutney at Sri Preamurthy Café, a local favorite.
Conveniently located in the city center.
INR200, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Gandhi Memorial Museum

Visit the Gandhi Memorial Museum, which showcases the life and teachings of Mahatma Gandhi.
10 minutes by taxi from breakfast.
Free, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Annalakshmi Restaurant

Savor a traditional Thali meal at Annalakshmi Restaurant, perfect for the whole family.
Approximately 15 minutes from the museum.
INR400, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Visit Azhagar Kovil

A short trip to Azhagar Kovil, a beautiful temple set against a scenic backdrop in the hills.
Taxi ride about 30 minutes from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Nature Walk

Take a peaceful nature walk around the temple and enjoy the serene environment.
Self-guided nature walk around the temple area.
Free, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at Kumar Mess

Dig into some local chicken biryani at Kumar Mess, a must-try for food lovers.
Return to Madurai city center, around 30 minutes.
INR500, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Journey to Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal, India

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Madurai

Have a light breakfast at your hotel or café before heading out for Kodaikanal.
Pre-arranged taxi will take you directly to Kodaikanal.
INR200, 30 minutes

8:00 AM

Travel to Kodaikanal

Enjoy a scenic drive through the Western Ghats as you head to Kodaikanal, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes.
Direct taxi or bus to Kodaikanal, approximately 3-4 hours.
INR2500 (taxi), 3.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at The T redis

Once in Kodaikanal, enjoy lunch at The Tredis, known for its beautiful views and tasty dishes.
Located in the heart of Kodaikanal.
INR600, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Visit Kodaikanal Lake

Spend your afternoon by the picturesque Kodaikanal Lake - rent a pedal boat for some family fun!
Walking distance from the restaurant, about 10 minutes.
INR500 (boating), 2 hours

4:00 PM

Explore Coaker's Walk

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along Coaker's Walk, famous for its panoramic views.
Just a short walk from the lake.
INR30, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at Hilltop Restaurant

End your day at Hilltop Restaurant, renowned for its cozy ambiance and delightful cuisine.
Short ride or walk from Coaker's Walk.
INR700, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Nature and Adventure in Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

A leisurely breakfast at your hotel, fueling up for a day of exploration.
At your accommodation, no travel needed.
INR300, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Pillar Rocks

Explore the majestic Pillar Rocks, a stunning geological formation offering wonderful views.
A short taxi ride from the hotel, about 30 minutes.
INR100, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Visit Guna Caves

Take a trip to Guna Caves, known for its unique rock formations and beautiful forest area.
Less than 15 minutes drive from Pillar Rocks.
INR30, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at BBQ Chicken

Indulge in some delicious grilled food at BBQ Chicken, perfect for a family meal.
5-minute drive from Guna Caves.
INR600, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Visit Bryant Park

Relax and unwind at Bryant Park, filled with lush greenery and beautiful flowers.
A short distance from lunch, easily accessed by taxi.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Shopping at Kodaikanal

Explore local shops for homemade chocolates and souvenirs to take back home.
Walking distance from the park.
Variable, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Farewell Dinner at The Cookie Man

End your trip with a delightful dinner at The Cookie Man, known for desserts and family-friendly dishes.
Just a short walk from the shopping area.
INR500, 1.5 hours
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