3-Day Family-Friendly Adventure in Madurai

Day 1: Explore Madurai

Madurai, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Sree Sivarathri's Restaurant

Start your day with a hearty breakfast of idli and sambhar, which are both family favourites at this local eatery.
Located just a short walk from the city centre, this restaurant is easy to find.
INR150, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

Explore the stunning architecture and vibrant sculptures of one of the most famous temples in India, perfect for the kids to learn and marvel at the history.
Located 10 minutes from the restaurant by auto-rickshaw.
Free, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Tiffin Restaurant

Enjoy a simple yet delicious thali served with a variety of curries, a healthy option for the whole family.
Head back towards the city centre, it’s about a 15-minute auto-rickshaw ride.
INR200, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Stroll through the Gandhi Museum

Discover fascinating exhibits related to Mahatma Gandhi’s life, offering a calm environment that is educational for the whole family.
Nearby, just a 10-minute walk from the restaurant.
INR30, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Relax at the Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal

Take a leisurely stroll around this grand palace and enjoy the serene garden area, perfect for some family photos.
A short 5-minute auto-rickshaw ride from the museum.
INR50, 1 hour

6:30 PM

Dinner at Amma Mess

End your day with authentic Tamil cuisine served in a no-frills environment, children will enjoy the delicious dum biryani.
A 10-minute auto-rickshaw ride will get you there.
INR300, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Nature and Culture

Madurai, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Saravana Bhavan

Feast on a variety of vegetarian breakfast options, including their popular dosa and chutneys, rich in flavour and perfect for energising the family.
Easily reachable in 10 minutes by auto-rickshaw.
INR200, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Explore the East Tower of Meenakshi Temple

Head back to the temple to climb the East Tower for breathtaking views of the city, keeping the nature side of your trip alive.
Back to the temple, just 10 minutes away.
Free, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Visit Alagar Kovil

Enjoy the scenic drive (or cycle ride) through the countryside to this serene temple located at the foothills of the Alagar Hills.
A 30-minute auto-rickshaw ride, with beautiful views en route.
Free, 2.5 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at a local eatery near Alagar Kovil

Savour simple vegetarian meals made with fresh local ingredients from an informal eatery nearby.
Many options are available within walking distance from the temple.
INR150, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Enjoy Nature at the Vaigai River

Spend your afternoon relaxing by the river, where the kids can play in the shallow waters while you bask in nature’s beauty.
A short auto-rickshaw ride back to the river bank.
Free, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at The Dine

Treat the family to pizza or pasta made with fresh ingredients in a warm, family-friendly environment.
Easily located in the city centre, a 15-minute auto-rickshaw ride.
INR400, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Heritage and Local Market

Madurai, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel Anandha Bhavan

Delight in South Indian breakfast staples like pongal and vada that are a hit with both adults and children.
Just a short walk from your hotel or accommodation.
INR200, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit the Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple

Discover another magnificent temple situated atop a hill, great for a family hike and exploring local culture.
A 20-minute auto-rickshaw ride will get you there.
Free, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Anbu Cafe

Grab a quick and affordable meal with great vegetarian options popular amongst locals and visitors.
Back towards the city centre, around a 20-minute auto-rickshaw ride.
INR150, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Shop at the Madurai Flower Market

Take in the vibrant colours and fragrances of the flower market, a great place for the family to experience local culture.
Located a 15-minute walk from the café.
Free, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Visit the local bazaar

Explore the bustling market stalls for traditional textiles and handcrafts, where kids can enjoy picking out souvenirs.
Very close to the flower market, just a short walk away.
Free, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Jayaram Mess

End your journey with a delicious home-style meal, choosing from classic Tamil dishes that everyone will love.
A 20-minute auto-rickshaw ride back towards the city centre.
INR300, 1.5 hours
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