Explore the Historic Temples and Culture of Madurai and Palani in 2 Days

Day 1: Madurai Temples

Madurai, India on April 18, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop

Start your day with a delicious South Indian breakfast featuring idlis, dosas, and filter coffee at this popular local eatery known for fresh flavors and early opening hours.
INR150, 1h0m

8:45am

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

Explore the iconic Meenakshi Temple, famous for its intricate Dravidian architecture, ornate gopurams, and vibrant sculptures. The temple opens at 6am and is a must-see spiritual site.
Free, 2h0m

11:00am

Walk around Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal

Visit the 17th-century palace showcasing fusion Indo-Saracenic architecture with grand halls and beautiful stucco work. The palace is open from 9am to 5:30pm.
INR100, 1h30m

12:45pm

Lunch at Sowri Sri Restaurant

Enjoy authentic Tamil cuisine with specialties like Chettinad chicken and vegetable biryani in a comfortable setting not far from the palace.
INR300, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Gandhi Memorial Museum

Learn about Gandhi’s role in India’s independence and see memorabilia at this museum open from 9am to 6pm, located near the temple area.
INR30, 1h0m

3:15pm

Explore Madurai Market and Streets

Stroll through the bustling streets around the temple, shop for souvenirs, handicrafts, and traditional textiles while experiencing vibrant local life.
Free, 1h15m

6:30pm

Dinner at Murugan Idli Shop (Dinner Branch)

Have a light and tasty dinner with a variety of South Indian snacks and meals served fresh till late evening.
INR250, 1h0m
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Day 2: Palani Pilgrimage

Palani, India on April 19, 2025

6:00am

Breakfast at Hotel in Madurai

Early breakfast to prepare for morning travel to Palani, including traditional South Indian options for a nourishing start.
INR150, 0h45m

7:00am

Travel to Palani

Drive or take a taxi (approx 2 hours) from Madurai to Palani, known for its famous hill temple dedicated to Lord Murugan.
INR1500 (taxi approx.), 2h0m

9:15am

Visit Palani Murugan Temple

Ascend the hill temple either by steps or cable car to see this ancient and sacred temple dedicated to Lord Murugan. The temple opens from 6am to 8pm and is a major pilgrimage site.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at local restaurant near Palani temple

Taste regional Tamil cuisine at one of the eateries around Palani town featuring fresh vegetarian dishes suitable for pilgrims.
INR250, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Dhandayuthapani Swamy Temple and Explore Surroundings

Explore the environs with small shrines and viewpoints offering panoramic views of the Western Ghats hills.
Free, 1h30m

3:15pm

Return to Madurai

Begin your journey back to Madurai by taxi or bus, allowing time to rest or continue onward travel plans.
INR1500 (taxi approx.), 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Theesumi Restaurant, Madurai

Enjoy a relaxed dinner with a selection of traditional Madurai dishes including parotta with mutton kurma or vegetarian thali, perfect after a day of pilgrimage.
INR350, 1h0m
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