4-Day South Tamil Nadu Cultural and Coastal Roadtrip: Madurai to Kanyakumari

Day 1: Madurai & Srirangam Exploration

Madurai, India on April 23, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop

Start your day with traditional South Indian breakfast specializing in fluffy idlis and aromatic filter coffee. This place opens early and is perfect for energizing before sightseeing.
INR150, 1h0m

8:30am

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple, Madurai

Explore this magnificent 6th-century temple known for its intricate Dravidian architecture and vibrant sculptures. Open from 5:00am to 12:30pm, it offers a spiritual and cultural experience.
INR0, 2h0m

10:30am

Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

Visit the palace built in the 17th century combining Dravidian and Rajput styles, an architectural marvel spread over 17 acres.
INR50, 1h0m

12:00pm

Drive to Srirangam

Travel approximately 1-hour north to the spiritual island town of Srirangam, home to an enormous temple complex.
INR0, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Sri Annai Bhojanam, Srirangam

Enjoy a pure vegetarian Tamil Nadu thali in this popular local restaurant, open till 3pm to offer authentic flavours.
INR250, 1h0m

2:00pm

Ranganathaswamy Temple Visit

Explore the largest functioning Hindu temple complex in the world, known for its stunning gopurams and intricate stone carvings. Open till 7:00pm for visitors.
INR0, 2h0m

4:00pm

Return to Madurai

Drive back to Madurai for an overnight stay and to prepare for the next day trip.
INR0, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Theesaimoonji, Madurai

Dine on authentic Tamil Nadu non-vegetarian dishes including the famed ‘mutton kulambu’ in a cozy environment.
INR400, 1h0m

Day 2: Arunachalam Temple and Surroundings

Salem Arunachalam Hills, India on April 24, 2025

6:00am

Early Breakfast at hotel, Madurai

Have a quick South Indian breakfast at your hotel to start your trip early to Arunachalam Hills.
INR150, 30m

6:30am

Drive to Arunachalam Hills

Travel approximately 4-5 hours by road through scenic landscapes to reach the Arunachalam hill temple.
INR0, 5h0m

11:30am

Visit Arunachaleswarar Temple

Explore one of the largest temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, famed for its spiritual significance and breathtaking hilltop views. Open from 6am to 8pm.
INR0, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Local Tribal Canteen

Taste authentic tribal cuisine served in nearby village eateries around Arunachalam Hills for a unique experience.
INR200, 1h0m

2:30pm

Explore Nearby Nature Trails

Take a serene walk on easy trails around Arunachalam Hills soaking in panoramic views and flora.
INR0, 2h0m

4:30pm

Drive to Rameshwaram

Depart for Rameshwaram, travel approximately 3 hours ahead preparing for the spiritual journey next day.
INR0, 3h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Hotel Restaurant, Rameshwaram

Enjoy coastal Tamil seafood or vegetarian options with fresh local ingredients before resting for the night.
INR400, 1h0m

Day 3: Rameshwaram Pilgrimage

Rameshwaram, India on April 25, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel, Rameshwaram

Light South Indian breakfast to prepare for a full day of temple visits and beach walks.
INR150, 30m

7:30am

Visit Ramanathaswamy Temple

Tour one of the 12 Jyotirlinga temples dedicated to Shiva, famous for its long ornate corridors and sacred significance. Open from 5:00am to 12:30pm and 4:00pm to 9:00pm.
INR0, 2h0m

9:30am

Agni Theertham Beach

Visit this sacred beach just outside the temple where pilgrims take ritual baths in the sea.
INR0, 1h0m

10:30am

Dhanushkodi Visit

Short 30km drive to the ghost town at India's southeastern tip, known for scenic ruins and ocean views.
INR0, 3h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Sri Saravana Bhavan, Rameshwaram

Relish south Indian vegetarian meals at this popular chain, ensuring a hygienic and tasty meal.
INR300, 1h0m

2:30pm

Drive to Kanyakumari

Travel approximately 4 hours south to the southernmost tip of India, famous for its sunrise and sunset ocean views.
INR0, 4h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Hotel Sea View Restaurant

Enjoy dinner with views of the Indian Ocean, featuring a mix of Tamil coastal cuisine and continental options.
INR500, 1h0m

Day 4: Kanyakumari Highlights

Kanyakumari, India on April 26, 2025

6:00am

Sunrise at Vivekananda Rock Memorial

Take an early ferry from the mainland to this iconic rock memorial off the coast offering spiritual atmosphere and beautiful ocean sunrise views. Ferry operates from 6:00am.
INR150, 2h0m

8:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Return to the hotel for a wholesome breakfast featuring local fresh fruits and South Indian delicacies.
INR250, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Thiruvalluvar Statue

Spend time admiring the towering statue of Tamil poet Thiruvalluvar located near the Vivekananda memorial.
INR0, 1h0m

10:30am

Kanyakumari Beach & Market

Stroll along the scenic beach and explore local markets selling handicrafts and souvenirs.
INR0, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Hotel Saravana Bhavan, Kanyakumari

Enjoy traditional Tamil vegetarian cuisine in a clean and popular restaurant close to the beach.
INR300, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Gandhi Memorial Mandapam

Explore this memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, located where his ashes were kept before immersion into the sea.
INR0, 1h0m

2:30pm

Leisure time or Departure

Relax at your hotel or prepare for onward travel based on your schedule.
INR0, Varies