4-Day South India Road Trip: Bangalore to Madurai, Palani & Kodaikanal

Day 1: Bangalore to Madurai

Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India on April 23, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Airlines Hotel, Bangalore

Start your day with a traditional South Indian breakfast featuring idli, dosa, and filter coffee at the famous Airlines Hotel before hitting the road.
INR300, 1h

8:30am

Drive from Bangalore to Madurai

Embark on the approximately 7-hour drive covering about 435 kilometers via NH44, enjoying the changing landscapes from Karnataka plains to Tamil Nadu.
Fuel and toll approx. INR2500, 7h

3:30pm

Check-in and rest at hotel in Madurai

Check into a central hotel like The Gateway Hotel Pasumalai offering comfortable accommodation to relax after the long journey.
INR3500 per night, 1h

5:00pm

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

Explore the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple, renowned for its stunning Dravidian architecture and vibrant sculptures. The temple is open until 8pm.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Murugan Idli Shop

Enjoy authentic Tamil Nadu vegetarian delights such as idlis, dosas, and chutneys at the famous Murugan Idli Shop near the temple.
INR250, 1h
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Madurai to Palani

Palani, Tamil Nadu, India on April 24, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Sree Sabarees Hotel, Madurai

Start the day with a hearty South Indian breakfast, including fluffy idlis and spicy chutneys, popular among locals.
INR300, 1h

9:00am

Drive from Madurai to Palani

Travel approximately 110 kilometers by road to Palani, the famous pilgrimage town, taking around 3 hours via NH85.
Fuel and toll approx. INR700, 3h

12:00pm

Visit Palani Murugan Temple

Visit the revered Palani Murugan Temple atop the hill, accessible via steps or cable car. Spend time admiring the panoramic views and spiritual ambiance.
Free; Cable car approx. INR50 one-way, 2h

2:30pm

Lunch at Sri Amman Mess

Relish traditional Tamil Nadu meals with wholesome vegetarian thali and fresh filter coffee at this popular local eatery.
INR400, 1h

4:00pm

Drive from Palani to Kodaikanal

Enjoy a scenic 85 km drive through winding hills and lush greenery to reach Kodaikanal, taking approximately 3 hours via SH87 and SH33.
Fuel and toll approx. INR800, 3h

7:00pm

Check-in and Dinner at The Carlton, Kodaikanal

Settle into your hotel, then enjoy a cozy dinner featuring continental and Indian dishes with panoramic valley views.
Dinner approx. INR800, 1.5h
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Kodaikanal Sightseeing

Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu, India on April 25, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Cosmic Restaurant

Enjoy a varied breakfast including freshly brewed coffee, breads, and porridge in this cosy hillside eatery.
INR400, 1h

8:30am

Visit Kodaikanal Lake

Experience boating and lakeside walks at the star-shaped man-made lake, a serene spot popular with tourists and locals. Open from 6:00am to 6:00pm.
Boating approx. INR200 per hour, 2h

11:00am

Visit Coaker's Walk

Take a leisurely walk along this paved pathway offering stunning views of the valleys and hills, an ideal spot for photography.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Tava Vegetarian Restaurant

Taste delicious North Indian and South Indian vegetarian dishes in this popular restaurant known for its clean ambiance and variety.
INR500, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Bryant Park

Explore Bryant Park, famous for its collection of flowers, trees, and a greenhouse. The park is open until 6:00pm.
INR20, 1.5h

4:00pm

Visit Silver Cascade Falls

Drive down 8 km from the town center to see the Silver Cascade Falls, a beautiful waterfall cascading down 55 meters.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Cloud Street

Relax with a dinner offering continental and Indian fusion dishes in a casual, contemporary setting in the heart of Kodaikanal.
INR900, 1.5h
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Kodaikanal Departure

Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu, India on April 26, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your hotel to prepare for your onward journey or return trip.
Included in stay, 1h

9:00am

Visit Kurinji Andavar Temple

A short visit to this temple dedicated to Lord Murugan, surrounded by scenic views and the famous kurinji flowers which bloom every 12 years.
Free, 1h

10:30am

Drive back to Bangalore or next destination

Begin your comfortable drive back to Bangalore (approx. 460 km via NH44) or towards your next travel plan, completing the enriching South India trip.
Fuel and toll approx. INR2500, 8h
View Hotel Availability