3-Day Family Friendly Itinerary: Chennai to Chettinad and Madurai

Day 1: Travel to Chettinad

Chennai to Karaikudi (Chettinad), India

7:00 AM

Departure from Chennai

Begin your journey early morning by road from Chennai to Karaikudi. The trip takes approximately 7 to 8 hours by taxi or private car.
INR 3500 (approximate taxi fare), 7h30m

2:30 PM

Check-in at The Bangala Hotel

Check into The Bangala, a heritage hotel known for its splendid Chettinad architecture and family-friendly amenities, perfect for cultural immersion.
Around INR 6000 per night for a family room, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Visit Chettinad Palace

Explore the iconic Chettinad Palace, appreciating its traditional Chettinad architecture and rich cultural heritage.
INR 50 per person, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at The Bangala Restaurant

Enjoy an authentic Chettinad dinner at The Bangala’s in-house restaurant, sampling regional delicacies in an atmospheric setting.
INR 1000 for a family of 4, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Chettinad Heritage & Culture

Karaikudi (Chettinad), India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Bangala

Start your day with a wholesome breakfast featuring local and continental options in the charming ambiance of the hotel courtyard.
Included with stay, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Athangudi Tile Workshop Visit

Visit Athangudi village to observe the traditional process of making colourful Athangudi tiles, unique to this part of Tamil Nadu.
30-minute drive from The Bangala.
Free entry, 1.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Aarathy Restaurant

Enjoy a delectable traditional Chettinad lunch at Aarathy Restaurant, known for its authentic spices and homely dishes.
20-minute drive from Athangudi.
INR 500 for a family of 4, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Karaikudi Kamban Mani Mandapam

Explore the Kamban Mani Mandapam, dedicated to the famous Tamil poet Kamban, and learn about the local literary heritage.
15-minute drive from Aarathy Restaurant.
Free entry, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Shopping at Karaikudi Market

Browse the vibrant local market for traditional Chettinad handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs.
Short drive from Kamban Mani Mandapam.
Varies by purchase, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at Hotel Sangam

Dine at Hotel Sangam, a local favourite offering a variety of South Indian dishes with flavours that appeal to the whole family.
10-minute drive from Karaikudi Market.
INR 600 for a family of 4, 1 hour
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Day 3: Madurai Temples & Culture

Karaikudi to Madurai, India

7:30 AM

Drive to Madurai

Depart early from Karaikudi to Madurai by road, a journey of about 2.5 hours.
INR 1000 taxi fare, 2h30m

10:30 AM

Check-in at Heritage Madurai

Check into Heritage Madurai, a comfortable and family-friendly hotel located near key attractions.
Approx. INR 4000 per night for family room, 30 minutes

11:30 AM

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

Explore the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple, an architectural masterpiece and a vital cultural symbol of Madurai.
Free entry, 2 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Savour traditional South Indian vegetarian dishes at Murugan Idli Shop, popular with families for its quality and variety.
Walking distance from the temple.
INR 400 for a family of 4, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Gandhi Memorial Museum

Visit the Gandhi Memorial Museum to learn about the history of India’s independence struggle and Mahatma Gandhi’s life.
10-minute drive from lunch location.
INR 30 per person, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Stroll around Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam

Relax with a stroll near Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam, a large temple tank with beautiful views, ideal for children to run and play.
15-minute drive from the museum.
Free entry, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at Sree Sabarees

End your day at Sree Sabarees, a family favourite for South Indian delicacies with kid-friendly menu options.
10-minute drive from Teppakulam.
INR 700 for a family of 4, 1 hour
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