Efficient Train and Temple Tour: Katpadi to Madurai, Karaikal, and Chennai

Day 1: Travel to Madurai

Katpadi to Madurai, India on June 14, 2025

06:00am

Breakfast at Katpadi

Start your day with a quick and delicious South Indian breakfast near Katpadi station, featuring idli and filter coffee, to fuel your train journey.
INR50, 0h30m

07:00am

Train from Katpadi to Madurai

Board your train from Katpadi Junction to Madurai Junction. The journey typically takes around 5-6 hours, offering scenic views of Tamil Nadu.
INR300, 6h0m

01:00pm

Lunch near Madurai Junction

Enjoy a traditional Tamil meal at a local restaurant near Madurai Junction, sampling dishes like dosa, sambar, and chutneys.
INR150, 1h0m

02:00pm

Check-in and Rest

Check into your hotel in Madurai and take some time to rest after your journey before your next day of exploration.
Variable, 2h0m

Day 2: Temple Tour

Madurai to Karaikal, India on June 15, 2025

07:00am

Early Breakfast at Madurai

Have a fulfilling breakfast at your hotel or a nearby eatery, enjoying traditional items like pongal and chutney.
INR100, 0h30m

08:00am

Tempo Travel to Sri Raghavendra Swamy Temple

Depart by tempo from Madurai Junction to visit the Sri Raghavendra Swamy Temple, a sacred spiritual site revered by devotees. Open hours are typically from 6am to 8pm.
INR500, 1h30m

09:30am

Temple Exploration

Spend time exploring the temple’s spiritual ambiance, ornate architecture, and attending any available poojas.
Free, 1h0m

10:30am

Travel to Karaikal Temple

Continue by tempo to Karaikal to visit the Karaikal Ammaiyar Temple, an important religious site known for its unique history and architecture.
INR700, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch in Karaikal

Enjoy a delightful lunch at a local Karaikal restaurant featuring coastal Tamil cuisine, such as crab curry and fish fry.
INR200, 1h0m

01:30pm

Visit Karaikal Ammaiyar Temple

Explore the Karaikal Ammaiyar Temple and surrounding sites, soaking in the cultural and spiritual significance.
Free, 1h30m

03:00pm

Relax and Local Sightseeing

Spend some relaxed time in Karaikal, perhaps visiting local markets or nearby sights before your onward travel.
Free, 2h0m

05:00pm

Evening Snack

Try local snacks such as murukku or vadai with tea at a Karaikal roadside tea shop.
INR50, 0h30m

Day 3: Return to Chennai

Karaikal to Chennai, India on June 16, 2025

06:00am

Breakfast in Karaikal

Start early with a hearty breakfast of idiyappam and stew or uthappam at a local cafe.
INR100, 0h30m

07:00am

Travel to Karaikal Railway Station

Reach Karaikal railway station to catch your train to Chennai. Ensure to arrive early for ticket and boarding procedures.
Free, 0h30m

08:00am

Train from Karaikal to Chennai

Board the train from Karaikal to Chennai Central or Chennai Egmore. The journey takes approximately 7-8 hours, allowing you to rest and enjoy views en route.
INR400, 8h0m

04:00pm

Arrival and Dinner in Chennai

Upon arrival in Chennai, enjoy dinner at a popular restaurant such as Saravana Bhavan, famous for its authentic South Indian cuisine including dosas and thalis.
INR300, 1h0m