4-Day South India Spiritual and Cultural Journey: Madurai, Trivandrum, Rameshwaram & Dhanushkodi

Day 1: Arrival and Night Stay

Madurai, India on August 14, 2025

9:00PM

Arrival in Madurai

Arrive in Madurai in the evening; check into your hotel and rest before starting the tour tomorrow.
Varies, Overnight

Day 2: Madurai Sightseeing

Madurai, India on August 15, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop

Enjoy traditional South Indian breakfast including idli, dosa and filter coffee at this famous local eatery near the Meenakshi Temple. Open from 6:00AM.
INR200 per person, 1h

8:30AM

Meenakshi Amman Temple Visit

Explore the magnificent Meenakshi Temple, renowned for its stunning Dravidian architecture and vibrant temple towers. It opens from 6:00AM till 12:30PM and reopens 4:00PM to 10:00PM.
Free, 2h

11:00AM

Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal

Visit this 17th-century palace showcasing a blend of Dravidian and Islamic architecture, located close to Meenakshi temple.
INR50 per person, 1h30m

1:00PM

Lunch at Sree Sabarees

Savor a vegetarian South Indian lunch buffet with a variety of traditional dishes and fresh chutneys.
INR250 per person, 1h

2:30PM

Gandhi Memorial Museum

Visit this museum which houses rare photographs and memorabilia related to Mahatma Gandhi and India’s freedom struggle.
INR25 per person, 1h30m

5:00PM

Evening walk along Vaigai River

Relax on the scenic river banks with views of the illuminated Meenakshi Temple.
Free, 1h

7:00PM

Dinner at Murugan Idli Shop

Enjoy delicious South Indian dinner specialties including dosas and tiffin items at the same popular venue.
INR250 per person, 1h

9:00PM

Overnight stay in Madurai hotel

Return to your hotel and rest well for early travel to Rameshwaram next day.
Varies, Overnight

Day 3: Rameshwaram & Dhanushkodi Exploration

Rameshwaram, India on August 16, 2025

6:30AM

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Have a quick and healthy breakfast at the hotel before departure to Rameshwaram.
Included with stay, 30m

7:00AM

Travel from Madurai to Rameshwaram

Drive approximately 3.5 hours to Rameshwaram, famous for its temples and coastal views.
Varies based on transport, 3h30m

10:30AM

Ramanathaswamy Temple

Visit this iconic temple known for its long corridors and sacred significance in Hinduism. Open from 5:30AM to 12:30PM and 5:00PM to 9:00PM.
Free, 2h

12:30PM

Lunch at Hotel GRT Rameswaram

Relish freshly prepared South Indian seafood and vegetarian dishes with ocean view.
INR400 per person, 1h

2:00PM

Dhanushkodi Beach Visit

Travel 20 km southeast to the tranquil and historic ghost town of Dhanushkodi, exploring the ruins and sandy beach. Best to visit in daylight.
Free, 2h30m

4:30PM

Pamban Bridge Experience

On return, enjoy views of the majestic Pamban Bridge, an engineering marvel connecting mainland India to Rameshwaram island.
Free, 30m

6:00PM

Evening Tea and Snacks at Rameshwaram Local Cafe

Enjoy local tea and snacks before departing for Trivandrum.
INR150 per person, 30m

6:30PM

Travel to Trivandrum

Drive about 4 hours to Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram) for overnight stay. Overnight check-in at hotel.
Varies, 4h

Day 4: Trivandrum Highlights and Departure

Trivandrum, India on August 17, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start the day with a Kerala-style breakfast featuring appam and stew at your hotel.
Included with stay, 1h

8:30AM

Visit Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple

Explore one of the richest temples in the world, noted for its stunning architecture and spiritual ambiance. Open from 4:00AM to 11:00AM and 5:00PM to 8:00PM. Note: Dress modestly.
Free, 1h30m

10:15AM

Napier Museum and Zoo

Visit this cultural museum showcasing Kerala’s rich history and architecture. The zoo nearby is suitable if time permits. Museum open 9:00AM to 4:45PM.
INR20 per person, 1h30m

12:00PM

Lunch at Indian Coffee House

Enjoy traditional Kerala meals and dosas at this iconic budget-friendly spot in downtown Trivandrum.
INR200 per person, 1h

1:30PM

Relax at Shanghumugham Beach

Spend a peaceful afternoon at this scenic beach near the airport, perfect to unwind and enjoy sunset if time allows.
Free, 1h30m

3:30PM

Departure Preparation

Return to hotel, gather your belongings, and head to airport or next destination.
Varies, Varies