Trip Overview
Travel Group
Flight Information
Accommodation
Fortune Pandiyan Hotel
3 NightsHotel Ashoka Rameshwaram
1 NightPoppys Hotel Madurai
1 NightDay-by-Day Itinerary
Arrival & Gentle Introduction
Tuesday, December 30, 2025
Madurai
Arrive at Madurai Airport
Welcome to the Temple City! Collect baggage and proceed to exit.
Airport Transfer to Hotel
Distance: 17 km | Duration: 35-40 mins
Cost: ₹800-1,200 for large taxi/SUV
Check-in at Fortune Pandiyan Hotel
Lunch at hotel, freshen up, and rest after the journey
Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace
Distance from hotel: 5.5 km (15 min drive)
Magnificent 17th-century Indo-Saracenic palace with stunning architecture
Light & Sound Show
Immersive storytelling about the palace's history (English version)
Heritage Walk - 10 Pillar Street
Short stroll through historic streets near the palace
Experience evening bazaar atmosphere and local life
Dinner
Day 1 Summary
Temples & Gems of Madurai
Wednesday, December 31, 2025 (New Year's Eve)
Madurai
Breakfast at Hotel
Enjoy buffet breakfast with dosas made fresh by Chef Surali
Meenakshi Amman Temple Darshan
Distance from hotel: 4.4 km (12 min drive)
One of India's most magnificent temples - a must-visit masterpiece
- Dress modestly - no shorts, sleeveless tops
- Remove footwear outside (free storage)
- Phones/cameras not allowed inside sanctum - use lockers
- Hire a guide for ₹300-500 (highly recommended)
- Key highlights: 1000 Pillar Hall, Golden Lotus Tank, Nandi sculpture
Lunch
Rest at Hotel
Recharge for evening exploration. Beat the afternoon heat.
Gems of Madurai Walk - Markets & Heritage
Experience the vibrant local markets and authentic Madurai
One of Tamil Nadu's biggest banana trading hubs
See 20+ varieties: Nendran, Poovan, Robusta, Rasthali
Vilachery/Vaigai area (ask driver)
Spectacular evening flower market near temple
Jasmine, marigold, roses, lotus - true sensory experience
Perfect for photos!
Puthu Mandapam: Sungudi sarees, brass lamps, handicrafts
Chithirai Street: Cotton wear, temple jewelry
East Masi Street: Local handicrafts, souvenirs
- Sungudi sarees (traditional tie-dye) - ₹1,500-5,000
- Brass temple lamps - ₹500-3,000
- Madurai malli (jasmine) - ₹50-100
- Local spices and coffee powder
New Year's Eve Dinner
Day 2 Summary
New Year's Day - Srirangam Temple
Thursday, January 1, 2026 (New Year)
Madurai → Srirangam → Madurai
Early Wake Up & Quick Breakfast
Early start for spiritually rewarding day trip
Drive to Srirangam (via Trichy)
Distance: 135 km | Duration: 3-3.5 hours
Cost: ₹4,000-5,500 for full-day taxi rental (SUV)
Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple
One of India's most important Vishnu temples & largest functioning Hindu temple
- 21 gopurams (temple towers) - architectural marvel
- 7 concentric enclosures (prakarams)
- Hall of 1000 Pillars with intricate carvings
- Main deity: Lord Ranganatha in reclining posture
- Hire guide recommended - ₹400-600
Jambukeswarar Temple (Optional)
One of five Pancha Bhoota temples (Water element)
Distance from Srirangam: 3 km (10 min drive)
Lunch in Srirangam/Trichy
Simple vegetarian meal near temple area
Drive Back to Madurai
Return journey with comfort stops. Nap in the car!
Rest at Hotel
Relax after long day. Light dinner at hotel or room service.
Day 3 Summary
Journey to Rameswaram
Friday, January 2, 2026
Madurai → Rameswaram
Breakfast & Check-out
Settle bills and prepare for journey to Rameswaram
Drive to Rameswaram
Distance: 173 km | Duration: 4-4.5 hours
Cost: Round trip ₹4,500-6,500 (SUV/Innova)
Route Highlights:
- Via NH 87 through Paramakudi
- Stop at Pamban Bridge - iconic sea bridge to Rameswaram island
- Photo opportunities at bridge viewpoint
Check-in at Hotel Ashoka & Lunch
Rest and freshen up after journey
Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Memorial
Distance from hotel: 3 km (8 min drive)
Tribute to India's Missile Man - Rameswaram's most famous son
Panchamukha Hanuman Temple
Distance: 2 km from Kalam Memorial (5 min drive)
Famous for "floating" Ram Setu stones - geological wonder linked to Ramayana
Agni Theertham Beach & Sunset
Distance from hotel: 500m (7 min walk)
Sacred beach where pilgrims take holy dip before temple visit
Watch beautiful sunset over Bay of Bengal
Optional: Take holy dip (bring change of clothes)
Beach walk and photography
Dinner at Hotel Ashoka
Convenient dinner at hotel restaurant after full day
Day 4 Summary
Rameswaram Temple & Ghost Town
Saturday, January 3, 2026
Rameswaram → Madurai
Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple - Main Darshan
Distance from hotel: 400m (5 min walk)
One of 12 Jyotirlinga shrines - extremely sacred pilgrimage site
The 22 Theerthams (Sacred Wells) Ritual
Unique tradition of taking bath in 22 holy wells inside temple premises
- Duration: 1-1.5 hours
- Process: Priests pour water from each well on devotees
- Cost: ₹50-100/person (donation to priests)
- What to bring: Change of clothes, towel, plastic bag for wet clothes
- Changing rooms: Available inside temple complex
- Theerthams ritual optional - can be tiring for seniors and kids
- You will get wet! Come prepared with extra clothes
- Can split group: some do ritual, others visit temple and wait
- Saturday = crowd day. VIP darshan strongly recommended
- Longest temple corridor in India (197m) with 1212 pillars
- Spatika Lingam (crystal lingam) - extremely sacred
- Architectural marvel with intricate carvings
- Hire guide - ₹400-600 (worth it for history & rituals)
Late Breakfast/Brunch
Return to hotel for breakfast after temple visit
Rest & Check-out
Freshen up, pack bags, and check-out from Hotel Ashoka
Lunch in Rameswaram
Dhanushkodi - The Ghost Town (Jeep Ride)
Distance: 18 km from Rameswaram town
Cost: ₹1,500-1,800 per jeep (fits 6-7 people)
India's Ghost Town - destroyed by 1964 cyclone, now hauntingly beautiful ruins by the sea
The Journey:
- 40-min thrilling jeep ride through shallow sea water and sand
- See Adam's Bridge (Ram Setu) - mythological bridge to Sri Lanka
- Ruins of old railway station, church, post office
- Pristine beach where Bay of Bengal meets Indian Ocean
- Old lighthouse and memorial stone
- Bumpy jeep ride - can be uncomfortable for seniors/kids
- Hold belongings tightly - water splashing in jeep
- No proper facilities at Dhanushkodi - basic toilets only
- Windy and sunny - bring sunglasses, caps, sunscreen
- Book jeep through hotel - avoid touts
Return Drive to Madurai
Distance: 173 km | Duration: 4.5-5 hours
Arrive by 9 PM. Long drive back - rest in car!
Check-in at Poppys Hotel Madurai
Light dinner or room service. Early night after long day.
Day 5 Summary
Departure Day
Sunday, January 4, 2026
Madurai → Delhi
Wake Up & Quick Breakfast
Early morning for flight preparation
Check-out from Poppys Hotel
Complete all formalities, settle bills
Transfer to Madurai Airport
Distance: 9 km from Poppys Hotel (22 min drive)
Cost: ₹400-600 for taxi
Flight Departure - IndiGo 6E 2088
Madurai → Delhi (Direct flight)
Duration: 3h 15min
Arrive at IGI Delhi
Welcome home! End of beautiful Tamil Nadu journey 🙏
Practical Information
Transportation Guide
Taxis & Cabs
Recommended: Book through hotel, Savaari, or use Uber/Ola
Auto-Rickshaws
Tip: Always insist on meter. Not suitable for large groups with luggage.
Budget Estimate
Transportation (per day)
Meals (per person/day)
Entry Fees & Activities
Guides & Services
Estimated Daily Budget (Family of 7)
Excludes hotels (already booked)
Weather & What to Pack
Expected Weather
Temperature: 20-29°C (68-84°F)
Season: Pleasant winter weather
Humidity: Moderate
Rain: Unlikely (post-monsoon)
Packing Essentials
Clothing (Temple-Appropriate)
- Light cotton clothes (breathable)
- For men: Long pants/trousers, shirts (avoid shorts)
- For women: Salwar kameez, sarees, or long skirts + dupattas
- Extra set for 22 theerthams ritual (will get wet!)
- Light jacket/shawl for AC flights & restaurants
- Comfortable walking shoes + slip-on footwear (temples)
Temple Visit Essentials
- Plastic bags for wet clothes (post-theerthams)
- Small towels (quick-dry)
- Socks (some allow during prasad distribution)
- Small bag for phones (secure lockers available)
Health & Hygiene
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+) & sunglasses
- Hand sanitizer & wet wipes
- Personal medicines (especially for seniors)
- Mosquito repellent
- Basic first-aid kit
- Oral rehydration salts (ORS)
Tech & Misc
- Phone chargers & power banks
- Camera with extra batteries
- Offline maps downloaded
- Snacks for long car journeys (kids)
- Reusable water bottles
Insider Tips & Important Info
Temple Etiquette
- Dress modestly - cover shoulders & knees
- Remove footwear before entering
- No leather items allowed inside
- Photography restrictions vary - ask priests
- Maintain silence in sanctum sanctorum
- Follow priest instructions during rituals
Food & Water
- Stick to bottled/packaged water (Bisleri, Kinley)
- Avoid street food initially (first 2 days)
- South Indian food is spicy - ask for "mild spice"
- Vegetarian mom: Many pure veg options available
- Filter coffee is must-try (freshly brewed)
- Famous: Jigarthanda (Madurai special drink)
Safety & Health
- Stay hydrated - carry water bottles
- Use sunscreen even on cloudy days
- Keep group together in crowded temples
- Emergency contact: 108 (ambulance)
- Keep important documents in hotel safe
- Senior-friendly: Take frequent rest breaks
Money Matters
- Carry sufficient cash (₹500, ₹200, ₹100 notes)
- ATMs available in all areas
- UPI widely accepted (Google Pay, PhonePe)
- Temple donations: ₹21, ₹51, ₹101 (auspicious)
- Bargain at markets (except fixed-price shops)
- Keep small change for prasad, offerings
With Kids & Seniors
- Pace yourself - avoid rushing
- Car journeys: carry games, music, snacks
- Strollers not practical in temples/markets
- Kid-friendly: Ice creams widely available
- Wheelchairs available at major temples
- Senior-friendly: Most places accessible
Important Contacts
- Police: 100 | Ambulance: 108
- Tourist Helpline: 1800-425-4356
- Madurai Tourism: 0452-233-4757
- Fortune Pandiyan: +91-452-254-5678
- Hotel Ashoka: 04573-223326
- Poppys Hotel: Check booking confirmation
Alternative Attractions (If Time Permits)
Gandhi Memorial Museum, Madurai
1-1.5 hoursExcellent museum chronicling India's freedom struggle and Gandhi's life
2 km from Fortune Pandiyan | ₹10/person
Alagar Kovil Temple
1 hourVishnu temple in scenic hills, 21 km from Madurai
Beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere
Kalaignar Maaligai, Rameshwaram
30 minsModern aquarium showcasing marine life of Gulf of Mannar
₹50/adult, ₹25/child
Ariyaman Beach
1-2 hoursLess crowded beach near Rameswaram, good for kids
27 km from town, peaceful and clean
Food Guide
Must-Try Tamil Nadu Dishes
Idli & Vada
Soft steamed rice cakes and crispy lentil fritters with sambar and chutneys
Murugan Idli Shop (legendary!)
Masala Dosa
Crispy rice crepe stuffed with spiced potato filling
Available everywhere - breakfast staple
South Indian Thali (Meals)
Complete meal served on banana leaf with rice, sambar, rasam, vegetables, curd
Sree Sabarees, Gowri Krishna
Chettinad Chicken
Spicy, aromatic chicken curry from Chettinad region
Amma Mess
Kola Urundai
Flavorful meatballs (mutton) - Madurai specialty
Amma Mess (famous for this)
Pongal
Savory rice and lentil dish, comfort food
Morning breakfast at any restaurant
Filter Coffee
Strong South Indian coffee, freshly brewed and frothy
Must-try at every meal!
Jigarthanda
Madurai's famous cooling drink with milk, almond gum, ice cream
Famous Jigarthanda Shop, near Meenakshi Temple
Parotta with Kurma
Flaky layered flatbread with vegetable or meat curry
Dinner option at most restaurants
Fresh Fish Curry
Coastal Tamil cuisine - fresh catch of the day
Rameswaram restaurants (APS Seafoods)
Recommended Restaurants
Madurai
Sree Sabarees Pure Veg
Famous for traditional South Indian thali on banana leaf
Perfect for vegetarian mom! Unlimited meals served.
Murugan Idli Shop
Legendary soft idlis and filter coffee - Madurai institution
Must-visit for breakfast! Kid-friendly.
Amma Mess Non-Veg
Authentic Chettinad cuisine - Famous Kola Urundai (meatballs)
Best non-veg in Madurai! Order: Kola Urundai, Chettinad Chicken
The Modern Restaurant
Quick service, traditional dishes, clean ambiance
Family-friendly, both veg/non-veg options
Gowri Krishna Pure Veg
Excellent South Indian meals near Meenakshi Temple
Clean, AC seating, convenient location
Bazaar Restaurant (ITC Fortune Pandiyan)
Multi-cuisine fine dining, excellent quality
In-house option for lazy evenings
Rameswaram
Ahaan Restaurant (Hotel Ashoka)
Multi-cuisine, convenient in-house dining
Perfect after long temple visits
Hotel Guru Pure Veg
Traditional South Indian vegetarian meals
Best pure veg option in Rameswaram
APS Seafoods Restaurant Seafood
Fresh catch from Gulf of Mannar
Try: Pomfret fry, Prawn curry, Crab masala
For Your Group's Dietary Needs
For Vegetarian Mom
Tamil Nadu is vegetarian heaven! Excellent pure veg options everywhere. Look for "Pure Veg" or "Saiva Unavu" signboards. All recommended veg restaurants are 100% vegetarian kitchens.
For Non-Veg Family Members
Chettinad cuisine is famous worldwide. Don't miss authentic preparations at Amma Mess. Rameswaram has excellent seafood being a coastal town.
North Indian Food
Available at: ITC hotels, Meenakshi Bhavan chain. Most hotels have North Indian options on menu. Don't expect authentic Delhi taste, but decent quality available.
Kid-Friendly Options
Mild dosas, idlis, plain rice with dal/curd are universally loved by kids. Ice creams and fresh fruit juices readily available. Ask for "less spicy" or "no chili".
Essential Tamil Phrases
Basic Greetings & Courtesy
Useful Questions
Food & Restaurant
Directions & Travel
Shopping
Emergency & Help
Pronunciation Tips
- Tamil has distinct sounds - pronounce clearly
- "zh" (ழ) is unique - like "la" and "ra" combined
- Stress is usually on first syllable
- Don't worry about perfect pronunciation - locals appreciate effort!
- Many people understand Hindi in tourist areas
- English widely spoken in hotels and restaurants