Your Ultimate 4-Day Travel Itinerary for Madurai, Rameswaram, Kodaikanal (Tamil Nadu)

Jose Jayasimman
Jan 15
4 min read

Exploring Tamil Nadu’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty in just four days may seem challenging, but with a well-planned itinerary, you can experience the best of its temples and hill stations. This 4 day Madurai Rameswaram Kodaikanal itinerary offers a perfect blend of spiritual visits, scenic landscapes, and historical landmarks. Whether you are planning a family trip or a weekend getaway, this guide covers everything you need to know for a memorable journey through these iconic destinations.

"The One With a Holy Island and Hilltop Escape"

4-Day Travel Itinerary for Madurai, Rameswaram & Kodaikanal

Plan Your Journey & Cost

Tall pine trees at Kodaikanal Pine Forest, Tamil Nadu — Scenic view of Kodaikanal Pine Forest, a popular tourist spot in Tamil Nadu

Day 1 – Madurai to Rameswaram and Sightseeing

Start your adventure early with a pickup from Madurai. The drive to Rameswaram covers approximately 180 km and takes about 3½ hours. Along the way, you will witness the impressive Pamban Bridge, an engineering marvel connecting the mainland to Rameswaram Island. The bridge offers stunning views of the sea and is a great spot for photography enthusiasts.

Upon arrival in Rameswaram, your first stop is the Ramanathaswamy Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlinga temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Known for its long corridors and magnificent architecture, this temple is a must-visit for devotees and history lovers alike.

Next, visit Agni Theertham, a sacred water body where pilgrims take ritual baths. Nearby, the Panchamukhi Hanuman Temple offers a unique spiritual experience with its five-faced Hanuman idol.

Don’t miss the Floating Stone, a curious natural phenomenon that intrigues many visitors. If time permits, you can opt for a visit to Dhanushkodi, a ghost town with a haunting history and beautiful sea views.

End your day with an overnight stay in Rameswaram, soaking in the peaceful island atmosphere.

Day 2 – Rameswaram to Madurai and Sightseeing

After breakfast, begin your return journey to Madurai, covering the same 180 km distance in about 3½ hours. Once back in Madurai, dive into the city’s rich temple culture starting with the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple. This temple is famous for its towering gopurams (gateway towers) adorned with thousands of colorful sculptures.

Next, visit the Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple, one of the six abodes of Lord Murugan, set on a hill offering panoramic views of Madurai.

Explore the grandeur of Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal, a 17th-century palace known for its blend of Dravidian and Rajput architectural styles. The palace’s majestic pillars and spacious halls tell stories of the Nayak dynasty’s glory.

Wrap up your day with a visit to the Gandhi Memorial Museum, which showcases the life and legacy of Mahatma Gandhi through photographs and artifacts.

Spend the night in Madurai, preparing for the next leg of your journey.

Day 3 – Madurai to Kodaikanal and Sightseeing

Leave the city behind and head towards the cool hill station of Kodaikanal, about 120 km away with a travel time of roughly 3½ hours. The drive itself is scenic, with winding roads and lush greenery.

Your first stop in Kodaikanal is the Silver Cascade Waterfalls, a stunning waterfall that cascades down from the mountains, perfect for a quick photo break.

Next, visit Bryant Park, a well-maintained botanical garden featuring a variety of flowers and plants. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or a family picnic.

Take a walk along Coaker’s Walk, a paved pathway offering breathtaking views of the valleys and hills. The fresh mountain air and panoramic vistas make this a favorite among visitors.

End your day with an overnight stay in Kodaikanal, enjoying the cool climate and serene surroundings.

Abandoned brick building ruins at Dhanushkodi ghost town near Rameswaram — Dhanushkodi ghost town ruins with abandoned buildings, Tamil Nadu

Day 4 – Kodaikanal Sightseeing and Madurai Drop

On your final day, explore more of Kodaikanal’s natural beauty. Start with the Pillar Rocks, three giant rock formations standing tall against the sky, offering a dramatic landscape.

Visit the Green Valley View, also known as Suicide Point, which provides a deep valley view with mist-covered hills and dense forests.

Spend some relaxing time at Kodaikanal Lake, where you can enjoy boating or simply walk around the lake’s peaceful perimeter.

In the evening, begin your drive back to Madurai, covering the 120 km distance in about 3½ hours. You will reach Madurai around 8:00 PM, concluding your trip.

Why Choose This Tamil Nadu Temple and Hill Station Tour?

This 4-Day Travel Itinerary for Madurai, Rameswaram & Kodaikanal balances spiritual exploration with nature’s tranquility, making it ideal for families and travelers interested in culture and scenic beauty. The Madurai Rameswaram Kodaikanal tour package covers major attractions without rushing, allowing you to absorb the essence of each place.

The Madurai to Kodaikanal 4 days trip plan is designed for comfort and convenience, with manageable travel times and well-timed sightseeing. It suits those looking for a family tour package from Madurai that combines temples, history, and hill station charm.

Tips for a Smooth Trip

Start early each day to maximize sightseeing time.
Wear comfortable footwear, especially for temple visits and hill station walks.
Carry water and light snacks during travel.
Respect local customs, especially in religious sites.
Check weather forecasts for Kodaikanal to pack appropriate clothing.
Book accommodations in advance, particularly during peak seasons.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is this itinerary suitable for senior citizens?
Yes. All itineraries are well-paced, avoid late-night travel, and are senior-citizen friendly.
Can this package be customized?
Absolutely. Trips can be customized based on number of days, temples, hotel category, and pickup/drop location.
Are hotels included in the package?
Yes. Budget, standard, and luxury hotel options are available as per your preference.
Will there be a guide during temple visits?
Our experienced drivers provide basic temple guidance. Separate professional guides can be arranged on request.
Is this tour safe for families and children?
Yes. We use private vehicles, trusted drivers, and family-friendly schedules.
What are the pickup points?
Pickup is available from Airport, Railway Station, Bus Stand, or hotel as per the package.