Madurai - Local - Rameshwaram - Kanyakumari - Kovalam - Thrivendrapuram(E) - Alleppey - Flyback frm Cochin

On arrival at Madurai Airport, meet and greet our representative who will assist with your transfer and sightseeing. Madurai is known for its ancient temples, vibrant streets, and rich Tamil heritage.

Madurai Sightseeings:

• Meenakshi Amman Temple: Iconic Dravidian-style temple dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareshwarar.
• Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal: Historic palace known for its grand pillars and courtyard.
• Gandhi Memorial Museum: Museum showcasing Mahatma Gandhi’s life and India’s freedom journey.
• Koodal Azhagar Temple: Prominent Vishnu temple known for its intricate architecture.
• Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam: Large temple tank famous for its Float Festival.
• Local Market: Explore shops around the temple for brass items, fabrics, and handicrafts.

Note: Sightseeing in Madurai will be covered based on your arrival time and temple timings. Meenakshi Temple typically closes in the afternoon (12 PM–4 PM), so plan visits accordingly.

Embark on a captivating full-day journey exploring the cultural heart of Tamil Nadu – Madurai. This itinerary is designed to immerse you in the city's rich history, magnificent architecture, and vibrant local life, ensuring a memorable single-day experience within Madurai itself.

Please note that the sights would be covered only once during your travel even if those are mentioned twice in the itinerary.

Morning: Divine Beginnings & Architectural Grandeur

• Meenakshi Amman Temple: Begin your day early at the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple, a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture. Dedicate ample time (2-3 hours) to explore its towering gopurams, intricate sculptures, sacred ponds, and bustling halls dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar.
• Puthu Mandapam: Located just outside the East Gate of the Meenakshi Temple, the Puthu Mandapam (New Hall) is a 17th-century pillared hall now serving as a vibrant market. Browse through shops selling textiles, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
• Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace: Post-lunch, visit the magnificent Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, built in the 17th century by King Thirumalai Nayak. Admire its Indo-Saracenic architectural style, grand courtyards, and impressive stucco work.
• Gandhi Memorial Museum: Delve into India's freedom struggle at the Gandhi Memorial Museum, housed in the historic Tamukkam Palace. The museum meticulously preserves artifacts, photographs, and personal belongings related to Mahatma Gandhi, including the blood-stained dhoti he wore when assassinated.
• Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam: Take a serene break at the Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam, a large temple tank with a mandapam (central shrine) that appears to float during the annual float festival. It’s a peaceful spot for reflection and photography.

Conclude your day by exploring the local eateries around the city. Don't miss trying Madurai's famous 'Jigarthanda', a refreshing cold drink, and other local street food before heading back.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel in Madurai. Complete any remaining sightseeing in Madurai before departure. The distance between Madurai and Rameshwaram is approximately 175 km, taking around 3.5–4 hours by road. Enjoy a scenic drive through rural Tamil Nadu as you make your way to the sacred island town of Rameshwaram, an important pilgrimage destination for devotees of Lord Shiva and part of the Char Dham circuit.

En Route Sightseeing (Optional):

• Pamban Bridge Viewpoint: Stop for a photo session as you cross India’s first sea bridge offering spectacular ocean views.

On arrival in Rameshwaram, check in to your hotel and later proceed to explore the town based on available time.

Rameshwaram Sightseeings (if time permits):

• Ramanathaswamy Temple: Renowned Jyotirlinga temple known for its long corridor and sacred theerthams.
• Agnitheertham: Sacred seashore where pilgrims take a holy dip before temple darshan.
• Local Market Visit: Explore shops selling conch items, seashell crafts, and local souvenirs.

Note: Sightseeing in Rameshwaram will be covered based on arrival time. Early check-in may allow a temple visit on the same day. All the sights will be covered only once during your entire stay in Rameshwaram even if sights are listed multiple times.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel in Kanyakumari. Before leaving, make sure to complete any pending sightseeing in Kanyakumari. Begin your journey towards Kovalam, one of Kerala’s most scenic beach destinations. The distance between Kanyakumari and Kovalam is approximately 90 km, and the journey takes around 2.5 to 3 hours by road.

En route, visit the following attraction:

• Poovar Island – A peaceful backwater paradise where the Neyyar River meets the Arabian Sea. Enjoy a beautiful backwater cruise through mangroves, golden sand beaches, and quiet lagoons.

Upon arrival in Kovalam, check in to your hotel and proceed to explore the major sights.

Sightseeing in Kovalam:

• Lighthouse Beach – The most famous beach in Kovalam, known for its towering red lighthouse and stunning panoramic views.
• Hawa Beach (Eve’s Beach) – A quieter beach ideal for relaxation and short walks along the coastline.
• Samudra Beach – A serene, less crowded beach known for its rocky shoreline and peaceful ambience.
• Kovalam Art Gallery – Displays traditional Kerala art, sculptures, and contemporary paintings.