Heritage Havens: Day Tour from Madurai to Chettinad and Trichy

Madurai , India

Heritage Havens: Day Tour from Madurai to Chettinad and Trichy

Active

10h - 12h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Embark on the Heritage Havens day tour from Madurai to Chettinad and Trichy, commencing with a 7:00 AM pickup from your hotel. Journey to Chettinad, a region renowned for its unique mansions blending East Asian and European architecture. Explore opulent 19th-century mansions like Chettinad Mansions and Chettinad Palace, along with significant temples such as Vairavan Kovil, Karpaga Vinayakar, Kundrakudi Murugan, and Kottaiyur Sivan. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Chettinad, enjoying a break for lunch at 12:30 PM. Return to Madurai and continue to Trichy, arriving at 3:00 PM. Explore the monumental Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple with its towering gopurams and delve into the history of Rock Fort Temple and Tiruvanaikkaval Jambukeshwara temple. Conclude your journey with a 5:30 PM drive back to Madurai, ending the tour at 8:30 PM with cherished memories of cultural treasures.

Available options

Car Only

Includes: Private Car with Driver.
<br/>Pickup included

Car, Guide & Entrance

Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.<br/>Pickup included

Car & Guide

Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides.<br/>Pickup included

Car, Guide, Entrance & Lunch

Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary & Lunch.<br/>Pickup included

What's included

English speaking local guide, if option selected.

Entrance fees to monuments, if option selected.

Private AC car/van for pick up and drop off from/to your hotel.

Lunch, if option selected.

Government Taxes.

Bottled water in the car.

Detailed itinerary

7:00 AM: Pickup from your hotel in Madurai and embark on a journey to explore the rich cultural heritage of Chettinad and Trichy.

7:00 AM - 10:00 AM: Drive to Chettinad, a region known for its unique mansions that boast of a fusion of East Asian and European architectural influences. Marvel at the 19th-century mansions, such as Chettinad Mansions and Chettinad Palace, which are open to tourists. Admire the spacious rooms adorned with marble and teak embellishments from around the world. Explore the intricate carvings and impressive architecture of famous temples in the region, including Vairavan Kovil Temple, Karpaga Vinayakar temple, Kundrakudi Murugan temple, and Kottaiyur Sivan temple.

10:00 AM - 12:30 PM: Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Chettinad as you continue to explore the mansions and temples in the region.

12:30 PM - 1:30 PM: Take a break for a delicious lunch at a local restaurant and savor the local cuisine.

After sightseeing drive back to Madurai and drop off to your hotel.

1:30 PM - 3:00 PM: Resume your journey as you drive to Trichy, a city known for its historical significance and religious landmarks.

3:00 PM - 5:30 PM: Visit Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, one of the largest temple complexes in India. Admire the 22 gopurams, including the tallest in India, and delve into the rich history of the temple that dates back to several dynasties. Explore the Rock Fort Temple, a unique monument perched on a 3.8 billion-year-old rock, and Tiruvanaikkaval Jambukeshwara temple, renowned for its intricate carvings and impressive architecture.

5:30 PM - 8:30 PM: Drive back to Madurai and conclude your tour with a drop-off at your hotel, carrying cherished memories of the cultural treasures of Chettinad and Trichy.

What's not included

Camera charges at monuments.

Gratuities and optional activities.

Anything not mentioned in the inclusions.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Madurai

Madurai is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and magnificent temples. Known as the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu, it offers a unique blend of ancient traditions and vibrant modern life.

Top Attractions

Meenakshi Amman Temple

One of the most famous temples in India, dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Shiva.

Historical/Religious 2-3 hours Free (Dress code applies)

Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal

A 17th-century palace built by King Thirumalai Nayakkar, showcasing Indo-Saracenic architecture.

Historical 1-2 hours INR 50 (Foreigners: INR 500)

Gandhi Memorial Museum

A museum dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, housing a collection of his personal belongings and artifacts.

Museum 1 hour INR 10 (Foreigners: INR 100)

Koodal Azhagar Temple

A historic temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its unique architecture and religious significance.

Religious 1 hour Free (Dress code applies)

Viruppann Varadharaja Perumal Temple

A beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its intricate carvings and religious significance.

Religious 1 hour Free (Dress code applies)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Idli and Sambar

Steamed rice cakes served with a lentil-based vegetable stew.

Breakfast Vegetarian

Dosa

A thin, crispy crepe made from fermented rice and lentil batter.

Breakfast/Lunch Vegetarian (can be made vegan)

Pongal

A savory rice dish cooked with lentils, ghee, and spices.

Breakfast Vegetarian

Jigarthanda

A refreshing drink made with milk, almond gum, and soda.

Drink Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in Kodaikanal Boating in Kodaikanal Lake Spa treatments Beach visits in Rameswaram Temple visits Local festivals Beach activities in Rameswaram None

Best Time to Visit

October to March

This is the best time to visit Madurai as the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.

20°C to 35°C 68°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Tamil
Widely spoken: English, Hindi
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Indian Rupee (INR)

Time Zone

IST (GMT+5:30)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Madurai is generally safe for travelers, but standard precautions should be taken to avoid scams and petty theft.

Important Precautions:

• Use app-based taxis for safer travel.
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help.
• Keep valuables secure.

Getting there

By air

Madurai Airport • 10 km from city center

By train

Madurai Junction

By bus

Mattuthavani Integrated Bus Terminus

Getting around

Public transport

The city bus service is affordable and covers most parts of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Ola, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Maravapalayam KK Nagar Simmakkal

Day trips

Kazhugumalai

150 km from Madurai • Half day to full day

A small town known for its ancient cave temples and rock-cut sculptures.

Kodaikanal

120 km from Madurai • Full day to overnight

A picturesque hill station known for its scenic beauty and pleasant climate.

Rameswaram

164 km from Madurai • Full day to overnight

A pilgrimage town known for its ancient temples and beautiful beaches.

Festivals

Chithirai Festival • April-May Meenakshi Kalyanam • January Madurai Music and Dance Festival • January-February

Pro tips

Visit the Meenakshi Amman Temple early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience the temple's serene atmosphere.
Try local street food like idli, dosa, and pongal for an authentic culinary experience.
Use app-based taxis like Ola and Uber for safer and more convenient travel.
Carry a reusable water bottle and avoid plastic waste to support sustainable travel.
Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites.