Savouring Madurai Private Street Food Tour of Madurai
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore the rich and flavorful food culture of Madurai with a local guide. This tour takes you through the city’s famous street food spots, where you’ll taste a variety of authentic dishes – from sweet dumplings to spicy dosas and refreshing drinks. It’s a delicious journey through the heart of South India’s food traditions.
Available options
CBSI012-01
Car+Driver+Guide: Includes car, driver, and guide.<br/>Pickup included
CBSI012-02
Car+Driver+Guide+Entrance Fees: This tour includes a private car with a driver, a professional guide, and all entrance fees as per the Program.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
On-tour support and assistance.
All local taxes and service fees.
English-speaking local guide.
All food and drinks listed in the tour.
Bottled water (2 bottles per person).
Pick-up and drop-off by rickshaw/tuk-tuk.
Detailed itinerary
1
Pick-Up from Hotel
Your friendly local guide will pick you up from your hotel or any location in Madurai to start the food tour
2
Kozhukattai – Sweet Start
Begin with a soft and sweet treat called Kozhukattai – a traditional dumpling made from rice flour, jaggery (a type of natural sugar), and coconut.
Location: Local sweet shop
3
Paruthi Pal – Local Health Drink
Try Paruthi Pal, a special drink made from cotton seeds. It’s tasty, healthy, and loved by locals.
Location: Street stall
4
Murugan Idly Shop – South Indian Tiffin
Visit the famous Murugan Idly Shop to enjoy soft idlis, crispy dosas, tasty chutneys, and flavorful spice powders.
Location: Murugan Idly Shop
5
Kari Dosa – Spicy Delight
Taste the popular Kari Dosa, a thick dosa filled with spicy minced meat – a favorite among locals who love bold flavors.
Location: Local eatery
6
Filter Coffee at Visalam Cafe
Stop by Visalam Coffee Shop to enjoy a hot cup of strong, aromatic South Indian filter coffee.
Location: Visalam Cafe
7
Thennanguruthu – A Rare Snack
Try Thennanguruthu, a coconut stem snack believed to have medicinal benefits. A rare and interesting taste experience.
Location: Local market
8
Street Snacks & Jigarthanda
End your tour with some crunchy Vadai (fried savory snack) and a glass of Jigarthanda, Madurai’s famous chilled dessert drink.
Location: City center street stalls
Conclusion:
This curated gastronomic journey offers an immersive exploration of Madurai’s diverse flavours and rich culinary traditions.
Note:
• Kindly inform your guide in advance of any dietary restrictions or preferences.
• Itinerary details may vary based on local conditions and availability.
What's not included
Extra food or drinks not mentioned in the program.
Personal expenses
Tips or gratuities.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Important information
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
No health restrictions
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
