Private Day Tour from Madurai to Chettinad
Active
12h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Enjoy a private full-day tour from Madurai to the Chettinad region, known for its beautiful mansions, historic temples, and unique local culture. Visit grand palaces, learn about traditional tile-making, and explore quiet villages. This tour offers a perfect mix of history, architecture, and local life in Tamil Nadu.
Available options
CBSI008-01
Car+Driver+Guide: Includes car, driver, and guide.<br/>Pickup included
CBSI008-02
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
All taxes and service charges.
Entry fees to temples and monuments are included only with the CBSI008-02 option.
English-speaking guide.
Bottled drinking water.
Guided visits at all places.
Private transportation from Madurai to Chettinad and back.
Detailed itinerary
1
Pickup from Madurai
We will pick you up from your hotel, airport, or railway station in Madurai and begin the drive to Chettinad
Note: The tour is expected to begin between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM (approximately).
2
Kundrakudi Murugan Temple
Start your tour with a visit to this beautiful hilltop temple dedicated to Lord Murugan. The temple is known for its peaceful setting and statues of Murugan with his consorts.
3
Pillayarpatti Cave Temple
Visit this ancient rock-cut temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. It is one of the oldest temples in Tamil Nadu and has carvings that are over 1,600 years old.
4
Athangudi Tile Factory
See how the famous Athangudi tiles are made by hand using traditional methods. These colorful tiles are used in many Chettinad houses and are known for their beauty and strength.
5
Karaikudi – Bronze Workshop & Chettinad Mansion
Explore a local bronze workshop where skilled artists make idols and decorative items. Then visit a grand Chettinad mansion with large courtyards, antique furniture, and beautiful architecture.
6
Walk through this quiet and charming village surrounded by greenery. See traditional Chettinad homes and enjoy the calm rural atmosphere.
Chettinad Raja’s Palace
Visit this grand palace that blends Indian and European styles. Once home to a local king, the palace is now a museum and a heritage hotel.
7
Pallathur Village Walk
Take a peaceful walk through Pallathur village. See how people live in traditional homes and learn about their daily life and culture.
8
Thirumayam Fort
Visit this historic fort, which played a role during the Polygar Wars. It offers a glimpse into Tamil Nadu’s past and provides great views of the surroundings.
9
Karaikudi Temples & Lunch
Explore local temples known for their carvings and history. You can also enjoy a delicious traditional Chettinad meal made by local villagers, including dishes like chicken curry, fish fry, and spicy vegetables.
10
Return to Madurai
After a full day of exploring, we will drive back to Madurai and drop you off at your hotel or chosen location.
What's not included
Personal expenses and tips.
Meals (unless otherwise mentioned).
Anything not listed under “What’s Included”.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
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Important information
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
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
