Discover the charm of Tamil Nadu without burning a hole in your wallet! Whether you're a budget traveler, college student, or deal-seeker who loves Big Billion Day-style value, this list uncovers top attractions in Tamil Nadu with cost-saving tips, shopping hacks, and promo code insights—powered by the savings experts at SavePlus, your go-to platform for unbeatable online deals and offers.
Explore the Grandeur of Meenakshi Temple, Madurai
Step into the spiritual heart of Tamil Nadu at Meenakshi Amman Temple. The intricate architecture, vibrant daily rituals, and bustling temple markets offer an unforgettable cultural experience. For budget travelers, it’s a divine destination that doesn’t cost a rupee to enter.
- Location: Madurai, Tamil Nadu
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: TNSTC buses available from major cities
- By Train: Madurai Junction is well-connected
- By Air: Madurai Airport (IXM) – 12 km from city
- Things to Do / Places to Visit: Meenakshi Temple, Puthu Mandapam, Thirumalai Nayak Palace
- Estimated Budget: ₹800/day including stay and food
- Trip Duration: 1–2 days
- Must Try Foods: Jigarthanda, Kari Dosa
- Nearby Cities: Dindigul, Trichy
Pro Tip: Pay with UPI apps like PhonePe at temple shops to unlock exclusive cashback during festive seasons.
Trek to the Hills of Yelagiri
Yelagiri offers an offbeat trekking destination perfect for peace-seekers and nature lovers. Surrounded by orchards and green slopes, this hill station is known for its serene ambience and low-cost stays. With a bit of planning, you can enjoy a refreshing weekend here without overspending.
- Location: Vellore district, Tamil Nadu
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Buses available from Vellore and Tirupattur
- By Train: Jolarpettai Junction is 20 km away
- By Air: Chennai Airport (MAA) – 220 km
- Things to Do / Places to Visit: Swamimalai Hills, Nature Park, Jalagamparai Falls
- Estimated Budget: ₹1000/day
- Trip Duration: 2 days
- Must Try Foods: Local idli-sambar combos, roadside bhajji
- Nearby Cities: Vaniyambadi, Tirupattur
Pro Tip: Book IRCTC tickets during Cleartrip wallet offers for affordable travel deals.
Roam the French Quarters in Puducherry
Experience colonial charm and bohemian vibes in Puducherry’s White Town. With brightly painted houses, quiet cafés, and tree-lined streets, it’s a traveler’s delight. Even better, you can explore most of the area on a rented cycle for just ₹100 per day.
- Location: Puducherry (bordering Tamil Nadu)
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Frequent buses from Chennai
- By Train: Puducherry railway station
- By Air: Chennai Airport – 150 km
- Things to Do / Places to Visit: White Town, Auroville, Serenity Beach
- Estimated Budget: ₹900/day
- Trip Duration: 2–3 days
- Must Try Foods: Croissants, filter coffee
- Nearby Cities: Cuddalore, Villupuram
Pro Tip: Use Zomato Gold + SavePlus coupons to enjoy meals at half the cost.
Sunset Views at Marina Beach, Chennai
Marina Beach is a crowd favorite for its golden sands and lively evenings. Whether it's kite flying, street snacks, or evening jogs, it provides a great escape without any expense. It’s an ideal budget-friendly spot to relax and people-watch.
- Location: Chennai
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Excellent intra-city MTC bus services
- By Train: Chennai Central and Egmore stations
- By Air: Chennai Airport (MAA)
- Things to Do / Places to Visit: Marina Beach, Lighthouse, Ice House
- Estimated Budget: ₹700/day
- Trip Duration: Half-day to full-day
- Must Try Foods: Sundal, Murukku, Bhajji
- Nearby Cities: Kanchipuram, Mahabalipuram
Pro Tip: Redeem Paytm cashback coupons on MTC metro passes for added value.
Hike to the Top of Kolli Hills (70 Hairpin Bends!)
Adventure awaits on the winding roads to Kolli Hills, filled with hairpin bends and panoramic views. Nature lovers will enjoy the unspoiled landscapes and budget accommodations. Pack smart and you can enjoy a complete nature retreat for less than ₹1000.
- Location: Namakkal District
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Buses from Namakkal and Salem
- By Train: Salem Junction – 90 km away
- By Air: Trichy Airport – 115 km
- Things to Do / Places to Visit: Agaya Gangai Falls, Arapaleeswarar Temple
- Estimated Budget: ₹1000/day
- Trip Duration: 2 days
- Must Try Foods: Jackfruit snacks, Banana chips
- Nearby Cities: Namakkal, Salem
Pro Tip: Stock up on trekking gear during Amazon India’s Great Indian Festival for big discounts.
Watch Folk Dances at Mamallapuram Shore Temple
Mamallapuram is a cultural goldmine that offers majestic stone carvings, sea breeze, and captivating evening folk shows. A day spent here is like walking through a living museum of Tamil history. With low entry fees and local eats, it’s ideal for budget-conscious travelers.
- Location: Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Direct buses from Chennai (approx. 2 hrs)
- By Train: Nearest major station is Chengalpattu
- By Air: Chennai Airport – 55 km away
- Things to Do / Places to Visit: Shore Temple, Arjuna’s Penance, Five Rathas
- Estimated Budget: ₹900/day
- Trip Duration: 1–2 days
- Must Try Foods: Fresh seafood, Tamarind rice
- Nearby Cities: Chennai, Kanchipuram
Pro Tip: Visit during January to catch cultural events and grab seasonal Flipkart travel gear offers.
Go Temple-Hopping in Kumbakonam
Kumbakonam is every spiritual traveler’s paradise, boasting hundreds of ancient temples within close proximity. You can explore on foot or rent a bike, making it one of the most economical religious circuits in India. Its rich architecture and sacred aura create lasting memories.
- Location: Thanjavur District, Tamil Nadu
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Well-connected with TNSTC buses
- By Train: Kumbakonam Railway Station
- By Air: Trichy Airport – 90 km away
- Things to Do / Places to Visit: Sarangapani Temple, Adi Kumbeswarar, Airavatesvara Temple
- Estimated Budget: ₹800/day
- Trip Duration: 2 days
- Must Try Foods: Kumbakonam Degree Coffee, Vatha Kuzhambu
- Nearby Cities: Thanjavur, Trichy
Pro Tip: Book stays early using MakeMyTrip + HDFC card offers to save big.
Visit the Artistic Town of Chidambaram
Chidambaram is steeped in spiritual rhythm and classical arts, centered around the legendary Nataraja Temple. It's a wonderful place to witness traditional Bharatanatyam and temple architecture. Plus, the town’s hospitality makes it welcoming for budget explorers.
- Location: Cuddalore District, Tamil Nadu
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Direct buses from Pondicherry and Chennai
- By Train: Chidambaram Railway Station
- By Air: Trichy Airport – 160 km away
- Things to Do / Places to Visit: Nataraja Temple, Thillai Kali Temple, Annamalai University
- Estimated Budget: ₹700/day
- Trip Duration: 1–2 days
- Must Try Foods: Temple prasad, Sambar rice
- Nearby Cities: Cuddalore, Mayiladuthurai
Pro Tip: Travel with IRCTC-SBI credit cards for exclusive cashback and lounge access.
Tea-Trail at Coonoor’s Nilgiris
Coonoor provides a relaxed and scenic alternative to Ooty, with rolling hills and fragrant tea estates. Budget travelers love its calm streets, colonial charm, and accessible tourist spots. The cooler climate also makes it ideal for a refreshing short break.
- Location: Nilgiri District, Tamil Nadu
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: From Coimbatore or Ooty
- By Train: Coonoor Station on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway
- By Air: Coimbatore Airport – 80 km away
- Things to Do / Places to Visit: Sim’s Park, Dolphin’s Nose, Tea Factory Tour
- Estimated Budget: ₹950/day
- Trip Duration: 2–3 days
- Must Try Foods: Tea biscuits, homemade chocolates
- Nearby Cities: Ooty, Mettupalayam\
Pro Tip: Buy winter gear during Ajio Year-End Sales for up to 60% off.
Wildlife Spotting at Mudumalai Sanctuary
Mudumalai is a pocket-friendly jungle adventure located at the foothills of the Nilgiris. You can spot elephants, bison, and deer in their natural habitat during a short jeep ride. For animal lovers on a budget, it’s one of India’s best-kept secrets.
- Location: Nilgiri District, Tamil Nadu
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Buses from Ooty and Mysuru
- By Train: Nearest station is Udagamandalam (Ooty)
- By Air: Coimbatore Airport – 140 km
- Things to Do / Places to Visit: Jeep Safari, Moyar River, Theppakadu Elephant Camp
- Estimated Budget: ₹700–₹900/day
- Trip Duration: 1–2 days
- Must Try Foods: Tribal millet meals, boiled eggs from stalls
- Nearby Cities: Ooty, Gudalur
Pro Tip: Use Paytm Wallet offers for jeep safari bookings via tourism websites.
Budget Boating at Kodaikanal Lake
Kodaikanal is a dreamy escape into nature that fits surprisingly well into a tight budget. Rowing across its peaceful lake or walking down Coaker’s Walk gives you the hill station charm without luxury pricing. It’s a favorite for students and backpackers alike.
- Location: Dindigul District, Tamil Nadu
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Regular buses from Madurai and Palani
- By Train: Nearest station is Kodai Road
- By Air: Madurai Airport – 120 km
- Things to Do / Places to Visit: Kodaikanal Lake, Coaker’s Walk, Bryant Park
- Estimated Budget: ₹1000/day
- Trip Duration: 2–3 days
- Must Try Foods: Hot bhajji, Tibetan momo
- Nearby Cities: Madurai, Dindigul
Pro Tip: Use SBI YONO coupons for hotel deals and homestays in the Nilgiris.
Discover Art and Culture in Thanjavur
Thanjavur is a treasure trove of South Indian history, dance, and painting. From the majestic Brihadeeswarar Temple to museum visits, the city offers deep cultural insights. Many activities here are free or ticketed under ₹50, ideal for budget explorers.
- Location: Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Frequent TNSTC buses from major cities
- By Train: Thanjavur Junction
- By Air: Trichy Airport – 60 km
- Things to Do / Places to Visit: Brihadeeswarar Temple, Art Gallery, Palace Museum
- Estimated Budget: ₹850/day
- Trip Duration: 1–2 days
- Must Try Foods: Sambar Sadam, Banana chips
- Nearby Cities: Kumbakonam, Trichy
Pro Tip: Use Amazon India travel gear offers during festive sales to prep for cultural tours.
Beach Picnics at Rameswaram
With scenic beaches, sacred shrines, and India’s longest sea bridge, Rameswaram blends spirituality with beauty. You can enjoy holy dips and beach sunrises with minimal spending. It’s perfect for pilgrims and casual travelers looking for peaceful coastal vibes.
- Location: Ramanathapuram District, Tamil Nadu
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: From Madurai and Trichy
- By Train: Rameswaram Station
- By Air: Madurai Airport – 170 km
- Things to Do / Places to Visit: Ramanathaswamy Temple, Dhanushkodi, Pamban Bridge
- Estimated Budget: ₹900/day
- Trip Duration: 2–3 days
- Must Try Foods: Temple prasad, Tamarind rice
- Nearby Cities: Ramanathapuram, Madurai
Pro Tip: Combine Flipkart Axis Bank card offers with Yatra deals for cheaper stay + travel.
Attend Local Festivals Like Chithirai & Pongal
Festivals in Tamil Nadu are visual spectacles with parades, music, and traditional games. Attending them allows you to dive deep into culture for free. Timed right, you can even shop local crafts and sweets at bargain prices during these vibrant celebrations.
- Location: Statewide, especially Madurai, Chennai, Thanjavur
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: State transport runs extra services during festivals
- By Train: Book at least 2 weeks ahead via IRCTC
- By Air: Varies by city
- Things to Do / Places to Visit: Pongal celebrations, temple fairs, cultural parades
- Estimated Budget: ₹700–₹900/day
- Trip Duration: 1–3 days
- Must Try Foods: Sweet Pongal, Murukku, Vadai
- Nearby Cities: Varies by festival
Pro Tip: Use PhonePe cashback during Diwali and Pongal to shop from local stalls.
Join Heritage Walks in Trichy
Trichy is a vibrant blend of heritage and modern living, home to monumental temples and lively bazaars. Guided heritage walks here give great insights into Tamil culture at zero cost. For those with limited budgets, this city packs a big cultural punch.
- Location: Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: TNSTC operates from all major towns
- By Train: Trichy Junction – a major rail hub
- By Air: Trichy International Airport
- Things to Do / Places to Visit: Rockfort Temple, Srirangam Temple, Gandhi Market
- Estimated Budget: ₹850/day
- Trip Duration: 1–2 days
- Must Try Foods: Banana bajji, Sambar vadai
- Nearby Cities: Thanjavur, Dindigul
Pro Tip: Track Myntra Independence Day offers to buy traditional wear before your visit.
Conclusion
From temples and hill stations to beaches and cultural walks, Tamil Nadu offers unforgettable experiences without stretching your budget. With smart travel hacks, wallet offers, and SavePlus promo codes, you can enjoy the richness of South India affordably. Explore more, spend less, and let your journey begin with SavePlus guiding the way.
FAQ
What is the best time to visit Tamil Nadu on a budget?
October to March is ideal, especially during off-season and just after major festivals for the best deals.
Are government accommodations in Tamil Nadu affordable?
Yes, TTDC and state guest houses often offer clean, basic stays starting from ₹500/night.
How can I save on travel bookings within Tamil Nadu?
Use IRCTC, Paytm, or Cleartrip via SavePlus for wallet offers and promo codes on bus and train bookings.
Is street food in Tamil Nadu hygienic and affordable?
Absolutely! Local delicacies like sundal, bhajji, and Pongal are tasty and cost under ₹50 in most cities.
Can I use UPI and wallets in rural parts of Tamil Nadu?
Yes, UPI, PhonePe, and Google Pay are widely accepted even in smaller towns and temple markets.
