Pickup Madurai Rameshwaram - Local - Kanyakumari - Trivendrum - Varkala Via Jatayu Temple - Local - Thekkady - Local - Kochi - Flyback frm Kochi - 10D/9N TAMIL NADU Itinerary
10D / 9N

Pickup Madurai Rameshwaram - Local - Kanyakumari - Trivendrum - Varkala Via Jatayu Temple - Local - Thekkady - Local - Kochi - Flyback frm Kochi

TAMIL NADU
Kochi to Kochi
Curated Itinerary
1
Madurai → Rameshwaram

Pick up at Madurai Airport - Meenakshi Temple - Rameshwaram

After pick-up from Madurai Airport, our representative will assist you with the transfer. Stop at a nearby restaurant for breakfast (charges extra).

 

Begin sightseeing in Madurai, known for its vibrant culture and Dravidian architecture.

  • Meenakshi Amman Temple – A revered temple dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareshwarar, admired for its towering gopurams and intricate carvings.

 

After completing sightseeing and lunch, proceed to Rameshwaram, one of India’s most sacred towns. The distance between Madurai and Rameshwaram is Approx. 180 km, and 4 hours would require.

 

En route attractions:

  • Pamban Bridge – India’s first sea bridge, offering panoramic ocean vistas before reaching Rameshwaram Island

 

On arrival, check in to your hotel. You may visit the local market or relax at leisure.

Note: Sightseeing in Rameshwaram, including Ramanathaswamy Temple, Panchmukhi Hanuman Temple, and Dhanushkodi, will be covered based on available time across the stay.

Recommended Activities & Sights

Rameshwaram to Madurai
Vehicle • Rameshwaram • Starts at 8:00 AM • 3.0 hours
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2
Rameshwaram → Rameshwaram

Rameshwaram Local Sightseeing including Dhanushkodi

Nestled on Pamban Island in Tamil Nadu, Rameshwaram is a sacred destination known for its spiritual aura, historic temples, and serene coastal beauty. Today, explore the key attractions of this revered town.

 

Major sightseeing points in Rameshwaram:

  • Ramanathaswamy Temple – Renowned for its long corridors, carved pillars, and sacred water tanks, this temple dedicated to Lord Shiva offers a deeply spiritual experience.
  • Pamban Bridge – India’s first sea bridge, providing breathtaking views of the ocean and a thrilling drive experience.
  • Dhanushkodi – The mysterious ghost town where the Bay of Bengal meets the Indian Ocean. Once a thriving port, it now stands in picturesque ruins with a haunting charm.
  • Gandhamadhana Parvatham – The highest point in Rameshwaram, offering panoramic island views and housing a temple with Lord Rama’s imprinted footprint.

 

If time permits, other local sites and temples can also be covered during the day.

Note: Sightseeing will be planned and paced as per the available time and temple timings.

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3
Rameshwaram → Kanyakumari

Post Breakfast head to Kanyakumari from Rameshwaram

After breakfast, check out from your hotel in Rameshwaram. Before leaving, complete any remaining sightseeing points in Rameshwaram.

 

Once done, proceed to Kanyakumari, which is about 310 km away and takes roughly 6 hours by road. 

Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and begin exploring the coastal charm of Kanyakumari, the meeting point of the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean.

 

Major sightseeing points in Kanyakumari:

  • Vivekananda Rock Memorial – Accessible by ferry, dedicated to Swami Vivekananda.
  • Thiruvalluvar Statue – Iconic stone monument honoring the Tamil poet and philosopher.
  • Kanyakumari Temple – Sacred shrine dedicated to Goddess Kanya Kumari.
  • Gandhi Memorial – Built at the spot where Gandhi’s ashes were kept before immersion.
  • Kanyakumari Beach – Ideal for witnessing the breathtaking confluence and sunset views.

 

As evening approaches, enjoy the magnificent sunset over the ocean horizon before returning to your hotel.

Note: Sightseeing will be scheduled as per the available time across your stay.

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4
Kanyakumari → Trivendrum

Head To Trivendrum From Kanyakumari

Begin your day by  checking out from your hotel in Kanyakumari. Travel to Trivandrum

The distance from Kanyakumari to Trivandrum is approximately 90 kilometers, with a travel time of around 2.5 hours by car. The journey offers glimpses of southern coastal Kerala and Tamil Nadu landscapes.

Upon arrival in Trivandrum, check in to your hotel and begin exploring the cultural and historical richness of Kerala’s capital city.

  • Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple – A magnificent Dravidian-style temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, famous for its intricate carvings and spiritual ambiance.
  • Kuthiramalika Palace Museum – A royal palace turned museum exhibiting traditional Kerala art, sculptures, and antiques.
  • Napier Museum – Houses a rare collection of archaeological and historic artifacts including bronze idols and ancient ornaments.
  • Shanghumukham Beach – End your day with a relaxing stroll along this popular beach featuring beautiful sunsets and a giant sculpture of a mermaid.
     

Evening Leisure
Enjoy local cuisine at nearby restaurants or unwind with a traditional Kerala massage at your hotel. Trivandrum offers a peaceful yet vibrant atmosphere to conclude your day.

 

Padmanabhaswamy Temple: hindus are allowed in the premise with a special dress code. Kuthiramalika Palace: Entry Fees – INR 40 (Timings: 8:30 AM - 1:00 PM & 3:00 PM - 5:30 PM and closed on Monday) Napier Museum (Timings: 10 AM - 5:00 PM and closed on Monday) Sri Chitra Art Gallery INR 400/- entry fees (Timings: 10:00 AM. to 5:00 PM and Monday Holiday) Attukal Bhagavathy Temple – Free and open all day

 

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5
Trivendrum → Varkala

Trivendrum to Varkala | Jatayu Temple

Arrive at Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram) International Airport and proceed to Varkala (about 1.5 hours by road or train). Check in, relax, and enjoy breakfast at Varkala Cliff with sea views. After lunch, drive to Jatayu Earth’s Center (around 2 hours) to see the iconic Jatayu statue and enjoy the cable car and viewpoints. Return to Varkala by evening, explore cliffside shops, enjoy sunset, dinner, and an overnight stay.

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6
Varkala → Varkala

Varkala Day tour or leisure

Explore any remaining attractions in Varkala, or simply relax and unwind at the hotel
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7
Varkala → Thekkady

Post breakfast head to Thekkady from Varkala

A day journey from Varkala to Thekkady offers a scenic transition from coastal charm to lush highland beauty. The 200 km drive takes about 6–7 hours via NH183, winding through picturesque landscapes, tea plantations, and forested hills. Starting early from Varkala, travelers pass towns like Adoor and Kanjirappally before reaching the cool, verdant environs of Thekkady. En route, roadside eateries and spice gardens offer pleasant breaks. Thekkady, home to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, welcomes visitors with its rich biodiversity and tranquil ambiance, making the long drive worthwhile. It’s a rewarding trip blending Kerala’s coastal, rural, and highland experiences in a single day.

Recommended Activities & Sights

Thekkady Sightseeing - Alleppey
Vehicle • Thekkady • Starts at 8:00 AM • 10.0 hours
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8
Thekkady → Thekkady

Thekkady Local Sightseeing

After breakfast, set out to explore the scenic beauty and wildlife of Thekkady, one of Kerala’s most captivating destinations known for its dense forests, spice plantations, and adventurous experiences.

You can enjoy the following sightseeing points and activities during your stay in Thekkady:

  • Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary & Lake Boating – Enjoy a serene boat ride on Periyar Lake and spot elephants, deer, and other wildlife along the banks. Use this link to book your boat https://www.periyartigerreserve.org/program/boating
  • Spice Plantation Visit – Learn about the cultivation of Kerala’s famous spices such as cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon.
  • Elephant Junction – Interact with elephants, enjoy elephant rides, feeding, or bathing experiences (optional).
  • Kadathanadan Kalari & Kathakali Centre – Watch traditional Kerala martial arts (Kalaripayattu) and classical dance performances (tickets extra).
  • Chellarkovil Viewpoint – Offers breathtaking views of plains and cascading waterfalls on clear days.
  • Ayurvedic Massage & Shopping – Visit one of the local centers for authentic Kerala Ayurvedic therapies or shop for handmade chocolates and spices.

 

Note: If any sightseeing or activities are not possible due to time constraints or weather conditions, they can be covered the next day before checkout.

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9
Thekkady → Kochi

Thekkady to Kochi

Check out from your hotel in Thekkady after completing any remaining local sightseeing.

  • Begin the drive from Thekkady to Kochi (approximately 140 km, around 4 hours).
  • Enjoy en route sightseeing spots to break the journey and explore Kerala’s natural beauty.
  • Arrive in Kochi and check in to your hotel.
  • Explore top attractions within Kochi city in the afternoon and evening.

Hotel Checkout in Thekkady: Before starting your journey, ensure you have checked out from your hotel in Thekkady. Complete any unfinished sightseeing such as the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary or spice plantations nearby.

Travel from Thekkady to Kochi: The distance between Thekkady and Kochi is approximately 140 km, with a drive time of about 4 hours. The route offers scenic views of Kerala’s lush greenery and backwaters.

En route sightseeing spots:

  • Cheeyappara Waterfalls – A stunning seven-step waterfall surrounded by forest, perfect for a photo stop.
  • Valara Waterfalls – A beautiful cascading waterfall set amidst dense greenery, ideal for a brief nature walk.
  • Hill Palace Museum (Tripunithura) – Kerala’s largest archaeological museum, showcasing royal artifacts and architecture.

Arrival and sightseeing in Kochi: After reaching Kochi and checking in at your hotel, explore the rich cultural heritage and vibrant city life. Key attractions include:

  • Fort Kochi – Explore colonial-era architecture, quaint streets, and iconic Chinese fishing nets.
  • Mattancherry Palace – Also called the Dutch Palace, famous for its murals and royal history.
  • Jewish Synagogue – One of the oldest active synagogues, adorned with exquisite antiques and chandeliers.
  • Marine Drive – A picturesque promenade along the backwaters, perfect for an evening stroll.

End your day with a delicious Kerala-style dinner at a local restaurant, savoring fresh seafood and traditional flavors before resting for the night in Kochi.

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10
Kochi → Kochi

Fort Kochi Sightseeing and Drop to Kochi Airport

After enjoying your breakfast at the hotel, check out form the hotel and Begin your day in Kochi city with a short drive

In Fort Kochi, visit these iconic sights:

  • Chinese Fishing Nets – These traditional shore-operated lift nets are a unique sight and symbolize Kochi’s historic maritime trade.
  • St. Francis Church – One of the oldest European churches in India, it was built in 1503 and is the original burial site of Vasco da Gama.
  • Santa Cruz Basilica – A stunning church with Portuguese influence, known for its beautiful architecture and colorful frescoes.
  • Fort Kochi Beach – A relaxing spot to enjoy seaside views and local street food.
  • Jew Town and Paradesi Synagogue – Explore the historic Jewish quarter with its antique shops and the 16th-century synagogue.

 

After exploring Fort Kochi, return to Kochi city center. The drive back typically takes around 30 minutes.

From Kochi city, proceed to Kochi Airport, located approximately 35 km away. The journey usually takes around 1 hour, allowing ample time for your onward flight.

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