Alleppey - Varkala Via Jatayu - Kovalam - Kanyakumari - Rameshwaram - Flyback frm Madurai

After breakfast at 9 AM, complete any sights in Kochi or Fort Kochi that were not covered yesterday. 

 

Afterwards, depart for Alleppey. The distance from Kochi to Alleppey is approximately 60 km, and it takes around 3 hours by road. You should reach Alleppey by 12:00 PM.

 

Check in at the Houseboat and start your cruise through the scenic backwaters of Alleppey. Relax on the luxurious houseboat while cruising past village sides and paddy fields, witnessing authentic Kerala village life. The houseboat is fully furnished with bedrooms, a private balcony, and a kitchen, and includes a chef, oarsmen, and a cabin assistant.

 

Important Pointers for Houseboat Stay:

• From 5:30 PM to 8:00 AM the next day, the boat will be anchored and idle on the lake due to fishing activities by local villagers (as per government rules).
• Deluxe Houseboat: AC operational in bedroom only from 9:00 PM – 6:00 AM.
• Premium Houseboat: AC runs 24/7, but only one AC can operate at a time (either deck or bedroom).
• AC takes 30 minutes to 1 hour to cool the room since it runs on a diesel engine.
• Enjoy a unique and exclusive experience cruising the rich Alleppey backwaters.

The total distance from Alleppey to Varkala is approximately 90 km, with an estimated travel time of around 2.5 hours. Today, you will travel via the fascinating Jatayu Earth Center, which lies roughly halfway.

 

En route, visit the following at Jatayu Earth Center:

• Jatayu Sculpture Park – Home to the world’s largest bird sculpture, representing the mythical bird Jatayu from the Ramayana.
• Adventure Activities – Try rock climbing, rappelling, and ziplining amidst scenic hills.

 

After exploring Jatayu Earth Center, continue your journey to Varkala, a coastal town famed for its dramatic cliffs and pristine beach.

 

Upon arrival in Varkala, explore these key attractions:

• Varkala Beach – Known for its stunning cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea, perfect for sunset views and beach walks.
• Janardanaswamy Temple – An ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, showcasing traditional Kerala architecture.
• Cliffside Cafés and Shops – Relax at vibrant cafés perched on the cliffs and browse local handicrafts.

 

Conclude your day by checking into your hotel in Varkala and enjoying the serene beach atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after your journey.

 

Today's journey takes you from Varkala to Kovalam. The distance is approximately 55 km, with an estimated travel time of around 1.5 to 2 hours.

En route, consider these stops:

• Anchuthengu Fort – a historic fort with panoramic sea views.
• Kollam Beach – a serene beach perfect for a brief respite.

Upon arrival in Kovalam, check into your hotel. The rest of your day is dedicated to exploring the beautiful coastal town.

Explore Kovalam's attractions:

• Lighthouse Beach – the most popular beach, known for its iconic lighthouse offering stunning sunset views.
• Hawa Beach (Eve's Beach) – a bustling beach adjacent to Lighthouse Beach, ideal for watching fishermen at work.

After breakfast at 9:00 AM, check out from the hotel. We would travel to Kanyakumari. It would take around 3-4 hours. On arrival check in at the hotel. After lunch at 3:00PM, we would head for Kanyakumari Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Bhagavathi Amman Temple (INR 0 – Max 40 Minutes required), Thiruvalluvar Statue, Kanyakumari Sunset View Point (No Entry Fee, Reach here before 6:00 PM.) Vivekananda Rock Memorial & Thiruvalluvar Statue: It’s located on a small island and hence comes with the backdrop of the Indian ocean which adds to its calm and peaceful vibe. One needs to take a small ferry ride just for Rs.20 to go up to the memorial. Timings: Open on all days from 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Entry Fee: INR 100 for the couple Recommended Duration: 1 Hour

Begin your day in Kanyakumari, the southern tip of India, where you should check out after visiting the remaining sights. Ensure to complete these before departure:

• Vivekananda Rock Memorial
• Thiruvalluvar Statue
• Kanyakumari Beach

 

After checkout, embark on the approximately 310 km journey to Rameshwaram, which will take around 6.5 hours by road. This drive offers a glimpse of Tamil Nadu’s scenic countryside.

 

Upon arrival in Rameshwaram, explore these notable attractions:

• Ramanathaswamy Temple – A magnificent temple famous for its long corridors and sacred water tanks.
• Agni Theertham – A holy beach where pilgrims take ritual baths.
• Gandhamadhana Parvatham – The highest point in Rameshwaram offering panoramic views and a temple on top.
• Dhanushkodi Beach – A serene beach known for its scenic beauty and ghost town ruins.

 

Conclude your day with a peaceful evening at the beach or a local market stroll before resting at your accommodation in Rameshwaram.

Begin your day early by checking out from your hotel in Rameshwaram. If you have not already done so, complete the must-see attractions in the town before heading out.

Distance and Travel: Rameshwaram to Madurai is approximately 170 km and takes around 4 hours by road.

Afterward, embark on the drive towards Madurai. The journey offers glimpses of Tamil Nadu’s rural landscape and small towns.

Upon arrival in Madurai, explore these iconic sights:

• Meenakshi Amman Temple – A stunning Dravidian architectural marvel with elaborate sculptures and vibrant temple life.
• Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal – A beautiful 17th-century palace with grand pillars and intricate stucco work.
• Gandhi Memorial Museum – Showcasing India’s struggle for independence through artifacts and photographs.
• Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam – A large temple tank known for its float festival and peaceful ambiance.

Conclude your day with a comfortable drop-off at your Madurai hotel or railway station, marking the end of your Rameshwaram to Madurai sightseeing journey.