2-Day Itinerary: Moothakunnam → Thenkasi Adventure

Day 1: Journey South & Evening Exploration

Morning: Depart from Moothakunnam early and embark on a scenic drive along NH 66, crossing the backwaters of Kerala and entering Tamil Nadu. The route offers glimpses of coconut groves and the Western Ghats, making the 5‑hour journey enjoyable.

Afternoon: After checking into a boutique guesthouse in Thenkasi, enjoy a hearty South Indian lunch before heading to the nearby Thenmala Eco‑Park. Explore the nature trail, rope bridge, and the unique deer park for a relaxing outdoor experience.

Evening: Stroll through the bustling Thenkasi Market, sampling local snacks like sundal and banana fritters. Conclude the day with dinner at a traditional restaurant, savoring Chettinad cuisine.

Day 2: Waterfall Wonders & Return

Morning: Drive 30 km to the famed Courtallam (Kutralam) Waterfalls. Spend time walking the cascade paths, taking a dip in the cool pools, and photographing the lush greenery.

Afternoon: Visit the historic Shencottah Fort for a glimpse of 18th‑century architecture, then enjoy a leisurely lunch at a riverside eatery featuring freshly caught fish.

Evening: Begin the return journey to Moothakunnam, stopping for a quick tea break at a roadside dhaba. Arrive back by night, wrapping up the mini‑adventure.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Travel Moothakunnam → Thenkasi (5 hrs) – INR 2,200 (fuel & tolls)
• Accommodation (1 night, mid‑range guesthouse) – 8 hrs – INR 2,500
• Thenmala Eco‑Park entry – 2 hrs – INR 150
• Lunch Day 1 (local restaurant) – 1.5 hrs – INR 300
• Courtallam Waterfalls entry & activities – 3 hrs – INR 200
• Shencottah Fort entry – 1 hr – INR 50
• Lunch Day 2 (riverside eatery) – 1.5 hrs – INR 350
• Return travel Thenkasi → Moothakunnam (5 hrs) – INR 2,200
• Snacks & beverages – throughout – INR 250
• Total Estimated Cost: INR 7,900

Tips

If you have an extra day, consider adding a visit to the serene Velliangiri Mountains for trekking or extending your stay in Kanyakumari to witness the sunrise and sunset over the ocean. To shorten the trip, skip the Thenmala Eco‑Park and head straight to Courtallam after lunch, saving roughly 2‑3 hours of travel.