Ernakulam – Tenkasi Round Trip via Kollam (4‑Day Itinerary)

Day 1: Ernakulam → Kollam

Morning: Depart Ernakulam early and enjoy a scenic coastal drive, stopping at Alappuzha to admire the iconic backwaters and lush paddy fields.

Afternoon: Savor a traditional Kerala lunch in Alappuzha, followed by a leisurely houseboat ride on the Vembanad Lake for panoramic views.

Evening: Arrive in Kollam, unwind at Kollam Beach, and dine at a local seafood restaurant overlooking the Arabian Sea.

Day 2: Kollam → Tenkasi

Morning: Begin the journey toward Tenkasi, crossing the Western Ghats and taking a short detour to explore the eco‑friendly attractions at Thenmala Eco Park.

Afternoon: Check into your hotel in Tenkasi and head to the spectacular Courtallam (Kutralam) Waterfalls for a refreshing dip and photo opportunities.

Evening: Stroll through the vibrant Tenkasi Market, sampling local snacks and soaking up the town’s lively atmosphere.

Day 3: Exploring Tenkasi & Surroundings

Morning: Visit the historic Kasi Viswanathar Temple and then travel to the charming riverside town of Kallidaikurichi for a short boat ride on the Tamiraparani River.

Afternoon: Explore the serene Papanasam Dam area, ideal for a picnic amid lush greenery and gentle water views.

Evening: Return to Kutralam Falls to witness a stunning sunset and enjoy the cool evening breeze.

Day 4: Tenkasi → Ernakulam via Kollam

Morning: Depart Tenkasi and pause at Sasthamkota Lake, where you can take a short boat ride on the tranquil waters.

Afternoon: Re‑enter Kollam and visit the historic Thangassery Lighthouse for panoramic views of the harbor.

Evening: Complete the loop back to Ernakulam, reflecting on the diverse landscapes and experiences of the trip.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Alappuzha boat ride – 2 hrs – ₹300
• Lunch in Alappuzha – 1.5 hrs – ₹500
• Kollam Beach – free – ₹0
• Thenmala Eco Park – 2 hrs – ₹200
• Courtallam (Kutralam) Waterfalls – 3 hrs – ₹100
• Tenkasi Market – 1 hr – ₹0
• Kasi Viswanathar Temple – 1 hr – ₹50
• Kallidaikurichi boat house – 1 hr – ₹150
• Papanasam Dam – 2 hrs – ₹100
• Kutralam Falls (sunset) – 2 hrs – ₹150
• Sasthamkota Lake boat ride – 1 hr – ₹200
• Thangassery Lighthouse – 1 hr – ₹100
• Transportation (fuel, tolls, etc.) – 2 days – ₹2,500
• Total Estimated Cost: ₹4,350

Tips

To extend the trip, add an extra day in Tenkasi to explore nearby attractions such as the Agasthiyar Falls or take a guided trek in the Western Ghats. If you need to shorten the itinerary, skip the boat ride on Sasthamkota Lake and combine Day 2’s Thenmala visit with the journey back, focusing only on the main waterfalls and temple sites.