Dindigul to Varkala - 3 Day Family-Friendly Itinerary

1. Day 1: Explore Kochi
   3-hour drive (160 km) from Dindigul to Kochi
   Spend a day exploring the beautiful city of Kochi. Start with a visit to the Fort Kochi Beach, where you can see the Chinese fishing nets and enjoy a stroll on the beach. From there, head to the Mattancherry Palace and admire the intricate murals and artifacts on display. End the day with a sunset cruise on the Backwaters.
2. Day 2: Enjoy the Scenic Route to Varkala
   5-hour drive (230 km) from Kochi to Varkala
   Enjoy the scenic route along the coastline to Varkala. Along the way, stop at the Varkala Tunnel, a historic tunnel built by the British. Then, visit the Anjengo Fort, a 17th-century fort with stunning sea views. End the day at the Varkala Beach, where you can relax on the sand or take a swim in the ocean.
3. Day 3: Discover Varkala
   Unwind and discover the beauty of Varkala
   Start your day with a visit to the Janardanaswamy Temple, a 15th-century temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Then, explore the Kappil Lake, a serene backwater lagoon where you can go boating or enjoy a picnic with the family. In the evening, head to the Cliff Walkway for stunning sunset views.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Fort Kochi Beach (2 hours, Free)
• Mattancherry Palace (1 hour, INR 5 for Indians and INR 100 for foreigners)
• Backwaters Sunset Cruise (2 hours, INR 1,500 per person)
• Varkala Tunnel (30 minutes, Free)
• Anjengo Fort (1 hour, INR 10 for Indians and INR 100 for foreigners)
• Varkala Beach (2 hours, Free)
• Janardanaswamy Temple (1 hour, Free)
• Kappil Lake (2 hours, Free)
• Cliff Walkway (1 hour, Free)
Total Estimated Costs: INR 1,720 (excluding transport and accommodation)

Useful Tips

If you have more time in Kochi, consider visiting the St. Francis Church and the Jewish Synagogue in addition to the attractions listed. In Varkala, you can also take a day trip to the Ponnumthuruthu Island or indulge in some Ayurvedic treatments at one of the local spas. If you have less time, skip the Anjengo Fort and Cliff Walkway, and spend more time relaxing on the beach or exploring the town.