A Family Friendly 7-Day Trip to Munnar, Thekkady, Madurai, Rameshwaram, Kanyakumari, Trivandrum, Alleppey, and Kochi

Friday, September 1: Munnar

In the morning, explore the lush tea gardens in Munnar and enjoy a refreshing walk amidst the greenery. In the afternoon, visit the Tea Museum to learn about the history of tea production in the region. In the evening, take a leisurely boat ride at Mattupetty Dam and enjoy the scenic beauty.

• Munnar Tea Gardens: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Tea Museum: Estimated cost - INR 200 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Mattupetty Dam: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Saturday, September 2: Thekkady

Start your day with an exciting jungle safari in Periyar National Park, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat ride on Periyar Lake and spot various animals and birds. In the evening, explore the spice markets and indulge in some spice shopping.

• Periyar National Park: Estimated cost - INR 450 per person, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Periyar Lake Boat Ride: Estimated cost - INR 200 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Spice Markets: Estimated cost - Depends on purchases, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Sunday, September 3: Madurai

Visit the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple in the morning, known for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings. In the afternoon, explore the Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, a magnificent palace showcasing the blend of Dravidian and Islamic architectural styles. In the evening, take a walk at the vibrant streets of Madurai and try local delicacies.

• Meenakshi Amman Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Local Street Food: Estimated cost - Depends on purchases, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Monday, September 4: Rameshwaram

In the morning, visit Ramanathaswamy Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlinga temples in India, known for its architectural beauty and religious significance. In the afternoon, explore Dhanushkodi, a ghost town with a rich history and stunning beach views. In the evening, witness the mesmerizing Pamban Bridge and enjoy a peaceful sunset.

• Ramanathaswamy Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Dhanushkodi: Estimated cost - INR 100 per person (entry fee for the restricted area), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Pamban Bridge: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Tuesday, September 5: Kanyakumari

Start your day by witnessing the breathtaking sunrise at the southernmost tip of India. Visit the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, a sacred monument dedicated to Swami Vivekananda. In the afternoon, explore the Thiruvalluvar Statue, a massive statue honoring the Tamil poet and philosopher. In the evening, relax at Kanyakumari Beach and enjoy the scenic views.

• Kanyakumari Sunrise: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Vivekananda Rock Memorial: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person (ferry charge), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Thiruvalluvar Statue: Estimated cost - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Kanyakumari Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Wednesday, September 6: Trivandrum

Start your day by visiting the famous Padmanabhaswamy Temple, known for its architectural brilliance and religious significance. In the afternoon, explore the Napier Museum and Art Gallery, which houses a collection of ancient artifacts and artwork. In the evening, enjoy a relaxing stroll at Kovalam Beach and witness a beautiful sunset.

• Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Napier Museum and Art Gallery: Estimated cost - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Kovalam Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Thursday, September 7: Alleppey and Kochi

In the morning, embark on a houseboat cruise in Alleppey and experience the serene backwaters of Kerala. Enjoy a traditional lunch on the houseboat. In the afternoon, explore the historical sites and vibrant markets of Fort Kochi, including the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets. In the evening, witness a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional art form of Kerala.

• Alleppey Houseboat Cruise: Estimated cost - INR 8,000-12,000 (for a private houseboat), Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Fort Kochi Sightseeing: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Kathakali Dance Performance: Estimated cost - INR 300-500 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, consider visiting the Elephant Junction in Thekkady, where you can interact with elephants and even take an elephant ride. In Madurai, explore the Gandhi Memorial Museum to learn about the life of Mahatma Gandhi. In Kochi, visit the Indo-Portuguese Museum to delve into the rich history of the region's colonial past.

Check here for hotel and flight prices.