6-Day Itinerary for Thiruvananthapuram and Varkala in October 2023

  1. Day 1: Thiruvananthapuram Zoo
    30 minutes (7.4 km) from Trivandrum International Airport

    Take a walk in the lush Thiruvananthapuram Zoo, which houses a variety of animals, birds, and reptiles. The zoo is home to rare and endangered species such as the Indian rhinoceros, lion-tailed macaque, and Nilgiri tahr.

  2. Day 2: Padmanabhaswamy Temple
    13 minutes (5.2 km) from Thiruvananthapuram Zoo

    Visit the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple is known for its stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and its immense wealth, which is stored in underground vaults.

  3. Day 3: Kovalam Beach
    30 minutes (13.2 km) from Padmanabhaswamy Temple

    Spend a day at the picturesque Kovalam Beach, known for its soft white sand, clear waters, and stunning sunsets. Take a dip in the sea, relax under the shade of a palm tree, and enjoy the local seafood.

  4. Day 4: Vizhinjam Lighthouse
    20 minutes (7.9 km) from Kovalam Beach

    Take a tour of the Vizhinjam Lighthouse, which offers a stunning view of the Arabian sea. The lighthouse was built in 1867 and is still functional today. The climb to the top of the lighthouse is worth it for the panoramic view.

  5. Day 5: Janardanaswamy Temple
    30 minutes (16.5 km) from Vizhinjam Lighthouse

    Visit the Janardanaswamy Temple, a 2000-year-old temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus. It is also located near the Varkala Beach.

  6. Day 6: Varkala Beach
    10 minutes (4 km) from Janardanaswamy Temple

    Spend a day on the beautiful Varkala Beach, known for its stunning cliffs, clear waters, and golden sands. The beach is also known for its Ayurvedic treatments and yoga retreats, so make sure to indulge in some relaxation and self-care.

Time and Costs Estimates:

  • Thiruvananthapuram Zoo (2 hours, INR 50)
  • Padmanabhaswamy Temple (1-2 hours, free entry)
  • Kovalam Beach (5-6 hours, free entry)
  • Vizhinjam Lighthouse (1 hour, INR 25)
  • Janardanaswamy Temple (1-2 hours, free entry)
  • Varkala Beach (5-6 hours, free entry)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 75
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