Family-Friendly 3-Day Itinerary in Thenmala, Jatayu, Varkala, Kovalam, Kanyakumari
Saturday, September 16
Begin your family-friendly adventure in Thenmala, a serene eco-tourism destination in Kerala. In the morning, explore the lush greenery of Thenmala Dam and enjoy boating on the serene lake. Afterward, visit the Adventure Zone, where your family can engage in various outdoor activities like rock climbing and rope walking. In the afternoon, head to Jatayu Earth's Center, home to the world's largest bird sculpture. Climb aboard the Jatayu Cable Car for breathtaking panoramic views. In the evening, relax at Varkala Beach, known for its golden sands and stunning cliffs.
Adventure Zone: Estimated cost - INR 300 per person, Time spent - 3 hours
Jatayu Earth's Center: Estimated cost - INR 400 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Varkala Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - Flexible
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Hotel Diamond. This family-friendly restaurant offers a variety of Indian and continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Hotel Aryaas, a popular vegetarian restaurant in Thenmala. Enjoy their wide range of South Indian delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For dinner, treat your taste buds to authentic Kerala cuisine at Thaff. This cozy restaurant in Thenmala offers a wide selection of seafood and traditional dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Sunday, September 17
Embark on a day trip to Kovalam, a popular beach town near Trivandrum. Start your morning with a visit to the iconic Lighthouse Beach, where you can relax on the sandy shores or take a refreshing swim in the Arabian Sea. Afterward, head to the nearby Halcyon Castle, a beautiful mansion converted into a luxury hotel. Enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the beachside restaurants. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant fish market in Kovalam and witness the local fishing activities. End your day with a tranquil sunset at Hawa Beach.
Lighthouse Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - Flexible
Fish Market: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
Hawa Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - Flexible
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Cafe del Mar, a beachfront restaurant in Kovalam. Indulge in their delicious pancakes and refreshing fruit smoothies. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For lunch, head to Fusion Bay, a popular restaurant known for its fusion cuisine. Enjoy their seafood specialties like grilled fish with exotic spices. The average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
For dinner, dine at The Terrace, a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the Arabian Sea. Savor their authentic Kerala dishes like Malabar fish curry. The average cost for a meal is about ₹1000 per person.
Monday, September 18
On your final day, venture to Kanyakumari, the southernmost tip of mainland India. Start your morning by witnessing the breathtaking sunrise at the Vivekananda Rock Memorial. Take a ferry to the memorial, dedicated to the famous Indian philosopher Swami Vivekananda. Afterward, visit the Thiruvalluvar Statue, a towering monument dedicated to the Tamil poet and philosopher. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant local market and indulge in some shopping for souvenirs. In the evening, relax at Kanyakumari Beach and witness the confluence of three seas.
Vivekananda Rock Memorial: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Thiruvalluvar Statue: Estimated cost - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 1 hour
Local Market: Estimated cost - Variable, Time spent - 1 hour
Kanyakumari Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - Flexible
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Saravana Bhavan, a popular vegetarian restaurant known for its delicious South Indian breakfast dishes like idli, dosa, and vada. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, try Hotel Triveni, a local favorite that serves authentic Kerala cuisine. Don't miss the traditional fish curry and appam. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, visit The Spice Route, a charming restaurant offering a variety of Indian and international cuisines. Enjoy the cozy ambiance and try their aromatic biryani. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Kanyakumari, don't miss the exquisite Padmanabhapuram Palace, located just a short distance away. This wooden palace showcases the rich architectural heritage of the region and is a delight for history enthusiasts. Another hidden gem is the Mathur Hanging Trough, an engineering marvel that carries water across a valley. Locals love to visit this spot for picnics and enjoy the scenic views. Lastly, consider exploring the Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium in Kovalam, which houses a variety of marine species and offers an educational experience for children.