Relaxation in Kanyakumari, Trivandrum, and Kollam - Ladies Only Trip
Saturday, September 30, 2023: Kanyakumari
Start your trip in the serene town of Kanyakumari, known for its breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. Begin your morning by witnessing the sunrise at Kanyakumari Beach, where the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean meet. Afterward, visit the iconic Vivekananda Rock Memorial, located on a small island near the shore. Take a ferry to reach the memorial and spend some time exploring the meditation hall and the breathtaking views it offers. In the afternoon, make your way to the Thiruvalluvar Statue, a 133-feet tall stone sculpture dedicated to the Tamil poet and philosopher. In the evening, relax at the Sunset View Point, where you can capture the mesmerizing sunset and enjoy the tranquil ambiance.
Kanyakumari Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
Vivekananda Rock Memorial: INR 40 (ferry ticket), 2 hours
Thiruvalluvar Statue: Free, 1 hour
Sunset View Point: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Hotel Saravana, a local favorite known for its delicious South Indian cuisine. Enjoy fluffy idlis and crispy dosas while sipping on a hot cup of filter coffee. The average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, try out The Seashore Restaurant, conveniently located near the beach. Indulge in a variety of fresh seafood dishes, including fish curry and butter garlic prawns. The average cost for a meal is about 350 INR per person.
For dinner, visit Aiswarya Restaurant, a cozy eatery known for its authentic Kerala cuisine. Savour traditional dishes like appam with stew and Malabar fish curry. The average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Sunday, October 1, 2023: Trivandrum
Embark on a journey to Trivandrum, the capital city of Kerala, known for its rich cultural heritage. Explore the morning at the Napier Museum, which houses a vast collection of artifacts, including ancient sculptures and bronze idols. Next, visit the iconic Padmanabhaswamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Admire the intricate architecture and take a glimpse into the spiritual side of Kerala. In the afternoon, rejuvenate at Kovalam Beach, just 16 kilometers away from the city. Relax on the sandy shore, take a dip in the calm waters, or indulge in Ayurvedic spa treatments. As the evening approaches, explore the local markets in Trivandrum, such as Chalai Market, and indulge in some souvenir shopping.
Chalai Market: Depends on personal expenses, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Trivandrum is Cafe Mojo, which offers a variety of delicious options like pancakes, sandwiches, and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to the iconic Zam Zam Restaurant known for its authentic Kerala cuisine, including mouthwatering biryani and seafood delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at Villa Maya, a beautifully restored 18th-century Dutch manor that serves a fusion of Indian and international dishes in a serene ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Monday, October 2, 2023: Kollam
Visit the charming coastal city of Kollam, also known as Quilon, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty it offers. Start your morning by taking a leisurely boat ride along the serene backwaters of Ashtamudi Lake. Enjoy the picturesque views of the lush green landscapes and spot a variety of bird species. After the boat ride, head to the Thangassery Lighthouse, which provides panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Enjoy the afternoon at Thirumullavaram Beach, known for its tranquil atmosphere and golden sands. Take a relaxing stroll or simply lounge under the shade of palm trees. In the evening, explore the local seafood delicacies and flavors at one of the traditional restaurants in Kollam.
Seafood Dinner: Depends on personal expenses, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Hot Breads Bakery in Kollam. This popular bakery offers a wide range of freshly baked goods, including pastries, cakes, and breads. The average cost for a breakfast meal here is about 150 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Le Arabia Restaurant in Kollam. This restaurant is known for its delectable Arabian and Indian cuisine. Try their flavorful biryani or indulge in their mouthwatering kebabs. The average cost for a lunch meal here is about 300 INR per person.
End your day with a delightful dinner at The Raviz Kollam's restaurant, Zirkon. This upscale restaurant offers a refined dining experience with a variety of international and Indian dishes. Enjoy the elegant ambiance while savoring their signature seafood delicacies. The average cost for a dinner meal here is about 800 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a truly relaxing experience, explore the off the beaten path attractions such as the Vattakottai Fort near Kanyakumari. This 18th-century fort offers panoramic views of the sea and the lush surroundings. In Trivandrum, don't miss the chance to visit the Kuthiramalika Palace, a beautiful palace with unique horse-shaped brackets. For an authentic local experience in Kollam, visit the Alumkadavu Backwaters, where you can witness traditional boat-building activities and cruise through the serene backwaters away from the tourist crowds.