3-Day Relaxation and Nature Escape in Trivandrum on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: City Exploration

Trivandrum, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Indian Coffee House

Kickstart your day with a classic South Indian breakfast of idli and filter coffee at the iconic Indian Coffee House, a budget-friendly option rich in local history.
Located centrally, just a 10-minute walk from most hotels around MG Road.
INR 150, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Padmanabhaswamy Temple

Discover the architectural beauty of Padmanabhaswamy Temple, one of the richest temples in the world, and a marvel of intricate carvings.
Take an auto-rickshaw for about INR 50; it’s only 4 km away.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:15AM

Explore Napier Museum and Zoological Park

Stroll around the Napier Museum complex, enjoying the lush gardens and diverse animal life at the adjoining zoo.
Walk back to MG Road then take a local bus to the museum, approximately 20 minutes.
INR 50 for zoo entry, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan

Enjoy a delicious and filling vegetarian lunch at Saravana Bhavan, offering authentic South Indian meals at reasonable prices.
Located along MG Road, just a short walk after your museum visit.
INR 200, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relax at the Kovalam Beach

Spend the afternoon unwinding at the scenic Kovalam Beach, where you can enjoy the sun or take a serene walk along the shoreline.
Catch a local bus to Kovalam from MG Road; it’s a 30-minute ride.
Free, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Lighthouse Restaurant

Savor fresh seafood at the budget-friendly Lighthouse Restaurant while enjoying the beautiful sunset views at Kovalam.
Just a short walk from the beach.
INR 300, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Day Trip to Varkala

Varkala, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a simple breakfast at your hotel or guesthouse before embarking on your day trip.
At your accommodation, included in stay.
INR 100, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Varkala

Travel to Varkala by taking a local bus, enjoying the beautiful landscapes on your way.
Buses leave frequently from Trivandrum; tickets cost roughly INR 60.
INR 60, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Explore Varkala Beach

Arrive in Varkala and head straight to Varkala Beach to relax on the cliffs or take a dip in the Arabian Sea.
A short 10-minute walk from the main bus station.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Heritage Restaurant

Grab a tasty lunch at The Heritage Restaurant, known for its local cuisine and stunning ocean views.
Located on the cliffside; easy to find by following the beach path.
INR 250, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Janardhana Swamy Temple

Explore the ancient Janardhana Swamy Temple, a serene place immersing you in the local culture and spirituality.
A 15-minute walk from Varkala Beach.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Cliffside Walk and Sunset

Enjoy a scenic walk along the cliffs with panoramic views, perfect for photography and watching the sunset.
Follow the cliff path back towards the beach.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Malabar Cafe

End your day with a flavorful meal at Malabar Cafe, known for its delicious Kerala dishes at budget rates.
Located along the cliff; a 5-minute walk from the sunset spot.
INR 300, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Return to Trivandrum

Catch the bus back to Trivandrum, reflecting on your delightful day in Varkala.
Buses run regularly; be sure to check timings.
INR 60, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Nature and Relaxation

Trivandrum, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Coffee Day

Start your final day with a light breakfast at Café Coffee Day, where you can enjoy pastries and coffee affordably.
Located on MG Road, convenient for your plans.
INR 150, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kuthiramalika Palace Museum

Explore the Kuthiramalika Palace, a beautiful historic site showcasing traditional architecture and artifacts.
Take an auto-rickshaw from the café; it’s around 3 km.
INR 15, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Relaxing Walk in Thiruvananthapuram Zoo

Take a leisurely walk through the Thiruvananthapuram Zoo, enjoying the lush greenery and diverse wildlife.
Walk back towards the zoo, approximately 20 minutes from the palace.
INR 20, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Hotel Prakash

Indulge in some delicious local dishes at Hotel Prakash, known for its affordable Kerala meals.
Walk back to MG Road, about 20 minutes away.
INR 200, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Shangumugham Beach

Head to Shangumugham Beach for a relaxed afternoon, perfect for soaking in the sun or enjoying the gentle waves.
Catch a local bus from MG Road; it’s about 8 km.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Light Snacks at Aryas

Grab some light snacks like banana fritters or baji at Aryas, a local favorite before parting ways.
A short auto-rickshaw ride away from the beach.
INR 100, 1 hour

7:00PM

Final Dinner at Mothers Veg Plaza

Conclude your trip with a satisfying vegetarian dinner at Mothers Veg Plaza, offering a delectable array of local cuisines at budget-friendly prices.
Located on MG Road; easily accessible.
INR 250, 1.5 hours
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