14-Day Family Friendly Adventure in South India: Kochi, Munnar, Madurai, Kanyakumari, Rameshwaram, Chennai by Train

Day 1: Explore Kochi

Kochi, India

9:00AM

Breakfast at Chai and Coffee

Start your day with some delicious South Indian breakfast including dosas and filter coffee.
Located in Fort Kochi, a leisurely walk will bring you to the iconic Chinese fishing nets.
INR 600, 1 hour

10:30AM

Chinese Fishing Nets

Experience the traditional fishing method unique to this region and interact with local fishermen.
Just a short walk from the breakfast spot.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at The Rice Boat

Enjoy freshly caught seafood with stunning views of the sea in a traditional setting.
A ten-minute rickshaw ride from the fishing nets.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Fort Kochi Beach

Relax on the sandy shore and play beach games with the family.
A quick 5-minute walk from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Kathakali Dance Performance

Witness a captivating traditional Kathakali performance showcasing the rich culture of Kerala.
Ensure you arrive early as it often fills up quickly.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Kerala Cafe

End your day with a hearty meal of traditional Kerala cuisine with your family.
15-minute walk back to the main area of Fort Kochi.
INR 1000, 1.5 hours

9:00PM

Overnight Train to Munnar

Board an overnight train headed to Ernakulam, then continue to Munnar early next morning.
Trains leave from Ernakulam Junction.
INR 700 (for sleeper class), 9 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Nature in Munnar

Munnar, India

6:00AM

Arrival in Munnar

Arrive at Ernakulam railway station and take a scenic train to Munnar, filled with breathtaking views.
Train schedules can be checked beforehand.
INR 200 (train fare), 2 hours

8:00AM

Check into Hotel

Settle into your hotel and freshen up after the overnight journey.
Conveniently located in Munnar.
Variable depending on accommodation, 1 hour

9:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Fuel up with a filling breakfast before setting off for the day.
Eating at the hotel for convenience.
Included, 1 hour

10:30AM

Tea Gardens Visit

Take a stroll through the tea gardens and learn about tea production.
15-minute drive from the hotel.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan

Savour authentic vegetarian meals served warm and fresh.
Within walking distance or a short drive from the tea gardens.
INR 600, 1 hour

2:00PM

Photo Stop at Lockhart Gap

Capture breathtaking views of the hills, perfect for family photos.
A short drive from the lunch stop.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Kundala Lake Boating

Enjoy a pedal boat ride or shikara ride on the serene lake.
A 30-minute drive from Lockhart Gap.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Return to Hotel

Get back for some rest and relaxation.
Arrange for transport back to the hotel.
Free, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Hillview

Enjoy a wholesome family dinner with a menu featuring local dishes.
Back at the hotel for convenience.
INR 1000, 1.5 hours

9:00PM

Overnight Train to Madurai

Catch the overnight train from Munnar to Madurai for a restful night.
Trains depart from the Munnar station.
INR 700 (for sleeper class), 8 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Heritage of Madurai

Madurai, India

5:00AM

Arrival in Madurai

Arrive in Madurai early in the morning and head to the hotel.
Pre-arranged transportation will be ready.
INR 200 (for taxi), 1 hour

6:00AM

Check into Hotel

Settle into your chosen hotel and freshen up.
Located centrally in Madurai.
Variable depending on accommodation, 1 hour

7:30AM

Breakfast at Sri G Punjabi Tandoor

Indulge in delicious North Indian food to change the culinary pace.
Near the Meenakshi Temple.
INR 700, 1.5 hours

9:00AM

Meenakshi Amman Temple

Visit the magnificent temple with its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings.
A walking distance from the breakfast spot.
INR 100, 2 hours

11:00AM

Gandhi Museum

Learn about the life and legacy of Mahatma Gandhi in this fascinating museum.
A short rickshaw ride away.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Modern Restaurant

Enjoy some delightful South Indian fare while reminiscing about the day's adventures.
Very close to your hotel.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal

Explore this grand palace with its stunning Indo-Saracenic architecture.
Close to lunch spot.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Return to Hotel

Unwind from a day of exploration and freshen up.
Arranged transport.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Ayyamperumal Hotel

Relish in some wholesome South Indian fare before calling it a night.
Close to your hotel.
INR 700, 1.5 hours

9:00PM

Overnight Train to Kanyakumari

Board the overnight train to Kanyakumari, ready for the south's coastal beauty.
Trains leave from Madurai Junction.
INR 800 (for sleeper class), 6 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Kanyakumari Discovery

Kanyakumari, India

3:00AM

Arrival in Kanyakumari

Arrive in the early morning and freshen up at your hotel.
Pre-arranged pickup from Kanyakumari railway station.
INR 200 (for transport), 1 hour

4:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Sea View

Start your day with a delightful breakfast before the sightseeing.
At the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

5:30AM

Vivekananda Rock Memorial

Take the ferry to this memorial and greet the new day with sunrise views.
Ferries depart near the beach.
INR 300 (ferry fee), 2 hours

7:30AM

Visit Thiruvalluvar Statue

Explore this monumental statue and learn about Thiruvalluvar's contributions.
A short ferry ride.
Free, 1 hour

8:30AM

Morning at Kanyakumari Beach

Enjoy the early morning fresh air and beach games with family.
Walking distance from the statue.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Lunch at Hotel Seashore

Delight in a seafood affair while enjoying the views of the beach.
Nearby the beach.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore the Kanyakumari Market

Wander through local markets to shop for unique handicrafts and souvenirs.
A quick walk from the restaurant.
Variable, 2 hours

1:30PM

Visit Lord Murugan Temple

Visit this spiritual temple dedicated to Lord Murugan with intricate designs.
Short drive or take a rickshaw.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Relax at Kanyakumari Beach

Spend time relaxing and enjoying the beautiful beach scenery.
Return to the beach.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Triveni Restaurant

Savour delicious local dishes and experience traditional hospitality.
10-minute walk from the beach.
INR 1000, 1.5 hours

9:00PM

Overnight Train to Rameshwaram

Catch the overnight train from Kanyakumari heading to Rameshwaram.
Trains leave from Kanyakumari station.
INR 700 (for sleeper class), 5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Rameshwaram Wonders

Rameshwaram, India

2:00AM

Arrival in Rameshwaram

Arrive and take a short drive to your hotel.
Pre-arranged transport.
INR 200 (for taxi), 1 hour

3:00AM

Check into Hotel

Settle into your chosen hotel before a day of excitement.
Located conveniently in Rameshwaram.
Variable depending on accommodation, 1 hour

4:30AM

Visit Ramanathaswamy Temple

Witness the grand architecture of this famous temple with remarkable 22 wells.
Just a short distance from your hotel.
Free, 2 hours

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast with the family at the hotel.
Conveniently at the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Explore Dhanushkodi Beach

A family-friendly spot perfect for sunbathing and exploration.
30-minute drive from Rameshwaram.
Free, 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit Adam’s Bridge (Rama Setu)

Learn about the historical significance of this bridge between India and Sri Lanka.
A short drive from the beach.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Restaurant Brindavan

Enjoy local South Indian meals in a laid-back atmosphere.
Walking distance from the last stop.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Kothandaramaswamy Temple

Explore this temple known for its mythological significance.
Short rickshaw ride.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Return to Hotel

Unwind from a day of exploration and freshen up.
Head back to the hotel.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Beach Day!

Spend time enjoying beach games and relaxing before dinner.
Head to the local beach.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Tamil Nadu

Wrap up your day with a mix of regional cuisine in a comfy setting.
Located conveniently in Rameshwaram.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

9:00PM

Overnight Train to Chennai

Travel overnight on a train heading towards Chennai.
Trains leave from Rameshwaram Junction.
INR 800 (for sleeper class), 9 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Chennai Awaits

Chennai, India

6:00AM

Arrival in Chennai

Arrive early morning in Chennai and head to your hotel.
Pre-arranged transport will be available.
INR 200 (for taxi), 1 hour

7:00AM

Check into Hotel

Settle into your hotel room and prepare for the day.
Conveniently located in Chennai.
Variable depending on accommodation, 1 hour

8:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast as a family.
Dining in the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Marvel at the intricate architecture of this historic Hindu temple.
A short drive from your hotel.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Government Museum

Delve into Chennai's rich history and art at this popular tourist attraction.
Another short drive away.
INR 150, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Savour the famous idlis and a variety of chutneys.
Near the museum.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Vandalur Zoo

Spend the afternoon exploring one of the largest zoos in India, perfect for families.
About a 30-minute drive.
INR 250 (entry fee), 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Fisherman's Wharf

Experience a seafood dining experience featuring dishes from across the coast.
Returning back towards Marina.
INR 1000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Cultural Chennai

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Start the day with a breakfast buffet featuring local delicacies.
Dining at the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Mahabalipuram

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rock-cut temples.
A 90-minute drive from the city.
INR 500 (entry fee), 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Mulberry Tree

Dine at a popular spot featuring a varied menu and greenery.
Located close to Mahabalipuram.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Relax on Mahabalipuram Beach

Spend time enjoying beach games and relaxing before the eventual departure.
Walk from the restaurant to the beach.
Free, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Return to Chennai

Travel back to Chennai for a farewell dinner.
Private cab for convenience.
INR 2000 (for cab), 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Farewell Dinner at The Spice Route

Finish your adventure at this renowned restaurant serving Asian delicacies.
Located centrally in Chennai.
INR 1500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Departure

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy your last breakfast buffet at the hotel.
Dining at the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Pack and Check-out

Final packing and checking out in time for your onward journey.
Coordinate with the hotel.
Free, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability