10-Day Family Friendly Itinerary: VGP Marine Kingdom, Dhanushkodi, Kanyakumari, Varkala

Day 1: Arrival in Chennai

Chennai, India

9:00 AM

Visit VGP Marine Kingdom

Start your adventure at VGP Marine Kingdom, where the kids will delight in the aquarium featuring various marine species.
Take a taxi from your hotel to VGP Marine Kingdom - approx. 30 minutes.
INR 500, 3 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional South Indian meal at Sangeetha Restaurant, known for its delicious vegetarian thali.
Walk or take a short taxi ride to Sangeetha - approx. 10 minutes.
INR 300, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Explore Marina Beach

Let the children enjoy some time at Marina Beach, indulging in sandcastle building and seaside fun.
Travel to Marina Beach by taxi - approx. 20 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Return to Hotel

Head back to your hotel to relax and refresh for dinner.
Taxi back to the hotel - approx. 20 minutes.
INR 300, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at The Marina

Dine at The Marina where you can enjoy fusion seafood dishes in a family-friendly atmosphere.
Close to the hotel, short walk.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Chennai Exploration

Chennai, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel to prepare for the day's adventures.
On-site.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Arignar Anna Zoological Park

Explore the vast Arignar Anna Zoo where your family can interact with a variety of animals and enjoy the lush surroundings.
Travel to the zoo by taxi - approx. 40 minutes.
INR 300, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Barbeque Nation

Savor a lunch at Barbeque Nation, famous for its live grilling experience and a variety of dishes.
Taxi from the zoo - approx. 30 minutes.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Visit the Government Museum

Visit the Government Museum for a peek into the history, art, and culture of Tamil Nadu, which offers engaging exhibits for all ages.
Taxi to the museum - approx. 25 minutes.
INR 100, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Shopping at T Nagar

Take the family for some retail therapy in T Nagar, one of the busiest shopping districts in Chennai.
Taxi to T Nagar - approx. 15 minutes.
Variable, 2 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at Ponnusamy Hotel

End your day at Ponnusamy Hotel, known for its spicy Chettinad cuisine which is sure to satisfy the whole family.
Short taxi ride - approx. 20 minutes.
INR 900, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Journey to Dhanushkodi

Dhanushkodi, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with breakfast at your hotel before embarking on your journey to Dhanushkodi.
On-site.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Travel to Dhanushkodi

Journey to Dhanushkodi, the ghost town that tells the tale of the devastation caused by the 1964 cyclone; prepare for a picturesque drive.
Private vehicle or taxi - approx. 6 hours.
INR 2500, 6 hours

3:30 PM

Explore Dhanushkodi Ruins

Once you arrive, explore the ruins of Dhanushkodi, discovering the haunting beauty of abandoned structures along the coastline.
On foot in Dhanushkodi.
Free, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Relax at the Beach

Enjoy some leisure time on the beach, perfect for kids to play in the sand and enjoy the stunning views.
Short walk to the beach.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at a Local Eatery

For a local experience, enjoy dinner at a nearby eatery offering fresh seafood and local dishes.
Walk to the eatery.
INR 600, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Exploring Dhanushkodi

Dhanushkodi, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Guesthouse

Enjoy a simple breakfast at your guesthouse before starting another day at Dhanushkodi.
On-site.
INR 200, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Ghost Town

Spend time learning about the history of Dhanushkodi, exploring the remnants of the railway station and church.
On foot in the area.
Free, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Boat Ride to Adam’s Bridge

Take a thrilling boat ride to Adam's Bridge, the mythological bridge connecting India and Sri Lanka.
Book a local boat tour - approx. 1 hour.
INR 1500, 2 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch Back at Dhanushkodi

Return to Dhanushkodi for a picnic lunch amidst the scenic views.
Pack a picnic or buy from local vendors.
INR 300, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Visit the Lighthouse

Climb to the top of the lighthouse for panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding nature.
Short walk to the lighthouse.
INR 100, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Beach Time

Spend the afternoon relaxing or swimming at the beaches of Dhanushkodi, making memories with your family.
On foot to the beach.
Free, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Guesthouse

Enjoy the hospitality of local cuisine at your guesthouse, often prepared fresh by friendly hosts.
On-site.
INR 700, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Trip to Kanyakumari

Kanyakumari, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Guesthouse

Start your day with a fulfilling breakfast at the guesthouse.
On-site.
INR 200, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Travel to Kanyakumari

Embark on a scenic drive to Kanyakumari, where the three seas meet.
Private vehicle or taxi - approx. 2.5 hours.
INR 1500, 3 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Hotel Sea View

Enjoy lunch with a view at Hotel Sea View, where seafood is the specialty.
Walk from the hotel to the restaurant.
INR 800, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Visit Kanyakumari Temple

Explore the famous Kanyakumari Temple, an important pilgrimage site known for its stunning architecture.
Short taxi ride - approx. 10 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Visit Vivekananda Rock Memorial

Take a ferry to Vivekananda Rock Memorial, a serene spot that offers great views and a bit of history.
Ferry ride from the jetty - approx. 30 minutes.
INR 250, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Watch Sunset

Wrap up your day by watching the sunset at the southern tip of India, a truly breathtaking experience.
Walk to the sunset point.
Free, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at The Ocean Restaurant

Dine at The Ocean Restaurant where traditional Indian and seafood dishes await.
Short walk back.
INR 1000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Day in Kanyakumari

Kanyakumari, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel your day with breakfast at the hotel.
On-site.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Thiruvalluvar Statue

Visit the iconic Thiruvalluvar Statue which stands tall and represents Tamil literature.
Taxi to the statue - approx. 15 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Enjoy Time at the Beach

Spend time at Kanyakumari Beach, letting the kids enjoy the sandy shores.
Short walk to the beach.
Free, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Hotel Seashore

Enjoy a family-friendly lunch at Hotel Seashore with its vast menu selection.
Walk to the hotel.
INR 800, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Visit Cape Comorin

Explore the southern most tip of India, Cape Comorin, rich in cultural significance.
Taxi to Cape Comorin - approx. 20 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Shopping for Souvenirs

Take time to shop for handicrafts and souvenirs to remember your time in Kanyakumari.
Walk to the market area.
Variable, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Guru's Restaurant

Finish the day with a delicious meal at Guru’s Restaurant, famous for its local cuisine.
Short walk back.
INR 700, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Travel to Varkala

Varkala, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before heading to Varkala.
On-site.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Travel to Varkala

Hit the road for Varkala, known for its cliffs and pristine beaches.
Private vehicle or taxi - approx. 3 hours.
INR 1800, 3 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at The Juice Shack

Savor a fresh and healthy lunch at The Juice Shack, catering to families with a mix of healthy options.
Walk to the restaurant near the beach.
INR 500, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Relax at Varkala Beach

Let everyone enjoy Varkala Beach, where kids can play by the shore and adults can relax.
On foot to the beach.
Free, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Visit Janardhana Swami Temple

Visit the Janardhana Swami Temple, a historic site providing insight into local culture and spirituality.
Short taxi ride - approx. 10 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at Clafouti Restaurant

Indulge in a delicious meal at Clafouti, famous for its French and local dishes tailored to family tastes.
Short taxi ride or walk.
INR 900, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Explore Varkala

Varkala, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel to kick start the day.
On-site.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Varkala Cliff

Take a morning stroll along Varkala Cliff, showcasing stunning vistas of the Arabian Sea.
Walk to the cliff.
Free, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Explore Local Markets

Explore local shops and stalls for unique souvenirs and handicrafts that represent the area.
Walk from the cliff.
Variable, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at God’s Own Country

Dine at God’s Own Country, which serves authentic Kerala cuisine, perfect for a family outing.
Short walk from the market.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Relax by the Pool

Take some time to relax by the pool at your hotel, letting the kids splash around.
On-site.
Free for hotel guests, 3 hours

5:30 PM

Visit Papanasam Beach

End your day at Papanasam Beach, a serene place to unwind, perfect for an evening walk.
Short taxi ride or walk.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at The Spice Route

Enjoy your dinner at The Spice Route, famous for its diverse menu favored by families.
Short ride back.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Final Day in Varkala

Varkala, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Nourish your family with a hearty breakfast at your hotel.
On-site.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Tariff Inspection Park

Visit Tariff Inspection Park, a peaceful park ideal for some family bonding time amidst nature.
Taxi to the park - approx. 15 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Lunch at Munnad Beach Resort

Enjoy lunch at Munnad Beach Resort where you can taste fresh seafood.
Travel back to the beach area.
INR 700, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Relax at the beach

Spend your final afternoon enjoying the warm sands of Varkala Beach.
Short walk to the beach.
Free, 2.5 hours

3:30 PM

Travel Back to Chennai

Take a private vehicle back to Chennai, reflecting on your family adventures.
Private vehicle - approx. 4 hours.
INR 3000, 4 hours

8:00 PM

Dinner at Hotel in Chennai

Celebrate the end of your incredible journey with a farewell dinner at your Chennai hotel.
On-site.
INR 900, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Departure

Chennai, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy your final breakfast at the hotel before checking out.
On-site.
INR 400, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Departure from Chennai

Check out and head to the airport or train station for your onward journey, cherishing the memories made.
Taxi to the airport or train station - variable time.
INR 600, Variable
View Hotel Availability