6-Day Family Friendly Road Trip Itinerary: Varkala to Kutralam via Allepey and Valparai

Day 1: Explore Varkala

Varkala, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Coffee Temple

Start your day with delectable pancakes or the local Kerala breakfast, appam with stew, at this famous café overlooking the sea.
Head to the cliff edge for the beautiful morning views after breakfast.
INR 1000, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Varkala Beach

Spend the morning relaxing at Varkala Beach, where your family can swim, sunbathe, or try some local snacks from beachside vendors.
Walk down from Coffee Temple to the beach, which is about 1 km away.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at The Cliff Hut

Enjoy a family-friendly lunch with a variety of meals including fresh seafood, salads, and vegetarian options.
Walk back up the cliff to the restaurant.
INR 1200, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Varkala Janardhana Swamy Temple

Visit this ancient temple to learn about local history and soak in the peaceful ambiance as a family.
Drive to the temple, located approximately 1 km from the beach.
Free, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Shopping at Varkala Cliff

Explore local shops for handmade crafts and souvenirs, which promise fun for the whole family.
Stroll along the cliff where the shops are located.
Varies, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Sunset at Varkala Cliff

Cap off the day with a sunset view that will leave you in awe as the sky transforms into gorgeous colors.
Just find a cozy spot along the cliff edge.
Free, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at The Juice Shop

Wrap up your day with a light meal of sandwiches and fresh juices, perfect after a day at the beach.
Located right on the cliff for easy access.
INR 800, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Journey to Allepey

Allepey, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at A Beach Cafe

Enjoy a hearty South Indian breakfast with idli, sambar, and dosa at this local favorite.
A short drive back to the Varkala main area.
INR 900, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Drive to Allepey

Travel to Allepey (approximately a 4-hour drive), enjoying the scenic views along the lush landscapes of Kerala.
Take NH 66 for a direct route.
Transport cost varies, 4 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Thaff Restaurant

Feast on authentic Kerala dishes like karimeen pollichathu (fish in banana leaf) in this cozy restaurant.
Located near the Alleppey Boat Jetty.
INR 1200, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Alleppey Backwaters Tour

Hire a houseboat for a family ride through the backwaters, experiencing the mesmerizing scenery and local wildlife.
Book your houseboat in advance at the jetty.
INR 3500 (for a short ride), 3 hours

6:30 PM

Explore Allepey Beach

Enjoy a peaceful evening at Allepey Beach, a great spot for children to play and for family relaxation.
Drive 15 minutes from the backwater jetty to the beach.
Free, 1 hour

8:00 PM

Dinner at 2011 Restaurant

End the day with a traditional Kerala thali rich in flavors served in a homecooked style.
Located close to the beach, providing a beautiful view.
INR 1000, 1 hour

9:00 PM

Check-in at Lake Palace Hotel

Relax at this beautiful hotel set on the backwaters, perfect for families with spacious rooms and amenities.
A short drive from Allepey Beach.
INR 6000, Variable
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Explore Allepey

Allepey, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Savor a delightful breakfast buffet at Lake Palace Hotel, featuring local and continental options.
Enjoy the view while you eat.
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Karumadi Kuttan

Discover the famous black granite statue of Buddha and learn about its history in this tranquil setting.
A short drive of about 30 minutes from the hotel.
Free, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Visit Punnamada Lake

Enjoy a peaceful stroll along the lakeside and take pictures with the lush surroundings as your backdrop.
Located nearby, about 15 minutes from Karumadi.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Shalom Restaurant

Indulge in a variety of seafood dishes and authentic Keralite meals within a vibrant atmosphere.
Close to the hotel, around 10 minutes’ drive.
INR 1300, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Visit Allepey Lighthouse

Explore this historic lighthouse and its beautiful beach, perfect for some family fun and photographs.
About a 20-minute drive from the restaurant.
INR 50 (entrance fee), 1 hour

4:00 PM

Kayaking in the Backwaters

Experience another side of the backwaters by renting kayaks with your family enjoying the calmer waters and scenic views.
Head back towards the hotel to rent equipment.
INR 500, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Evening at Allepey Beach

Spend some quality time building sandcastles or taking a stroll along the swaying palms at the beach.
Short drive back to the beach from the hotel.
Free, 1.5 hours

8:00 PM

Dinner at Indian Coffee House

Enjoy a classic Kerala experience with delicious local dishes and coffee in this must-visit eatery.
About a 15-minute drive from the beach.
INR 700, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Travel to Valparai

Valparai, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Enjoy the last breakfast at Lake Palace Hotel before heading out to Valparai.
Take your time and enjoy the view.
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Drive to Valparai

Embark on a scenic drive through tea estates and lush greenery, leading to Valparai (around 3.5 hours).
Take NH 183 towards Valparai.
Transport cost varies, 3.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Hotel Superia

Satisfy your hunger with a comforting meal at this family-friendly restaurant known for its North Indian cuisine.
Located in the center of Valparai.
INR 800, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Visit Nallamudi Viewpoint

Witness breathtaking panoramic views of the Western Ghats from this picturesque viewpoint, ideal for family photos.
Drive approximately 15 km from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Tea Estates Tour

Explore the vast tea gardens, learning about tea production while enjoying nature’s beauty all around.
Drive short distances to different estates nearby.
INR 2000 (for a guided tour), 2 hours

6:30 PM

Evening at Valparai

Take a leisurely walk around the town while soaking in the pleasant weather and local scenery.
Explore the town center within walking distance.
Free, 1 hour

8:00 PM

Dinner at Saravana Bhavan

Conclude your day with delicious vegetarian South Indian meals served in a casual ambiance.
Close to your accommodation.
INR 900, 1 hour

9:00 PM

Check-in at Misty Mountain Resort

Relax in this cozy family-friendly resort set among the scenic hills, providing facilities for family fun.
Located on the outskirts of Valparai.
INR 4000, Variable
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Discover Valparai

Valparai, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at the resort

Start the day with a scrumptious breakfast buffet at Misty Mountain Resort, catering to all palates.
Enjoy your meal on the terrace.
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit the Grass Hills

Explore the stunning Grass Hills on a nature walk, where you can see various flora and fauna while enjoying the fresh air.
Take a guided tour to reach the location.
INR 1500 (for a guided tour), 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Hotel Sai Ganesh

Enjoy a hearty meal with vegetarian options, ideal after your explorations in the hills.
Ride back to Hotel Sai Ganesh from the Grass Hills.
INR 800, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Visit the Sholayar Dam

Take a short trip to the Sholayar Dam for stunning views and a relaxing ambiance, also providing some photography fun.
Drive around 30 minutes to reach the dam.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Explore Valparai Town

Wander the charming streets of Valparai, visiting local markets and enjoying the cool hill station vibe.
Walk around the town center.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Hotel Kalahandi

Savor a mix of North Indian and local cuisine while sharing stories from the day at this welcoming restaurant.
Located close to the resort.
INR 800, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Final Stretch to Kutralam

Kutralam, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at the resort

Enjoy a fulfilling breakfast with beautiful views from Misty Mountain Resort, fueling up for the day ahead.
Dine at the resort before heading out.
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Drive to Kutralam

Set off for Kutralam, a scenic journey (approx. 5 hours involving some twisty roads).
Take NH 83 towards Kutralam.
Transport cost varies, 5 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at Kutralam Spice Garden

Settle in for a delicious meal featuring local specialties, especially known for their spicy curries.
A short drive from the main road into the spice garden area.
INR 900, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Kutralam Waterfalls

Take the family to the picturesque Kutralam waterfalls for a refreshing dip and fun equally enjoyed by kids and adults.
Just a few minutes’ drive or a short walk from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Explore the Local Temples

Visit the famous local temples to learn more about the region's rich cultural heritage.
Moving around in vehicles as needed.
Free, 1.5 hours

8:00 PM

Dinner at Hotel Pleasant Stay

Finish up your epic road trip with a delightful dinner, featuring a variety of cuisines which are sure to please everyone in the family.
Located close to the local attractions.
INR 1000, 1 hour

9:00 PM

Check-in at Hotel Kutralam

Rest at this family-friendly accommodation, perfect for unwinding after an adventurous road trip.
Located conveniently to the main attractions.
INR 3000, Variable
View Hotel Availability