Scenic South India Journey: Chennai to Alappuzha, Varkala, and Munnar Itinerary

Day 1: Travel to Alappuzha

Chennai to Alappuzha, India on May 28, 2025

7:00am

Departure from Chennai

Start early morning from Chennai by train or flight to Alappuzha for an approximately 10-12 hour journey depending on mode chosen.
INR3000-5000, Varies

7:00pm

Check-in Alappuzha Hotel

Check into a comfortable hotel or houseboat near the backwaters to relax after your journey.
INR2500, N/A

8:00pm

Dinner at Thaff Restaurant

Enjoy authentic Kerala seafood dishes and traditional flavours in this well-rated Alappuzha restaurant.
INR600, 1h
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Day 2: Alappuzha Backwaters

Alappuzha, India on May 29, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a traditional Kerala breakfast including idli, dosa, and fresh coconut chutney.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Houseboat Backwater Cruise

Embark on a scenic houseboat cruise through the Alappuzha backwaters to enjoy the lush landscapes and rural life.
INR3500, 4h

2:00pm

Lunch at Halais Restaurant

Savour local Kerala cuisine with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options in this popular spot.
INR400, 1h

4:00pm

Visit Alappuzha Beach

Relax at the serene Alappuzha Beach, ideal for an evening stroll and sunset views.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Indian Coffee House

Experience a retro atmosphere with South Indian staples and coffee.
INR200, 1h
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Day 3: Travel to Varkala

Alappuzha to Varkala, India on May 30, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a light breakfast before departing to Varkala.
Included, 1h

8:00am

Travel to Varkala by Road

Drive or take a private cab (~3 hours) to Varkala along scenic coastal roads.
INR1500, 3h

12:00pm

Check in and Lunch at Café del Mar

Settle into your hotel and enjoy beachfront lunch with fresh seafood and Mediterranean influences.
INR700, 1h

2:00pm

Varkala Cliff Walk

Explore the famous cliffside with shops, cafes, and great views over the Arabian Sea.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Papanasam Beach

Relax at Papanasam Beach, known for its natural springs believed to have medicinal properties.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at The Juice Shack

Casual dining spot offering healthy meals including fresh juices, salads, and wraps.
INR400, 1h
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Day 4: Varkala Beach Day

Varkala, India on May 31, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Coffee Temple

Start the day with great coffee and light breakfast featuring local and continental options.
INR300, 1h

9:00am

Mandala Yoga Studio

Join a morning yoga session for relaxation and stretching, studios usually open by 8 am.
INR500, 1h

11:00am

Explore Janardanaswamy Temple

Visit this ancient temple, an excellent example of Dravidian architecture, open until 5 pm.
Free, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Trattoria

Enjoy an Italian lunch with fresh pasta and pizzas with a sea view.
INR600, 1h

3:00pm

Relax at Varkala Beach

Spend the afternoon swimming, sunbathing, and exploring beachside shops.
Free, 3h

7:00pm

Dinner at Clafouti

Finish the day at this popular bakery and restaurant known for its desserts and evening meals.
INR500, 1h
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Day 5: Travel to Munnar

Varkala to Munnar, India on June 1, 2025

6:30am

Early Breakfast

Have an energising early breakfast before your long journey to Munnar.
Included, 1h

7:30am

Drive to Munnar

Enjoy a scenic 5-6 hour drive from Varkala to Munnar through the Western Ghats.
INR3000, 6h

2:00pm

Check-in and Lunch at Saravana Bhavan Munnar

Experience a South Indian vegetarian meal in the cooler hill station climate.
INR400, 1h

4:00pm

Visit Tea Museum

Learn about tea processing and history at the Tata Tea Museum, open till 5:30 pm.
INR75, 1.5h

6:30pm

Dinner at Rapsy Restaurant

Try local Kerala and international dishes in this cosy hill station eatery.
INR600, 1h
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Day 6: Munnar Sightseeing

Munnar, India on June 2, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before a day of exploration.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Eravikulam National Park

Visit the famous park to see Nilgiri Tahr and panoramic views; park opens at 8 am and closes by 4 pm.
INR190, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan Munnar

Return for a wholesome South Indian vegetarian lunch.
INR400, 1h

2:00pm

Mattupetty Dam and Lake

Enjoy boating and scenic views at the dam and lake area, open till sunset.
INR150, 2h

5:00pm

Echo Point

Visit this popular natural echo spot nearby before heading back.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Saravana Bhavan or Local Eatery

Opt for a traditional Indian or Kerala dinner to end your day.
INR600, 1h
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Day 7: Return to Chennai

Munnar to Chennai, India on June 3, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast and Hotel Check-out

Have an early breakfast and prepare for travel back to Chennai.
Included, 1h

8:00am

Drive to Kochi Airport

Drive around 4 hours from Munnar to Kochi airport for onward flight to Chennai.
INR3000, 4h

1:00pm

Flight to Chennai

Take an afternoon flight back to Chennai, typically 1 hour duration.
INR3000, 1h

3:30pm

Arrival in Chennai

Arrive safely back home or hotel in Chennai, concluding your scenic South India trip.
N/A, N/A
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