5-Day South India Adventure: Trichy to Periyar, Kanyakumari, and Kochi with Backwaters and Festivities

Day 1: Travel to Periyar

Periyar, India on June 1, 2025

7:00AM

Departure from Trichy

Start your journey early from Trichy to Periyar by road, approximately a 6-hour drive covering around 300 kilometers. Enjoy scenic views along the way.
INR0, 6h0m

1:00PM

Lunch at Thekkady

Have a traditional Kerala-style lunch at a local restaurant like the Spice Garden Restaurant, known for tasty local curries and fresh spices.
INR400, 1h0m

2:30PM

Check-in at hotel

Check in to a comfortable resort near Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary such as The Elephant Court Resort & Spa for relaxation and easy access to attractions.
INR3000, 1h0m

4:00PM

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary boat ride

Enjoy a boat safari from 3:30PM to 5:00PM (last slot) to spot elephants, deer, and other wildlife in their natural habitat on the lake within Periyar National Park.
INR150, 1h30m

7:00PM

Dinner at your resort

Savor Kerala cuisine including appam and stew or seafood dishes prepared with fresh local ingredients at the resort’s restaurant.
INR500, 1h0m

Day 2: Explore Periyar

Periyar, India on June 2, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at resort

Enjoy a hearty South Indian breakfast with fresh coconut chutney and dosa before heading out for the day’s activities.
INR300, 1h0m

9:00AM

Periyar Nature Trails & Elephant Camp

Explore guided nature walks in the sanctuary to see birds, herbal plants, and spend time at the Elephant Camp to learn about rehabilitation efforts.
INR250, 2h30m

12:00PM

Lunch at Ruchira Restaurant

Try authentic Kerala meals including vegetarian thali and specialty fish curry at this popular local spot.
INR400, 1h0m

2:00PM

Visit local spice plantations

Take a guided tour around the spice gardens to learn about cinnamon, cardamom, pepper, and enjoy aromatic surroundings.
INR150, 2h0m

6:00PM

Attend local cultural festivities

Depending on local events, attend traditional dance or music shows related to Kerala’s cultural heritage held in or near Thekkady.
INR300, 2h0m

8:30PM

Dinner at hotel

Enjoy a relaxed dinner featuring local Kerala delicacies and perhaps some fresh seafood specialties.
INR500, 1h0m

Day 3: Travel to Kanyakumari

Kanyakumari, India on June 3, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast and check-out

Have breakfast early at the resort, pack up, and check out for the drive to Kanyakumari (approx. 6 hours, 250 km).
INR300, 1h0m

8:00AM

Drive to Kanyakumari

Enjoy the scenic road trip down south, passing through towns like Madurai if desired.
INR0, 6h0m

2:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Sangam

Enjoy coastal Tamil Nadu cuisine, featuring fresh fish fry and traditional South Indian specialties.
INR400, 1h0m

3:30PM

Check-in and relax

Check into a beachfront hotel such as Sparsa Resort or similar, enjoy the spectacular views of the ocean.
INR3500, 1h0m

5:00PM

Sunset at Kanyakumari Beach

Witness the unique sunset where Bay of Bengal, Arabian Sea, and Indian Ocean meet, capturing stunning photographic moments.
INR0, 1h0m

7:00PM

Dinner at Ms. Swetha’s

Dine on traditional Tamil coastal dishes and freshly prepared seafood in a casual setting near the beach.
INR400, 1h0m

Day 4: Explore Kanyakumari

Kanyakumari, India on June 4, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a filling breakfast, including idli, vada, and filter coffee.
INR300, 1h0m

9:00AM

Visit Vivekananda Rock Memorial & Thiruvalluvar Statue

Take a ferry to these iconic landmarks that honor Indian philosophers and poets, with ferry timings generally from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
INR50 ferry fare, 2h0m

12:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Saravana

Try local vegetarian fare and popular South Indian snacks in this well-known eatery.
INR400, 1h0m

2:00PM

Visit local markets and Gandhi Memorial

Explore vibrant local markets for souvenirs including handicrafts and spices, and visit the Gandhi Memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi's memory.
INR0, 2h0m

5:00PM

Attend evening Aarti at Kumari Amman Temple

Participate or observe the spiritual and cultural aarti ceremony held at the famous temple in the heart of the town.
INR0, 1h0m

7:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Sea View

Enjoy dinner with views of the ocean featuring local seafood specialties and Tamil cuisine.
INR500, 1h0m

Day 5: Backwaters & return

Kochi, India on June 5, 2025

6:00AM

Early departure to Kochi

Start early morning for Kochi by road, about a 5-hour drive covering approximately 230 km.
INR0, 5h0m

11:00AM

Backwaters houseboat tour

Board a traditional Kerala houseboat from Alleppey (near Kochi) for an immersive backwaters cruise, witnessing serene landscapes and village life. Tours run throughout the day; book ahead to ensure availability.
INR2500, 3h0m

2:00PM

Lunch on houseboat

Taste authentic Kerala cuisine freshly prepared onboard amidst the peaceful scenery of backwaters.
INR500, 1h0m

4:00PM

Visit Fort Kochi

Explore historic Fort Kochi, including Chinese fishing nets, St. Francis Church, and vibrant street art.
INR0, 2h0m

6:30PM

Dinner at Kashi Art Café

Enjoy dinner at a charming café known for its fusion cuisine and artistic vibe, open until 10 PM.
INR600, 1h0m

8:30PM

Departure from Kochi Airport

Head to Kochi International Airport for your return flight or onward travel.
INR0, Till end