Southern India is a paradise for travelers, offering a blend of pristine beaches, colonial heritage, spiritual landmarks, and breathtaking coastal landscapes. This itinerary takes you through Kochi’s historic charm, Varkala’s cliffside beaches, Kanyakumari’s iconic sunset views, and Kovalam’s tropical serenity, before concluding in Trivandrum, Kerala’s vibrant capital. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, this journey offers the perfect mix of experiences for every traveler.
Day 1: Arrival in Trivandrum & Transfer to Kochi
How to Reach Kochi from Trivandrum
🚆 By Train: Multiple trains run daily (5-6 hours). Recommended: Jan Shatabdi Express.
🚗 By Road: 5-6 hours via NH66 (taxi or bus options available).
✈️ By Flight: 1-hour flight from Trivandrum to Cochin International Airport.
Introduction to Kochi
Kochi, also known as Cochin, is a vibrant port city blending colonial history, scenic backwaters, and modern urban culture. Once a major spice trading hub, Kochi is now famous for its Chinese fishing nets, Dutch architecture, Jewish heritage, and bustling markets.
Places to Visit in Kochi
- Fort Kochi & Chinese Fishing Nets – A scenic coastal area with colonial charm.
- Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace) – A historic palace showcasing Kerala’s rich history.
- Jew Town & Paradesi Synagogue – The oldest active synagogue in India.
- Marine Drive – Perfect for evening strolls with stunning waterfront views.
- Lulu Mall – India’s largest shopping mall for a modern experience.
- Cherai Beach – A beautiful beach located 40 km from the city.
Where to Stay in Kochi
🏨 Budget: Fort Bridge View, Bastian Homestay.
🏨 Mid-Range: Abad Atrium, The Tower House.
🏨 Luxury: Taj Malabar Resort, Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty.
Food to Try in Kochi
🍛 Kerala Sadya, Malabar Biryani, Meen Pollichathu (Fish), and Puttu with Kadala Curry.
Day 2: Kochi to Varkala Beach
How to Reach Varkala from Kochi
🚆 By Train: Kochi to Varkala (5-6 hours).
🚗 By Road: 4-5 hours via NH66.
Exploring Varkala Beach
Varkala is one of India’s most stunning cliffside beach destinations, offering golden sands, dramatic cliffs, and laid-back vibes. It’s perfect for relaxation, yoga retreats, and Ayurvedic treatments.
Places to Visit in Varkala
- Varkala Cliff & Beach – A scenic coastline with charming cafés and sea views.
- Janardanaswamy Temple – A 2000-year-old Hindu temple near the beach.
- Black Sand Beach – A unique and quieter beach experience.
- Kappil Beach & Lake – A stunning beach-lake combo, ideal for boating.
Where to Stay in Varkala
🏨 Budget: Kerala Bamboo House, Puthooram Ayurvedic Beach Resort.
🏨 Mid-Range: Varkala Cliff Villa, The Oceano.
🏨 Luxury: Taj Gateway Hotel Varkala, Krishnatheeram Ayur Holy Beach Resort.
Day 3: Varkala to Kanyakumari
How to Reach Kanyakumari from Varkala
🚆 By Train: Direct trains available (4-5 hours).
🚗 By Road: 3.5-4 hours via NH66.
Introduction to Kanyakumari
Kanyakumari is the southernmost tip of India, famous for its stunning sunrises and sunsets, Vivekananda Rock Memorial, and meeting point of the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean.
Places to Visit in Kanyakumari
- Vivekananda Rock Memorial – A boat ride to this spiritual site on a rock island.
- Thiruvalluvar Statue – A towering 133-ft statue of Tamil poet Thiruvalluvar.
- Sunrise & Sunset Point – Witness breathtaking views over the ocean.
- Bhagavathi Amman Temple – A 3000-year-old Devi temple.
- Kanyakumari Beach – The meeting point of three seas.
Where to Stay in Kanyakumari
🏨 Budget: Hotel Maadhini, Hotel Temple Citi.
🏨 Mid-Range: Hotel Sea View, Sparsa Resort.
🏨 Luxury: The Seashore Hotel, Annai Resorts & Spa.
Day 4: Kanyakumari to Kovalam
How to Reach Kovalam from Kanyakumari
🚗 By Road: 2.5-3 hours via NH66.
Exploring Kovalam
Kovalam is a charming beach town known for its pristine beaches, Ayurvedic resorts, and water sports. It’s one of the most popular coastal destinations in Kerala.
Places to Visit in Kovalam
- Kovalam Beach – The most famous beach, ideal for sunbathing and swimming.
- Lighthouse Beach – Offers breathtaking sunset views.
- Hawa Beach & Samudra Beach – Less crowded beaches for a peaceful experience.
- Vellayani Lake – A scenic freshwater lake with boating.
- Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium – Perfect for marine life exploration.
Where to Stay in Kovalam
🏨 Budget: Little Elephant Beach Resort, Coconut Bay Beach Resort.
🏨 Mid-Range: Sagara Beach Resort, Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Hotel.
🏨 Luxury: The Leela Kovalam, Taj Green Cove Resort & Spa.
Day 5: Return to Trivandrum & Final Sightseeing
How to Reach Trivandrum from Kovalam
🚗 By Road: 30 minutes drive.
Places to Visit in Trivandrum
- Padmanabhaswamy Temple – One of the wealthiest temples in the world.
- Napier Museum & Zoo – A historic museum showcasing Kerala’s rich heritage.
- Shanghumukham Beach – A serene beach perfect for sunset views.
- Chalai Market – A great place for shopping local goods and spices.
Where to Stay in Trivandrum
🏨 Budget: Safire Residency, Hotel Prasanth.
🏨 Mid-Range: Hilton Garden Inn, Apollo Dimora.
🏨 Luxury: Vivanta by Taj, Hycinth Hotels.
Best Time to Visit
☀️ September to March – Pleasant weather, best for sightseeing.
🌧 June to August – Monsoon season, ideal for Ayurvedic treatments.
Travel Tips
✅ Carry lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
✅ Book hotels in advance during peak season.
✅ Try Kerala’s Ayurvedic massage for a rejuvenating experience.
Final Thoughts
This 5-day itinerary offers a perfect mix of beaches, heritage, and spiritual experiences, making it an ideal South India trip. Whether you’re a history lover, beach enthusiast, or adventure seeker, this journey promises unforgettable experiences.
