Exploring South India offers a rich blend of ancient temples, serene hill stations, and tranquil backwaters. This 10 day Trichy, Thanjavur, Madurai, Rameswaram, Kanyakumari, Trivandrum, Varkala, Alleppey, Munnar & Cochin itinerary is designed for travelers seeking a deep dive into Tamil Nadu and Kerala’s cultural and natural treasures. Whether you are a family on a pilgrimage, a senior citizen looking for a peaceful vacation, or an NRI wanting to reconnect with heritage, this Tamil Nadu Kerala 10 days tour package covers all must-see spots with comfortable travel times and meaningful experiences.

"The One With Peaks, Palms, and Prayers"

10 day Trichy, Thanjavur, Madurai, Rameswaram, Kanyakumari, Trivandrum, Varkala, Alleppey, Munnar & Cochin itinerary

Day 1: Trichy to Thanjavur – Temples and History

Start your journey in Trichy, a city known for its religious significance and architectural marvels. The drive to Thanjavur is about 110 km and takes roughly 3 hours.

Places to Visit:

• Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple (Srirangam): One of the largest functioning Hindu temples in the world, this temple is a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture.

• Jambukeswarar Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is famous for its water element worship.

• Rockfort Temple: Perched on a massive rock, it offers panoramic views of Trichy city.

• Brihadeeswarar Temple (Thanjavur): A UNESCO World Heritage site, this grand temple built by Raja Raja Chola I is a must-see for history lovers.

  
  

Spend the night in Thanjavur, soaking in the cultural ambiance.

Day 2: Thanjavur to Madurai – A Blend of Spirituality and Royalty

Travel 190 km to Madurai, a city famed for its vibrant temple culture and royal palaces. The journey takes about 4.5 hours.

Key Attractions:

• Meenakshi Amman Temple: Known for its stunning gopurams and intricate sculptures, this temple is the heart of Madurai.

• Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple: One of the six abodes of Lord Murugan, set on a hill.

• Koodal Alagar Temple: Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this temple is known for its beautiful sculptures.

• Gandhi Memorial Museum: Offers insight into India’s freedom struggle.

• Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal: A 17th-century palace showcasing Indo-Saracenic architecture.

• Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam: A large temple tank famous for its float festival.

  
  

Overnight stay in Madurai prepares you for the next day’s coastal adventure.

Day 3: Madurai to Rameswaram – Sacred Island Exploration

The 170 km drive to Rameswaram takes about 3.5 hours. This island town is a major pilgrimage site with many spiritual and natural attractions.

Highlights:

• Ramanathaswamy Temple: Famous for its long corridors and sacred water tanks.

• Agni Theertham: A holy beach where pilgrims take ritual baths.

• 22 Holy Wells: Each with its own significance in Hindu mythology.

• Abdul Kalam Memorial & House: Tribute to India’s former president and scientist.

• Pamban Bridge: An engineering marvel connecting the island to the mainland.

• Kothandaramar Temple and Panjamuki Hanuman Temple: Important religious sites.

• Ariyaman Beach: A peaceful spot for relaxation.

• Ram Sethu View Point: Offers views of the legendary bridge to Sri Lanka.

• Dhanushkodi: A ghost town with haunting beauty.

• Floating Stone: A natural curiosity.

  
  

Spend the night in Rameswaram to rest after a full day of sightseeing.

Day 4: Rameswaram to Kanyakumari – The Southernmost Point of India

Prepare for a longer drive of 310 km, approximately 6.5 hours, to Kanyakumari, where three seas meet.

Must-See Places:

• Bhagavathi Amman Temple: A revered temple dedicated to Goddess Kanya Kumari.

• Vivekananda Rock Memorial: Built on a rock island, it honors Swami Vivekananda’s meditation.

• Thiruvalluvar Statue: A towering statue of the Tamil poet-philosopher.

• Gandhi Memorial Mandapam: Where Gandhi’s ashes were kept before immersion.

• Tsunami Memorial Park: A tribute to the 2004 tsunami victims.

• Triveni Sangam: The confluence of the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean.

• Sunset View Point: Famous for spectacular sunsets over the ocean.

  
  

Stay overnight in Kanyakumari to enjoy the coastal atmosphere.

Day 5: Kanyakumari to Trivandrum – Temples and Beaches of Kerala

A short 90 km drive (about 2.5 hours) takes you to Trivandrum, Kerala’s capital, blending temple culture with natural beauty.

Attractions:

• Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Known for its intricate carvings and spiritual significance.

• Padmanabhapuram Palace: A historic wooden palace showcasing Kerala architecture.

• Poovar Backwaters: A tranquil waterway perfect for boat rides.

• Aazhimala Shiva Temple: A coastal temple with scenic views.

• Kovalam Beach: A popular beach destination with golden sands and calm waters.

  
  

Overnight in Trivandrum sets the stage for exploring Kerala’s hill stations and backwaters in the coming days.

Day 6: Varkala – Spiritual and Coastal Delights

Starting from Trivandrum, the drive to Varkala is about 45 km and takes roughly 1.5 hours. Varkala is famous for its unique cliff-side beach and spiritual landmarks.

Key Places to Visit

• Sivagiri Mutt  

  This ashram is a spiritual center founded by the social reformer Sree Narayana Guru. It offers insight into Kerala’s spiritual heritage and peaceful surroundings.

• Janardanaswamy Temple  

  One of the oldest temples in Kerala, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Its architecture and religious significance attract many pilgrims.

• Varkala Cliff & Beach  

  The cliff offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea. The beach below is known for its black sand, believed to have medicinal properties.

• Black Sand Beach  

  A unique natural feature, the black sand is rich in minerals and provides a different beach experience compared to typical white sandy shores.

Spend the night in Varkala to enjoy the calm evening atmosphere and prepare for the next day’s journey.

Day 7: From Varkala to Alleppey via Jatayu Earth Center

The next leg covers 125 km and takes about 3.5 hours. This day combines adventure, nature, and cultural experiences.

Highlights of the Day

• Jatayu Earth Center  

  Located near Chadayamangalam, this is the world’s largest bird sculpture and an adventure park. It offers rock climbing, rappelling, and zip-lining, making it ideal for families and adventure lovers.

• Alleppey Backwaters  

  Known as the "Venice of the East," Alleppey’s backwaters are a network of lagoons and canals. A boat house cruise here is optional but highly recommended for a peaceful experience.

• Marari Beach  

  A quiet beach near Alleppey, perfect for relaxation after a day of sightseeing.

• Mullakkal Temple  

  A significant temple in Alleppey, known for its festivals and traditional Kerala architecture.

Overnight stay in Alleppey allows you to rest before heading to the hill station of Munnar.

Day 8: Alleppey to Munnar – Journey to the Hills

Traveling 170 km over 5 hours, this route takes you from the coastal plains to the cool hills of Munnar.

Must-See Attractions

• Tea Gardens  

  Munnar’s rolling tea plantations are iconic. Walking through these lush fields offers a refreshing experience.

• Photo Point  

  A scenic spot perfect for capturing the beauty of Munnar’s landscape.

• Mattupetty Dam  

  Surrounded by hills, this dam is a popular picnic spot with boating facilities.

• Echo Point  

  Known for its natural echo phenomenon, this spot is fun for families and nature lovers.

Spend the night in Munnar to enjoy the cool climate and prepare for a full day of sightseeing.

Day 9: Full Day in Munnar – Nature and Culture

Munnar offers a rich mix of natural beauty and cultural experiences.

Places to Explore

• Eravikulam National Park  

  Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, this park offers trekking and panoramic views.

• Tea Museum  

  Learn about the history and process of tea production in Kerala.

• Rajamalai  

  A part of the national park, known for its biodiversity.

• Kundala Dam  

  A serene spot with pedal boating and beautiful surroundings.

• Top Station  

  The highest point in Munnar, offering breathtaking views of the Western Ghats.

• Lakkam Waterfalls  

  A refreshing waterfall ideal for a short trek and nature photography.

Overnight stay in Munnar lets you soak in the hill station’s tranquility.

Day 10: Munnar to Cochin – Cultural Heritage and Departure

The final day covers 130 km in about 4 hours, ending in Cochin, a city rich in history and culture.

Key Sites in Cochin

• Fort Kochi Beach  

  Known for its historic charm and Chinese fishing nets.

• St. Francis Church  

  The oldest European church in India, where Vasco da Gama was once buried.

• Mattancherry Palace  

  Also called the Dutch Palace, it showcases Kerala’s royal history and murals.

• Jewish Synagogue and Jew Street  

  Explore the heritage of the Jewish community in Kerala.

• Marine Drive  

  A scenic promenade perfect for an evening stroll.

• Bolgatty Palace  

  A heritage hotel and former Dutch governor’s residence.

After sightseeing, you will be dropped off at Cochin airport or railway station, concluding your memorable trip.

Planning Your South India Temple Hill Station Backwater Tour

This itinerary balances temple visits, historical sites, and natural beauty, making it ideal for a family tour package Tamil Nadu Kerala. The travel times are manageable, allowing ample time for sightseeing without rush. Each day introduces a new facet of South India’s culture, from ancient temples to serene beaches and backwaters.

For travelers interested in extending the trip beyond these five days, the next stops typically include Varkala, Alleppey, Munnar, and Cochin. These destinations offer stunning hill station retreats and backwater cruises, completing the Madurai to Cochin long tour itinerary.

Tips for a Smooth Tamil Nadu Kerala 10 Days Tour Package

• Book accommodations in advance, especially in popular pilgrimage towns.

• Hire local guides at major temples for deeper insights.

• Carry comfortable walking shoes; temple complexes can be large.

• Respect local customs and dress codes when visiting religious sites.

• Stay hydrated and carry light snacks during long drives.

• Plan your travel during cooler months (October to March) for comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Is this itinerary suitable for senior citizens?

  Yes. All itineraries are well-paced, avoid late-night travel, and are senior-citizen friendly.

• Can this package be customized?

  Absolutely. Trips can be customized based on number of days, temples, hotel category, and pickup/drop location.

• Are hotels included in the package?

  Yes. Budget, standard, and luxury hotel options are available as per your preference.

• Will there be a guide during temple visits?

  Our experienced drivers provide basic temple guidance. Separate professional guides can be arranged on request.

• Is this tour safe for families and children?

  Yes. We use private vehicles, trusted drivers, and family-friendly schedules.

• What are the pickup points?

  Pickup is available from Airport, Railway Station, Bus Stand, or hotel as per the package.

  
  

Plan Your Perfect Tamil Nadu Temple Trip with Honestum Tours

✔ Private car with experienced driver

✔ Perfectly timed temple itinerary

✔ Budget, standard & luxury hotel options

✔ Customizable plans based on your schedule

✔ Safe for kids, women & senior citizens

✔ Pickup from Madurai Airport / Railway Station

📞 Call / WhatsApp: +91 96779 77223

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