chennai to varkala road trip

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Monsoon Holiday escapade: An unforgettable Chennai to Varkala road trip adventure

Take a holiday break with a memorable road trip during the monsoon from chennai to varkala and unveil a tapestry of natural beauty, as the lush landscapes come alive..

For those seeking respite from the scorching heat of Chennai , embarking on a drive from Chennai to Varkala proves to be an excellent escape. Located along the captivating coastline of Kerala , the town of Varkala offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural charm which transforms into a breathtaking paradise during monsoon rains.

Embarking on a self-drive journey from Chennai to Varkala can be a delightful experience. The journey covers approximately 700 km and takes about 13 to 14 hours non-stop by car.

The joy of travelling by road lies in the stops along the way, indulging in local cuisines, and exploring some lesser-known attractions., morning departure from chennai:.

Begin your journey early morning from Chennai. The roads are generally clear and it’s a smooth ride . Your first leg of the journey should ideally be towards Villupuram. Enjoy the beautiful sunrise and the lush greenery alongside East Coast Road (ECR).

Breakfast at Villupuram (158 km from Chennai):

Villupuram is a great place for breakfast. Try the local South Indian dishes like idli, dosa, and vada at one of the many local restaurants such as Hotel Aaryas.

Villupuram is one of the largest districts in Tamil Nadu , known for its rich history and agricultural landscape. For history enthusiasts, the Gingee Fort, also known as the “Troy of the East”, is a must-visit. While primarily a transit town, it is also home to several ancient temples. The local cuisine here is dominated by traditional Tamil dishes and is a treat for food lovers.

Stopover at Pondicherry (40 km from Villupuram):

Post breakfast, proceed towards Pondicherry . Take a short detour to explore the French colonies, Auroville, and the beautiful beaches in the city. If time allows, visit the serene Aurobindo Ashram. Pondicherry is also known for its French bakeries, so grabbing a pastry or a sandwich for a quick snack might be a good idea.

Pondicherry’s French Quarter, with tree-lined streets and mustard-coloured colonial villas, offers a stark contrast to the South Indian architecture in the Tamil Quarter. Visit the serene beaches, explore Auroville, the universal city, and enjoy the delectable French-Tamil fusion cuisine here.

Lunch at Cuddalore (22 km from Pondicherry):

Drive further south to Cuddalore for lunch. Cuddalore is known for its traditional Tamil cuisine. The Nivedhanam Restaurant is a popular choice among travellers and locals.

Cuddalore is a rapidly growing industrial city known for its beautiful beaches and historical temples. Silver Beach is a popular tourist attraction, known for its pristine sand and tranquil waters. The city’s cuisine offers a variety of South Indian dishes, especially seafood due to its coastal location.

Scenic Stopover at Chidambaram (44 km from Cuddalore):

Post lunch, you can head towards Chidambaram, a town known for its magnificent temples. The Thillai Nataraja Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a significant stopover offering a spiritual retreat.

Chidambaram is a spiritual destination, known for the Thillai Nataraja Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. This town is also renowned for its traditional music and dance festivals. The local markets offer a variety of handloom products that make great souvenirs.

Drive to Thanjavur (104 km from Chidambaram):

As you continue your journey, your next stop will be Thanjavur, a city steeped in history and culture. Famous for its Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Thanjavur also offers an opportunity to shop for Tanjore paintings and dolls.

Also known as Tanjore, Thanjavur is a historical city famous for its exquisite art and architecture. The Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an architectural marvel of the Chola dynasty. The city is also famous for its unique Tanjore paintings and handcrafted dolls.

Dinner at Tiruchirappalli (60 km from Thanjavur):

End your day at Tiruchirappalli, also known as Trichy. A late-night dinner at the famous Parthasarathy Vilas will provide an authentic experience of the local cuisine, including their special thalis.

The city is a fine blend of tradition and modernity. It is renowned for its historic Rock Fort Temple, offering panoramic views of the city. The bustling local markets, like the famous Gandhi Market, provide a lively shopping experience for tourists.

Drive to Madurai (133 km from Trichy) for an Overnight Stay:

Finally, head towards Madurai for your night halt. This ancient city is known for the grand Meenakshi Amman Temple. A comfortable stay at one of the city’s hotels will get you refreshed for the next day’s journey.

One of the oldest cities in India, Madurai is often referred to as the “Athens of the East” due to its significant cultural and historical importance. The city is synonymous with the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple, which is a grand architectural spectacle. Don’t miss the famous Jigarthanda, a local dessert, while you are here. The shopping here is great for handicrafts, and silks.

Morning Drive to Tirunelveli (160 km from Madurai):

After a good sleep and a tasty breakfast in Madurai, your next stop could be Tirunelveli, a town known for its unique Wheat Halwa. Make sure to grab a box for the journey.

Tirunelveli is a vibrant city known for its unique Dravidian style of architecture, particularly in the Nellaiappar Temple. It is also famous for its distinct cuisine, particularly the Tirunelveli Halwa, a sweet delicacy made from wheat and sugar. The serene banks of the Thamirabarani River provide a perfect spot for a peaceful break.

Arrive at Varkala (240 km from Tirunelveli):

Post lunch, proceed towards your final destination – Varkala. The drive from Tirunelveli to Varkala is scenic with views of the lush countryside and coconut groves.

Arriving in Varkala, you will be welcomed by the sight of the beautiful cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea, lined with shops and beach shacks. Varkala Beach, or Papanasam Beach, is a must-visit, known for its holy waters which are believed to wash away sins.

Varkala is famous for its beautiful beaches, cliffs, and religious sites. Some popular attractions include Varkala Beach, Janardanaswamy Temple, Sivagiri Mutt, Varkala Lighthouse, and Kappil Lake. You can also indulge in activities like swimming, surfing, and Ayurvedic treatments.

This marks the end of your memorable self-drive journey from Chennai to Varkala. Remember, the idea of a self-drive vacation is not just to reach the destination but also to relish the journey. So, make the most of it, create memories, and have a safe trip!

We share a list of self drive car rental companies you can choose for your upcoming trip to South India.

Not owning a car is no longer a hassle if this road trip is on your list. Renting a car or opting for a self drive car which provides round-the-clock customer service and flexible rental policies is the most practical and cost-effective solution. Here are some reliable self drive cars rentals that you can check out to plan your upcoming weekend getaway in South India.

• Being India’s first self-mobility platform, Zoomcar still holds major scope in the markets. The company offers hatchbacks, sedans, SUVs, and premium cars along with a reputation that speaks widely of its customer service.
• One of the leading technologically advanced self drive car rental companies, IndusGo provides convenient and affordable transportation options to customers. IndusGo ensures a hassle-free experience, allowing users to book a car easily through its website or mobile app and have the car delivered to their doorstep. With its strong footing in Kerala and Tamil Nadu, IndusGo is one of the best choices to make for your weekend plans.
• The company takes pride in its transparency. The platform provides a wide range of fairly new cars that are well-maintained to suit the safety and quality standards of the industry.
• Along with car rentals, Revv also provides monthly subscriptions wherein the monthly fee includes insurance, service fee, and maintenance. Additionally, there are no long-term commitments – customers can return, extend, or buy out the car when they want.
• With one of the most affordable pricing in the market, MyChoize provides its customers with a versatile option of cars from across brands to choose from.

FAQs on self drive road trips from Chennai to Varkala

• Q: How long is the distance from Chennai to Varkala?
• A: The distance from Chennai to Varkala is approximately 700 km (435 miles) via road.
• Q: What is the best route to take from Chennai to Varkala?
• A: The most common and recommended route is to take NH38 and NH66. This route takes you through cities like Villupuram, Tiruchirappalli, Madurai, and Kollam, eventually leading to Varkala.
• Q: How long does it take to drive from Chennai to Varkala?
• A: The driving time from Chennai to Varkala can vary depending on traffic conditions and your speed, but it generally takes around 11 to 12 hours. It’s advisable to plan for breaks during the journey.
• Q: Are there any tolls on the route from Chennai to Varkala?
• A: Yes, there are several toll booths along the route from Chennai to Varkala. It’s recommended to carry some cash or use a FASTag for smoother toll payments.
• Q: Are there good places to stop for food and rest along the way?
• A: Yes, there are multiple towns and cities along the Chennai to Varkala route where you can find restaurants, dhabas, and eateries for meals and refreshments. Cities like Villupuram, Tiruchirappalli, Madurai, and Kollam have numerous options.
• Q: Is it safe to travel from Chennai to Varkala by road?
• A: Yes, the journey from Chennai to Varkala is generally considered safe. However, it’s always recommended to practice caution while driving, especially on highways. Follow traffic rules, avoid speeding, and be aware of your surroundings. It’s also a good idea to inform someone about your travel plans and expected arrival time.

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Explore nearby places

• Kottarakkara
• Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum)
• Pathanamthitta
• Ambasamudram

All related maps of Varkala Town

• Map of Varkala Town
• Map of Kottarakkara
• Map of Kollam
• Map of Anchal
• Map of Palode
• Map of Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum)
• Map of Punalur
• Map of Mannady
• Map of Ponmudi
• Map of Kallar
• Map of Thenmala
• Map of Adoor
• Map of Kovalam
• Map of Vizhinjam
• Map of Oachira
• Map of Azheekal
• Map of Chowara
• Map of Kayamkulam
• Map of Konni
• Map of Pathanamthitta
• Map of Poovar
• Map of Mavelikara
• Map of Courtallam
• Map of Chengannur
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• Map of Tenkasi
• Map of Kadayam
• Map of Marthandam
• Map of Thiruvalla
• Map of Ambasamudram

Varkala Town throughout the year

• Varkala Town in January
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• Varkala Town in December

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Best Road Trips to Varkala, Kerala Places to Visit

Varkala is an enthralling tourist destination in Kerala (God’s own country). Every year, a chunk of tourists used to visit this place to spend their holidays amidst a tranquil and scenic natural ambience. This is the sole place in Kerala where you can find stony cliffs adjacent to the sea. You can’t leave Varkala without experiencing its diverse culture and historical marvels.

Road trips to Varkala

There are multifarious ways to reach Varkala via road.

From Bangalore

The distance between Bangalore and Varkala is nearly 700 km via NH44. If you hire a self-drive car rental from Revv for Varkala from Bangalore, it may take 13 hrs. to reach your destination.

The distance between Kochi to Varkala is 169 km via NH66. If you can hire a self-drive and sanitized car from Revv, you can reach Varkala within 4 hrs from Kochi.

From Trivandrum

The distance between Trivandrum to Varkala is only 46 km via NH66. If you take a self-rental car from Trivandrum, you can reach Varkala within 1 hr 15 mins.

Best time to Visit Varkala

The winter season is the best time to visit Varkala. The temperature is very pleasant in the winter season and that’s why it is the ideal time to explore nearby places around Varkala. October, November, December, January, and March are the best months to visit Varkala.

Things to see in Varkala

Whether you are travelling with your loved ones or you want some me-time or want to explore your spiritual side, you will be blessed with everything that you are looking for in Varkala. Let’s take a look at some of the popular Varkala tourist places.

• Varkala beach
• Varkala Cliff
• Ponnumthuruthu Island
• Varkala Aquarium
• Kappil Beach
• Anjero Fort and Lighthouse
• Kilimanoor palace

1. Varkala beach

This is one of the most intriguing places to visit near Varkala. This beach is only 10 km away from the quaint hamlet and offers astounding views of the turquoise waters of the sea. Many people believe that taking a dip in the holy waters of the beach will overcome them to get rid of all ailments and the soul of its sins. Every year, a plethora of tourists used to visit Varkala to purge themselves of their misconduct.

Varkala beach activities

Varkala beach is famous for various adventurous activities.

• Windsurfing: This beach is ideal for those who are ardent lovers of windsurfing. You can enjoy wonderful windsurfing at this place with 2 to 5 feet long tides.
• Parasailing: due to the incessant flow of wind, parasailing is one of the most-loved activities at Varkala beach. To enjoy a perfect parasailing experience, many tourists come to this place.
• Sunbathing: This is another sought-after activity at Varkala beach. This beach embraces tourists with a unique experience of sunbathing with its stunning landscape and promising weather.
•   Sunset: Say goodbye to the departed sun with the perfect blended colors while sitting on the beach.  This beautiful experience you never want to forget in your entire life.

2. Varkala Cliff

Varkala Cliff is just beside the Varkala beach and offers a serene environment where you can indulge in natural beauty and enjoy some quality time. The long and zigzagging stretch of cliffs is adorned with tall and lovely coconut trees on both sides. To make your road trip more memorable, you can enjoy some local snacks on the cliff and even purchase a bunch of trinkets and knick-knacks from local handcraft shops. You can reach the pristine Varkala beach by climbing down to the top of the cliff.

3. Ponnumthuruthu Island

If you are planning to enjoy Varkala sightseeing, then don’t miss this island. This is an uninhabited island that is located 20 km away from Varkala. Spread over 5 hectares, this island offers eye-soothing panoramas. The immaculate azure waters of Akathumuri Lake surround the island and make this entire island an extremely tranquil and peaceful feeling. This place is crammed with exotic migratory birds, rare water birds and other wildlife. It is an ideal place for bird watchers and nature aficionados.

4. Varkala Aquarium

If you are travelling with your kids, then this is one of the popular Varkala attractions. Here, you can see large water tanks that are thronged with exotic species of aquatic life. The zigzag walk along the premises of the aquarium embraces you with astonishing views of various fish, like scorpionfish, angelfish, koi, the local karimeen, and many more. This is a favorite place for animal lovers and inquisitive souls.

5. Kappil Beach

This gorgeous beach is an ideal place where you can spend a day wholeheartedly. Enjoy the glittering waters of the Arabian Sea and dip your toes in the immaculate waters of the sea. You may go for a pleasant walk with your partner on the golden sand or just lay down on the beach with a glass of cocktail and enjoy how the day passes.

6. Anjero Fort and Lighthouse

 Anjero Fort and LightHouse are the two nearby places that you must visit in Varkala. The fort was the first British establishment in India and thus, it is popular among tourists. The architectural design of the fort is stunning and the beautiful picturesque of the fort makes this place an ideal picnic spot. It was believed that the lighthouse was used to guide British ships to shore and from the vantage point. This lighthouse offers breathtaking views of the sea.

7. Kilimanoor Palace

This palace is famous for astonishing paintings and artwork created by one of the eminent artists in Kerala, named Raja Ravi Varma. The area of the palace is 15 hectares, and it also has a studio where Raja Ravi Varma spent time creating his magnificent art pieces. This palace is a must-visited place for art aficionados as well as cultural connoisseurs.

These are Varkala near tourist places that you must visit on your road trip.

Things to do in Varkala

• Water spots: This is one of the popular activities to do in Varkala. Jet skiing, banana boat rides and parasailing are some of the most exhilarating things to do in Varkala to make your trip memorable.
• Varkala Culture center: Varkala is a place that offers modern and conventional culture distinctively. Enjoy Kathakali dance performance and various styles of Kalaripayattu at the Varkala Culture Center.
• Yoga: Yoga and dabbling are the most popular activities in Varkala that you can’t shun. Many ashrams at Varkala offer tourists to attend various yoga sessions.
• Enjoy scrumptious local cuisine: Many cafes at Varkala offer you some mouth-watering South Indian and Kerala cuisine including seafood, filter coffee and romantic dates. Don’t miss these dishes on your trip.
• Shopping: The winding streets of Varkala are the perfect places for shopping lovers. From perfumes to clothing, bamboo products, funky jewellery, and soaps, you find much attractive stuff here. Tibetan handmade products like the flutes, Dorjee, and conches are the most popular shopping items at Varkala.

Now, you have an adequate idea about Varkala and its nearby tourist places that you must visit on your road trips to Varkala. Hire a self-drive rental car from Revv and explore this small land of paradise in Kerala. 

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An Itinerary for a lush road trip in Kerala, India

Brightly coloured houses, reticent but smiling locals, and low-lying clouds. Undulating Tea Estates spread out as far as the eye can see, mystic spice plantations and coffee farms spread over acres, walls covered with bright red hibiscus flowers, and roads lined with sunflowers. A road trip in Kerala is a delightful assault to the senses – the colours, the smiles, and the landscapes are bound to leave the traveller in you reeling with joy.

Suggested itinerary for a road trip in Kerala

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a road trip in Kerala before I divulge the route we took and provide tips and tricks to making the most of a road trip to Kerala in 2 weeks:

• Tea Estates and hills at Munnar or Wayanad (3-4 days)
• Spice Plantations and wildlife at Thekkady (3 days)
• Backwaters and houseboats at Kumarakom or Alleppey (3 days)
• Beaches at Varkala or Kovalam (3 days)
• City life in Kochi, with a day trip to Athirappilly (2 days)

Our itinerary for a road trip in Kerala

Of course the itinerary charted above is flexible. You can weed out places based on personal preferences and the amount of time at hand. We had just 10 days in Kerala, so we decided to skip the beaches of Varkala and Kovalam. Here’s the route we followed on our road trip in Kerala:

Budgeting for your road trip in Kerala

Let’s start with the logistics first – car rental and expenses. The overall cost of this road trip will depend on the city of departure and the hotels you choose. Kerala boasts of some stunning hotels and you can choose everything from bespoke hideaways to homestays, depending on your budget and personal preferences. Here’s a list of expenses other than accommodation

• Domestic flights to Coimbatore/Kochi cost under £100/INR 10,000 from most cities in India
• A rental car will set you back by approximately £20-£30/INR 2000-3000 per day depending on the car you choose.
• We spent £45/INR 4500 on fuel for a 10 day road trip. This amount will increase if you decide to drive down to Kovalam.
• It’s easy to eat for less than £5/INR 500 at little eateries across Kerala. They serve delectable food and have a variety of local delicacies on offer. There are also several fine-dining restaurants in the area and some of our favourites are mentioned in the article below.

Driving and Renting a car for your road trip in Kerala

You know just how much we love driving around in new places and this was no exception. Driving in Kerala is much easier than Ladakh (our last road trip in India). Roads are in good shape and drivers are not aggressive. However do beware than this route featured hilly drives and hairpin bends by the dozen, so drive yourself only if you have previous experience driving in hills. Having said that, we loved driving in Kerala. We would recommend it if you’re a seasoned driver who enjoys road trips.

We would definitely recommend renting with an Indian rental company while you are in India as they understand the nuances of the market well. We’ve rented with Myles Cars in India before and enjoyed their service, so we decided to stick to the same provider this time around too. We picked up our car –  Mahindra XUV 500 – from Coimbatore airport. It was

10 Essential Experiences on your road trip in Kerala

• Prance in the tea estates of Munnar
• Go for a wildlife safari at Periyar National Park
• Buy fragrant local spices and loose leaf tea for friends and family back home
• Visit a coffee farm
• Go canoeing in Vembanad Lake
• Stay in a houseboat as your explore the backwaters of Kerala
• Sample Toddy, an alcoholic drink made from the sap of the palm tree
• Try local delicacies such as Meen Pollichathu (fish wrapped in banana leaf), Meen Curry (spiced fish curry), Avial (vegetables in a coconut curry), dosas (savoury crépes), and Ulli Theeyal (shallot curry)
• Hunt down waterfalls at Chelarkovil or Athirappilly
• Make friends – locals in the area are friendly and helpful. Talk to them, pick their brains about scenic spots in the vicinity, and share a meal (or two) with them.

Best time to visit Kerala

The months between November and February are perfect to visit Kerala. Expect moderate temperatures and lush green estates. Of course these are peak months, so expected higher rates and crowds at popular places. We wanted to avoid the tourist hordes, so we visited during March, which is a shoulder month. It was perfect but some days did tend to get extremely hot and humid, especially in the backwaters.

July and August are popular with tourists too as this is peak monsoon season. Kerala’s monsoons are special – expect an abundance of greenery and beautiful waterfalls.

Day by day itinerary for a road trip in Kerala

Day 1: fly into coimbatore and drive to munnar.

This day is reserved for arriving in Munnar, the first stop on your road trip of Kerala. Fly into Kochi or Coimbatore. We chose Coimbatore International Airport because it is serviced by Myles.  We picked up are rental car at the airport and kick started our road trip.

Roads are in great shape and there are lots of supermarkets and restaurants on the way. Stock up on snacks, fruits for your road trip. There’s no need to go overboard as hot food is readily available during the length of this road trip in Kerala. Stop at Thoovanam Falls on the way  – the gurgling waterfall is worth a pitstop only if you’re visiting during monsoon months (July & August)

The scenery will begin to change dramatically as you inch closer to Munnar. The searing sun will give way to a nip in the air. Winding roads punctuated with undulating tea plantations and rolling hills will welcome you to the area.

Accommodation in Munnar

Munnar town is quite crowded and chaotic. We suggest staying in a hotel in a village called Chinnakanal. The village is a convenient forty minute drive from Munnar. Here it is possible to stay in a hotel or homestay in the midst of gorgeous tea plantations. Two hotels that boast of great views in the area are Terrace Greens and Club Mahindra. We chose the former for our stay in Munnar – rooms at Terrace Greens aren’t luxurious but they are spacious and well-equipped. Food is tasty. However the lack of wifi in the rooms lets it down.

The hotel is nestled in the countryside, so make sure you stock up on provisions beforehand. Munnar is twenty kilometres away and Surianelli village, which has a large bustling market, is just 5 kilometres away

Days 1-4: Explore Munnar and Chinnakanal

There are lots of things to do in the area but waking up to the sight of endless tea plantations would have to be one of my favourite experiences in Munnar. Low hanging clouds float over verdant tea estates, lending magic to the proceedings.

But we weren’t just exploring tea estates or photographing them. Here’s a list of other things to see and do in the area:

•  Anayirankal Dam and Lake: a picturesque boating and picnic spot, Anayirankal Dam and Lake provides photo opportunities by the dozen.
• Mattupetty Dam and Lake: one of the most popular sites in the area, it tends to get quite crowded. We didn’t love the viewing area but really enjoyed driving along the lake.
• Top Station and Echo Point: Combine your trip to Mattupetty Dam with a drive to Echo Point and Top Station. This makes for an incredibly scenic drive. Expect gorgeous views of the Western Ghats and magical low-lying clouds everywhere.
• Kolukkumalai tea estate: A bumpy ride gets you to the world’s highest tea plantation, where tea is picked and processed in a traditional fashion. Kolukkumalai is gorgeous and definitely worth a visit.
• A traditional tea factory: It should be illegal to leave Munnar without visiting a traditional tea factory. Watch tea leaves being painstakingly picked and processed into high-quality tea. Make sure you pick a bag or two for friends and family back home.

Day 5: Drive from Munnar to Thekkady

After luxuriating in the green environs of Munnar for a few days, it is time to continue with your road trip of Kerala. Start early as the drive from Munnar to Thekkady is one of the prettiest ones – you will want to stop for photographs every few kilometres.

The drive begins, quite predictably, with endless stretches of tea estates. Gradually these get replaced by spice plantations and coffee farms. Roads snaking through Kerala’s Cardamom Hills are lined with bright red hibiscus flowers and chrome sunflowers. Every once in a while, purple wild flowers make an appearance, as if to add even more colour to the landscape.  Check in to your hotel on reaching Thekkady.

Accommodation in Thekkady

Try to opt for an experiential hotel in the area. Choosing a hotel that in the midst of a spice plantation amplifies the experience manifold. We stayed in Shalimar Spice Garden . Shalimar Spice Garden is a rustic yet luxurious hideaway in Thekkady. The hotel is located in the middle of 30 acres of spice plantations. Rooms are well-equipped, spacious, and boast of huge balconies. The hotel boasts of a gorgeous pool area dotted with hammocks and swings. The in-house restaurant serves delectable food. We loved our stay at Shalimar Spice Garden and would recommend it wholeheartedly.

Days 5-8: Explore Thekkady and Periyar National Park

Spend your days in Thekkady exploring its rich spice plantations, the Periyar National Park, and its surroundings. Here are a few of our favourite things to do in Thekkady on your road trip of Kerala:

Visiting Periyar National Park

Boat tours are coveted at the park because tickets are limited. Apparently you can book tickets online but despite multiple attempts, we were unable to do that.  If you want to get on a boat safari at Periyar National Park, then plan on getting up early. Get to the entrance of Periyar National Reserve by 5.45 am, park your car, get your entrance tickets (INR 65 for Indian Nationals and £3.5/INR300 for foreign nationals) and board the bus operated by the Forest Reserve. If you get onboard the first bus, chances are you’ll get a ticket for the much coveted boat ride (£2/INR150) . This is what we did but to be honest, we didn’t see much (except for a couple of stray birds). The Periyar Lake is pretty early in the morning. But the boat safari at Periyar National Park is definitely not worth the effort, especially if you’ve been to other destinations rich in wildlife such as South Africa or Australia. If you want to visit the National Park, opt for a Jeep Safari at Gavi instead.

Other than visiting Periyar National Park, here are a few of our favourite things to do in the area.

• Chellarkovil: The area boasts of waterfalls and cascades during monsoon season. There was no water at the waterfalls when we visited. But the sleepy village of Chellarkovil makes for a great drive and offers sweeping views of the neighbouring state of Tamil Nadu too. It’s also a great picnic spot, so make sure you pack a snack or two.
• There are some great treks in Kurushmala Hills – it’s better to opt for guided treks in the area
• The bustling town of Kumily is the gateway to scenic drives in the Periyar Valley. Pandikuzhi is a great place to stop for a picnic or a few photographs.

Day 8: Drive from Thekkady to Kumarakom

This drive isn’t the most scenic of the lot as it passes through lots of busy towns and chaotic villages. If you enjoy hiking, make sure you go for a short hike to Eagle Eock in the village of Parunthumpara on the way to Peerumedu . It offers a vantage point from where one can drink in views of the neighbouring valleys, mountains, and villages. Also try stopping in one of the villages on the way for a meal or a cup of coffee – experience everyday life in a village, explore Kerala’s pastel churches, or photographs its brightly-coloured houses. Upon reaching Kumarakom, you will start spotting glimpses of Kerala’s iconic backwaters and lagoons. Check into your hotel and prepare to be smitten by this quaint village of canals.

Accommodation in Kumarakom

The backwaters of Kerala boast of some stunning hotels. On the recommendation of dozens of friends and readers, we booked a pool villa at CGH Earth Coconut Lagoon Resort . And we couldn’t be happier about it. It is definitely one of the prettiest hotels we’ve EVER stayed at (and we’ve stayed in thousands!). You can park your car at their private parking at Kumarakom Jetty and board their boat, which brings you to the hotel. We promise you will fall in love with the hotel almost as soon as you float into the reception area. The hotel complex resembles a traditional village, intersected by canals and lagoons. We chose a room overlooking the backwaters of Kerala – rooms are luxurious and boast of modern amenities. Can’t recommend this one enough!

Days 8-12: Explore the backwaters of Kerala and experience life on a houseboat

The backwaters of Kerala will seduce you in no time. Spend your days taking in the stunning scenery.

• Go for a languorous canoe ride on Vembanad Lake or a sunset cruise in the backwaters.
• Treat yourself to a traditional Ayurvedic massage, which is bound to leave you feeling rejuvenated.
• Savour local delicacies such as Meen Pollichathu (grilled fish) or Karimeen curry (spicy fish curry), and  Sadya (traditional vegetarian feast) at meal times.
• Go for a bird-watching walk – Kumarakom bird sanctuary is famous for hundreds of species of birds and attracts bird enthusiasts from all around the world.

Spend your last night in Kumarakom on a houseboat. This is an experience like no other. Make sure you choose a traditional houseboat fashioned out of reed, cork, and bamboo. We spent the night on a 1 bedroom houseboat by Spice Coast Cruises and loved the experience. The evening was spent sailing past duck farms, busy villages, and floating shops. We watched the sun set over the backwaters from the comfort of our houseboat. We devoured a three course meal as the day metamorphosed into night. Most of the evening was spent lounging on the boat while staring at the stars. Make the most of it as it will soon be time to drive out of Kumarakom.

Days 12-15: Fly back or continue to the beaches of Kerala

If you have a few more days in Kerala, you should drive from Kumarakom to the southern tip of the state to explore its beaches. Varkala is a perfect pit stop if you like beach destinations sprinkled with bohemia. If you enjoy classic luxury, then choose a decadent hotel in the coastal town of Kovalam .

We had just 12 days in Kerala, so we drove back to Coimbatore International Airport from Kumarkom and boarded our flight back to New Delhi. You can also spend a night or two in Kochi on your way back to Coimbatore. Make sure you drive to Athirappilly Waterfalls if you’re in Kochi.

That’s it – an idyllic 2 week road trip in Kerala, India. This road trip offers a plethora of panoramas, sights, and cultural experiences – it is bound to leave you rejuvenated! We loved our time in Kerala and can’t wait to go back!

Want to experience our road trip in Kerala with us? Check out our vlog from Kerala

Planning a trip to Kerala? Read about our favourite hotels in Kerala

Love road trips? Read about our 14 favourite road trips around the world

Previous Post

A romantic getaway in Kerala with Plush Escapes

Bruised Passports – Q&A with Savi and Vid

81 thoughts on “ an itinerary for a lush road trip in kerala, india ”.

Wow,the pics… Perfect road trip amidst greens! Made me cast back my trip 🙂

So happy you enjoyed reading about our road trip in Kerala Indu 🙂 We loved every bit of it

Hey Hi guys. I am huge fan of your blog. The road trip itenary suggested by you for kerala is amazing. Can i go in the rainy season for the same road trip??

Hey Priyanka – thanks a ton. So happy you enjoyed reading about our road trip in Kerala 🙂 You can go during rainy season but do beware than some roads can get blocked due to heavy rain during that time of year

Beautiful description about my home state. Wayanad is also another beautiful place which is located in north Kerala. You can drive to Bandipur via Wayanad to Ooty- Coonnor and get back to Coimbatore.

Thanks a ton Remya – wish we had time for Wayanad and Ooty on this trip but that gives us a reason to be back soon 🙂

You people are doing a great job I have been seeing your videos and reading your blogs and they are really helpful. Planning vacations are now just reading one of your blog away. Savi and Vid I am a travel enthusiast and you both are my role models. Thank you

This itinerary looks so perfect. I LOVE kerala and keep going back for long weekends (I am from Bangalore). Now I want to visit again! The photos are just brilliant, couldn’t take my eyes off them! The houseboat looks so pretty and charming and cozy. 🙂 You guys should visit Coorg and Sakleshpur next. I am sure you would love both places!

Thanks Ramya 🙂 The houseboat made for quite the experience. We are contemplating going to Coorg next – hope it happens super soon

My native is on your way to Thekkady to Kumarakom, but I should say that I have not visited most places in this place. But your post and these beautiful pictures are inspiring me to explore more of Kerala as soon as I can.

Wow – that’s the greatest compliment EVER Elizabeth. So happy to hear we’ve encourage a Keralite to explore her own state – yay 🙂

I’ll be dreaming of gorgeous tea plantations and house boats tonight, that’s for sure! You guys are the reason my travel lustlist is growing at such a fast rate, haha! You guys have made Kerala sound perfect ??

Aww thanks Adele – hearing from you always makes our day. Travel lustlist growing too fast? That’s our work done then 😉

Beautiful description with jaw droppings pictures. I too had a road trip covering a few parts of Kerala. Must say Kerala is b’tful and need not say how it’s named ‘God’s Own country’. U guys have summed it up so well. My houseboat is dues and will be making it sometime soon. Thanks for reminding me of what I missed. ?? Also, I would second to Remya. Take a drive to Wayanad and go through the raw beauty it has. Staying at Bandipur jungle resort is another amazing experience. Looking forward to your next post. Much Love to U both. ??

Thanks Akanksha – so happy you enjoyed reading the article. Hope you make it to a houseboat soon 🙂 We’ll definitely take that drive to Wayanad sometime in the near future 🙂

I am planning a trip to Kerala, and I am sure I will be stealing most of this itinerary. Thank you. 🙂

Glad you enjoyed it Kaveri – have fun in Kerala 🙂

Kerala is beautiful place of India and it is full with beautiful things. Natural beauty is one of the best attraction. it have one of the biggest beaches of india and so stunning photos you shared.

We are happy to know that you enjoyed seeing the pictures we clicked in Kerala. It is a beautiful place and our trip there was nothing less than magical in the true sense.

Beautiful pictures and article AS ALWAYS! I’ve read quite a lot of travel blogs but this is the only one which does not have even one article which is anything short of amazing! Oh and don’t know why,but mention of my hometown Coimbatore made me super happy! 😀

Thank so much – so happy to know you feel that way. A lot of thought and time goes into putting together each article, so your comment is truly appeciated 🙂 Also, hi five for Coimbatore

The peppercorn picture is the best! Did you ask them to do something funny, or did they just do that on their own?

Thanks Lori – I didn’t. Just struck a conversation and captured it while talking to them 🙂

Perfect itinerary. Sunset from a houseboat picture looks so magical. I like the way you’ll write.

Hey Loreta – great to hear that. Thanks a ton 🙂

Beautiful pictures guys! I am planning a road trip to kerala from hyderabad. We have like 7 days in hand. Not possible to cover all of it I guess.Any itinerary suggestions??

Hey Ruhi – unfortunately we haven’t driven that route yet. Sorry about that 🙂

Hello Savi and Vid, so after reading your this blog post multiple times and checking google again and again, we went for Munnar last week 27th Aug 2017. And yeah we did cover main points you suggested at Munnar..It was raining for first two days but on the day of actual sight seeing, it was lovely sunny out.. Vid, I must tell you, I try to click pictures like you do, the locals, the lush green tea plants and all.. and output is always great. Big Thanks to you both.. Yeah we used public transport for Coimbatore to Munnar , Munnar to Alleppy..KSRTC buses..BOM to Coimbtore and Cochin to BOM flight. PS: We Skipped early morning Thekkady boat ride too 😛

Cheers, Ashay

Thanks a lot for the beautiful message. It’s amazing that you used public transport and covered so much – well done 😀

Do share your photos with us if you get the chance.

WOW I am going to India for the first time next week and have been reading your blog like crazy! Your photos are AMAZING, what kind of camera do you use? Would you say maxi dresses are ok for rajasthan if they are high on the neck but show shoulders? I am in love with all your oufits–such great style !

Hey Sierra – thanks a ton 🙂 Maxi Dresses are ok for Rajasthan but just carry a scarf along to cover your shoulders in busy marketplaces or near religious sites

A very detailed, inspiring and informative post 🙂

Thank you Jo- glad you liked it 🙂

Amazing pictures ..and a very detailed explanation ..next in my list …I have followed ur Slovenia iternary and Kerala in my next bucket list ..Thanks Savi and Vid

Thank you so much Kriti – hope you had a great time driving in Kerala

Very very helpful ! Thanks a ton 🙂

You’re welcome 🙂 Hope y ou enjoyed your road trip in Kerala

I’m coming to kerala with two friends next month! What was your favorite part of your trip? We are thinking about giving thekady a miss and concentrating on munnar and kumarakom/alleppey, curious to hear your opinion of it we only have a week, what would you cut out of your intinerary!

Hey Sierra,

Our favourite part has to be Kumarakom and the night we spent on the boat house. YEs, we’d give Thekaddy a miss and spend longer in Munnar/Kumarakom

For this whole trip which places did you need to take the inner permit for your vehicle? I am wondering as i am also planning the same roadtrip on this route with Myles. Thank you ?

From my recollection we did have to take permits in different places but don’t really remember how many places. But I do remember that it wasn’t difficult at all and we didn’t have to do anything in advance

Hi Can u guys suggest me best resort in kovalam i am travelling in june with 1 kid

Hey we stayed at CGH Coconut lagoon and can’t fault it 🙂

wow, these include a lot of information relating to Munnar, its very use full for every visitors. If you are looking for the best resorts and hotels in Munnar http://themunnarqueen.in/

Hey savi n vid.. I love to see yr post on insta.. they r amazing… V r planning for kerala trip.. n i have heard abt bamboo rafting in thekary.. any experiance of it..

Credibility of the post is highly appreciable with the benefits are fantastic. Can view the best work of budgeting trip for Kerala, within the single page of this blog. Not needed for guide at all !!

Hi Savi & Vid. I have been closely following you on Instagram and your posts on travel make me jealous. Wish I could go roam the country (leave aside the world) more frequently. I am mesmerized by every post of yours.

Anyways I have been planning a trip to Kerala in December (we shall start from Kochi) for 4 days/3 nights. My friends and family suggested Munnar-Takkady-Kumarkom (1 night stay at a boathouse). We would reach Munnar by afternoon as we would definitely stop for various waterfalls along kochi-munnar route. But we would stay only 1 night in munnar (I wanted to stay 2 days) and leave next day morning around 11 am for tekkady. Do you think this plan can get hectic? Or should we skip Tekkady/Periyar altogether for a more relaxed holiday? Any suggestions on an itinerary? Any places you feel we should not miss around Munnar (like chinna kanal) if we decide to stay there for 2 days?

Your suggestions could be of great help. Please help out!!

Definitely seems hectic – you won’t be able to enjoy at all 🙂 Best to spend 2 days in and around Munnar and then head to Kumarakom

Hi savi and vid

Loved your post so much that we ended up planning similar itinary for my 31st birthday. Everything u have written , have almost witnessed it. Love every details you put in your every pic. Keep sharing your amazing travel stories and keep inspiring us. Pls tell where we can share pictures with you guys.

Hey Ritika 🙂

Thank you so much – glad you had a great time 🙂 You can either email us the photos at bruisedpassports {at} gmail {dot} com or send us a message on our Instagram: @bruisedpassports 🙂

What a beautiful post and I love the pictures! Kerala is most beautiful place and top tourist destination in India. Munnar is my favorite place in Kerala, it is adorned with lofty mountains, lush greenery, misty clouds, waterfalls and much more. Thank you for sharing the wonderful travel guide for Kerala.

Happy to hear you enjoyed our experience in Kerala 🙂

You know the feeling you get when you stumble upon juuuuust the perfect itinerary , that resonates totally with how you would want your trip to be…this was it ! Thanks for sharing this, so, so helpful write up !

That’s MUSIC to our ears 🙂 Do share your photos whenever you visit 🙂

Hey guys, Thank you so much for sharing this information. I really like to visit munnar.

Happy to hear that!

I have plan to go for summer vacation and search for where to go and reached on your blog where I see Kerala is best place for holiday destination and I will plan for kerala in next week. Thanks for sharing amazing content and photos.

Happy to hear that 🙂

Hi Savi and Vid,

I discovered your Youtube channel a while back and was instantly impressed, inspired and not to mention, instantly subscribed. I’ve enjoyed the many trip reports there and so when I was “Googling” about itineraries for our upcoming Kerala trip and found a link to your blog, it definitely brought a smile and a feeling that this is going to be it. And after going through it and seeing the pictures, I’ll say I was not disappointed at all.

Anyway, to the subject. As I mentioned it’s going to be a Family Trip – 6 adults, Two kids (2 yr and 1 yr). The dates – 20th-27th September. Unfortunately, we don’t have many days. So my question is, can your itinerary be modified to 7 days and will the season be good? Also, I checked Myles but they don’t have availability on those days. Any other Car Rental recommendations would be appreciated.

Thanks. Anticipating a reply, even though this blog post is quite old now.

Thanks for your message. Yes you can definitely fit this into 7 days – spend 2-3 days in and around Munnar, 2 days in Thekkady, and 2 nights in Coconut Lagoon 🙂

Haven’t really tried any other rental agency – perhaps you could try Zoomcar?

Have a great road trip in Kerala and share photos with us 🙂

Appreciate the response. We ended up going for 8 days and hiring an Innova. We did 2 days in Kovalam, 2 in Varkala, 1 in Alleppey, 2 in Munnar and 1 in Kochi. It was a great trip. I haven’t uploaded any photos because I’m too lazy for that, unlike you guys. Keep up the good work and happy travels! By the way, just saw your Arctic Cruise video…so awesome!

Nice content and pics especially the sceneries that you have captured are awesome.

Thanks Ram!

Your post is completely fantastic, fabulous and inspiring! Lovely one! Awesome captures. Thanks for sharing!

Thanks a ton Sarah – so happy you found our tips for a roadtrip in Kerala helpful 🙂

Hey guys! Loved the article and the pictures <3 I am planning a road trip to Kerala with my parents and I've included almost all the suggestions given in this itinerary. Also, can I get a suggestion on the kind of clothes I should carry for a comfortable trip in Kerala? I would be travelling there in mid-February. Thank you.

Carry breathable cotton fabrics 🙂

Thanks a lot , nice info, i had been around kerala many times, but planning with family by road from bangalore, your info is really great thanks again

You’re welcome Raji. Hope you have a great road trip to Kerala 🙂

It’s a very beautifully weaved post and very informative as well. Love the pictures.

Thanks for sharing a very nice blog post.

Heyy Savvi and Vid! I have a question: for Houseboats and backwaters, which is a better place to visit : Allepey or Kumarakom?

Hey both are great but we like Kumarakom better

Thanks for sharing nice post

Thanks for sharing a very nice blog post

Nice blog… Visit Oshin Hotels in Wayanad on your next trip to Kerala. https://oshinhotels.com/

Your vivid descriptions and beautiful photos transport readers to each destination, making it feel like we’re right there with you. I appreciate the personal touch you bring to your travel experiences, offering insights that go beyond the typical tourist spots. It’s evident that your passion for exploration shines through every post

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Chennai To Varkala Trains

2 festive special trains found from MAS, PER to QLN

FESTIVAL SPL # 02511

Departs on: M S S M T W T F S

SHM TVC SPL # 02642

Departs on: T T S M T W T F S

COVID special trains from Chennai to Varkala

5 COVID special trains found from MAS, MS, PER to VAK, QLN

MAS TVC EXPRESS # 02623

Departs on: S M T W T F S S M T W T F S

KRBA KCVL SPL # 02647

Departs on: S T S M T W T F S

MS QLN EXPRESS # 06723

MS QLN EXPRESS # 06101

SCL TVC SPECIAL # 02508

Departs on: S S M T W T F S

Trains from Varkala to Chennai

Trains originating from Chennai

• 02842 HWH NJP SHT SPL 1658 KM     Chennai ( 18:20 ) Howrah ( 23:30 )
• 06051 MAS ADI EXP 1723 KM     Chennai ( 20:10 ) Ahmedabad ( 04:10 )
• 06058 MAS SRC EXPRESS 1664 KM     Chennai ( 15:15 ) Howrah ( 19:00 )
• 06059 MAS SC EXPRESS 706 KM     Chennai ( 19:30 ) Hyderabad ( 08:25 )
• 06338 ERS OKHA FESTSPL 2716 KM     Chennai ( 06:05 ) Guwahati ( 14:00 )
• 11042 SNSI DR EXP 1284 KM     Chennai ( 12:20 ) Mumbai ( 13:35 )
• 11074 CHENNAI LTT EXP 1268 KM     Chennai ( 15:50 ) Mumbai ( 16:00 )
• 12007 MYS SHATABDI 500 KM     Chennai ( 06:00 ) Mysore ( 13:00 )
• 12842 COROMANDEL EXP 1662 KM     Chennai ( 08:45 ) Kolkata ( 11:55 )
• 19419 MAS ADI EXPRESS 1723 KM     Chennai ( 20:30 ) Ahmedabad ( 05:45 )
• 22205 MDU DURONTO EXP 559 KM     Chennai ( 22:30 ) Madurai ( 07:10 )
• 22870 MAS VSKP SF EXP 780 KM     Chennai ( 21:10 ) Visakhapatnam ( 10:25 )
• 06222 MAS SMET EXP 639 KM     Chennai ( 15:00 ) Shimoga ( 03:55 )
• 06047 MAS TVC EXP 922 KM     Chennai ( 19:00 ) Thiruvananthapuram ( 12:30 )
• 06063 Chennai Egmore - Kollam Sabarimala SpecialFare Special 858 KM     Chennai ( 16:15 ) Kollam ( 10:10 )
• 02164 MAS LTT EXPRESS 1268 KM     Chennai ( 18:15 ) Mumbai ( 16:00 )
• 02656 MAS ADI EXPRESS 1890 KM     Chennai ( 10:10 ) Ahmedabad ( 18:00 )
• 02027 MAS SBC SHTABDI 362 KM     Chennai ( 17:30 ) Bangalore ( 22:30 )
• 02712 MAS BZA SPL 431 KM     Chennai ( 14:10 ) Vijayawada ( 21:10 )
• 06075 NCJ PNVL SPL 362 KM     Chennai ( 07:25 ) Bangalore ( 13:10 )

Trains passing through Chennai

• 03210 YPR DNR FEST SPL 2337 KM     Chennai ( 14:40 ) Dinapur Nizamat ( 08:00 )
• 02646 KCVL INDB FEST 1748 KM     Chennai ( 23:30 ) Indore ( 05:05 )
• 02645 KCVL FESTIVL SPL 901 KM     Chennai ( 23:10 ) Thiruvananthapuram ( 16:20 )
• 02970 JP CBE SUP SPL 497 KM     Chennai ( 09:00 ) Coimbatore ( 16:50 )
• 03209 DNR YPR SPL 366 KM     Chennai ( 11:55 ) Bangalore ( 18:30 )
• 02969 CBE JP EXPRESS 2188 KM     Chennai ( 17:40 ) Jaipur ( 06:45 )
• 04133 YPR FESTIVL SPL 367 KM     Chennai ( 11:55 ) Bangalore ( 18:30 )
• 04134 YPRPRYJ FEST SPL 2000 KM     Chennai ( 14:40 ) Allahabad ( 22:40 )
• 02551 YPRKYQ AC EXP 2658 KM     Chennai ( 15:40 ) Kamakhya ( 14:30 )
• 02511 FESTIVAL SPL 901 KM     Chennai ( 23:10 ) Thiruvananthapuram ( 16:20 )
• 02521 BJU ERS SPL 702 KM     Chennai ( 23:10 ) Ernakulam ( 11:30 )
• 02512 GKP FEST SPL 2345 KM     Chennai ( 23:30 ) Gorakhpur ( 15:40 )
• 02577 DBG MYS SPL 499 KM     Chennai ( 11:20 ) Mysore ( 21:40 )
• 02522 ERS BJU EXPRESS 2741 KM     Chennai ( 23:30 ) Barauni ( 00:05 )
• 02578 MYS DBG FEST SPL 2545 KM     Chennai ( 20:20 ) Darbhanga ( 16:00 )
• 06579 YPR MFP SPL 2418 KM     Chennai ( 14:40 ) Muzaffarpur ( 10:30 )
• 06580 SPJ YPR SPL 367 KM     Chennai ( 11:55 ) Bangalore ( 18:20 )
• 06185 TVC GHY EXP 1981 KM     Chennai ( 10:35 ) Old Maldah ( 20:10 )
• 06591 SBC DNR SPL 2337 KM     Chennai ( 14:40 ) Dinapur Nizamat ( 08:00 )
• 06186 GHY TVC SPECIAL 922 KM     Chennai ( 04:30 ) Thiruvananthapuram ( 23:10 )

Chennai to Varkala Trains - FAQs

How many trains run from chennai to varkala on a daily basis.

There are around 4 trains runs from Chennai to Varkala on a daily basis. The following trains start from Chennai to Varkala. MAS TVC SF MAIL (12623) , MAS TVC SF EXP (12695) , MS GURUVAYUR EXP (16127) , ANANTAPURI EXP (16723) etc.

When does the first train leaves from Chennai to Varkala?

The first train from Chennai to Varkala is MS GURUVAYUR EXP (16127) , which leaves around 08:25.

When does the last train leaves from Chennai to Varkala?

The last train from Chennai to Varkala is ANANTAPURI EXP (16723) , which leaves around 20:10.

From which stations in Chennai you can board the train to Varkala?

Different stations where one can board the trains in Chennai are CHENNAI EGMORE (MS) , TAMBARAM (TBM) , MAMBALAM (MBM) , MGR CHENNAI CTL (MAS) .

List the deboarding stations in Varkala from Chennai?

Different Stations where one can deboard the trains in Varkala are VARKALASIVAGIRI (VAK) .

Suggest the travel time by train between Chennai to Varkala?

Travel time by train between Chennai to Varkala is 15h 04m.

How many Chennai to Varkala covid special trains are running currently?

Currently 5 Chennai to Varkala covid special trains are running.

How to order food in train?

Go to the MMT app on your mobile and click on Train & Buses icon> Food in Trains> Order Food> Enter your PNR and choose your food, pay online or COD and get the food delivered right at your seat.

How many railway stations are there in Chennai?

The number of railway stations in Chennai are 16.

How many railway stations are there in Varkala?

The number of railway stations in Varkala are 3.

What is the distance to travel from Chennai to Varkala by rail?

To travel from Chennai to Varkala by rail, the distance that needs to be covered is 860 kms.

Which is the fastest train from Varkala to Chennai?

The fastest train from Varkala to Chennai is MAS TVC SF MAIL.

What is the duration between Chennai to Varkala if travelled by train?

The train journey between Chennai to Varkala will take around 15:30 hrs.

What are Chennai to Varkala train timings?

4 trains run Chennai to Varkala, please find below their departure times: 16127 train (MS GURUVAYUR EXP) - Departs at 08:25 hrs and running days ( Sun, Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat ) 16723 train (ANANTAPURI EXP) - Departs at 20:10 hrs and running days ( Sun, Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat )

Popular Trains from Chennai to Varkala

• 12623 MAS TVC SF MAIL
• 16127 MS GURUVAYUR EXP
• 16723 ANANTAPURI EXP
• 12695 MAS TVC SF EXP

Routes from Chennai

• Chennai to Nalgonda trains
• Chennai to Girimaidan trains
• Chennai to Rangia trains
• Chennai to Nagbhir trains
• Chennai to Payyannur trains
• Chennai to Tulagaon trains
• Chennai to Krishnarajapuram trains
• Chennai to Dharwar trains
• Chennai to Tenali trains
• Chennai to Kolhapur trains

Routes to Varkala

• Panagudi to Varkala trains
• Nagarcoil to Varkala trains
• Kuttippuram to Varkala trains
• Gwalior to Varkala trains
• Mulanturutti to Varkala trains
• Vallikunnu to Varkala trains
• Kadapa to Varkala trains
• Arakonam to Varkala trains
• Munroturuttu to Varkala trains
• Vishakapatnam to Varkala trains

Top train routes in India

• Akola to Fatehabad Ch.jn trains
• Dhodra Mohar to Akodia trains
• Dhuri to Tenali trains
• Doiwala to Runkhera trains
• Hamsavaram to Nidadavolu trains
• Iqbal Gadh to Dharewada trains
• Jagi to Mirzapur trains
• Kalunga to Jharsuguda trains
• KOTT to Vinukonda trains
• Makhdumpur Gaya to Punpun trains
• Malout to Andal trains
• Mehnar to Jagadhri trains
• Pathsala to Jangipur trains
• Roorkee to Hindaun trains
• Sarai Chandi to Sangli trains
• Tiruchirappalli to Jammu trains
• Itarsi to Changanassery trains
• Muzaffarpur to Farakka trains
• Karur Haveri to Mayakonda trains
• Kolhapur to Masur trains

Routes from Varkala

• Chennai to Neral trains
• Chennai to Marari trains
• Chennai to Bekal trains
• Chennai to Ramagundam trains
• Chennai to Kollam trains
• Chennai to Faridabad trains
• Chennai to Tirur trains
• Chennai to Nadikudi trains
• Chennai to Thalassery trains

Routes to Chennai

• Amravati to Varkala trains
• Kulti to Varkala trains
• Merta Road to Varkala trains
• Chinnalapatti to Varkala trains
• North Tripura to Varkala trains
• Chandili to Varkala trains
• Jalgaon to Varkala trains
• Bina Etawa to Varkala trains
• Kiraoli to Varkala trains
• Nabenagar to Varkala trains

Railway stations in Chennai

• ABU AMBATTUR
• BBQ BASIN BRIDGE JN
• CEN Chennai
• KOK KORUKKUPET JN
• MAS MGR CHENNAI CTL
• MASJ Madras
• MBM MAMBALAM
• MS CHENNAI EGMORE
• MSB CHENNAI BEACH
• RPM ROYAPURAM
• STM ST THOMAS MOUNT
• TBM TAMBARAM
• TNP TONDIARPET
• VLK VILLIVAKKAM
• WST WASHERMANPET

Railway stations in Varkala

• VAK VARKALASIVAGIRI

Live status for Trains From Chennai

• 02842 Live Train Status
• 06058 Live Train Status
• 06059 Live Train Status
• 06338 Live Train Status
• 11042 Live Train Status
• 11074 Live Train Status
• 12007 Live Train Status
• 12842 Live Train Status
• 19419 Live Train Status
• 22205 Live Train Status

Railway stations near by Chennai

• CJ KANCHIPURAM
• TMLP TIRUMALPUR
• WJ WALAJABAD
• BUM BOMMASAMUDRAM
• CGL CHENGALPATTU
• SKL SINGAPERUMLKOIL
• CTM KATTANGULATTUR
• VDR VANDALUR
• YTG YESHWANTNAGAR

Railway stations near by Varkala

• ERL ERANIEL
• DAVM DHANUVACHAPURAM
• BRAM BALARAMAPURAM
• NYY NEYYATTINKARA
• KZT KULITTHURAI
• PYD PALLIYADI
• NCJ NAGERCOIL JN

Near by Cities

• KANCHIPURAM
• PARASHSHALA

Cabs from Chennai

• Chennai to Ariyalur Cabs
• Chennai to Ranipet Cabs
• Chennai to Rasingapuram Cabs
• Chennai to Rajampet Cabs
• Chennai to Chikkaballapur Cabs
• Chennai to Pudukkottai Cabs
• Chennai to Kuttalam Cabs
• Chennai to Dakshina Kannada Cabs
• Chennai to Goa Cabs
• Chennai to Thrissur Cabs

Cabs to Varkala

• Bhokar to Varkala Cabs
• Madurai to Varkala Cabs
• Kovalam to Varkala Cabs
• Tenkasi to Varkala Cabs
• Kanyakumari to Varkala Cabs
• Palakkad to Varkala Cabs
• Alappuzha to Varkala Cabs
• Chennai to Varkala Cabs
• Nagercoil to Varkala Cabs
• Dindigul to Varkala Cabs

Buses from Chennai

• Chennai to Ranipet Buses
• Chennai to UsilamPatti Buses
• Chennai to Kanchipuram Buses
• Chennai to Paramathi Buses
• Chennai to Anakapalle By Pass Buses
• Chennai to Padukkapathu Buses
• Chennai to Paramakudi Buses
• Chennai to Sivathiapuram Buses
• Chennai to Olavakode Buses
• Chennai to Idaikal Buses
• Hotels in Chennai
• Budget hotels in Chennai
• 5 Star hotels in Chennai
• Resorts in Chennai
• Hostels in Chennai
• Villas in Chennai
• Guest Houses in Chennai
• Apart-hotels in Chennai
• Apartments in Chennai
• Homestays in Chennai
• Cottages in Chennai
• Holiday Homes in Chennai
• Lodge in Chennai
• Taj Fisherman's Cove Resort & Spa, Chennai
• Taj Connemara, Chennai
• Taj Coromandel, Chennai
• Park Hyatt Chennai
• 4 Star hotels in Chennai
• 3 Star hotels in Chennai
• 2 Star hotels in Chennai
• 1 Star hotels in Chennai
• Luxury hotels in Chennai
• Best Hotels in Chennai
• Hotels in Varkala
• Budget hotels in Varkala
• 5 Star hotels in Varkala
• Resorts in Varkala
• Hostels in Varkala
• Villas in Varkala
• Guest Houses in Varkala
• Apartments in Varkala
• Homestays in Varkala
• Cottages in Varkala
• Holiday Homes in Varkala
• Lodge in Varkala
• 4 Star hotels in Varkala
• 3 Star hotels in Varkala
• 2 Star hotels in Varkala
• 1 Star hotels in Varkala
• Luxury hotels in Varkala
• Best Hotels in Varkala
• Private Sea View Villa - Privasea
• Gateway Varkala - IHCL SeleQtions
• Nikhil Ayurvedic Heritage
• Villa Luca By Elixir Cliff
• Elixir Cliff Beach Resort and Spa
• Novella Concept Hotel & Cafe

Explore more in Chennai

• Places to Visit in Chennai
• Tourist Places in Chennai
• Best Restaurants in Chennai
• Beaches in Chennai
• Shopping Places in Chennai

Explore more in Varkala

• Places to Visit in Varkala
• Best Restaurants in Varkala
• Resorts & Stays in Varkala
• Beaches in Varkala
• Religious Places in Varkala

वर्कला के लिए रूट्स

• कोंडापुरम से वर्कला की ट्रेन
• गुरुवायुर से वर्कला की ट्रेन
• Wadakancheri से वर्कला की ट्रेन
• पलासा से वर्कला की ट्रेन
• चोट्टानिक्करा से वर्कला की ट्रेन

चेन्नई से रूट्स

• चेन्नई से अमलनेर की ट्रेन
• चेन्नई से होसपेट की ट्रेन
• चेन्नई से Thiruvarur की ट्रेन
• चेन्नई से अंकोरहा की ट्रेन
• चेन्नई से पेडना की ट्रेन

More about Chennai to Varkala route

Want to travel from Chennai to Varkala? Know about the trains running on this route. Some of the trains that run on this route are Hwh MAS TVC SF MAIL (12623),MAS TVC SF EXP (12695),MS GURUVAYUR EXP (16127),ANANTAPURI EXP (16723) etc. If you’re travelling, you can board the train from the following stations - CHENNAI EGMORE (MS) , TAMBARAM (TBM) , MAMBALAM (MBM) , MGR CHENNAI CTL (MAS) . Time taken by different trains is approximately 15h 04m to 16h 04m. Choose your train according to your suitability from trains that run on daily basis like MAS TVC SF MAIL (12623) , MAS TVC SF EXP (12695) , MS GURUVAYUR EXP (16127) , ANANTAPURI EXP (16723) etc. You can check live train running status , tatkal train tickets and PNR status on MakeMyTrip app and website. Choose MMT for the best Chennai to Varkala train ticket price. Before booking your train, get all the important info about the route as well as the Chennai to Varkala train fare Also, benefit from Trip Guarantee if your booking is still in the waitlist.

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Chennai to varkala road trip, find how many toll plazas/toll gates you will encounter for travel from chennai to varkala by car, bus, truck or lcv. find out what is the total toll charges/toll cost you will be paying for this road trip. you can also find the total distance, duration and trip cost of your journey. also find the lowest fuel price for petrol and diesel in chennai and varkala. scroll down below and wait for the map to download fully to see the toll cost and route details., for another route you can use our "toll calculator" option in menu. or click here: "toll calculator", for finding the toll free routes you can use our other site "tollfreeroads.com", road trip details for car/jeep/van, route summary, other routes for chennai to varkala, toll tax breakup for       single trip  , tolls plaza list and toll cost, on road assistance services.

When going for long journey on highways we need to be prepared for any vehicle breakdown on highways. They provide timely help in times of your emergency. Call up your car insurer or road side assitance service provide for help and they will send a mechanic to your place in few hours. Some time you will have to bear the costs if it is not covered in your car insurance policy. They provide many services depending on your policy coverage. It can include few or all of these services: On Spot Repairs, Flat Tyre Service, Emergency Fuel Delivery, Battery Jumpstart, Puncture Repair, Towing services etc.

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Bangalore to Varkala Trip Ideas & How to Plan

Your trip to Varkala will be hassle-free if you opt for IndusGo as your travel partner.

Varkala is a serene beach town at the southern tip of Kerala. It was a virgin beach for many years, as many people were unaware of the place and its uniqueness. Varkala is the only beach in south India with brown and red cliffs adjacent to the Arabian Sea. It is also one of the beautiful beaches in Kerala . Once at the cliff, you can get a perfect view beyond the sea shore. Varkala has emerged as a favorite surf beach among tourists, with people flocking in from all parts of India and abroad. Traveling from Bangalore to Varkala is convenient as both towns are well-connected. 

Each year, Varkala sees a massive influx of tourists from Bangalore. After all, holidaying at this exquisite beach location unwinds and gives you a break from the bustling city life. What used to be an isolated paradise is now a famous backpack beach destination. After all, Varkala gives you everything you need from a perfect holiday retreat - pristine beaches, lagoons, backwaters, hills, a great shopping experience, good food, and warm hospitality.

The best Bangalore to Varkala Travel Guide

Soak in Varkala's bohemian vibe and explore all this unique beach town has to offer. Just a few meters from the central Varkala Beach lies the hidden paradise of the secret Black Beach, where you can find black sand glistening under the sun and kissing the seawater as it caresses its shore. This  Varkala Travel Guide will help you to explore and visit places.

You can enjoy the sunrise at Odayam Beach and join fishers pulling their nets at Edava Beach. In addition, you can enjoy a peaceful sunset here because it is a few meters away from the cliff.

Further, there is the Kappil Lake and Kappil Beach, which showcase shining golden sand on one side and a swarm of tall coconut trees surrounding a lake. If you love water sports, then this is your ideal location for some fun with kayaking, jet skiing, paragliding, etc.

Then, there is the Golden Island, where you can absorb the beauty of the amazing juxtaposition of flora and fauna that inhabits the island. Also known as Ponnumthuruthu Island, you can enjoy bird watching and gaze at the greenery here.

You can also go temple hopping at the many beautiful temples here, such as the Janardhana Swamy Temple and Vishnu Temple. 

You can enjoy a bird's eye view of Varkala from the Anjengo Lighthouse. Then, visit the Anjengo Fort to learn about this place's rich history of art and architecture. 

If you're a fitness freak, you can attend the beach yoga classes at the ashrams near Varkala Beach. You can relax your senses at the spa centers here. Opt for ayurvedic massages and other relaxation therapies to calm your soul. 

If surfing in the Varkala waters is on your mind, remember that the beaches here have bigger waves and are just not meant for the faint-hearted. Before you go surfing, you can take a few classes from surfing professionals here.

How to reach Varkala from Bangalore

Traveling by air is the fastest way to reach Varkala from Bangalore. The aerial distance between the two locations is about 480 km. You can board a plane at Bangalore Airport and reach Trivandrum airport (the nearest airport from Varkala). You can take a rented car from Trivandrum Airport to reach Varkala in approximately 4 hours. 

You can also opt to take a bus from Bangalore to Varkala . It's one of the most affordable  ways to reach Varkala from Bangalore. You can board at Museum to KR Market and then take another bus from Bangalore to Kuzhakuttam. From Kuzhakuttam you can take a rented car to Varkala. On average, bus travel will incur approximately 12 hours between the two destinations.

You can also opt for traveling by train. Varkala has its railway station called Varkala Station. You can get a train from Bangalore and any train going towards Trivandrum stops at Varkala station. The train journey from Bangalore to Varkala will take around 15 hours. 

You can also opt for taking a fascinating Bangalore to Varkala road trip. Hire a car to take you on a long road trip, and it will surely be an experience you will never forget. Taking Hosur Road would be the fastest route. Then you can drive through Salem, Dharmapuri, Namakkal, Karur, Madurai, Kollam, and then Varkala. All these roads are smooth and make traveling by road a hassle-free experience. The distance between Bangalore and Varkala is about 680 km and takes approximately 13 hours. 

How Can IndusGo Help You Take a Comfortable Road Trip from Bangalore to Varkala by Car?

If you're still wondering  how to travel from Bangalore to Varkala, it's through a  rented car - the most convenient and enjoyable option indeed. IndusGo is the best brand to trust when it comes to hiring cars for self-driving . Travel freaks who favor road trips vouch for IndusGo as a brand, making it the top choice for holiday travel. 

IndusGo offers great value propositions as compared to its counterparts. IndusGo offers:

Flexible start and end points: You can decide where you want the car delivered and give up the car wherever you want.

Zero security deposit: You will have to pay the lowest security deposit compared to other brands.

With or without fuel: You can choose from booking with or without fuel.

Instant refund: All payments and refunds are auto-processed immediately.

IndusGo maintains business ethics that make you trust them with all your heart. Not for a minute will you have to suffer any inconvenience. The company offers full support at all times. You will not have to bear any hidden costs; all prices are transparent and highly affordable. You will avail premium quality cars, with or without a driver, at your preferred location. 

So book your road trip from Bangalore to Varkala by contacting IndusGo at 9539580000. We wish you a happy journey and an enjoyable holiday. Do let us know your experience. We would love to hear from you!

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