Wondering where to go this weekend? A road trip from Thiruvananthapuram to Kanyakumari does not need a lot of planning. Trust us, our itinerary will give you enough time to wander through heritage spots and squeeze in a trek and a break at a waterfall. So, first, these are your pit-stops.
What to see
Chitharal: Trek up the hill and explore the cave temples. The view from the top of the hill is spectacular. Don't keep it for later in the day since it is the start of summer
Padmanabhapuram Palace: This sprawling palace was the seat of the erstwhile Travancore kingdom before they shifted base to Thiruvananthapuram. The old structures and the artefacts are worth a dekho.
Kanyakumari: The lands end. The southern tip of the peninsula. Make sure you take the ferry over to Vivekananda Rock. Go to the Mahatma Gandhi memorial and gaze up at the towering statue of Thiruvalluvar. And pray that you get a clear shot at either the sunrise or the sunset.
Vattakottai: It's for those who find history interesting. The fort built on the beach was designed to give the land protection from those who would attack from the sea.
Muppandal: Windmills are fascinating. Gaze up at them silhouetted against the sky. And trust me you will not blame Don Quixote for mistaking them to be giants.
Tripparappu waterfall is where you chill out before you head back to the city and get ready to face another manic Monday.
Tips:
If you are on a budget, look for availability at the Vivekananda Centre. They offer you the best option.
Make sure that you start early from Thiruvananthapuram since it is the start of summer and as the day progresses, it tends to get hot.
Make sure you are at Kanyakumari for the sunrise and sunsets.
You can stop by at a couple of religious places on the way – the main ones are Thiruvithamcode arapally, said to have been established by St Thomas himself, the Muruka temple at Velimala and the Sucheendram temple. You will have to time yourself accordingly.
Carry water and stay hydrated.
You can pack a picnic hamper to Vattakottai, but ensure that you do not litter the place.
Do not enter the windmill farm. Follow safety precautions
