5-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary for Kerala in July 2023

1. Day 1: Kochi
   40 minutes (21.5 km) from Cochin International Airport

   Start your day with a visit to the Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, a museum showcasing the history and art of Kochi's royal family. In the afternoon, head to the Fort Kochi Beach to take a dip in the Arabian Sea or to watch the iconic Chinese fishing nets in action. In the evening, catch a Kathakali dance performance, an art form unique to Kerala, at the Kerala Kathakali Centre.

2. Day 2: Munnar
   4 hours 30 minutes (130 km) from Kochi

   Wake up early to visit the Eravikulam National Park to see the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and other wildlife. In the afternoon, head to the Tea Museum to learn about the history and production of tea in the region. End your day with a visit to the Rose Garden, which offers a stunning view of the sunset over the tea plantations.

3. Day 3: Thekkady
   3 hours 30 minutes (130 km) from Munnar

   Start your day with a boat ride in the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, a protected area known for its elephants, tigers and other endangered species. In the afternoon, take a spice plantation tour to learn about the spices that make Kerala cuisine unique. End your day with an Ayurvedic massage to relax and rejuvenate.

4. Day 4: Alleppey
   4 hours (150 km) from Thekkady

   Wake up early to take a relaxing backwater cruise on a houseboat, which will take you through the scenic canals of Alleppey and give you a chance to spot local wildlife. In the afternoon, head to the Alleppey Beach to soak up some sun or swim in the Arabian Sea. End your day with a seafood dinner at a local restaurant.

5. Day 5: Kovalam
   3 hours (160 km) from Alleppey

   Start your day with a visit to the Kovalam Beach, known for its soft white sand and calm waters. In the afternoon, head to the Halcyon Castle, a 19th-century palace that has been converted into a museum showcasing Kerala's cultural heritage. End your day with a delicious dinner at the Bait Restaurant, which offers a stunning view of the Arabian Sea.

Recommendations

If you're interested in wildlife, consider taking a day trip to the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary or the Silent Valley National Park. You can also take a trip to the Athirappilly Falls or the Vazhachal Falls to experience the beauty of Kerala's natural landscapes. Finally, don't forget to try some of Kerala's famous cuisine, such as appam and stew, puttu and kadala curry, or fish molee.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Mattancherry Palace (2 hours, £3.50)
• Fort Kochi Beach (2 hours, free)
• Kathakali Dance Performance (2 hours, £10)
• Eravikulam National Park (3 hours, £5.50)
• Tea Museum (2 hours, £2.50)
• Rose Garden (1 hour, £1)
• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (3 hours, £7)
• Spice Plantation Tour (2 hours, £2.50)
• Ayurvedic Massage (1 hour, £15)
• Backwater Cruise (5 hours, £80)
• Alleppey Beach (2 hours, free)
• Halcyon Castle (2 hours, £3)
• Bait Restaurant (2 hours, £25)
• Total Estimated Costs: £155.50