Kerala Family Friendly Itinerary - August 2023

1. Day 1: Kochi
   50 minutes (28.5 km) from Cochin International Airport

   Start your Kerala journey in Kochi, also known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea. In the morning, visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets at Fort Kochi Beach. After a seafood lunch at one of the local restaurants, explore the historic Mattancherry Palace. In the evening, enjoy a Kathakali dance performance at the Kerala Kathakali Centre.

2. Day 2: Munnar
   4 hours 30 minutes (126 km) from Kochi

   Embark on a scenic drive to Munnar, a hill station renowned for its tea gardens. Start your morning with a visit to the Tea Museum, where you can learn about the tea-making process. After a delightful lunch amidst the lush greenery, explore the Eravikulam National Park, home to endangered Nilgiri Tahr. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque town.

3. Day 3: Thekkady
   3 hours 30 minutes (92 km) from Munnar

   Head to Thekkady, famous for its wildlife sanctuary and spice plantations. Start your day with a thrilling boat ride on Periyar Lake, where you can spot various animals and birds in their natural habitat. After a delicious lunch, visit a spice plantation to learn about the cultivation and processing of spices. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kathakali and Kalaripayattu performance.

4. Day 4: Alleppey
   3 hours (133 km) from Thekkady

   Experience the serene backwaters of Kerala in Alleppey. Begin your day with a rejuvenating houseboat cruise along the backwaters, surrounded by lush green landscapes. Enjoy a freshly prepared traditional lunch on the boat. In the afternoon, explore the Alleppey Beach and admire the beautiful sunset. Opt for a relaxing Ayurvedic massage in the evening to unwind.

5. Day 5: Kovalam
   3 hours 30 minutes (160 km) from Alleppey

   Relax and unwind in the coastal town of Kovalam. Start your morning with a visit to the iconic Lighthouse Beach, where you can enjoy swimming and sunbathing. Indulge in a delectable seafood lunch at one of the beachside restaurants. In the afternoon, explore the Hawa Beach and Samudra Beach. In the evening, witness a mesmerizing Kathakali dance performance.

6. Day 6: Trivandrum
   30 minutes (15 km) from Kovalam

   Conclude your Kerala journey in Trivandrum, the capital city. Start your day with a visit to the majestic Padmanabhaswamy Temple, a famous Hindu shrine. After a delicious lunch, explore the Napier Museum and Art Gallery, showcasing a rich collection of ancient artifacts. In the evening, take a stroll along the beautiful Kovalam Beach and enjoy the tranquil sunset.

Recommendations

If you have more time, consider visiting Wayanad, known for its scenic beauty and wildlife. Day trips to Athirappilly Waterfalls, Varkala Beach, and Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary are also highly recommended. To maximize your fun, try indulging in local culinary experiences, such as cooking classes to learn traditional Kerala recipes, or opting for a village tour to experience the rural charm of Kerala.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Kochi Chinese Fishing Nets (2 hours, free)
• Mattancherry Palace (1.5 hours, INR 10)
• Kerala Kathakali Centre (2 hours, INR 300)
• Tea Museum in Munnar (1.5 hours, INR 150)
• Eravikulam National Park (3 hours, INR 120)
• Periyar Lake Boat Ride (2 hours, INR 500)
• Spice Plantation Visit (1.5 hours, INR 100)
• Alleppey Houseboat Cruise (5 hours, INR 10,000)
• Ayurvedic Massage in Alleppey (1 hour, INR 1,500)
• Lighthouse Beach in Kovalam (2 hours, free)
• Napier Museum and Art Gallery (2 hours, INR 20)
• Padmanabhaswamy Temple (2 hours, free)

Total Estimated Costs: INR 12,350

For hotel and flight bookings, check here.