Kerala Family Friendly Itinerary - June 2023

1. Day 1: Cochin
   40 minutes (28.5 miles) from Cochin International Airport

   Start your family-friendly journey in the vibrant city of Cochin. In the morning, visit the historic Jew Town and explore the Paradesi Synagogue, one of the oldest active synagogues in the Commonwealth. Afternoon can be spent at the Fort Kochi Beach, enjoying the beautiful coastline and Chinese fishing nets. In the evening, witness the enchanting Kathakali dance performance at a local theater. This traditional dance form of Kerala is a captivating cultural experience.

2. Day 2: Munnar
   4 hours and 30 minutes (88.5 miles) from Cochin

   Embark on a scenic drive to Munnar, a hill station renowned for its lush tea plantations. Spend the morning exploring the Eravikulam National Park, home to endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Afternoon can be dedicated to a visit to the Tea Museum, where you can learn about the tea-making process and enjoy some refreshing tea. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque tea gardens and enjoy the tranquility of nature.

3. Day 3: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
   3 hours and 30 minutes (82.5 miles) from Munnar

   Immerse yourself in the wilderness of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Start your day with a boat cruise on the Periyar Lake, where you might spot elephants, tigers, and other wildlife. Afternoon can be spent exploring the spice plantations and learning about the various spices grown in the region. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kerala-style Ayurvedic massage to relax and rejuvenate.

4. Day 4: Alleppey Backwaters
   2 hours and 30 minutes (53.5 miles) from Periyar

   Conclude your Kerala trip with a serene experience in the famous backwaters of Alleppey. Begin your day with a houseboat cruise through the scenic backwaters, surrounded by lush greenery and peaceful villages. Enjoy a traditional Kerala lunch onboard. In the afternoon, visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, a paradise for bird lovers. End your trip with a mesmerizing sunset view over the backwaters.

Recommendations

If you have extra time, consider visiting the beautiful beaches of Kovalam or exploring the Athirapally Waterfalls. For day trips, you can plan a visit to the picturesque hill station of Wayanad or the serene village of Varkala. To maximize your fun, indulge in local activities like a Kathakali makeup demonstration, a traditional houseboat stay, or a traditional cooking class.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Paradesi Synagogue (1 hour, $2)
• Fort Kochi Beach (2 hours, free)
• Kathakali Dance Performance (2 hours, $10)
• Eravikulam National Park (3 hours, $5)
• Tea Museum (1 hour, $3)
• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary Boat Cruise (3 hours, $15)
• Spice Plantation Visit (2 hours, $5)
• Ayurvedic Massage (1 hour, $20)
• Alleppey Houseboat Cruise (5 hours, $150)
• Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary (2 hours, $5)

Total Estimated Costs: $218