4-Day Family Friendly Itinerary for Munnar and Thekkady

  1. Day 1: Mattupetty Dam
    1 hour 30 minutes (34.2 km) from Cochin International Airport

    Mattupetty Dam is a popular tourist spot known for its scenic beauty and boating facilities. The dam is surrounded by tea plantations and rolling hills, making it a perfect place to unwind and take in the breathtaking views. You can take a boat ride, go horseback riding, or simply enjoy a picnic. Also, visit the Tea Museum, which gives you an insight into the history of tea in Munnar and how it is processed.

  2. Day 2: Periyar National Park
    2 hours 30 minutes (93.5 km) from Mattupetty Dam

    Periyar National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. You can take a guided tour of the park, which is home to elephants, tigers, leopards, and many other animals. Go on a jeep safari, take a boat ride on Periyar Lake, or go on a trekking expedition. You can also visit the Spice Plantations and learn about the various spices that grow in the region. In the evening, attend the Kathakali Dance Performance and experience the traditional dance form of Kerala.

  3. Day 3: Thekkady
    3 hours (87.6 km) from Periyar National Park

    Thekkady is a charming town known for its wildlife and plantation tours. Visit the Elephant Junction, where you can bathe and feed the elephants. Next, head to the Periyar Tiger Reserve, where you can take a guided walk in the forest. You can also visit the Green Park Ayurvedic and Spices Plantation, which offers herbal remedies and spices. Finally, end your day with a relaxing Ayurvedic Massage.

  4. Day 4: Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
    4 hours 30 minutes (137 km) from Thekkady

    Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a must-visit destination for bird lovers. The sanctuary is located on the banks of Lake Vembanad and is home to a variety of migratory birds such as Siberian storks, darters, and herons. You can take a guided tour or a boat ride to explore the sanctuary. In the evening, enjoy a relaxing houseboat ride along the backwaters of Alleppey and take in the serene surroundings.

Time and Cost Estimates:

  • Mattupetty Dam (2-3 hours, INR 30 per person for boat ride)
  • Tea Museum (1-2 hours, INR 120 per person)
  • Periyar National Park (4-5 hours, INR 500 per person for boat ride)
  • Jeep Safari (3 hours, INR 3000 per jeep), Boat Tour (1 hour, INR 150 per person), Spice Plantations (1-2 hours, INR 200 per person), Kathakali Dance Performance (1-2 hours, INR 300 per person)
  • Elephant Junction (2-3 hours, INR 400 per person), Periyar Tiger Reserve (3-4 hours, INR 1000 per person), Green Park Ayurvedic and Spices Plantation (1-2 hours, INR 200 per person), Ayurvedic Massage (1-2 hours, INR 1500-2000)
  • Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary (2-3 hours, INR 50 per person), Houseboat Ride (4-5 hours, INR 6000-8000 per boat)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 10,700-14,150 per person

Useful Tips:

For a longer trip, consider adding a visit to the Top Station, Echo Point, and Kundala Lake in Munnar. You can also go on a bamboo rafting tour in Thekkady. If you have less time, skip the Tea Museum and the Ayurvedic Massage. Also, plan your trip during the monsoon season (June-September) to witness the lush greenery of the region.

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