Kerala Family Adventure

Friday, October 27: Arrival in Kochi

Welcome to Kerala! Start your journey in Kochi, a vibrant city known for its rich history and cultural heritage. In the morning, explore Fort Kochi, a charming neighborhood with colonial architecture and beautiful churches. Visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets and the Indo-Portuguese Museum. In the afternoon, take a relaxing backwater cruise in a traditional houseboat and witness the breathtaking beauty of the serene backwaters. In the evening, watch a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional form of Kerala dance drama.

• Fort Kochi: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Backwater Cruise: Estimated cost - INR 5,000 per person, Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Kathakali Dance Performance: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Saturday, October 28: Munnar

Embark on a scenic drive to Munnar, a hill station nestled in the Western Ghats. In the morning, visit the Tea Museum to learn about the tea-making process and enjoy a refreshing cup of tea. Spend the afternoon exploring the beautiful tea gardens and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through the colorful local markets and indulge in some shopping.

• Tea Museum: Estimated cost - INR 200 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Tea Gardens: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Local Markets: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• A popular breakfast spot is "Saravana Bhavan", known for its delicious South Indian fare. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
• For lunch, head to "Rapsy Restaurant", offering a diverse menu of local and international dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
• For dinner, "Royal Dine" is a great choice with its cozy ambience and delectable Kerala cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.

Sunday, October 29: Thekkady

Head to Thekkady, home to the Periyar National Park. In the morning, go for a thrilling jungle safari in the national park and spot diverse wildlife including elephants, tigers, and exotic bird species. Afternoon is the perfect time to take a boat ride on Periyar Lake and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding forests. In the evening, witness a traditional martial arts performance called Kalaripayattu.

• Periyar National Park: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Periyar Lake Boat Ride: Estimated cost - INR 300 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Kalaripayattu Performance: Estimated cost - INR 200 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Monday, October 30: Alleppey

Travel to Alleppey, known as the "Venice of the East," famous for its backwaters and houseboat cruises. In the morning, embark on a houseboat journey through the tranquil backwaters, enjoying the picturesque landscapes and traditional Kerala cuisine on board. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the serene beaches and witness a mesmerizing sunset. In the evening, indulge in a traditional Ayurvedic massage to rejuvenate your senses.

• Houseboat Cruise: Estimated cost - INR 8,000 per night, Time spent - Overnight
• Alleppey Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Ayurvedic Massage: Estimated cost - INR 2,000 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Tuesday, October 31: Kovalam

Continue your journey to Kovalam, a popular beach destination known for its pristine sandy shores. Spend the morning relaxing on the beach, swimming in the clear waters, and indulging in water sports activities. In the afternoon, visit the iconic lighthouse overlooking the Arabian Sea and explore the nearby fishing village. In the evening, enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at one of the beachside restaurants.

• Kovalam Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Kovalam Lighthouse: Estimated cost - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Fishing Village: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Wednesday, November 1: Trivandrum

Visit Trivandrum, the capital city of Kerala. In the morning, explore the famous Padmanabhaswamy Temple, known for its architectural beauty and religious significance. Discover the art and history of Kerala at the Napier Museum and the Kuthiramalika Palace. In the afternoon, relax at the tranquil gardens of the Kanakakunnu Palace and enjoy a picnic. In the evening, walk along the lively MG Road and savor some local street food.

• Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Napier Museum: Estimated cost - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Kuthiramalika Palace: Estimated cost - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Kanakakunnu Palace: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• MG Road: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Thursday, November 2: Departure from Kochi

As your Kerala adventure comes to an end, travel back to Kochi for your departure. Spend the morning exploring the bustling streets of Jew Town and admire the beautiful Paradesi Synagogue. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Mattancherry Palace known for its stunning murals. Before bidding farewell to Kerala, enjoy a delicious local seafood lunch and reminisce about your unforgettable journey.

• Jew Town: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Paradesi Synagogue: Estimated cost - INR 5 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Mattancherry Palace: Estimated cost - INR 10 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Seafood Lunch: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting Athirapally Waterfalls, a stunning waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, or Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, a paradise for bird lovers. Families can also enjoy a visit to Wonderla Amusement Park in Kochi or the Elephant Junction in Thekkady, where you can interact with elephants in a responsible and ethical way. These hidden gems and local favorites offer unique experiences and are perfect for a family-friendly adventure in Kerala.