A Week of Family Fun in Kerala

Saturday, November 11: Arrival in Kochi

Welcome to Kerala! Begin your adventure in the vibrant city of Kochi. In the morning, explore the famous Fort Kochi area, known for its colonial charm and Chinese fishing nets. Visit the Indo-Portuguese Museum to learn about the city's history. In the afternoon, take a leisurely cruise on the backwaters of Kochi and enjoy the scenic beauty. In the evening, watch a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional art form of Kerala.

• Fort Kochi: Admission is free, approximately 3 hours
• Indo-Portuguese Museum: Admission fee: INR 100 for adults, INR 25 for children, approximately 2 hours
• Backwater Cruise: Cost varies depending on the package, approximately 4 hours
• Kathakali Dance Performance: Ticket price starts from INR 300, approximately 2 hours

Sunday, November 12: Munnar's Natural Beauty

Head to Munnar, a hill station renowned for its tea plantations and stunning landscapes. Start your day with a visit to the Tea Museum to learn about the tea-making process. Explore the picturesque Mattupetty Dam and take a boat ride in the serene waters. In the afternoon, visit the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. End your day with a relaxing stroll through the beautiful Blossom Hydel Park.

• Tea Museum: Admission fee: INR 120 for adults, INR 90 for children, approximately 2 hours
• Mattupetty Dam: Entry fee: INR 10 for adults, INR 5 for children, approximately 2 hours
• Eravikulam National Park: Admission fee: INR 120 for adults, INR 90 for children, approximately 3 hours
• Blossom Hydel Park: Admission fee: INR 30 for adults, INR 10 for children, approximately 1 hour

Monday, November 13: Water Adventures in Alleppey

Travel to Alleppey, the "Venice of the East." Start your day with a houseboat cruise on the backwaters of Alleppey. Enjoy the serene surroundings and indulge in delicious Kerala cuisine on board. In the afternoon, visit the Alleppey Beach for some fun in the sun. Take a swim or relax on the sandy shores. In the evening, witness the enchanting sunset from the Alappuzha Lighthouse.

• Houseboat Cruise: Cost varies depending on the package, approximately 6 hours
• Alleppey Beach: Admission is free, approximately 2 hours
• Alappuzha Lighthouse: Admission fee: INR 20 for adults, INR 10 for children, approximately 1 hour

Tuesday, November 14: Cultural Delights in Thrissur

Head to the cultural capital of Kerala, Thrissur. Start your day with a visit to the Vadakkunnathan Temple, a magnificent Hindu temple known for its architectural splendor. Explore the Thrissur Zoo and Museum, home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. In the afternoon, witness an electrifying performance of the traditional Kerala martial art form, Kalaripayattu. Visit the Shakthan Thampuran Palace to admire the exquisite architecture and historical artifacts.

• Vadakkunnathan Temple: Admission is free, approximately 2 hours
• Thrissur Zoo and Museum: Admission fee: INR 20 for adults, INR 5 for children, approximately 3 hours
• Kalaripayattu Show: Ticket price starts from INR 200, approximately 2 hours
• Shakthan Thampuran Palace: Admission fee: INR 20 for adults, INR 10 for children, approximately 2 hours

Wednesday, November 15: Wildlife Safari in Thekkady

Travel to Thekkady, home to the Periyar National Park. Embark on a thrilling wildlife safari in the morning, where you can spot elephants, tigers, and various other species. Take a boat ride on the Periyar Lake to witness the wildlife in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, visit the Spice Plantations and learn about the different spices grown in Kerala. End your day with a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage.

• Periyar National Park: Admission fee: INR 450 for adults, INR 90 for children, approximately 4 hours
• Periyar Lake Boat Ride: Ticket price starts from INR 225, approximately 2 hours
• Spice Plantations: Entry fee varies, approximately 2 hours
• Ayurvedic Massage: Cost varies depending on the package, approximately 1 hour

Thursday, November 16: Beach Bliss in Kovalam

Head to the coastal town of Kovalam, known for its pristine beaches. Spend your morning sunbathing and swimming at the Kovalam Beach. Explore the iconic Vizhinjam Lighthouse, offering panoramic views of the coastline. In the afternoon, visit the Halcyon Castle, a beautiful colonial mansion surrounded by lush gardens. Enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at one of the beachside restaurants.

• Kovalam Beach: Admission is free, approximately 3 hours
• Vizhinjam Lighthouse: Admission fee: INR 20 for adults, INR 10 for children, approximately 1 hour
• Halcyon Castle: Admission fee: INR 100 for adults, INR 50 for children, approximately 2 hours

Friday, November 17: Back to Kochi with Shopping

Return to Kochi for your last day in Kerala. Spend your morning shopping for souvenirs at the bustling Jew Town and explore the historic Paradesi Synagogue. In the afternoon, visit the Santa Cruz Basilica, a beautiful church known for its stunning architecture. End your trip with a relaxing sunset cruise on the Kochi Harbor.

• Jew Town: Shopping expenses vary, approximately 2 hours
• Paradesi Synagogue: Admission fee: INR 5 for adults, INR 3 for children, approximately 1 hour
• Santa Cruz Basilica: Admission is free, approximately 1 hour
• Kochi Harbor Sunset Cruise: Cost varies depending on the package, approximately 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Kerala, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Athirappilly Falls, a majestic waterfall located near Kochi. The picturesque beauty and tranquility of this place make it a perfect spot for a family picnic. Another off-the-beaten-path attraction is the Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, a haven for bird lovers. Explore the lush greenery and spot a variety of migratory and resident bird species. Both of these hidden gems offer unique experiences away from the crowds and are perfect for a family-friendly adventure!