A Week in Kerala: Family-Friendly Itinerary

Friday, December 15: Arrival in Kochi

Welcome to Kerala! Start your trip by arriving in Kochi, a historic port city known for its blend of cultures and picturesque backwaters. In the morning, explore the Mattancherry Palace, a Dutch palace featuring beautiful murals. Afterward, visit the Pardesi Synagogue, the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along Fort Kochi beach and witness a stunning sunset.

  • Mattancherry Palace: Estimated cost - INR 30 per person, Time spent - 1 hour
  • Pardesi Synagogue: Estimated cost - INR 5 per person, Time spent - 1 hour
  • Fort Kochi Beach: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Saturday, December 16: Munnar's Tea Plantations

Head to Munnar, a hill station renowned for its lush tea estates and breathtaking scenery. Start your morning with a visit to the Tea Museum, where you can learn about the tea-making process and sample various blends. Afterward, embark on a scenic hike through the tea plantations, enjoying the fresh mountain air. In the evening, explore the local markets and indulge in some delicious tea-infused treats.

  • Tea Museum: Estimated cost - INR 150 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Tea Plantation Hike: Free, Time spent - 3-4 hours
  • Local Markets: Cost varies, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Sunday, December 17: Wildlife Safari in Periyar National Park

Embark on an exciting adventure at Periyar National Park, known for its diverse wildlife and picturesque landscapes. In the morning, take a boat ride on Periyar Lake, where you may spot elephants, tigers, and various bird species. Afterward, visit the Elephant Junction, an eco-tourism project that provides an opportunity to interact with elephants ethically. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kathakali dance performance.

  • Periyar Lake Boat Ride: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Elephant Junction: Estimated cost - INR 400 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Kathakali Dance Performance: Estimated cost - INR 300 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Monday, December 18: Backwaters of Alleppey

Experience the serene backwaters of Alleppey, often referred to as the "Venice of the East." Start your day with a relaxing houseboat cruise along the backwaters, immersing yourself in the tranquil surroundings. Enjoy a delicious traditional Kerala lunch on board. In the afternoon, explore the quaint villages and interact with the friendly locals. In the evening, witness a mesmerizing sunset over the backwaters.

  • Houseboat Cruise: Estimated cost - INR 8,000 per day (for a private boat), Time spent - 6-8 hours
  • Exploring Villages: Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Sunset Viewing: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Tuesday, December 19: Beach Day in Kovalam

Head to the beautiful coastal town of Kovalam, famous for its pristine beaches and Ayurvedic treatments. Spend your morning relaxing on the golden sands of Kovalam Beach and taking a refreshing dip in the Arabian Sea. In the afternoon, indulge in a rejuvenating Ayurvedic spa session. Enjoy the evening by exploring the local markets and savoring delicious seafood delicacies.

  • Kovalam Beach: Free, Time spent - 4-5 hours
  • Ayurvedic Spa Session: Estimated cost - INR 2,000 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Local Markets: Cost varies, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Wednesday, December 20: Explore Thrissur's Cultural Heritage

Visit Thrissur, the cultural capital of Kerala, renowned for its temples, festivals, and art forms. Begin your day by exploring the Vadakkunnathan Temple, a stunning example of traditional Kerala architecture. In the afternoon, visit the Kerala Kalamandalam, a premier institution for learning Indian performing arts. Enjoy the evening by attending a traditional Kathakali or Mohiniyattam dance performance.

  • Vadakkunnathan Temple: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Kerala Kalamandalam: Estimated cost - INR 150 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Kathakali or Mohiniyattam Performance: Estimated cost - INR 300 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Thursday, December 21: Cochin's Heritage and Departure

Spend your last day exploring the heritage sites of Cochin. In the morning, visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets at Fort Kochi, an ancient fishing method still practiced today. Explore the Jew Town and browse through antique shops and spice markets. In the afternoon, visit the Indo-Portuguese Museum to learn about the region's colonial history. Bid farewell to Kerala as you depart from Cochin in the evening.

  • Chinese Fishing Nets: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Jew Town: Cost varies, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Indo-Portuguese Museum: Estimated cost - INR 100 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique family-friendly experience, consider visiting the Thattekad Bird Sanctuary near Kochi. It is a haven for bird enthusiasts with its diverse range of avian species. Another off the beaten path attraction is the Kumbalangi Integrated Tourism Village, where you can experience the traditional village life, explore mangrove forests, and engage in local fishing activities. These hidden gems offer a glimpse into the authentic culture and natural beauty of Kerala.

Check hotel and flight prices here.

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