Explore the Enchanting Land of Kerala: A 6-Day Family Friendly Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kochi

Start your Kerala adventure by arriving in the charming city of Kochi. In the morning, visit Fort Kochi, a historic neighborhood known for its colonial architecture and Chinese fishing nets. Explore the bustling spice markets and indulge in delicious local cuisine for lunch. In the afternoon, take a leisurely boat ride on the backwaters, witnessing the serene beauty of the tranquil waters and lush greenery. Complete your day with a visit to the stunning Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace.

• Fort Kochi: Free to explore, 3-4 hours
• Backwater Boat Ride: INR 1,500 per person, 2-3 hours
• Mattancherry Palace: INR 50 per person, 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• Eighth Bastion: This charming cafe in Fort Kochi offers a delightful breakfast spread including a variety of fresh pastries, fruit salads, and traditional South Indian dishes. The average cost for a breakfast meal here is about INR 300 per person.
• Malabar Junction: Located in Fort Kochi, Malabar Junction is known for its delectable lunch menu featuring a fusion of Kerala and international cuisine. Enjoy the cozy ambiance and try their famous Malabar Biryani. The average cost for a lunch meal here is about INR 500 per person.
• Rasa Gurukul: Immerse yourself in the authentic flavors of Kerala at Rasa Gurukul, a restaurant near Fort Kochi. Indulge in their extensive dinner menu, which includes traditional delicacies like Kerala-style fish curry and Malabar parotta. The average cost for a dinner meal here is about INR 600 per person.

Day 2: Munnar's Natural Delights

On day two, head to Munnar, a picturesque hill station renowned for its tea gardens and lush landscapes. Start your morning with a visit to the Eravikulam National Park, where you can spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the scenic beauty of the park. In the afternoon, explore the tea plantations and learn about the tea-making process at a local tea factory. End your day with a peaceful stroll through the enchanting Tea Museum.

• Eravikulam National Park: INR 120 per person, 3-4 hours
• Tea Plantations and Factory Visit: Free, 2-3 hours
• Tea Museum: INR 150 per person, 1-2 hours

Day 3: Serenity in Thekkady

On day three, make your way to Thekkady, a nature lover's paradise. Start your morning with a thrilling boat safari in Periyar National Park, home to diverse wildlife including elephants and tigers. Enjoy a delectable lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk through the spice gardens, experiencing the fragrant aromas of various spices. Visit a spice plantation to learn about their cultivation and processing techniques. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kathakali dance performance.

• Boat Safari in Periyar National Park: INR 450 per person, 3-4 hours
• Spice Gardens: Free, 2-3 hours
• Kathakali Dance Performance: INR 200 per person, 1-2 hours

Day 4: Backwaters Bliss in Alleppey

Embark on a journey to Alleppey, the Venice of the East, renowned for its mesmerizing backwaters. Start your morning with a relaxing houseboat cruise, gliding through the tranquil waterways while enjoying a scrumptious traditional Kerala lunch onboard. In the afternoon, explore the local villages and interact with the friendly locals. Enjoy the breathtaking sunset views over the backwaters before returning to your houseboat for a delightful dinner experience.

• Houseboat Cruise: INR 8,000 - 12,000 per night (family-sized boat), 6-8 hours
• Village Exploration: Free, 2-3 hours

Day 5: Kovalam's Coastal Charms

Head to the idyllic beach town of Kovalam, famous for its pristine beaches and Ayurvedic wellness centers. Begin your morning with a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage and wellness session. Relax on the golden sands of Kovalam Beach and indulge in a seafood lunch. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Vizhinjam Lighthouse and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline. Spend your evening strolling along the vibrant beach promenade, shopping for souvenirs, and savoring a delightful dinner.

• Ayurvedic Massage and Wellness Session: INR 1,500 - 3,000 per person, 2-3 hours
• Vizhinjam Lighthouse: INR 20 per person, 1-2 hours

Day 6: Departure from Thiruvananthapuram

On your final day, explore the capital city of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram. Begin your morning with a visit to the magnificent Padmanabhaswamy Temple, known for its stunning Dravidian architecture. Enjoy a traditional Kerala lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, explore the exquisite exhibits at the Napier Museum and take a serene stroll through the lush gardens of Kanakakkunnu Palace. End your Kerala journey with a mesmerizing sunset view at Shangumugham Beach.

• Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Free, 2-3 hours
• Napier Museum: INR 30 per person, 1-2 hours
• Kanakakkunnu Palace: Free, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the enchanting hill station of Ponmudi, which offers breathtaking views and opportunities for hiking amidst lush greenery. Families will also enjoy a visit to Wonderla Amusement Park in Kochi, featuring thrilling rides and entertainment options for all ages. Additionally, the Athirappilly Waterfalls near Thrissur are a natural wonder worth exploring, offering a picturesque setting for picnics and photography.

Check out the best hotel and flight prices for your Kerala trip here.