5-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Kerala

Friday, October 27: Arrival in Kochi

Start your Kerala adventure in the charming city of Kochi. In the morning, explore the historic Fort Kochi area, known for its colonial architecture and Chinese fishing nets. Visit the Dutch Palace and the iconic Santa Cruz Basilica. In the afternoon, take a relaxing boat ride through the serene backwaters and witness the mesmerizing sunset. In the evening, indulge in delicious seafood at a local restaurant.

• Fort Kochi: Entrance fee - INR 25 ($0.34), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Backwater Boat Ride: Cost - INR 500 ($7) per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Local Seafood Dinner: Cost - INR 800 ($11) per person

Saturday, October 28: Munnar's Natural Beauty

Embark on a scenic drive to Munnar, a hill station renowned for its tea plantations and breathtaking landscapes. Start your morning with a visit to the Tea Museum to learn about the history of tea production in the region. In the afternoon, explore the lush tea gardens and enjoy a peaceful nature walk. End the day with a visit to the beautiful Attukad Waterfalls.

• Tea Museum: Entrance fee - INR 100 ($1.35), Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Munnar Tea Gardens: Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Attukad Waterfalls: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Sunday, October 29: Thrilling Adventure in Thekkady

Head to Thekkady, home to the Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve. Start your day with a thrilling jungle safari to spot exotic wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and various bird species. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat ride on Periyar Lake, surrounded by dense forests. Spend the evening exploring the lively spice markets and try local delicacies.

• Periyar Jungle Safari: Cost - INR 500 ($7) per person, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Periyar Lake Boat Ride: Cost - INR 225 ($3) per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Spice Market Visit: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Monday, October 30: Cultural Delights of Alleppey

Travel to the enchanting backwater destination of Alleppey. Start your morning with a leisurely houseboat cruise along the serene backwaters, surrounded by lush greenery. Enjoy a traditional Kerala lunch on the houseboat. In the afternoon, explore the rustic village life by cycling through the narrow pathways and interacting with friendly locals. End the day with a calming sunset at Marari Beach.

• Alleppey Houseboat Cruise: Cost - INR 8,000 ($108) for a small boat, Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Cycling in the Backwaters: Cost - INR 200 ($3) per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Marari Beach: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Tuesday, October 31: Relaxation in Kovalam

Conclude your Kerala exploration in the idyllic beach town of Kovalam. In the morning, relax on the golden sands of Kovalam Beach and soak up the sun. Take a refreshing swim in the Arabian Sea. In the afternoon, indulge in rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatments and massages. Enjoy a delicious seafood dinner with a stunning view of the coastline.

• Kovalam Beach: Free, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Ayurvedic Spa: Cost - INR 2,000 ($27) per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Seafood Dinner: Cost - INR 1,000 ($14) per person

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, visit the Kottayam region, known as the "Land of Letters," to explore its rich literary heritage and vibrant culture. Attend a Kathakali performance, a traditional dance-drama showcasing mythological stories. You can also visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, a paradise for bird lovers, or take a guided tour to learn about rubber tapping and processing at a local plantation.

Check hotel and flight prices for your Kerala trip here.