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Family Friendly 7-Day Itinerary in Kerala, India

Friday August 18: Arrival in Kochi

Start your Kerala adventure by arriving at Kochi International Airport. Take a taxi to your hotel and check-in. In the morning, explore the historic Fort Kochi area, known for its charming streets, colonial architecture, and Chinese fishing nets. In the afternoon, visit the Kerala Folklore Museum to learn about the rich cultural heritage of Kerala. As the evening sets in, enjoy a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional art form of Kerala.

  • Fort Kochi: Free, 3 hours
  • Kerala Folklore Museum: INR 200 ($3), 2 hours
  • Kathakali Performance: INR 500 ($7), 2 hours
Saturday August 19: Munnar Hill Station

Leave Kochi early in the morning and embark on a scenic drive to Munnar, a picturesque hill station surrounded by tea plantations. In the morning, visit the Tea Museum to learn about the tea-making process and enjoy a refreshing cup of tea. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. End the day with a leisurely walk through the aromatic tea gardens, taking in the breathtaking views.

  • Tea Museum: INR 150 ($2), 2 hours
  • Eravikulam National Park: INR 400 ($6), 3 hours
  • Tea Gardens: Free, 2 hours
Sunday August 20: Alleppey Backwaters

Head towards Alleppey, known as the "Venice of the East" for its enchanting backwaters. In the morning, embark on a relaxing houseboat cruise through the backwaters, witnessing the serenity of nature and local village life. Enjoy a delicious traditional Kerala lunch on board. In the afternoon, visit the Alleppey Beach for some beachside fun. Finish the day with a mesmerizing sunset view over the backwaters.

  • Houseboat Cruise: INR 6,000 ($85) for a family, 6 hours
  • Alleppey Beach: Free, 2 hours
  • Sunset View: Free, 1 hour
Monday August 21: Thekkady Wildlife Sanctuary

Travel to Thekkady, home to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. In the morning, take a boat ride on Periyar Lake, spotting various wildlife species, including elephants, deer, and birds. In the afternoon, explore the spice plantations and learn about the aromatic spices grown in the region. End the day with a visit to a local cultural center and enjoy a traditional Kathakali or Kalaripayattu performance.

  • Boat Ride: INR 400 ($6) per person, 3 hours
  • Spice Plantations: INR 100 ($1.5), 2 hours
  • Cultural Center: INR 200 ($3), 2 hours
Tuesday August 22: Varkala Beach

Travel to the coastal town of Varkala, known for its stunning cliffs and pristine beaches. In the morning, relax on the beautiful Varkala Beach, sunbathe, and take a dip in the clear waters. In the afternoon, visit the ancient Janardanaswamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Enjoy a serene sunset view from the cliff-top, followed by a delicious seafood dinner at one of the local restaurants.

  • Varkala Beach: Free, 4 hours
  • Janardanaswamy Temple: Free, 1 hour
  • Sunset View: Free, 1 hour
Wednesday August 23: Kovalam Beach

Head to Kovalam, famous for its crescent-shaped beaches and relaxed vibe. In the morning, explore the Lighthouse Beach and indulge in water sports activities like swimming, surfing, or kayaking. In the afternoon, visit the Hawa Beach and enjoy a traditional Ayurvedic massage for relaxation. End the day by watching a mesmerizing Kathakali performance at a local cultural center.

  • Lighthouse Beach: Free, 4 hours
  • Hawa Beach: Free, 2 hours
  • Ayurvedic Massage: INR 1,000 ($14), 1 hour
Thursday August 24: Return to Kochi

Depart from Kovalam and return to Kochi for your departure. In the morning, visit the iconic Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, to admire its unique architecture and historical artifacts. In the afternoon, explore the bustling markets of Kochi and shop for souvenirs. End your Kerala trip with a delicious seafood dinner at a waterfront restaurant.

  • Mattancherry Palace: INR 5 ($0.07), 2 hours
  • Shopping: Varies, 2 hours
  • Seafood Dinner: INR 800 ($11), 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, visit the Elephant Junction in Thekkady, where you can interact with elephants, feed them, and even go for a ride. Another offbeat attraction is the Marari Beach near Alleppey, known for its tranquil and less crowded environment, perfect for a relaxed family picnic. Don't miss the opportunity to taste authentic Kerala cuisine, such as the traditional Sadhya, a vegetarian feast served on banana leaves during festivals.

To check hotel and flight prices for your Kerala trip, click here.

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