7-Day Family Friendly Kerala Itinerary

Saturday October 21: Arrival in Kochi

Begin your journey in Kochi, also known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea. In the morning, visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets and explore the historic Fort Kochi area. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the scenic backwaters and enjoy the tranquility of the area. In the evening, witness a traditional Kathakali dance performance.

• Chinese Fishing Nets: Entrance is free, approximately 1 hour
• Fort Kochi: Entrance is free, approximately 2 hours
• Backwater Boat Ride: Estimated cost INR 500 per person, approximately 2 hours
• Kathakali Dance Performance: Estimated cost INR 300 per person, approximately 2 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Mattancherry with its bustling street food scene. Try a traditional Kerala breakfast of appam and stew at Hotel Saravana Bhavan. The average cost for a meal is about 100 rupees per person.
• For lunch, visit the iconic Dal Roti restaurant in Fort Kochi. Indulge in delicious North Indian and South Indian cuisine. The average cost for a meal is about 300 rupees per person.
• For dinner, dine at Oceanos Restaurant & Steakhouse, located by the waterfront. Enjoy a variety of seafood dishes while enjoying the stunning views. The average cost for a meal is about 700 rupees per person.

Sunday October 22: Munnar

Embark on a scenic drive to Munnar, a hill station nestled in the Western Ghats. In the morning, visit the Tata Tea Museum to learn about the tea production process. In the afternoon, explore the breathtaking tea plantations and enjoy a refreshing cup of locally grown tea. In the evening, stroll through the aromatic spice gardens.

• Tata Tea Museum: Entrance fee INR 100 per person, approximately 1 hour
• Tea Plantations: Entrance is free, approximately 2 hours
• Spice Gardens: Entrance fee INR 100 per person, approximately 1 hour

Monday October 23: Thekkady

Head to Thekkady, home to the Periyar National Park. In the morning, take a boat safari on the Periyar Lake and spot wildlife in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, visit the spice plantations and learn about the various spices grown in the region. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kerala Ayurvedic massage.

• Periyar Lake Boat Safari: Estimated cost INR 400 per person, approximately 2 hours
• Spice Plantations: Entrance fee INR 100 per person, approximately 2 hours
• Ayurvedic Massage: Estimated cost INR 1500 per person, approximately 1 hour

Tuesday October 24: Alleppey

Travel to Alleppey, famous for its serene backwaters. In the morning, embark on a houseboat cruise and enjoy the scenic beauty of the backwaters. In the afternoon, explore the local villages and experience the traditional lifestyle. In the evening, savor a delicious seafood dinner.

• Houseboat Cruise: Estimated cost INR 7000 per night, approximately 5-6 hours
• Exploring Villages: Entrance is free, approximately 2 hours
• Seafood Dinner: Estimated cost INR 1000 per person, approximately 1 hour

Wednesday October 25: Kovalam

Continue your journey to Kovalam, a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches. In the morning, relax on the sandy shores and soak up the sun. In the afternoon, visit the Lighthouse Beach and indulge in water sports activities. In the evening, enjoy a mesmerizing sunset view from the Hawa Beach.

• Lighthouse Beach: Entrance is free, approximately 2 hours
• Water Sports Activities: Estimated cost varies, approximately 2 hours
• Hawa Beach: Entrance is free, approximately 1 hour

Thursday October 26: Kanyakumari

Take a day trip to Kanyakumari, the southernmost tip of mainland India. In the morning, visit the Vivekananda Rock Memorial and Thiruvalluvar Statue. In the afternoon, explore the Padmanabhapuram Palace and marvel at its intricate architecture. In the evening, witness the enchanting sunset from the Kanyakumari Beach.

• Vivekananda Rock Memorial: Estimated cost INR 30 per person, approximately 2 hours
• Thiruvalluvar Statue: Entrance fee INR 20 per person, approximately 1 hour
• Padmanabhapuram Palace: Entrance fee INR 100 per person, approximately 2 hours
• Kanyakumari Beach: Entrance is free, approximately 1 hour

Friday October 27: Departure from Kochi

Return to Kochi for your departure. In the morning, explore the bustling markets of Kochi and shop for souvenirs. In the afternoon, visit the famous Mattancherry Palace and admire its stunning murals. Bid farewell to Kerala with unforgettable memories of your family-friendly journey.

• Shopping in Kochi: Cost varies, approximately 2 hours
• Mattancherry Palace: Entrance fee INR 10 per person, approximately 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Kerala, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Elephant Junction in Thekkady, where you can interact with elephants and even go for an elephant ride. Another off the beaten path attraction is the Athirapally Waterfalls, located near Kochi. These majestic waterfalls offer a picturesque setting and are perfect for a family picnic.

For a unique cultural experience, consider attending a traditional Theyyam performance in Kannur. Theyyam is a vibrant ritual dance form performed in temples and is a fascinating glimpse into Kerala's rich cultural heritage.

Make sure to check hotel and flight prices on Kayak to plan your accommodation and transportation for a hassle-free trip.