3-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in Kochi, Kerala

  1. Day 1: Fort Kochi and Mattancherry
    20 minutes (8.9 km) from Sidra Pristine, Ernakulam

    Start your day by visiting the Fort Kochi Beach, a serene and peaceful beach perfect for a morning stroll with your family. Then, head over to the Chinese Fishing Nets and watch the fishermen at work. Afterward, explore the colonial history of Fort Kochi with a visit to the Santa Cruz Basilica and the Dutch Palace (Mattancherry Palace) which houses a remarkable collection of murals and artifacts. End your day by walking around the colorful streets of the Jew Town.

  2. Day 2: Backwater Cruise and Hill Palace Museum
    1 hour 10 minutes (30.5 km) from Fort Kochi

    Experience the famous backwaters of Kerala with a houseboat cruise and explore the lush green landscape, paddy fields, and coconut groves. Afterward, make your way to the Hill Palace Museum which showcases the history of the royal family of Kochi. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary, one of the smallest bird sanctuaries in India, on your way back to your hotel.

  3. Day 3: Marine Drive and Lulu Mall
    20 minutes (6.9 km) from Sidra Pristine, Ernakulam

    Start your day with a peaceful walk along the Marine Drive Kochi, a scenic promenade that offers a stunning view of the backwaters. Then head over to the Lulu Mall, one of the largest shopping malls in India, with a diverse range of shopping options for the entire family. End your day with a visit to the Chottanikkara Temple, a famous Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Bhagavathy.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Chinese Fishing Nets (1 hour, free)
  • Santa Cruz Basilica (1 hour, free)
  • Dutch Palace (Mattancherry Palace) (1 hour, ₹10 per adult)
  • Backwater Cruise (4-5 hours, starting from ₹5,000 per boat)
  • Hill Palace Museum (2-3 hours, ₹30 per adult)
  • Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary (30 minutes, free)
  • Marine Drive Kochi (1 hour, free)
  • Lulu Mall (2-3 hours, depends on shopping, free entry)
  • Chottanikkara Temple (1-2 hours, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: ₹5,040 per adult

Useful Tips

If you have more time, make sure to check out the Kerala Folklore Museum, the Museum of Kerala History, and the Paradesi Synagogue. Alternatively, if you have less time, you can skip the Backwater Cruise and spend more time exploring Fort Kochi and Mattancherry. Make sure to carry comfortable shoes, water bottles, sunscreen, and hats as it can get humid in Kochi. Also, keep in mind that the Dutch Palace is closed on Fridays and the Chottanikkara Temple has specific timings for non-Hindus.

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