Exploring Kerala: A Family-Friendly 7-Day Itinerary
Thursday, September 7: Arrival in Kochi
Welcome to Kerala! Begin your journey in the beautiful city of Kochi. In the morning, visit Fort Kochi, known for its colonial architecture, Chinese fishing nets, and picturesque streets. In the afternoon, explore the Mattancherry Palace, showcasing exquisite murals and artifacts. As the evening sets in, enjoy a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional art form of Kerala.
For breakfast, head to The Teapot Café located in Fort Kochi. They offer a delectable menu of freshly baked goods and refreshing beverages. The average cost for a meal here is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try the Malabar Junction Restaurant in Mattancherry. They serve a variety of Kerala specialties, including delicious seafood dishes. The average cost for a meal here is about 500 INR per person.
For dinner, visit Oceanos Restaurant in Kochi. This waterfront restaurant offers a wide range of seafood options, prepared with fresh ingredients. The average cost for a meal here is about 800 INR per person.
Friday, September 8: Munnar
Embark on a scenic drive to Munnar, a hill station known for its tea plantations and misty mountains. In the morning, take a relaxing stroll through the tea gardens and learn about the tea-making process. Afternoon can be spent visiting the Tea Museum, where you can witness the history and evolution of tea production in the region. End the day with a visit to Echo Point, where your voices echo against the surrounding hills.
For breakfast, head to Café Royale, a charming café known for its delicious pastries and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 200 per person.
For lunch, try Rapsy Restaurant, which offers a variety of local Kerala dishes including seafood and vegetarian options. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 400 per person.
For dinner, visit Copper Castle, a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Enjoy their delectable Indian and international cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 800 per person.
Saturday, September 9: Thekkady
Head to Thekkady, home to the Periyar National Park. In the morning, embark on a thrilling boat ride on Periyar Lake, where you can spot wildlife like elephants, tigers, and various bird species. Afternoon can be spent exploring the spice plantations, where you'll learn about the cultivation and processing of spices. In the evening, enjoy a Kathakali or Kalaripayattu performance.
Kathakali or Kalaripayattu Performance: Cost - INR 200-300 (approx. $2.75-4.10), Time - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular choice for breakfast in Thekkady is Café Coffee Day, known for its wide selection of coffees and teas. A meal here typically costs around 150 rupees per person.
If you're looking for a delicious lunch option, try Spice Garden Restaurant. They offer a range of traditional Kerala dishes, and a meal for two will cost you approximately 500 rupees.
In the evening, head to Bamboo Cafe for a scrumptious dinner. This cozy restaurant specializes in seafood and offers a delightful dining experience. A meal for two at Bamboo Cafe will cost around 800 rupees.
Sunday, September 10: Alleppey
Experience the famous backwaters of Kerala in Alleppey. Board a traditional houseboat and cruise through the tranquil network of canals. In the morning, relax and enjoy the scenic beauty around you. Afternoon can be spent exploring the local villages and interacting with the friendly residents. In the evening, witness a mesmerizing sunset over the backwaters.
Houseboat Cruise: Cost - Starts from INR 8,000 (approx. $110), Time - 24 hours
Exploring Villages: Cost - Free, Time - 2-3 hours
Sunset Viewing: Cost - Free, Time - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular choice for breakfast in Alleppey is Cafe Catamaran. With a menu featuring local delicacies like appam and stew, as well as international options like pancakes and omelettes, there is something for everyone. The average cost for a meal here is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Cassia Vegetarian Restaurant, known for its extensive vegetarian and vegan options. From dosas to thalis, you can enjoy a flavorful and healthy meal here. The average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For a delightful dinner experience, try the Golden Bay Resort's Bait Restaurant. Located on the backwaters, this restaurant offers a romantic ambiance and a varied menu featuring seafood and traditional Kerala dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Monday, September 11: Kovalam
Head to the popular beach town of Kovalam. In the morning, relax on the pristine beaches and soak up the sun. Afternoon can be spent indulging in water sports like snorkeling, surfing, or swimming. Don't miss visiting the iconic Lighthouse Beach, offering panoramic views of the coastline. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the promenade, lined with shops and restaurants.
Kovalam Beaches: Cost - Free, Time - 4-5 hours
Water Sports: Cost - Varies (approx. $10-30 per activity), Time - 2-3 hours
Lighthouse Beach: Cost - Free, Time - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Kovalam is The German Bakery, known for its freshly baked pastries and bread. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, head to Curry Leaf Restaurant, which offers a variety of traditional Kerala dishes. Enjoy a flavorful meal with an average cost of about ₹400 per person.
In the evening, dine at Malabar Cafe, a charming restaurant that serves authentic Kerala cuisine. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹500 per person.
Tuesday, September 12: Varkala
Visit the serene coastal town of Varkala. In the morning, explore the stunning Varkala Cliff, offering breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. Afternoon can be spent relaxing on the golden sands of Varkala Beach. Take a dip in the natural mineral springs believed to have medicinal properties. In the evening, witness a mesmerizing sunset from one of the cliffside restaurants.
Varkala Cliff: Cost - Free, Time - 2-3 hours
Varkala Beach: Cost - Free, Time - 3-4 hours
Sunset Viewing: Cost - Free, Time - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Coffee Temple. This charming cafe serves freshly brewed coffee and delicious pancakes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Lunch: Indulge in authentic Kerala cuisine at Abba Restaurant. Try their flavorful fish curry and traditional thali. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Dinner: For a romantic candlelit dinner, head to The Ocean's Edge. Enjoy a wide range of seafood dishes while enjoying the stunning view of the Arabian Sea. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Wednesday, September 13: Kochi Departure
Conclude your Kerala trip with a visit to the beautiful city of Kochi. In the morning, explore Jew Town, known for its antique shops and the historic Paradesi Synagogue. Afternoon can be spent shopping for souvenirs at the vibrant local markets. Bid farewell to Kerala with a delicious traditional South Indian meal. Depart from Kochi with cherished memories of your family-friendly Kerala adventure.
Jew Town: Cost - Free, Time - 2-3 hours
Shopping in Local Markets: Cost - Varies, Time - 2-3 hours
South Indian Meal: Cost - Varies (approx. $10-20 per person), Time - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Momo Cafe, known for its wide range of freshly-baked pastries and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Trilogi, a popular restaurant offering a fusion of Kerala and international cuisines. Don't miss their mouthwatering seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, visit Oceanos Restaurant & Cafe, known for its stunning sea views and delectable seafood delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Kerala, make sure to visit the beautiful hill station of Vagamon, known for its lush green meadows, pine forests, and enchanting valleys. Families can enjoy activities like paragliding, hiking, and boating. Don't miss the Vagamon Pine Forest and the idyllic Vagamon Lake, perfect for a picnic. It's a serene and off-the-beaten-path destination loved by both locals and tourists seeking tranquility in nature.
For more information on hotels and flights, you can check KAYAK.