7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in Kerala

Monday, January 8: Kochi

In the morning, visit the famous Fort Kochi Beach, known for its Chinese fishing nets and beautiful sunsets. Explore the historic Fort Kochi area, including St. Francis Church and the Santa Cruz Basilica. In the afternoon, take a leisurely boat ride through the backwaters, experiencing the scenic beauty of Kerala. In the evening, enjoy a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional form of storytelling through dance and music.

• Fort Kochi Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
• Backwaters Boat Ride: ₹1000-1500 per person, 3-4 hours
• Kathakali Performance: ₹300-500 per person, 2 hours

Restaurants

• Nalukettu Restaurant: Enjoy a traditional Kerala breakfast at Nalukettu Restaurant, located in Fort Kochi. They serve authentic Appam and Stew along with a variety of dosas and idlis. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
Dal Roti: For lunch, head to Dal Roti in Fort Kochi, known for its delicious Indian and Continental cuisine. They offer a wide range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, including biryanis, curries, and naan bread. The average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
• Oceanos Restaurant: Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Oceanos Restaurant, situated near Fort Kochi Beach. They specialize in seafood dishes, including grilled fish, prawns, and lobster. They also have a selection of vegetarian and meat options. The average cost for a meal is about ₹600 per person.

Tuesday, January 9: Munnar

Start your day with a visit to the Tea Museum in Munnar, where you can learn about the history and process of tea production. Enjoy a scenic drive to Echo Point, known for its natural echo phenomenon, and take a short hike to Top Station for breathtaking views. In the evening, explore the local markets and indulge in some tea tasting.

• Tea Museum: ₹150 per person, 1-2 hours
• Echo Point and Top Station: Free, 3-4 hours
• Tea Tasting: ₹200-300 per person, 1 hour

Wednesday, January 10: Thekkady

Embark on an early morning wildlife safari in Periyar National Park, home to various species including elephants and tigers. Take a boat ride on Periyar Lake, surrounded by lush forests. In the afternoon, visit a spice plantation to learn about the fragrant spices grown in the region. Enjoy a traditional Kerala Ayurvedic massage in the evening for relaxation.

• Wildlife Safari: ₹400-600 per person, 3-4 hours
• Boat Ride on Periyar Lake: ₹250-400 per person, 2-3 hours
• Spice Plantation Visit: ₹200-300 per person, 1-2 hours
• Ayurvedic Massage: ₹1000-2000 per person, 1-2 hours

Thursday, January 11: Alleppey

Start your day with a relaxing houseboat cruise along the backwaters of Alleppey, admiring the serene surroundings. Enjoy a traditional Kerala lunch on the houseboat. In the afternoon, visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, a haven for birdwatchers. In the evening, indulge in a sunset beach walk along Alleppey Beach.

• Houseboat Cruise: ₹8000-10000 per night (shared), 6-8 hours
• Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: ₹50 per person, 2-3 hours
• Alleppey Beach: Free, 1-2 hours

Friday, January 12: Kovalam

Relax and rejuvenate on the beautiful beaches of Kovalam. Spend the morning swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying water sports. Explore the lighthouse and enjoy panoramic views of the coast. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium to discover a variety of marine life. Witness a mesmerizing Kathakali performance in the evening.

• Kovalam Beaches: Free, 4-5 hours
• Kovalam Lighthouse: ₹20 per person, 1 hour
• Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium: ₹100 per person, 1-2 hours
• Kathakali Performance: ₹300-500 per person, 2 hours

Saturday, January 13: Varkala

Start your day by exploring the stunning beaches and cliffs of Varkala. Visit the ancient Janardanaswamy Temple and take a dip in the holy waters of Papanasam Beach. Enjoy a relaxing Ayurvedic spa treatment in the afternoon. In the evening, witness a mesmerizing sunset from the Varkala Cliff.

• Papanasam Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
• Janardanaswamy Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
• Ayurvedic Spa Treatment: ₹1000-2000 per person, 1-2 hours
• Varkala Cliff: Free, 1-2 hours

Sunday, January 14: Thrissur

Explore the cultural capital of Kerala, Thrissur. Visit the iconic Vadakkunnathan Temple, known for its architectural beauty. Explore the Thrissur Zoo and State Museum for a glimpse of wildlife and art. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Thrissur Pooram festival (if coinciding with your visit). End your day with a traditional Kerala feast.

• Vadakkunnathan Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
• Thrissur Zoo: ₹20 per person, 1-2 hours
• State Museum: ₹10 per person, 1-2 hours
• Thrissur Pooram (if applicable): Free, variable time
• Traditional Kerala Feast: ₹500-800 per person, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, 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 Marari Beach near Alleppey, which offers a peaceful and less crowded alternative to other popular beaches. Locals also love the hill station of Ponmudi near Thiruvananthapuram, known for its pristine natural beauty and trekking opportunities.

Check https://kayak.com/in?a=kan_252520_563153&p=v1&lc=en&url=%2Fstays for hotel and flight prices.