A Week in Kerala: Family Friendly Itinerary

Wednesday January 3: Arrival in Kochi

Welcome to Kerala! Start your trip in Kochi, a vibrant city known for its blend of cultures and colonial architecture. In the morning, visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets and explore Fort Kochi, where you can admire the Dutch Palace and St. Francis Church. In the afternoon, take a relaxing boat ride through the picturesque backwaters. As the evening sets in, enjoy a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional art form of Kerala.

• Chinese Fishing Nets and Fort Kochi: Estimated cost - free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Backwater Boat Ride: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Kathakali Dance Performance: Estimated cost - INR 200-500 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Thursday January 4: Munnar's Natural Beauty

Head to Munnar, a hill station known for its sprawling tea plantations and scenic beauty. In the morning, visit the Tea Museum to learn about the history and production of tea. Enjoy a refreshing trek through the tea gardens and take in the breathtaking views. In the afternoon, explore the picturesque Mattupetty Dam and indulge in a boat ride on the tranquil lake. Don't miss the stunning sunset at the Top Station viewpoint.

• Tea Museum and Tea Gardens: Estimated cost - INR 200 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Mattupetty Dam and Boat Ride: Estimated cost - INR 300 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Top Station Viewpoint: Estimated cost - free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Friday January 5: Wildlife Safari in Periyar

Travel to Periyar National Park, home to diverse wildlife and lush greenery. Start your day with an exciting early morning boat safari on Periyar Lake, where you might spot elephants, tigers, and various bird species. In the afternoon, explore the spice plantations and learn about the different spices grown in the region. End the day with a thrilling Kathakali and Kalaripayattu performance.

• Periyar Lake Safari: Estimated cost - INR 400 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Spice Plantation Visit: Estimated cost - INR 100 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Kathakali and Kalaripayattu Performance: Estimated cost - INR 200-500 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Saturday January 6: Backwaters of Alleppey

Experience the serene backwaters of Alleppey by staying overnight on a houseboat. Spend the day cruising along the palm-fringed canals, observing the local way of life and enjoying delicious traditional meals prepared on board. Relax on the sundeck and take in the beautiful surroundings. In the evening, witness a mesmerizing Kathakali performance.

• Houseboat Overnight Stay: Estimated cost - INR 8,000-15,000 per night (depending on the boat), Time spent - 24 hours
• Kathakali Performance: Estimated cost - INR 200-500 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Sunday January 7: Beach Bliss in Kovalam

Head to Kovalam, a popular beach destination known for its crescent-shaped sandy shores. Spend the morning relaxing on the beach, swimming in the clear blue waters, and trying out water sports. Enjoy a seafood lunch at a beachside restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Kovalam lighthouse and stroll along the promenade. Watch the vibrant sunset before indulging in a traditional Ayurvedic massage.

• Kovalam Beach: Estimated cost - free, Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Seafood Lunch: Estimated cost - INR 500-1000 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Kovalam Lighthouse and Promenade: Estimated cost - free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Ayurvedic Massage: Estimated cost - INR 1500-3000 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Monday January 8: Cultural Delights in Thrissur

Visit Thrissur, the cultural capital of Kerala. In the morning, explore the historic Vadakkunnathan Temple, known for its architectural beauty and religious significance. Witness the traditional elephant procession at the nearby Punnathur Kotta Elephant Sanctuary. In the afternoon, visit the Kerala Kalamandalam, a renowned center for performing arts. Enjoy a Kathakali performance and savor the flavors of authentic Kerala cuisine.

• Vadakkunnathan Temple: Estimated cost - free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Punnathur Kotta Elephant Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 100 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Kerala Kalamandalam Visit and Kathakali Performance: Estimated cost - INR 200-500 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Authentic Kerala Cuisine: Estimated cost - INR 500-1000 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Tuesday January 9: Departure from Kochi

Say goodbye to the beautiful state of Kerala. Spend your last morning exploring the bustling markets of Kochi, where you can shop for souvenirs and traditional handicrafts. Enjoy a delicious farewell lunch at a local restaurant before heading to the airport for your departure.

• Shopping in Kochi: Estimated cost - varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Farewell Lunch: Estimated cost - INR 500-1000 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the quaint village of Kumarakom, famous for its bird sanctuary and tranquil backwaters. Another hidden gem is Varkala, a laid-back beach town with stunning cliffs and a relaxed atmosphere. Locals love spending time at the hill station of Wayanad, where you can explore lush forests, visit ancient caves, and indulge in adventure activities like trekking and wildlife safaris. These destinations offer unique experiences and are perfect for a family-friendly getaway.

For hotel and flight prices in Kerala, you can check this link.