Family Friendly 7-Day Itinerary in Kerala

Sunday December 24: Exploring Kochi

In the morning, visit Fort Kochi, a historic neighborhood known for its colonial architecture and Chinese fishing nets. Explore the bustling streets and visit St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India. In the afternoon, take a ferry to the picturesque Bolgatty Island and enjoy a leisurely walk in the lush Bolgatty Palace Gardens. End the day by watching a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional art form of Kerala.

• Fort Kochi: INR 100 ($1.35), 4 hours
• Bolgatty Island: Ferry cost: INR 10 ($0.13), 2 hours
• Kathakali Performance: INR 300-500 ($4-7), 2 hours

Restaurants

• For a delicious breakfast, head to Kashi Art Cafe in Fort Kochi. This quaint cafe offers a range of breakfast options, including freshly baked bread, pancakes, and omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
• For a satisfying lunch, try Fusion Bay in Bolgatty Island. This restaurant serves a variety of Indian and international cuisines in a beautiful waterfront setting. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
• For a memorable dinner, dine at Oceanos Restaurant in Kochi. This seafood restaurant is known for its fresh and flavorful dishes, including grilled fish and prawn curry. Average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.

Monday December 25: Backwaters of Alleppey

Embark on a houseboat cruise through the serene backwaters of Alleppey. Enjoy the scenic views of lush green paddy fields, coconut groves, and local villages. Indulge in delicious Kerala cuisine on the houseboat and spend a relaxed day surrounded by nature.

• Houseboat cruise: Starting from INR 8,000 ($108) per night, 6-8 hours

Tuesday December 26: Exploring Munnar

Start your day with a visit to the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Enjoy a scenic drive to the beautiful tea plantations of Munnar and learn about the tea-making process. In the afternoon, visit the Mattupetty Dam and take a boat ride on the serene Mattupetty Lake.

• Eravikulam National Park: INR 120 ($1.62), 4 hours
• Tea Plantations: Free entry, 2 hours
• Mattupetty Dam and Lake: INR 10 ($0.13), 2 hours

Wednesday December 27: Wildlife Safari in Thekkady

Embark on an exciting wildlife safari in Periyar National Park. Explore the dense forests and spot various wildlife species, including elephants, tigers, and deer. In the afternoon, take a boat ride on Periyar Lake and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding hills and wildlife.

• Periyar National Park: INR 450 ($6.08), 4-5 hours
• Boat ride on Periyar Lake: INR 150 ($2.03), 2 hours

Thursday December 28: Beach Day in Kovalam

Relax and unwind on the beautiful beaches of Kovalam. Enjoy swimming in the clear waters, sunbathe on the golden sand, and indulge in delicious seafood at the local beachside shacks. Visit the iconic lighthouse and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline.

• Kovalam Beach: Free entry, full day
• Kovalam Lighthouse: INR 20 ($0.27), 2 hours

Friday December 29: Cultural Heritage in Thrissur

Explore the cultural heritage of Thrissur by visiting the Vadakkunnathan Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Witness the grandeur of Thrissur Pooram, a famous temple festival known for its vibrant processions and fireworks. In the afternoon, visit the Kerala Kalamandalam, a renowned center for performing arts.

• Vadakkunnathan Temple: Free entry, 2 hours
• Kerala Kalamandalam: INR 100 ($1.35), 2 hours

Saturday December 30: Relaxation in Varkala

Spend a day of relaxation on the sandy beaches of Varkala. Take a dip in the refreshing waters of the Arabian Sea, indulge in Ayurvedic spa treatments, and watch the mesmerizing sunset from the picturesque cliffs. Enjoy fresh seafood at the beachside restaurants.

• Varkala Beach: Free entry, full day
• Ayurvedic spa treatments: Starting from INR 1,000 ($13.50), as per choice

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For an off the beaten path experience, head to the village of Mararikulam. Enjoy the tranquility of Marari Beach, known for its pristine beauty and serene atmosphere. Explore the village and interact with the friendly locals to get a glimpse of their traditional lifestyle.

To check hotel and flight prices, visit KAYAK.