Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

A Week-long Family Adventure in Kerala

Friday, December 8: Arrive in Kochi

Start your Kerala adventure by arriving in Kochi, the vibrant port city known for its rich history and beautiful waterfront. In the morning, explore Fort Kochi, a historic neighborhood with charming colonial-era buildings and the famous Chinese fishing nets. In the afternoon, visit the Mattancherry Palace, also known as Dutch Palace, to discover its stunning murals and artifacts. As the evening sets in, don't miss the iconic Kathakali dance performance, a traditional art form of Kerala.

  • Fort Kochi: Free, 3 hours
  • Mattancherry Palace: INR 5 (USD 0.07), 2 hours
  • Kathakali Performance: INR 500-1000 (USD 7-14), 2 hours
Saturday, December 9: Munnar's Tea Gardens

On day two, head to Munnar, a hill station famous for its picturesque tea gardens. In the morning, visit the Tea Museum to learn about the tea production process and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding hills. In the afternoon, take a guided hike through the tea plantations, savoring the fresh aroma of tea leaves. Spend the evening exploring the local markets and tasting delicious tea-based snacks.

  • Tea Museum: INR 100 (USD 1.4), 2 hours
  • Tea Plantation Hike: INR 500 (USD 7), 4 hours
  • Local Market: Free, 2 hours
Sunday, December 10: Backwaters of Alleppey

Experience the serene backwaters of Alleppey on a traditional houseboat cruise. In the morning, embark on a leisurely boat ride through the scenic canals, observing the lush greenery and local life. Enjoy a delicious traditional Kerala lunch on the houseboat. In the afternoon, relax and soak in the tranquil ambiance of the backwaters. Spend the evening stargazing from the deck of your houseboat.

  • Houseboat Cruise: INR 8000-12000 (USD 111-166), 7 hours
Monday, December 11: Wildlife Safari in Periyar

Explore the wildlife sanctuary of Periyar on an exciting safari adventure. In the morning, go for a guided nature walk in the Periyar Tiger Reserve, spotting various species of birds and animals. Afterward, take a boat ride on Periyar Lake to observe elephants, bison, and other wildlife at the water's edge. In the afternoon, visit the spice plantations and learn about the region's rich spice cultivation.

  • Periyar Nature Walk: INR 250 (USD 3.5), 3 hours
  • Periyar Lake Boat Ride: INR 500 (USD 7), 2 hours
  • Spice Plantation Visit: INR 200 (USD 2.8), 2 hours
Tuesday, December 12: Athirapally Waterfalls

Discover the majestic Athirapally Waterfalls, often referred to as the "Niagara Falls of India." In the morning, hike through the lush forest to reach the cascading waterfalls and enjoy their breathtaking beauty. Take a refreshing bath in the natural pools formed by the falls. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Vazhachal Waterfalls and explore the surrounding biodiversity.

  • Athirapally Waterfalls: INR 50 (USD 0.7), 3 hours
  • Vazhachal Waterfalls: INR 20 (USD 0.3), 2 hours
Wednesday, December 13: Beach Day in Kovalam

Relax and unwind on the golden sands of Kovalam Beach, a popular coastal destination. In the morning, take a leisurely swim in the clear waters or try surfing and other water sports. In the afternoon, indulge in a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage or yoga session at one of the beachfront spas. Enjoy a delicious seafood dinner while watching the breathtaking sunset over the Arabian Sea.

  • Kovalam Beach: Free, all day
  • Water Sports: INR 500-1000 (USD 7-14), 3 hours
  • Ayurvedic Massage: INR 1500-3000 (USD 21-42), 1 hour
Thursday, December 14: Thrissur Cultural Traditions

Immerse yourself in the cultural traditions of Thrissur, a city known as the cultural capital of Kerala. In the morning, visit the Vadakkunnathan Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and witness its magnificent architecture. Explore the Kerala Kalamandalam, a renowned center for traditional arts, in the afternoon. In the evening, attend a performance of the Thrissur Pooram, a grand festival showcasing Kerala's rich cultural heritage.

  • Vadakkunnathan Temple: Free, 2 hours
  • Kerala Kalamandalam: INR 50 (USD 0.7), 2 hours
  • Thrissur Pooram: Free, 4 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When in Kerala, don't miss a visit to the beautiful hill station of Wayanad. Nestled amidst the Western Ghats, Wayanad offers stunning landscapes, tea and coffee plantations, and wildlife reserves. Explore the ancient Edakkal Caves, visit the serene Pookode Lake, and take a safari in the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. This off the beaten path destination is perfect for family adventures, with plenty of opportunities for trekking, camping, and nature walks.

For a unique cultural experience, head to Kochi's Folklore Museum. This museum showcases the rich folklore and art forms of Kerala, including Kathakali masks, traditional costumes, and musical instruments. You can even witness live performances of various art forms, providing a deeper understanding of Kerala's cultural heritage.

End your trip with a visit to the beautiful Bekal Fort in Kasaragod. This well-preserved fort offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea and is an ideal spot for a picnic with your family. Explore the fort's hidden passages, visit the nearby Chandragiri Fort, and enjoy the serene beaches surrounding the area.

Plan your trip to Kerala by checking hotel and flight prices here.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version