Kerala Family-Friendly 5-Day Itinerary

1. Day 1: Cochin Fort and Santa Cruz Basilica
   30 minutes (9.2 km) from Cochin international airport

   Step into Indian history with a visit to Cochin Fort. Surrounded by water, the fort has a variety of things from art galleries to spice markets. Visit the Santa Cruz Basilica for a quaint Portuguese touch.

2. Day 2: Athirapally waterfalls and Ezhattumugham Butterfly park
   2 hours 30 minutes (74.2 km) from Cochin Fort

   Visit the Athirapally waterfalls, which is also known as the “Niagara of India.” Walk between the beautiful forests and take a refreshing dip in the waterfall nearby. Head to the Ezhattumugham Butterfly park to witness beautifully colored butterflies in a scenic setting.

3. Day 3: Periyar wildlife sanctuary and Kathakali performance
   3 hours 30 minutes (127 km) from Athirapally waterfalls

   Spend the day experiencing the lush fauna and flora of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Take a boat ride and do not miss the elephant reserve. In the evening head for a traditional Kathakali performance

4. Day 4: Marari Beach and St. Francis church
   4 hours (143 km) from Periyar wildlife sanctuary

   Hit the Marari Beach for a calming morning swim. An interesting visit to St. Francis church is also recommended to gain insight into the history of Christianity in India.

5. Day 5: Aleppey Backwaters and Krishnapuram Palace
   1 hour 30 minutes (58 km) from Marari Beach

   Take a long houseboat ride across the Athirappilly waterfalls and observe traditional village life along the Aleppey backwaters. End your time at the beautiful Krishnapuram palace, steeped in history.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Cochin Fort (2-3 hours, free)
• Santa Cruz Basilica (1-2 hours, free)
• Athirapally waterfalls (3-4 hours, INR 40-80 per person)
• Ezhattumugham Butterfly park (1-2 hours, INR 20-30 per person)
• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (4-5 hours, INR 25-40 per person)
• Kathakali performance (2-3 hours, INR 200-500 per person)
• Marari Beach (2-3 hours, free)
• St. Francis church (1-2 hours, free)
• Aleppey Backwaters (4-5 hours, INR 4000-6000 per houseboat)
• Krishnapuram Palace (1-2 hours, INR 30-50 per person)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 500-1500 per person (excludes houseboat costs)

Useful Tips

If you have more time, head to Munnar for beautiful tea plantations, Thekkady for stunning landscapes or Kovalam beach for more sunbathing and swimming. Consider visiting India between September to March as the weather is pleasant during these months. If you have less time, skip Ezhattumugham Butterfly park and St.Francis church.