Start your Kerala adventure by arriving in Kochi, a vibrant city known for its rich history and cultural blend. In the morning, explore Fort Kochi's charming streets, visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, and immerse yourself in the local art scene at the Kochi-Muziris Biennale. After a delicious seafood lunch, take a relaxing boat ride along the serene backwaters, soaking in the peaceful surroundings. In the evening, enjoy a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional art form of Kerala.
Fort Kochi & Chinese Fishing Nets: Free, 3-4 hours
Backwater boat ride: INR 500-1000 per person, 2-3 hours
Kathakali dance performance: INR 300-500 per person, 2 hours
Restaurants
The Pepper House Cafe offers a tasty breakfast with options like pancakes, omelettes, and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Dal Roti, a popular restaurant known for its delectable North Indian dishes. Try their butter chicken and garlic naan. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Enjoy a scrumptious dinner at Malabar Junction, a fine dining restaurant specializing in Kerala cuisine. Indulge in their seafood delicacies and traditional curries. The average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
Saturday, October 21: Munnar Tea Gardens
Embark on a scenic drive to Munnar, a hill station famous for its picturesque tea gardens. Start your morning with a visit to the Tea Museum to learn about the tea-making process and enjoy a refreshing cup of tea. Spend the afternoon exploring the lush tea plantations, capturing breathtaking views of the rolling hills. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant local markets and indulge in delicious street food.
Tea Museum: INR 120 per person, 2 hours
Munnar Tea Gardens: Free, 3-4 hours
Exploring local markets: Cost varies, 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Brew Lounge, located near Munnar Tea Gardens. This cozy cafe offers a variety of breakfast options such as freshly baked pastries, eggs benedict, and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a delicious lunch, head to Rapsy Restaurant, known for its authentic Kerala cuisine. Enjoy mouthwatering seafood dishes like fish curry and prawn biryani. The restaurant also serves vegetarian options and has a warm and welcoming ambience. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at Saravana Bhavan, a popular vegetarian restaurant in Munnar. Savor traditional South Indian dishes like masala dosa, idli sambar, and filter coffee. The restaurant has a pleasant atmosphere and friendly staff. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
Sunday, October 22: Wildlife Safari in Thekkady
Head to Thekkady, home to the Periyar National Park, renowned for its diverse wildlife. Start your day with an exciting boat ride on Periyar Lake, where you can spot elephants, deer, and various bird species. After a delicious lunch, embark on a thrilling jungle safari and get a chance to encounter tigers, leopards, and other exotic animals. In the evening, enjoy a Kathakali and Kalaripayattu performance, a traditional martial art form of Kerala.
Periyar Lake boat ride: INR 300-500 per person, 2-3 hours
Periyar National Park safari: INR 1500-2000 per person, 3-4 hours
Kathakali and Kalaripayattu performance: INR 300-500 per person, 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Spice Village, a charming restaurant in Thekkady. They offer a variety of traditional Kerala breakfast dishes and the average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.
For lunch, head to Bamboo Cafe, a popular restaurant known for its authentic Kerala cuisine. Enjoy a flavorful meal of rice, curry, and seafood dishes, with an average cost of about INR 300 per person.
End the day with a delightful dinner at Grand Hotel. This restaurant offers a range of Indian and Continental dishes, with an average cost of about INR 500 per person.
Monday, October 23: Backwaters of Alleppey
Travel to Alleppey, often called the "Venice of the East," famous for its enchanting backwaters. Board a traditional houseboat and cruise along the serene waterways, surrounded by lush greenery. Enjoy a freshly prepared traditional Kerala meal on board and witness the unique lifestyle of the locals living along the backwaters. Spend the evening exploring the charming Alleppey town and its bustling markets.
Houseboat experience: INR 6000-10000 for 1 night, 6-8 hours
Exploring Alleppey town: Free, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café Catamaran, a charming café overlooking the backwaters. They offer a delightful selection of freshly baked goods and hearty breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try the renowned Curry Leaf Restaurant, known for its authentic Kerala cuisine. Enjoy a variety of flavorful curries and traditional dishes made with fresh local ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
For dinner, dine at Kayees Rahmathulla Hotel, a local favorite known for serving delicious Malabar cuisine. Indulge in their aromatic biryanis, succulent kebabs, and mouthwatering seafood specialties. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Tuesday, October 24: Thrissur Cultural Heritage
Visit Thrissur, known as the cultural capital of Kerala, and immerse yourself in its vibrant traditions. Start your day by exploring the magnificent Vadakkunnathan Temple, a masterpiece of ancient architecture. Dive into Kerala's rich cultural heritage with a visit to the Kerala Kalamandalam, where you can witness traditional dance and music performances. In the evening, witness the mesmerizing Thrissur Pooram festival, filled with grand elephant processions and spectacular fireworks.
Vadakkunnathan Temple: Free, 2-3 hours
Kerala Kalamandalam: Entrance fee varies, 2-3 hours
Thrissur Pooram festival: Free, evening event
Restaurants
Breakfast: Enjoy a hearty traditional Kerala breakfast at Kashi Art Cafe, located in the heart of Thrissur. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Lunch: Indulge in authentic Kerala cuisine at Hotel Bharat, known for its delicious seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Dinner: Savor the flavors of Kerala at Dhe Puttu, a popular restaurant specializing in traditional Puttu and Kerala-style curries. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
Wednesday, October 25: Kovalam Beach Relaxation
Head to the picturesque coastal town of Kovalam and unwind on its pristine beaches. Start your morning with a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage, known for its therapeutic benefits. Spend the afternoon sunbathing, swimming, and trying water sports at the beautiful Kovalam Beach. In the evening, enjoy a mesmerizing sunset while savoring delicious seafood at a beachfront restaurant.
Ayurvedic massage: INR 1000-3000 per person, 1-2 hours
Beach relaxation and water sports: Cost varies, 4-5 hours
Sunset dining at a beachfront restaurant: INR 500-1000 per person, 2 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Savour a delicious South Indian breakfast at the famed Indian Coffee House. This iconic restaurant offers a variety of dishes like dosas, idlis, and vadas, with an average cost of about 100 INR per person.
Lunch: Indulge in the wholesome flavors of traditional Kerala cuisine at Zam Zam Restaurant. From their authentic biryanis to their lip-smacking seafood dishes, this restaurant has something for everyone, with an average cost of about 300 INR per person.
Dinner: Treat yourself to a culinary delight at the Malabar Café. Known for its elegant ambiance and delectable seafood specialties, this restaurant offers a memorable dining experience, with an average cost of about 500 INR per person.
Thursday, October 26: Departure from Trivandrum
End your Kerala journey with a visit to Trivandrum, the capital city of Kerala. Explore the iconic Padmanabhaswamy Temple, known for its architectural grandeur and religious significance. Indulge in some last-minute souvenir shopping at the bustling local markets. Bid farewell to Kerala as you depart from Trivandrum Airport, taking with you unforgettable memories of this beautiful state.
Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Free, 2-3 hours
Shopping at local markets: Cost varies, 2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Brasserie Les Amis, a charming cafe known for its delicious European-style pastries and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
For lunch, try the authentic South Indian cuisine at Ariya Nivaas, a popular restaurant serving traditional dishes like dosas and thalis. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
For dinner, dine at Villa Maya, an elegant restaurant housed in a restored 18th-century Dutch mansion. Enjoy a fusion of Indian and European flavors while surrounded by the historic ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
When visiting Kerala with your family, make sure to explore the lesser-known gem of Marari Beach. It offers a tranquil and secluded atmosphere, perfect for unwinding and enjoying quality time with your loved ones. You can also visit the Athirappilly Waterfalls, a breathtaking natural wonder that cascades from a height of 80 feet. These off-the-beaten-path attractions will provide unique experiences away from the crowds, and locals highly recommend them for family-friendly adventures.