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A Week in Kerala: A Family-Friendly Itinerary

Friday, December 8: Arrival in Kochi

Welcome to Kerala! Start your trip by arriving in Kochi, a vibrant city known for its rich history and cultural heritage. In the morning, explore the historic Fort Kochi area, with its quaint streets, colonial architecture, and iconic Chinese fishing nets. Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at one of the local restaurants. In the afternoon, visit the Mattancherry Palace and the Jewish Synagogue, both offering fascinating insights into the region's past. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely stroll along the bustling Marine Drive promenade, enjoying the scenic view of the Arabian Sea.

  • Fort Kochi: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Mattancherry Palace: INR 5 (approx. $0.07), 1-2 hours
  • Jewish Synagogue: INR 5 (approx. $0.07), 1-2 hours
  • Marine Drive: Free, 1-2 hours
Saturday, December 9: Munnar's Tea Gardens

Head to Munnar, a hill station famous for its sprawling tea gardens and picturesque landscapes. In the morning, take a guided tour of a tea plantation and learn about the tea-making process. Enjoy a refreshing cup of freshly brewed tea amidst the scenic surroundings. Afterward, visit the beautiful Attukal Waterfalls and enjoy a picnic lunch by the cascading waters. In the evening, explore the local markets and indulge in some souvenir shopping.

  • Tea Plantation Tour: INR 200 (approx. $2.72), 3-4 hours
  • Attukal Waterfalls: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Local Market: Variable, 1-2 hours
Sunday, December 10: Backwaters of Alleppey

Embark on a memorable houseboat cruise through the enchanting backwaters of Alleppey. Spend the morning sailing along the serene canals, enjoying the lush greenery and observing the local village life. Indulge in a delectable traditional Kerala lunch prepared on board. In the afternoon, explore the narrow waterways and witness the scenic beauty. As the evening approaches, witness a mesmerizing sunset over the backwaters.

  • Houseboat Cruise: INR 8,000 - 15,000 (approx. $108 - $203), 6-8 hours
Monday, December 11: Wildlife Safari in Thekkady

Visit Thekkady, home to the famous Periyar National Park. Start your morning with an exciting wildlife safari in the park, where you might spot elephants, tigers, and various bird species. After the safari, partake in a memorable boating experience on Periyar Lake and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding forests. In the evening, attend a traditional Kathakali dance performance, showcasing Kerala's vibrant culture and art.

  • Periyar National Park Safari: INR 450 (approx. $6.10), 3-4 hours
  • Boating on Periyar Lake: INR 150 (approx. $2.04), 2-3 hours
  • Kathakali Dance Performance: INR 250 (approx. $3.39), 1-2 hours
Tuesday, December 12: Beach Time in Kovalam

Travel to Kovalam, a beautiful coastal town known for its pristine beaches. Spend the morning relaxing on the sandy shores and taking a dip in the clear blue waters. Explore the Lighthouse Beach and enjoy water sports activities such as swimming, surfing, or parasailing. Indulge in a delicious seafood lunch at one of the beachside restaurants. In the evening, witness a breathtaking sunset over the Arabian Sea.

  • Lighthouse Beach: Free, 3-4 hours
  • Water Sports Activities: Variable, 2-3 hours
  • Beachside Restaurant: Variable, 1-2 hours
Wednesday, December 13: Cultural Delights in Thrissur

Head to Thrissur, often referred to as the cultural capital of Kerala. In the morning, visit the iconic Vadakkunnathan Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and admire its impressive architecture. Explore the Kerala Kalamandalam, a renowned institution for traditional performing arts, and witness a captivating Kathakali or Mohiniyattam dance performance. In the evening, stroll through the vibrant streets of Thrissur and savor some local delicacies.

  • Vadakkunnathan Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Kerala Kalamandalam: INR 100 (approx. $1.36), 2-3 hours
  • Kathakali or Mohiniyattam Dance Performance: INR 200 (approx. $2.72), 1-2 hours
  • Local Delicacies: Variable, 1-2 hours
Thursday, December 14: Departure

It's time to bid farewell to Kerala. Depending on your departure time, you can spend the morning exploring any missed attractions or simply relaxing at your hotel. Check out and proceed to the airport for your onward journey, taking unforgettable memories of Kerala's natural beauty and cultural heritage with you.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For an off the beaten path experience, consider visiting the lesser-known village of Kumbalangi, located near Kochi. This eco-tourism destination offers opportunities to witness traditional fishing practices, explore mangrove forests, and experience the local way of life. You can also indulge in a homestay experience, staying with a local family and learning about their customs and traditions.

To check hotel and flight prices, click here.

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