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Discovering Kerala: A Family-Friendly 7-Day Itinerary

Friday, September 1: Arrival in Kochi

Arrive in Kochi, also known as Cochin, and begin your Kerala adventure. In the morning, explore Fort Kochi, a charming neighborhood with colonial architecture and narrow streets. Visit St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, and the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets. In the afternoon, enjoy a relaxing boat ride through the serene backwaters of Kochi. In the evening, witness a mesmerizing Kathakali dance performance, a traditional art form of Kerala.

  • Fort Kochi: Entrance fees, if any, are minimal. Estimated time spent: 3-4 hours.
  • Backwater Boat Ride: Prices vary depending on the type of boat. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
  • Kathakali Performance: Ticket prices range from INR 200 to INR 500 per person. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
Saturday, September 2: Munnar

Embark on a scenic drive to Munnar, a picturesque hill station known for its tea plantations. In the morning, visit the Tea Museum to learn about the tea-making process and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding hills. In the afternoon, explore the stunning Mattupetty Dam and take a boat ride on the tranquil lake. End the day with a visit to the colorful Blossom Hydel Park, offering beautiful gardens and recreational activities.

  • Tea Museum: Entrance fee is INR 150 for adults and INR 75 for children. Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours.
  • Mattupetty Dam: Entrance fee is INR 10 per person. Boat ride charges apply separately. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
  • Blossom Hydel Park: Entrance fee is INR 10 per person. Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours.
Sunday, September 3: Thekkady

Head to Thekkady, home to the Periyar National Park. In the morning, take a boat safari on Periyar Lake to spot elephants, tigers, and other wildlife. In the afternoon, explore the spice plantations and learn about the various spices grown in the region. End the day with a relaxing Ayurvedic massage for the whole family.

  • Periyar Lake Boat Safari: Entrance fee is INR 150 per person. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
  • Spice Plantation Visit: Entrance fee is INR 100 for adults and INR 50 for children. Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours.
  • Ayurvedic Massage: Prices vary depending on the type of massage chosen. Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours.
Monday, September 4: Alleppey

Travel to Alleppey, famous for its backwaters and houseboat cruises. In the morning, board a houseboat for a relaxing cruise through the scenic backwaters, enjoying the lush greenery and tranquility. In the afternoon, explore the local villages, interact with the friendly locals, and witness their traditional lifestyle. End the day with a memorable sunset view over the backwaters.

  • Houseboat Cruise: Prices vary depending on the size and amenities of the houseboat. Estimated time spent: 5-6 hours.
  • Village Visit: No entrance fees. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
  • Sunset View: No entrance fees. Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours.
Tuesday, September 5: Kovalam

Depart for Kovalam, a coastal town renowned for its beautiful beaches. In the morning, relax on the golden sands of Kovalam Beach and take a refreshing dip in the Arabian Sea. In the afternoon, visit the Lighthouse Beach and indulge in thrilling water sports activities such as surfing and parasailing. End the day with a serene walk along the promenade, enjoying the stunning sunset views.

  • Kovalam Beach: No entrance fees. Estimated time spent: 3-4 hours.
  • Lighthouse Beach: No entrance fees. Water sports charges may apply. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
  • Promenade Walk: No entrance fees. Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours.
Wednesday, September 6: Thiruvananthapuram

Explore the capital city of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum). In the morning, visit the iconic Padmanabhaswamy Temple, a blend of Dravidian and Kerala architecture. In the afternoon, explore the Napier Museum and Art Gallery to admire its impressive collection of art and artifacts. End the day with a visit to the tranquil Kovalam Art Gallery, showcasing the works of local artists.

  • Padmanabhaswamy Temple: No entrance fees. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
  • Napier Museum and Art Gallery: Entrance fee is INR 20 per person. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
  • Kovalam Art Gallery: Entrance fee is INR 10 per person. Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours.
Thursday, September 7: Departure from Kochi

Travel back to Kochi for your departure. In the morning, explore the historic Dutch Palace, also known as Mattancherry Palace, showcasing beautiful murals depicting Hindu mythological stories. In the afternoon, wander through Jew Town, a vibrant neighborhood known for its antique shops and spice markets. End your Kerala journey with a delicious seafood dinner at a local restaurant.

  • Dutch Palace: Entrance fee is INR 5 per person. Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours.
  • Jew Town: No entrance fees. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
  • Seafood Dinner: Prices vary depending on the restaurant. Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

Don't miss the opportunity to visit the charming village of Kumarakom, situated on the banks of Vembanad Lake. Explore the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, home to numerous species of migratory birds, and take a relaxing houseboat cruise through the backwaters. Another hidden gem is the small town of Varkala, known for its stunning cliffside beach and mineral-rich natural springs. Enjoy a peaceful day by the beach and indulge in Ayurvedic treatments for a truly rejuvenating experience.

For authentic local cuisine, try the traditional Kerala Sadya, a vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf, at popular restaurants like Dhe Puttu or Arippa. Also, don't forget to try the refreshing tender coconut water, a popular local drink, available at various street vendors throughout Kerala.

For more information on hotel and flight prices, you can check Kayak.

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