Start your Kerala adventure in Kochi, a vibrant city known for its rich history and cultural heritage. In the morning, visit the iconic Fort Kochi, where you can explore the Chinese fishing nets and stroll through the charming streets lined with colonial-era buildings. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the local art scene at the Kerala Folklore Museum. As the evening sets in, catch a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional form of storytelling through dance and music.
Fort Kochi: Entry is free, estimated time: 3-4 hours
Kerala Folklore Museum: Entry fee around INR 100 per person, estimated time: 2-3 hours
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Coffee Cube, a cozy café known for its freshly brewed coffee and mouth-watering pastries. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, visit Dal Roti, a popular restaurant specializing in North Indian cuisine. Enjoy their aromatic curries and flavorful naan bread. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
In the evening, head to Oceanos Restaurant for a delectable dinner by the beach. Indulge in their fresh seafood dishes while enjoying the stunning ocean view. Average cost for a meal is about ₹600 per person.
Saturday, December 9: Munnar's Tea Gardens
Embark on a scenic drive to Munnar, a hill station known for its sprawling 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 leisurely walk through the picturesque tea plantations and marvel at the lush greenery. In the evening, head to the Echo Point, where you can shout out and hear your voice reverberate amidst the mountains.
Tea Museum: Entry fee around INR 150 per person, estimated time: 1-2 hours
Munnar Tea Gardens: No entry fee, estimated time: 2-3 hours
Echo Point: No entry fee, estimated time: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Enjoy a delicious breakfast at the Sree Krishna Inn, known for its traditional Kerala cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 150 per person.
For lunch, head to the Rapsy Restaurant, which offers a variety of Indian and Chinese dishes. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 250 per person.
Treat yourself to a memorable dinner at the Eastend Restaurant, renowned for its seafood specialties. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 500 per person.
Sunday, December 10: Wildlife Safari in Thekkady
Today, travel to Thekkady, home to the Periyar National Park. In the morning, embark on an exciting wildlife safari through the park, where you might spot elephants, tigers, and various bird species in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, take a boat ride on the Periyar Lake, surrounded by dense forests. As the evening approaches, visit the Spice Plantations and learn about the region's rich spice cultivation.
Periyar National Park: Safari costs around INR 500 per person, estimated time: 3-4 hours
Spice Plantations: Entry fee around INR 100 per person, estimated time: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Peppermint Cafe, a cozy cafe known for its delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, try the Bamboo Hut Restaurant, a popular spot offering a variety of Kerala specialties such as fish curry and appam. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For dinner, visit the Spice Village Restaurant, a charming eatery serving authentic Kerala cuisine. Don't miss their signature dish, Malabar fish curry. The average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
Monday, December 11: Backwaters of Alleppey
Experience the serene beauty of the backwaters in Alleppey. In the morning, board a traditional houseboat and cruise along the tranquil backwaters, passing by picturesque villages and lush paddy fields. Enjoy a delicious Kerala-style lunch prepared on the houseboat. In the afternoon, explore the narrow canals on a canoe ride and witness the local way of life. Spend the evening relaxing and enjoying the scenic views.
Houseboat Cruise: Prices vary based on the chosen package, estimated time: 6-7 hours
Canoe Ride: Prices around INR 500 per person, estimated time: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Alleppey is Cafe Paradiso, known for its delicious South Indian breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Vembanad Seafood Restaurant which offers an extensive menu of fresh seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
For a delightful dinner experience, visit Dreamers Multi-Cuisine Restaurant. They serve a variety of cuisines including Indian, Chinese, and Continental. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Tuesday, December 12: Kovalam Beach and Trivandrum
Head to Kovalam, a popular beach destination. In the morning, relax on the sandy shores of Kovalam Beach and take a dip in the clear blue waters. In the afternoon, visit the famous Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Trivandrum, known for its stunning architecture and religious significance. Spend the evening exploring the local markets and trying out traditional Kerala cuisine.
Kovalam Beach: Entry is free, estimated time: 4-5 hours
Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Entry is free, estimated time: 1-2 hours
Wednesday, December 13: Athirapally Waterfalls
Visit the majestic Athirapally Waterfalls, often referred to as the "Niagara Falls of India." In the morning, witness the breathtaking beauty of the falls as water cascades down from a height of 80 feet. Take a refreshing dip in the natural pools and soak in the tranquility of the surrounding rainforest. In the afternoon, explore the nearby Vazhachal Waterfalls and enjoy a picnic amidst nature. Spend the evening relaxing and enjoying the scenic views.
Athirapally Waterfalls: Entry fee around INR 50 per person, estimated time: 3-4 hours
Vazhachal Waterfalls: Entry fee around INR 20 per person, estimated time: 2-3 hours
Thursday, December 14: Departure from Kochi
On your last day, bid farewell to the beautiful land of Kerala. If time permits, explore more of Kochi by visiting the Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, and indulge in some last-minute shopping for souvenirs at the local markets. Depart from Kochi with wonderful memories of your family-friendly Kerala trip.
Mattancherry Palace: Entry fee around INR 5 per person, estimated time: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Tasty Bites: A popular breakfast spot in Kochi known for its delicious dosas and idlis. Average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
Spice Garden: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at this cozy restaurant in Munnar that offers a variety of authentic Kerala dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Seafood Delights: Savor the freshest catch of the day at this seaside restaurant in Kovalam, specializing in mouthwatering seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
When in Kerala, don't miss the opportunity to visit the idyllic village of Kumarakom. Located on the banks of Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom offers a tranquil escape from the bustling cities. Enjoy a houseboat stay, explore the bird sanctuary, and experience the essence of Kerala's backwater life. It's a perfect destination for nature lovers and families seeking serenity amidst lush green surroundings.