A Week in Kerala: Family-Friendly Itinerary

Friday, September 15: Arrival in Kochi

Welcome to Kerala! Start your trip in Kochi, known for its rich history and stunning backwaters. In the morning, explore the historic Fort Kochi area, visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets and explore the bustling spice markets. In the afternoon, take a relaxing backwater cruise and enjoy the serene beauty of the surroundings. As the evening sets in, witness a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional art form of Kerala.

• Fort Kochi: INR 100 (entrance fee), 2-3 hours
• Backwater Cruise: INR 1,500 per person, 4-5 hours
• Kathakali Performance: INR 300-500 per person, 1-2 hours

Saturday, September 16: Munnar

Head to the hill station of Munnar, famous for its tea plantations and breathtaking landscapes. In the morning, visit the Tea Museum to learn about the tea-making process and enjoy panoramic views of the tea gardens. In the afternoon, explore the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. End the day with a visit to the beautiful Mattupetty Dam and enjoy a boat ride.

• Tea Museum: INR 150 (entrance fee), 2-3 hours
• Eravikulam National Park: INR 120 (entrance fee), 3-4 hours
• Mattupetty Dam: INR 10 (entrance fee), boat ride INR 500 per boat, 2-3 hours

Sunday, September 17: Thekkady

Travel to Thekkady, known for its wildlife sanctuary and spice plantations. In the morning, take a guided tour of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and spot various animals and birds. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat ride on the Periyar Lake, surrounded by lush greenery. Visit a spice plantation in the evening and learn about the cultivation of spices.

• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: INR 450 (entrance fee), 3-4 hours
• Boat Ride on Periyar Lake: INR 225 per person, 2-3 hours
• Spice Plantation Visit: INR 100-200 per person, 1-2 hours

Monday, September 18: Alleppey

Head to Alleppey, the gateway to the famous backwaters of Kerala. In the morning, embark on a traditional houseboat cruise and witness the picturesque backwaters, paddy fields, and charming villages. Enjoy a delicious lunch on board. In the afternoon, explore the quaint streets of Alleppey and visit the Alleppey Beach for a relaxing evening by the Arabian Sea.

• Houseboat Cruise: INR 8,000-15,000 per night (family-sized boat), full-day experience
• Alleppey Beach: Free, 2-3 hours

Tuesday, September 19: Kovalam

Travel to Kovalam, a popular beach destination in Kerala. In the morning, relax on the golden sands of Kovalam Beach and take a refreshing dip in the clear waters. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Vizhinjam Lighthouse for panoramic views of the coastline. Explore the local market in the evening and savor some delicious seafood.

• Kovalam Beach: Free, 4-5 hours
• Vizhinjam Lighthouse: INR 10 (entrance fee), 1-2 hours

Wednesday, September 20: Trivandrum

Explore the capital city of Kerala, Trivandrum. In the morning, visit the famous Padmanabhaswamy Temple, known for its intricate architecture and religious significance. Explore the Napier Museum and Art Gallery in the afternoon, showcasing a collection of ancient artifacts and artworks. End the day with a visit to the beautiful Kovalam Art Gallery.

• Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Free, 2-3 hours
• Napier Museum and Art Gallery: INR 20 (entrance fee), 2-3 hours
• Kovalam Art Gallery: INR 10 (entrance fee), 1-2 hours

Thursday, September 21: Departure from Kochi

Say goodbye to Kerala as you head back to Kochi for your departure. In the morning, take a relaxing stroll along Marine Drive and enjoy the scenic beauty of the backwaters. Shop for souvenirs at the local markets and sample some delicious seafood before you leave.

• Marine Drive: Free, 2-3 hours
• Shopping and Food: Variable, 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Anna's Cafe, known for their fluffy pancakes and strong filter coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
• For a fulfilling lunch, visit Malabar Junction, a restaurant specializing in authentic Kerala cuisine. Indulge in traditional dishes like Malabar fish curry and appam. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
• End your day with a memorable dinner at Oceanos Restaurant, a waterfront eatery offering a wide range of seafood delicacies. Try their fresh catch of the day and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Kerala, don't miss out on the hidden gems and local favorites. Visit the quaint village of Kumarakom and experience the tranquil beauty of the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. Take a detour to Varkala, a coastal town known for its stunning cliffs and pristine beaches. Finally, explore the offbeat destination of Wayanad, famous for its lush green landscapes, waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries.

Check hotel and flight prices for your Kerala trip here.