Kerala 7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary

Saturday, October 14: Kochi

Start your trip in the beautiful city of Kochi. In the morning, explore the historic Fort Kochi area, known for its colonial architecture and Chinese fishing nets. Visit the Mattancherry Palace and the Paradesi Synagogue. In the afternoon, take a relaxing boat ride on the serene backwaters of Kochi. As the evening sets in, witness a mesmerizing Kathakali dance performance.

• Fort Kochi: $5 (estimated cost), 4 hours (estimated time spent)
• Backwater Boat Ride: $15 (estimated cost), 2 hours (estimated time spent)
• Kathakali Dance Performance: $10 (estimated cost), 1 hour (estimated time spent)

Sunday, October 15: Munnar

Embark on a journey to the enchanting hill station of Munnar. In the morning, visit the lush tea plantations and learn about the tea-making process at the Tea Museum. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. As the evening approaches, take a leisurely stroll around the serene Mattupetty Dam.

• Tea Museum: $7 (estimated cost), 3 hours (estimated time spent)
• Eravikulam National Park: $10 (estimated cost), 4 hours (estimated time spent)
• Mattupetty Dam: Free, 2 hours (estimated time spent)

Monday, October 16: Thekkady

Head to Thekkady, a nature lover's paradise. In the morning, embark on a thrilling safari in the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can spot elephants, tigers, and various other wildlife. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat ride on the scenic Periyar Lake. As the evening sets in, explore the vibrant spice markets and learn about the local spices.

• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary Safari: $20 (estimated cost), 4 hours (estimated time spent)
• Periyar Lake Boat Ride: $15 (estimated cost), 2 hours (estimated time spent)
• Spice Market: Free, 1 hour (estimated time spent)

Tuesday, October 17: Alleppey

Experience the serene backwaters of Alleppey. In the morning, embark on a houseboat cruise and enjoy the tranquil beauty of the backwaters, while indulging in delicious local cuisine. In the afternoon, explore the picturesque Alleppey Beach and unwind amidst the soothing waves. As the evening approaches, witness a mesmerizing sunset from the beach.

• Houseboat Cruise: $100 (estimated cost), 6 hours (estimated time spent)
• Alleppey Beach: Free, 3 hours (estimated time spent)
• Sunset Viewing: Free, 1 hour (estimated time spent)

Wednesday, October 18: Kovalam

Visit the serene beach town of Kovalam. In the morning, relax on the beautiful Kovalam Beach and take a dip in the clear blue waters. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Vizhinjam Lighthouse for panoramic views of the coastline. As the evening sets in, indulge in rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatments at one of the local wellness centers.

• Kovalam Beach: Free, 4 hours (estimated time spent)
• Vizhinjam Lighthouse: $3 (estimated cost), 2 hours (estimated time spent)
• Ayurvedic Treatments: $50 (estimated cost), 2 hours (estimated time spent)

Thursday, October 19: Trivandrum

Explore the capital city of Kerala, Trivandrum. In the morning, visit the magnificent Padmanabhaswamy Temple, known for its exquisite architecture. In the afternoon, explore the fascinating exhibits at the Napier Museum and the Kerala Science and Technology Museum. As the evening approaches, take a peaceful stroll in the lush greenery of the Kanakakkunnu Palace.

• Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Free, 3 hours (estimated time spent)
• Napier Museum: $5 (estimated cost), 2 hours (estimated time spent)
• Kerala Science and Technology Museum: $3 (estimated cost), 2 hours (estimated time spent)
• Kanakakkunnu Palace: Free, 1 hour (estimated time spent)

Friday, October 20: Varkala

Conclude your Kerala trip in the coastal town of Varkala. In the morning, relax on the stunning Varkala Beach and soak up the sun. In the afternoon, explore the unique Varkala Cliff, dotted with shops, cafes, and stunning viewpoints. As the evening sets in, witness a mesmerizing sunset from the cliff and indulge in a beachside dinner.

• Varkala Beach: Free, 4 hours (estimated time spent)
• Varkala Cliff: Free, 3 hours (estimated time spent)
• Sunset Viewing and Dinner: $30 (estimated cost), 2 hours (estimated time spent)

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Kerala, don't miss the opportunity to visit the enchanting Athirapally Falls, known as the "Niagara of India." Another hidden gem is the quiet village of Mararikulam, where you can experience the charm of traditional Kerala village life and enjoy pristine beaches away from the crowds.