7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Kerala

Tuesday, October 3: Kochi

Morning: Start your trip by visiting the Mattancherry Palace, a Portuguese palace featuring stunning murals and artifacts. Afternoon: Explore Fort Kochi, with its charming streets, Chinese fishing nets, and historic landmarks like St. Francis Church. Evening: Watch a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional art form of Kerala.

• Mattancherry Palace: Estimated cost ₹100, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Fort Kochi: Free, Time spent: 3-4 hours
• Kathakali Performance: Estimated cost ₹400-800, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Wednesday, October 4: Munnar

Morning: Enjoy a scenic drive to Munnar, known for its tea plantations. Visit the Tata Tea Museum to learn about the tea-making process. Afternoon: Explore the beautiful Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Evening: Relax with a leisurely walk through the enchanting Tea Gardens.

• Tata Tea Museum: Estimated cost ₹100, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Eravikulam National Park: Estimated cost ₹120 (entry fee), Time spent: 3-4 hours
• Tea Gardens: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Thursday, October 5: Thekkady

Morning: Embark on a thrilling boat safari in Periyar National Park, known for its diverse wildlife including elephants, tigers, and rare birds. Afternoon: Enjoy an elephant ride and visit a spice plantation to learn about the region's spices. Evening: Attend a traditional martial arts performance called Kalaripayattu.

• Periyar National Park: Estimated cost ₹450 (boat safari), Time spent: 3-4 hours
• Elephant Ride: Estimated cost ₹400-600, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Spice Plantation: Estimated cost ₹100, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Kalaripayattu Performance: Estimated cost ₹200-400, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Friday, October 6: Alleppey

Morning: Embark on a houseboat cruise through the serene backwaters of Alleppey. Enjoy the scenic beauty and glimpse the local way of life. Afternoon: Explore the Alleppey Beach, known for its golden sand and picturesque views. Evening: Witness a mesmerizing sunset at the Marari Beach.

• Houseboat Cruise: Estimated cost ₹7,000-10,000 (for a day), Time spent: Full day
• Alleppey Beach: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Marari Beach: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Saturday, October 7: Kovalam

Morning: Relax and unwind on the beautiful beaches of Kovalam. Enjoy swimming and sunbathing. Afternoon: Visit the Vizhinjam Lighthouse for panoramic views of the coast. Evening: Indulge in a rejuvenating Ayurvedic spa treatment.

• Kovalam Beaches: Free, Time spent: Half day
• Vizhinjam Lighthouse: Estimated cost ₹20, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Ayurvedic Spa Treatment: Estimated cost ₹1,500-3,000, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Sunday, October 8: Thiruvananthapuram

Morning: Explore the iconic Padmanabhaswamy Temple, known for its intricate architecture and religious significance. Afternoon: Visit the Napier Museum and Art Gallery, housing a remarkable collection of ancient artifacts and artworks. Evening: Take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful gardens of the Kanakakunnu Palace.

• Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Napier Museum and Art Gallery: Estimated cost ₹20, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Kanakakunnu Palace: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Monday, October 9: Kozhikode

Morning: Explore the historic Kozhikode Beach, known for its scenic beauty and freshwater pool. Afternoon: Visit the Kozhikode Backwaters for a peaceful boat ride. Evening: Sample the famous Kozhikode Halwa, a traditional sweet delicacy.

• Kozhikode Beach: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Kozhikode Backwaters: Estimated cost ₹500, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Halwa tasting: Cost varies, Time spent: 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the Bekal Fort in Kasaragod, which offers breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. Another hidden gem is the Athirapally Waterfalls, a stunning natural wonder located near Thrissur. Locals love spending time at the backwaters of Kumarakom, where you can enjoy a peaceful houseboat experience amidst nature.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.