7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in Kerala

Friday, October 20: Arrive in Kochi

Start your trip by arriving at Kochi International Airport. In the morning, explore the historic Fort Kochi area, known for its charming colonial architecture and Chinese fishing nets. In the afternoon, visit the Indo-Portuguese Museum and the Mattancherry Palace to learn about the region's rich history. In the evening, watch a traditional Kathakali dance performance.

• Fort Kochi: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3 hours
• Indo-Portuguese Museum: Estimated cost - INR 25 ($0.34), Time spent - 1 hour
• Mattancherry Palace: Estimated cost - INR 5 ($0.07), Time spent - 1 hour
• Kathakali Dance Performance: Estimated cost - INR 500 ($6.78), Time spent - 2 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Kashi Art Cafe, a cozy cafe in Fort Kochi serving delicious sandwiches and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
• For lunch, try Oceanos Restaurant, a popular seafood restaurant located near the Chinese fishing nets. Enjoy delectable seafood dishes while enjoying views of the Arabian Sea. Average cost for a meal is about ₹700 per person.
• For dinner, visit Dal Roti, a vegetarian restaurant that specializes in North Indian cuisine. Indulge in their flavorful curries and warm naan breads. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.

Saturday, October 21: 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 tea processing and enjoy panoramic views. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Eravikulam National Park, home to endangered Nilgiri Tahr. In the evening, take a relaxing walk through the aromatic tea gardens.

• Tea Museum: Estimated cost - INR 150 ($2.03), Time spent - 2 hours
• Eravikulam National Park: Estimated cost - INR 120 ($1.63), Time spent - 3 hours

Sunday, October 22: Thekkady

Head to Thekkady, known for its wildlife and spice plantations. In the morning, take a boat ride in the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary to spot elephants, tigers, and other animals. In the afternoon, visit a spice plantation and learn about the cultivation of various spices. In the evening, enjoy a cultural show showcasing traditional art forms.

• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 450 ($6.10), Time spent - 3 hours
• Spice Plantation: Estimated cost - INR 100 ($1.36), Time spent - 2 hours
• Cultural Show: Estimated cost - INR 200 ($2.71), Time spent - 1 hour

Monday, October 23: Alleppey

Travel to Alleppey, famous for its serene backwaters. In the morning, embark on a houseboat cruise along the backwaters, enjoying the scenic beauty and local village life. In the afternoon, indulge in a traditional Kerala lunch served on the houseboat. In the evening, witness a mesmerizing sunset over the backwaters.

• Houseboat Cruise: Estimated cost - INR 7,000 ($94.94) for a full-day cruise, Time spent - 6-8 hours

Tuesday, October 24: Kovalam

Make your way to Kovalam, a beautiful coastal town known for its pristine 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 iconic Lighthouse Beach and enjoy water sports activities. In the evening, treat yourself to a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage.

• Kovalam Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 4 hours
• Lighthouse Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Ayurvedic Massage: Estimated cost - INR 1,500 ($20.34), Time spent - 1 hour

Wednesday, October 25: Trivandrum

Explore the capital city of Kerala, Trivandrum. In the morning, visit the iconic Padmanabhaswamy Temple, known for its intricate architecture and religious significance. In the afternoon, explore the Napier Museum and Art Gallery, displaying a vast collection of historical artifacts and artworks. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the vibrant Marine Drive.

• Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Napier Museum and Art Gallery: Estimated cost - INR 20 ($0.27), Time spent - 2 hours
• Marine Drive: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour

Thursday, October 26: Departure

Spend your last morning in Kerala by shopping for souvenirs at local markets, such as Chalai Market or Connemara Market. In the afternoon, bid farewell to this enchanting state as you head to Trivandrum International Airport for your departure.

• Shopping at Local Markets: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, consider visiting the tranquil village of Kumarakom, located on the banks of Vembanad Lake. Here, you can enjoy serene backwater cruises, birdwatching, and experience the local village life. Don't miss the opportunity to try authentic Kerala cuisine, especially the delicious seafood dishes.

Check out hotel and flight prices here.