Start your trip by arriving in Munnar, a picturesque hill station known for its tea plantations. In the morning, visit the Tea Museum to learn about the history and production of tea. Enjoy a scenic drive to Mattupetty Dam for boating and breathtaking views. In the evening, take a leisurely walk through the town and explore local markets.
Tea Museum: INR 100, 1-2 hours
Mattupetty Dam: INR 20, 1-2 hours
Local Markets: Free, 1-2 hours
Sunday, October 15: Exploring Munnar
Spend the morning exploring Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Enjoy a scenic drive to the Top Station viewpoint, offering panoramic views of the Western Ghats. In the afternoon, visit the Rose Garden and admire the vibrant colors. End the day with a visit to the Tea Gardens for a tranquil experience amidst lush greenery.
Eravikulam National Park: INR 120, 2-3 hours
Top Station: INR 50, 1-2 hours
Rose Garden: INR 30, 1-2 hours
Tea Gardens: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Cafe Royale is a cozy cafe that offers a wide range of breakfast options, from traditional South Indian dishes to continental delights. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Lunch: Rapsy Restaurant is a popular vegetarian restaurant known for its delicious Indian thalis. The diverse menu offers a variety of vegetable curries, rice, rotis, and desserts. The average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
Dinner: Copper Castle is a charming restaurant that serves a mix of Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisine. Enjoy the authentic flavors and elegant ambiance. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Monday, October 16: Allepey Backwaters
Embark on a memorable houseboat cruise in Allepey, exploring the enchanting backwaters. Enjoy morning views of lush green paddy fields and relax as you sail through serene canals. In the afternoon, savor a traditional Kerala lunch on the houseboat. Spend the evening strolling along Allepey Beach and witnessing a beautiful sunset.
Houseboat Cruise: INR 10,000 (approx.), 6-8 hours
Traditional Lunch: Included in houseboat package
Allepey Beach: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Krishna Inn
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Krishna Inn, known for its delicious South Indian dishes and warm hospitality. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
Lunch: Thaff Delicacies
Indulge in a flavorful lunch at Thaff Delicacies, a vegetarian restaurant offering a delectable spread of Kerala cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Dinner: Cassia Restaurant
For a memorable dinner experience, head to Cassia Restaurant, where you can savor a wide range of Indian and international dishes in an elegant setting. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Tuesday, October 17: Thekkady Wildlife Sanctuary
Visit Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Thekkady, known for its diverse flora and fauna. Start the day with a boat ride on Periyar Lake, where you might spot elephants, sambar deer, and various bird species. Enjoy an elephant ride or a guided trek in the sanctuary in the afternoon. In the evening, explore the Spice Market and indulge in some spice shopping.
Boat Ride: INR 250, 2-3 hours
Elephant Ride: INR 400, 1-2 hours
Guided Trek: INR 500, 2-3 hours
Spice Market: Cost varies based on purchases, 1-2 hours
Wednesday, October 18: Nature and Adventure in Thekkady
Spend the morning at Periyar Tiger Reserve, taking a guided nature walk amidst the lush greenery. Engage in bamboo rafting in the Periyar Lake in the afternoon for a thrilling experience. In the evening, attend a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional art form of Kerala, showcasing vibrant costumes and expressive movements.
Nature Walk: INR 100, 2-3 hours
Bamboo Rafting: INR 1,500, 3-4 hours
Kathakali Dance Performance: INR 200, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Aunty's Cafe: A cozy cafe located near the Periyar Tiger Reserve, serving delicious breakfast options such as pancakes, omelettes, and fresh fruit bowls. Average cost for a meal is about 150 rupees per person.
Spice Village Restaurant: Located in a serene setting amidst nature, this restaurant offers a variety of options for lunch, including traditional Kerala cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 300 rupees per person.
Royal Dine Restaurant: Enjoy a delightful dinner at this restaurant known for its authentic Kerala seafood dishes. From fresh fish curry to prawn biryani, the menu offers a range of delicious seafood options. Average cost for a meal is about 500 rupees per person.
Thursday, October 19: Exploring Kollam
Visit Kollam, known as the "Gateway to the Backwaters," and start the day with a visit to Ashtamudi Lake. Take a boat ride to Munroe Island, where you can witness rural life and enjoy a toddy tapping demonstration. In the afternoon, visit Thangassery Lighthouse and enjoy panoramic views of the coast. End the day with a relaxing beach stroll at Kollam Beach.
Ashtamudi Lake: INR 500 (approx.), 2-3 hours
Munroe Island Boat Ride: INR 500, 2-3 hours
Thangassery Lighthouse: INR 20, 1-2 hours
Kollam Beach: Free, 1-2 hours
Friday, October 20: Departure
On the last day, check out of your hotel and bid farewell to the beautiful destinations of Munnar, Allepey, Thekkady, and Kollam. Depart for your onward journey with wonderful memories of your family-friendly trip.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Munnar, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, located at the highest elevation in the region. Enjoy a tea tasting session and witness the stunning sunrise over the hills. In Thekkady, head to the Elephant Junction for a unique hands-on elephant experience that includes bathing, feeding, and even a short ride. These off-the-beaten-path attractions and experiences offer a deeper insight into the local culture and natural beauty of the region.
For hotel and flight bookings, you can check prices and availability on KAYAK.