Two-Day Kerala Itinerary for Families in May 2023

  1. Day 1: Explore Fort Kochi
    1 hour 20 minutes (22.3 miles) from Cochin International Airport

    Start your Kerala adventure with a visit to the charming neighborhood of Fort Kochi. Stroll through the picturesque streets lined with colonial buildings and take in the unique mix of Indian, Portuguese, and Dutch influences. Visit St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, and see the Chinese fishing nets in action. In the afternoon, head to the Mattancherry Palace to admire the beautiful murals and traditional Kerala architecture. End the day by watching a Kathakali performance, a traditional dance-drama that tells stories from Hindu mythology.

  2. Day 2: Experience the Backwaters
    2 hours 45 minutes (87.2 miles) from Fort Kochi

    Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and spend a day cruising the backwaters of Kerala. Rent a houseboat or take a guided tour, and enjoy the serene beauty of the network of lagoons, lakes, and canals that make up the backwaters. Marvel at the lush greenery and watch the daily life of the local people who rely on the waterways for transportation and fishing. Stop at a village along the way to try some local cuisine and learn about the culture and traditions of the region.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • St. Francis Church (1 hour, free)
  • Chinese Fishing Nets (30 minutes, free)
  • Mattancherry Palace (1-2 hours, INR 5 for Indians, INR 100 for foreigners)
  • Kathakali Performance (2 hours, INR 350-500 per person)
  • Backwaters Houseboat Tour (6-8 hours, INR 6,000-12,000 for private boat, INR 500-1,000 for group tour)
  • Local Village Visit (1-2 hours, free or donation-based)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 6,355-13,100 (USD 85-175)
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