Kochin, Munnar, Allepy, Kumbarkom 7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary

Thursday, October 5:

Start your trip in Kochin by exploring the historic Fort Kochi area in the morning. Visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets and stroll along the picturesque promenade. In the afternoon, head to the Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, to admire its beautiful murals. In the evening, watch a Kathakali dance performance at the Kerala Kathakali Centre.

• Chinese Fishing Nets: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
• Mattancherry Palace: Estimated cost - INR 5 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Kerala Kathakali Centre: Estimated cost - INR 300 per person, Time spent - 2 hours

Friday, October 6:

Embark on a scenic drive to Munnar, a hill station known for its tea plantations. In the morning, visit the Mattupetty Dam and enjoy a boat ride on the serene reservoir. In the afternoon, explore the Tea Museum to learn about the tea-making process. In the evening, take a leisurely walk through the beautiful tea gardens and enjoy the stunning views.

• Mattupetty Dam: Estimated cost - INR 10 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Tea Museum: Estimated cost - INR 135 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Tea Gardens: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Saturday, October 7:

Continue exploring Munnar by visiting the Eravikulam National Park in the morning, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Take a guided trek to Anamudi, the highest peak in South India. In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Top Station for panoramic views of the Western Ghats. In the evening, enjoy a relaxing tea tasting session at one of the local tea shops.

• Eravikulam National Park: Estimated cost - INR 120 per person, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Top Station: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Tea Tasting: Estimated cost - INR 200 per person, Time spent - 1 hour

Sunday, October 8:

Travel to Alleppey, known for its backwaters, in the morning. Board a traditional houseboat and cruise through the serene backwaters. Enjoy a delicious lunch prepared on board. In the afternoon, explore the charming villages and witness the local way of life. In the evening, relax and savor the sunset views over the backwaters.

• Houseboat Cruise: Estimated cost - INR 8,000 per night (family), Time spent - Overnight
• Backwater Villages: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Sunset Viewing: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour

Monday, October 9:

Head to Kumbarkom, a tranquil backwater destination, in the morning. Visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary and spot a variety of bird species. In the afternoon, enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the Vembanad Lake. In the evening, indulge in a rejuvenating Ayurvedic spa treatment at one of the renowned spa resorts in the area.

• Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Vembanad Lake Boat Ride: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Ayurvedic Spa Treatment: Estimated cost - INR 3,000 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Tuesday, October 10:

Explore more of Kumbarkom by visiting the Pathiramanal Island in the morning. Take a boat ride to the island, known for its rich flora and fauna. In the afternoon, visit the Bay Island Driftwood Museum showcasing unique driftwood sculptures. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kerala-style dinner at a local restaurant.

• Pathiramanal Island: Estimated cost - INR 200 per person, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Bay Island Driftwood Museum: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Kerala-style Dinner: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Wednesday, October 11:

Conclude your trip by visiting the beautiful Marari Beach in the morning. Relax on the sandy shores and soak up the sun. In the afternoon, explore the nearby fishing villages and interact with the friendly locals. In the evening, enjoy a memorable beachside dinner as you bid farewell to the enchanting coastal region.

• Marari Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Fishing Villages: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Beachside Dinner: Estimated cost - INR 1,000 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

One hidden gem worth exploring is the Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, located near Kochin. It is a paradise for bird lovers, offering a chance to spot rare species. Another local favorite is the Punnamada Lake, where you can witness the thrilling Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race held annually in Alleppey. It's a unique cultural experience that shouldn't be missed.

For more travel and accommodation options, you can check hotel and flight prices on kayak.com.