A 5-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Kerala

Saturday October 21: Exploring the Backwaters

Start your trip by immersing yourself in the serene beauty of Kerala's backwaters. In the morning, embark on a traditional houseboat cruise along the tranquil waterways of Alleppey, witnessing picturesque landscapes and local life. Enjoy a delicious lunch prepared on board. In the afternoon, head to Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, a haven for birdwatchers. Spend the evening at Marari Beach, where you can relax and unwind.

• Alleppey Houseboat Cruise: Cost varies, 6-8 hours
• Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: Entrance fee: $2, 2-3 hours
• Marari Beach: Free, flexible

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Café Catamaran, a cozy riverside restaurant offering delicious South Indian fare. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
• For lunch, visit the Seafood Grill, a beachfront restaurant known for its fresh seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
• For dinner, dine at Ayur Tulip, a fine dining restaurant specializing in traditional Kerala cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.

Sunday October 22: Exploring Munnar

Start your day with a visit to the enchanting Mattupetty Dam, where you can enjoy a boat ride surrounded by lush greenery. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful tea gardens of Munnar and learn about the tea-making process at a tea museum. End the day with a visit to the Rose Garden, a colorful oasis filled with various species of roses.

• Mattupetty Dam: Entrance fee: $1.5, 2-3 hours
• Munnar Tea Gardens: Free, 2-3 hours
• Tea Museum: Entrance fee: $2, 1-2 hours
• Rose Garden: Entrance fee: $1, 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• The Breakfast Barn: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at The Breakfast Barn, known for its extensive menu with options like pancakes, omelettes, and freshly baked pastries. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
• The Spice Garden: Indulge in a flavorful lunch at The Spice Garden, which offers a wide range of authentic Kerala cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
• The Bamboo Hut: Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Bamboo Hut, a cozy restaurant that serves mouthwatering seafood dishes and has a charming ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.

Monday October 23: Exploring Thekkady

In the morning, embark on a thrilling jungle safari in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can spot elephants, tigers, and various rare species of birds. In the afternoon, visit the spice plantations and learn about the cultivation of aromatic spices. Wrap up the day with a relaxing boat ride on Periyar Lake, surrounded by dense forests.

• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Entrance fee: $3, 3-4 hours
• Spice Plantations: Entrance fee: $2, 1-2 hours
• Periyar Lake Boat Ride: Cost varies, 2-3 hours

Tuesday October 24: Exploring Kochi

Begin your day by exploring the historic Fort Kochi, where you can admire the colonial architecture and visit famous landmarks like the Chinese Fishing Nets and St. Francis Church. In the afternoon, visit the Hill Palace Museum, showcasing a vast collection of artifacts and artwork. In the evening, enjoy a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional form of Kerala classical dance.

• Fort Kochi: Free, 3-4 hours
• Hill Palace Museum: Entrance fee: $2.5, 2-3 hours
• Kathakali Dance Performance: Ticket price: $5-10, 2-3 hours

Wednesday October 25: Exploring Kovalam

Spend your morning relaxing at the famous Kovalam Beach, known for its golden sand and clear waters. In the afternoon, visit the Vizhinjam Lighthouse for panoramic views of the coastline. Indulge in some shopping at the local markets before ending your trip with a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage.

• Kovalam Beach: Free, flexible
• Vizhinjam Lighthouse: Entrance fee: $1, 1-2 hours
• Shopping in Kovalam: Cost varies, flexible
• Ayurvedic Massage: Cost varies, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique family experience, consider visiting the Elephant Junction in Thekkady, where you can interact with elephants and even take part in elephant bathing and feeding. Another hidden gem is the Athirapally Waterfalls, located near Kochi, which offers a breathtaking view and a chance to take a refreshing dip in the freshwater pools. Don't forget to try the traditional Kerala cuisine, known for its flavorsome curries and seafood delicacies.