7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in Cochin, India

Tuesday, December 12: Arrival and Local Exploration

After arriving in Cochin, settle into your hotel and start your trip by exploring the vibrant streets of Fort Kochi. In the morning, visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets along the coastline and witness the traditional fishing methods. In the afternoon, explore the historic Fort Kochi area, known for its colonial architecture and charming streets. In the evening, watch a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional Indian dance form.

• Chinese Fishing Nets: Free, 1-2 hours
• Fort Kochi: Free, 2-3 hours
• Kathakali Performance: INR 500-1000 per person, 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day off with a hearty breakfast at Kashi Art Cafe, which offers a variety of delicious options including freshly baked goods and organic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
• For a satisfying lunch, head to Dal Roti and indulge in their flavorful North Indian cuisine. Their menu features a range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
• End your day with a delightful dinner at Oceanos Restaurant, known for its seafood specialties. Enjoy a variety of fresh catch from the Arabian Sea prepared with local spices. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.

Wednesday, December 13: Backwaters and Village Life

Embark on a backwater tour to experience the tranquility of Kerala's famous waterways. In the morning, take a houseboat ride through the scenic backwaters, enjoying the lush greenery and serene atmosphere. Visit a traditional village for a glimpse into the local way of life in the afternoon. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kerala-style dinner.

• Backwater Houseboat Tour: INR 3000-5000 per person, 6-8 hours
• Traditional Village Visit: INR 500-1000 per person, 2-3 hours
• Kerala-style Dinner: INR 500-1000 per person

Thursday, December 14: Wildlife Safari and Tea Plantations

Head to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in the morning for an exciting wildlife safari. Explore the lush forests and try to spot elephants, tigers, and other native animals. In the afternoon, visit a tea plantation and learn about the tea-making process. Enjoy the scenic beauty and refreshing aroma of the tea gardens.

• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: INR 500-1000 per person, 4-6 hours
• Tea Plantation Visit: INR 500-1000 per person, 2-3 hours

Friday, December 15: Historical Sites and Cultural Exploration

Visit the historical Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, in the morning. Explore the museum inside the palace, showcasing Kerala's rich history and art. In the afternoon, visit the Jew Town and explore the centuries-old Paradesi Synagogue. Immerse yourself in the local culture by trying out traditional Kerala cuisine for dinner.

• Mattancherry Palace: INR 10-20 per person, 1-2 hours
• Paradesi Synagogue: INR 5-10 per person, 1-2 hours
• Traditional Kerala Cuisine: INR 300-500 per person

Saturday, December 16: Beaches and Water Sports

Spend the morning at Cherai Beach, a pristine coastline with golden sands. Relax on the beach or indulge in water sports activities like swimming, surfing, or jet skiing. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Munambam Beach and enjoy a boat ride to spot dolphins. End the day by watching a beautiful sunset at the beach.

• Cherai Beach: Free, 2-4 hours
• Munambam Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
• Boat Ride for Dolphin Spotting: INR 500-1000 per person

Sunday, December 17: Hill Station Retreat

Take a day trip to Munnar, a picturesque hill station known for its tea plantations and breathtaking views. In the morning, explore the tea gardens and learn about the tea production process. Enjoy the cool climate and panoramic vistas from viewpoints. In the afternoon, visit the Tata Tea Museum to delve deeper into the region's tea heritage.

• Munnar Tea Gardens: Free, 2-3 hours
• Viewpoints: Free, 1-2 hours
• Tata Tea Museum: INR 100-200 per person, 1-2 hours

Monday, December 18: Shopping and Farewell

Spend your last day in Cochin indulging in some shopping for local handicrafts and souvenirs. In the morning, explore the bustling markets of Broadway and MG Road. In the afternoon, visit Lulu Mall, one of the largest shopping malls in India, for a wide range of shopping options. Bid farewell to Cochin with a delicious seafood dinner.

• Broadway Market: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
• MG Road Shopping: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
• Lulu Mall: Cost varies, 3-4 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, visit the Kerala Folklore Museum, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Kerala through art and artifacts. Take a day trip to the idyllic Marari Beach, known for its tranquil atmosphere and pristine sands. Explore the unique Dutch cemetery in Fort Kochi, a historical site with beautifully preserved tombstones.

Check hotel and flight prices here.