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7-Day Family Friendly Kerala Itinerary

Sunday, December 24: Kochi

Start your trip by exploring the historic city of Kochi. In the morning, visit Fort Kochi, known for its charming colonial architecture and Chinese fishing nets. Take a leisurely walk along the picturesque streets and visit St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India. In the afternoon, explore the Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, which showcases beautiful murals and artifacts. As the evening sets in, watch a traditional Kathakali dance performance, a captivating form of classical Indian dance.

  • Fort Kochi: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Mattancherry Palace: Estimated Cost - INR 5 (approx. $0.07), Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Kathakali Performance: Estimated Cost - INR 500-1000 (approx. $7-14), Time Spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
  • The Teapot Cafe: A cozy cafe offering a delicious breakfast with a wide range of options including pancakes, omelettes, and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
  • Rice Bowl: A popular restaurant serving authentic Kerala cuisine for lunch. Indulge in flavorsome biryani, seafood curries, and traditional thalis. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
  • The Rice Boat: Experience a memorable dinner at this floating restaurant, serving exquisite Kerala seafood delicacies in a charming boat setting. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Monday, December 25: Munnar

On Christmas Day, head to the picturesque hill station of Munnar. In the morning, visit the Tea Museum to learn about the tea production process and enjoy panoramic views of the sprawling tea plantations. Take a scenic drive to the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Echo Point, where you can hear your voice echo back from the mountains. End the day with a visit to the vibrant local market to pick up some souvenirs.

  • Tea Museum: Estimated Cost - INR 150 (approx. $2), Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Eravikulam National Park: Estimated Cost - INR 120 (approx. $1.70), Time Spent - 3-4 hours
  • Echo Point: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Local Market: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Tuesday, December 26: Thekkady

Embark on an exciting wildlife adventure in Thekkady. In the morning, take a boat ride in Periyar Lake, where you can spot elephants, deer, and various bird species. Visit the Periyar Tiger Reserve and take a guided nature walk to explore the rich biodiversity of the area. In the afternoon, experience a thrilling elephant safari and learn about the conservation efforts. End the day with a visit to a spice plantation, where you can learn about the spice cultivation process and enjoy a traditional Kerala meal.

  • Periyar Lake Boat Ride: Estimated Cost - INR 225 (approx. $3), Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Periyar Tiger Reserve: Estimated Cost - INR 45 (approx. $0.60), Time Spent - 3-4 hours
  • Elephant Safari: Estimated Cost - INR 500-1000 (approx. $7-14), Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Spice Plantation: Estimated Cost - INR 200-300 (approx. $2.80-4.20), Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Wednesday, December 27: Alleppey

Experience the tranquil backwaters of Kerala in Alleppey. In the morning, embark on a houseboat cruise along the scenic backwaters, surrounded by lush greenery and traditional villages. Enjoy a relaxing ride and indulge in delicious Kerala cuisine prepared on board. In the afternoon, visit the Alleppey Beach, known for its pristine sandy shores and beautiful sunset views. End the day with a visit to the Revi Karunakaran Museum, which showcases a unique collection of antique artifacts.

  • Houseboat Cruise: Estimated Cost - INR 6000-10000 (approx. $84-140) for a boat, Time Spent - 6-8 hours
  • Alleppey Beach: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Revi Karunakaran Museum: Estimated Cost - INR 50 (approx. $0.70), Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Thursday, December 28: Kovalam

Relax and unwind at the beautiful beach town of Kovalam. In the morning, soak up the sun and enjoy swimming at the scenic Kovalam Beach. Indulge in some beachside activities like parasailing or jet skiing. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Vizhinjam Lighthouse, offering panoramic views of the coastline. Treat yourself to a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage at one of the many wellness centers in Kovalam. End the day with a delicious seafood dinner at a beachside restaurant.

  • Kovalam Beach: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - Full day
  • Vizhinjam Lighthouse: Estimated Cost - INR 20 (approx. $0.30), Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Ayurvedic Massage: Estimated Cost - INR 1500-3000 (approx. $21-42), Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Seafood Dinner: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Friday, December 29: Varkala

Visit the serene coastal town of Varkala. In the morning, take a dip in the natural mineral springs at the Papanasam Beach, believed to have medicinal properties. Explore the ancient Janardanaswamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. In the afternoon, relax and enjoy the breathtaking views from the Varkala Cliff, lined with shops, cafes, and yoga centers. End the day by witnessing a mesmerizing sunset at Varkala Beach.

  • Papanasam Beach: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Janardanaswamy Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Varkala Cliff: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Varkala Beach: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - Until sunset
Saturday, December 30: Trivandrum

Explore the capital city of Kerala, Trivandrum. In the morning, visit the iconic Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, known for its intricate architecture and religious significance. Explore the Napier Museum, which houses a vast collection of historical artifacts and artwork. In the afternoon, stroll through the beautiful Kanakakkunnu Palace and its surrounding gardens. End the day by visiting the Kovalam Art Gallery, showcasing contemporary and traditional Indian art.

  • Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Napier Museum: Estimated Cost - INR 20 (approx. $0.30), Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Kanakakkunnu Palace: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Kovalam Art Gallery: Estimated Cost - INR 50 (approx. $0.70), Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
  • For breakfast, head to the iconic Saravana Bhavan which offers a wide variety of South Indian delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about INR 150 per person.
  • For lunch, dine at Villa Maya, a beautifully restored colonial-era mansion serving a fusion of Indian and continental cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about INR 800 per person.
  • In the evening, enjoy an authentic Kerala dinner at Zam Zam Restaurant, known for its delicious seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about INR 500 per person.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique local experience, head to the Athirappilly Waterfalls, located near Kochi. These majestic waterfalls surrounded by lush greenery offer a perfect spot for a picnic and enjoying nature's beauty. Another hidden gem is the Marari Beach, a tranquil and less crowded beach near Alleppey, ideal for relaxing and unwinding with your family.

Check out KAYAK to find the best hotel and flight prices for your Kerala trip!

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