Kerala Family-Friendly 6-Day Itinerary - October 10-15, 2023

Tuesday, October 10: Arrival in Kochi

Welcome to Kerala! On your first day, arrive in Kochi, also known as Cochin. In the morning, explore Fort Kochi, a historic neighborhood famous for its charming colonial architecture and Chinese fishing nets. Visit the Indo-Portuguese Museum to learn about the region's rich cultural heritage. In the afternoon, take a relaxing backwater cruise through the serene waterways. In the evening, witness a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional art form of Kerala, known for its elaborate costumes and expressive movements.

• Fort Kochi: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Indo-Portuguese Museum: Estimated cost - INR 50 ($0.68), Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Backwater Cruise: Estimated cost - INR 1,500 ($20.50), Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Kathakali Performance: Estimated cost - INR 300-500 ($4-7), Time spent - 1-2 hours

Wednesday, October 11: Munnar - Hill Station Bliss

Start your day early and head to Munnar, a picturesque hill station known for its tea plantations. In the morning, visit the Tata Tea Museum to learn about the tea-making process and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding gardens. Have a refreshing cup of tea at a local tea stall. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. End the day with a visit to the Mattupetty Dam, where you can enjoy boating amidst lush greenery.

• Tata Tea Museum: Estimated cost - INR 100 ($1.36), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Eravikulam National Park: Estimated cost - INR 120-400 ($1.63-5.45), Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Mattupetty Dam: Estimated cost - INR 10 ($0.14), Time spent - 1-2 hours

Thursday, October 12: Thekkady - Wildlife Adventure

Embark on a thrilling wildlife adventure in Thekkady. In the morning, explore the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, famous for its diverse flora and fauna. Take a boat safari on Periyar Lake and spot elephants, tigers, and other wildlife. In the afternoon, enjoy a spice plantation tour, where you can learn about the cultivation and processing of various spices. End the day with a traditional Kerala Ayurvedic massage to rejuvenate your senses.

• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 450 ($6.13), Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Boat Safari: Estimated cost - INR 225 ($3.07), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Spice Plantation Tour: Estimated cost - INR 200-300 ($2.72-4.08), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Ayurvedic Massage: Estimated cost - INR 1,000-2,000 ($13.63-27.25), Time spent - 1-2 hours

Friday, October 13: Alleppey - Backwater Delight

Experience the enchanting backwaters of Alleppey. In the morning, embark on a houseboat cruise through the serene backwaters, surrounded by lush greenery. Enjoy a traditional Kerala lunch on board. In the afternoon, visit the Alleppey Beach and soak in the sun or take a refreshing dip in the Arabian Sea. In the evening, witness a mesmerizing Kathakali performance, a captivating dance-drama showcasing Kerala's cultural heritage.

• Houseboat Cruise: Estimated cost - INR 5,000-10,000 ($68.19-136.38), Time spent - 6-8 hours
• Alleppey Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Kathakali Performance: Estimated cost - INR 300-500 ($4-7), Time spent - 1-2 hours

Saturday, October 14: Kovalam - Beach Paradise

Relax and unwind at the beautiful beaches of Kovalam. In the morning, visit the iconic Lighthouse Beach and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the sandy shores. Indulge in water sports activities like swimming and surfing. In the afternoon, explore the Hawa Beach, known for its serene atmosphere and stunning views. Enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at a beachside restaurant while watching the sunset.

• Lighthouse Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Water Sports Activities: Estimated cost - INR 500-1,000 ($6.82-13.63), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Hawa Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Sunday, October 15: Departure from Trivandrum

On your last day, explore the vibrant city of Trivandrum. In the morning, visit the impressive Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, known for its intricate architecture and religious significance. Explore the Napier Museum and Art Gallery to admire a collection of ancient artifacts and artworks. In the afternoon, take a stroll in the beautiful Kanakakkunnu Palace grounds. Bid farewell to Kerala as you depart from Trivandrum.

• Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Napier Museum and Art Gallery: Estimated cost - INR 20 ($0.27), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Kanakakkunnu Palace: Estimated cost - INR 10 ($0.14), Time spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions and local favorites, consider visiting the tranquil village of Marari Beach, where you can relax on pristine sandy shores away from the crowds. Explore the idyllic village of Kumarakom, known for its beautiful backwaters and bird sanctuary. Families will enjoy a visit to Wonderla Amusement Park in Kochi, offering thrilling rides and entertainment for all ages. Don't miss the chance to savor traditional Kerala cuisine, such as appam, puttu, and karimeen fry, at local restaurants.

For checking hotel and flight prices in Kerala, visit https://kayak.com/in?a=kan_252520_563153&p=v1&lc=en&url=%2Fstays.