6-Day Family Friendly Itinerary for Kerala in August 2023

1. Day 1: Kochi
   40 minutes (20.9 km) from Cochin International Airport

   In the morning, visit the Dutch Palace, built by the Portuguese in 1555 and renovated by the Dutch in 1663. In the afternoon, head to the famous Chinese Fishing Nets and enjoy a sunset view from Fort Kochi Beach. In the evening, explore the vibrant markets of Jew Town and end the day with a traditional Kathakali dance performance.

2. Day 2: Munnar
   4 hours 30 minutes (125 km) from Kochi

   Start the day with a scenic drive to Munnar, a hill station known for its tea plantations. Take a guided tour of a tea factory and learn about the process of tea-making. In the afternoon, visit Eravikulam National Park and spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. End the day with a visit to the beautiful Attukad Waterfalls.

3. Day 3: Thekkady
   3 hours 30 minutes (91.7 km) from Munnar

   Embark on a nature walk in the Periyar National Park, where you can spot various species of birds and animals. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the Periyar Lake and enjoy the serene view of the surroundings. In the evening, witness a classical martial arts performance called Kalaripayattu.

4. Day 4: Alleppey
   3 hours 20 minutes (138 km) from Thekkady

   Take a relaxing houseboat cruise on the backwaters of Alleppey. Enjoy a traditional Kerala lunch served on board while you sail past the scenic villages, coconut groves and paddy fields. In the evening, enjoy a stunning sunset view from the boat and indulge in some stargazing at night.

5. Day 5: Kovalam
   3 hours 30 minutes (159 km) from Alleppey

   Visit the iconic Padmanabhaswamy Temple in the morning, a popular pilgrimage site. In the afternoon, relax on the pristine beaches of Kovalam and enjoy some water sports activities. In the evening, take a stroll along the Lighthouse Beach and indulge in some local street food.

6. Day 6: Trivandrum
   30 minutes (14 km) from Kovalam

   Visit the Napier Museum in the morning, which showcases a rare collection of archaeological and historic artifacts. In the afternoon, head to the Kuthira Malika Palace, which has a unique collection of traditional furniture and artifacts. End the day with a visit to the famous Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple.

Recommendations

Don't miss the opportunity to witness the annual Nehru Trophy Boat Race in Alleppey if you're visiting during August. Consider a side trip to Wayanad, which is known for its breathtaking landscapes and wildlife sanctuaries. To maximize your fun, try some authentic Kerala cuisine and indulge in some Ayurvedic massages. It is also recommended to carry insect repellent creams and comfortable walking shoes.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Dutch Palace (1-2 hours, INR 30)
• Chinese Fishing Nets (1 hour, free)
• Kathakali Dance Performance (2-3 hours, INR 500)
• Tea Factory Tour (1 hour, INR 100)
• Eravikulam National Park (3-4 hours, INR 120)
• Periyar National Park (3-4 hours, INR 250)
• Boat Ride on Periyar Lake (1-2 hours, INR 225)
• Houseboat Cruise in Alleppey (22 hours, INR 10,000)
• Padmanabhaswamy Temple (1-2 hours, free)
• Water Sports Activities in Kovalam (2-3 hours, INR 500)
• Ayurvedic Massage (1-2 hours, INR 1500)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 11,775