7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Kerala

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Sunday, October 15: Arrival in Kochi

In the morning, explore Fort Kochi by visiting the historic St. Francis Church and the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk along the charming streets of Jew Town and visit the famous Paradesi Synagogue. Finish off the day by watching a traditional Kathakali dance performance in the evening.

• St. Francis Church: Free, 1 hour
• Chinese Fishing Nets: Free, 1 hour
• Paradesi Synagogue: INR 25 ($0.34), 1-2 hours
• Kathakali Dance Performance: INR 300 ($4.1), 2 hours

Monday, October 16: Munnar Tea Plantations

Embark on a scenic drive to Munnar and spend the morning exploring the lush tea plantations. In the afternoon, visit the Tea Museum to learn about the history and process of tea production. Enjoy a relaxing evening boat ride in Kundala Lake.

• Munnar Tea Plantations: Free, 2-3 hours
• Tea Museum: INR 100 ($1.36), 1-2 hours
• Kundala Lake Boat Ride: INR 200 ($2.72) per person, 1 hour

Tuesday, October 17: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Spend the morning exploring the diverse flora and fauna at Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Take a boat ride on Periyar Lake to spot elephants and other wildlife. In the afternoon, visit the spice plantations and learn about the various spices grown in the region.

• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: INR 450 ($6.12) per person, 3-4 hours
• Boat Ride on Periyar Lake: INR 150 ($2.04), 1-2 hours
• Spice Plantations: Free, 1-2 hours

Wednesday, October 18: Alleppey Backwaters

Start your day with a relaxing cruise on the serene backwaters of Alleppey. Enjoy the scenic beauty and observe the traditional lifestyle of the locals. In the afternoon, explore the picturesque Alleppey Beach and witness a mesmerizing sunset.

• Alleppey Backwater Cruise: Starts from INR 800 ($10.89) per person, 4-5 hours
• Alleppey Beach: Free, 1-2 hours

Thursday, October 19: Kovalam Beach

Head towards Kovalam in the morning and spend the day relaxing on the pristine beaches. Try some water sports activities such as surfing or snorkeling. Visit the Vizhinjam Lighthouse for panoramic views of the coastline. Enjoy a delicious seafood dinner by the beach.

• Kovalam Beach: Free, all day
• Water Sports Activities: Prices vary, 2-3 hours
• Vizhinjam Lighthouse: INR 20 ($0.27), 1-2 hours

Friday, October 20: Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

Explore the rich biodiversity of Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary in the morning. Take a jungle safari to spot elephants, tigers, and other wildlife species. In the afternoon, visit the Edakkal Caves, known for their ancient rock art. Enjoy a peaceful evening by Pookode Lake.

• Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: INR 110 ($1.50) per person, 3-4 hours
• Jungle Safari: INR 300 ($4.08) per person, 2-3 hours
• Edakkal Caves: INR 40 ($0.54) per person, 1-2 hours
• Pookode Lake: INR 10 ($0.14) per person, 1-2 hours

Saturday, October 21: Trivandrum City

Explore the highlights of Trivandrum city in the morning by visiting the iconic Padmanabhaswamy Temple and the Napier Museum. In the afternoon, relax at the beautiful Kuthira Malika Palace and stroll through the lush gardens of the Kanakakunnu Palace.

• Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
• Napier Museum: INR 20 ($0.27), 1-2 hours
• Kuthira Malika Palace: INR 10 ($0.14), 1-2 hours
• Kanakakunnu Palace: Free, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

One of the hidden gems in Kerala is the village of Kumbalangi, known for its sustainable tourism practices. Visit the village to experience fishing, crab farming, and explore the unique Chinese fishing nets. Another local favorite is the Palaruvi Waterfalls, which offer a mesmerizing view and a refreshing dip in the natural pool below. These attractions are not as crowded as popular tourist spots and provide a unique glimpse into the local way of life.