Kerala Family Adventure

Thursday, December 21: Arrival in Kochi

Welcome to Kochi! Start your Kerala family adventure by exploring the charming city. In the morning, visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, a popular photo spot. Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at Fort Kochi, known for its colonial architecture. In the afternoon, take a relaxing boat ride on the serene backwaters of Kochi. In the evening, explore the vibrant Jew Town, famous for its spice markets and the historic Paradesi Synagogue.

• Chinese Fishing Nets: Free, 1-2 hours
• Fort Kochi: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
• Backwater Boat Ride: Cost varies, 3-4 hours
• Jew Town: Free, 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day with a hearty South Indian breakfast at Anna Lakshmi Restaurant. This popular eatery offers a wide variety of dosas, idlis, and vadas. Average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
• For a delicious seafood lunch, head to Oceanos Restaurant. Located near Fort Kochi, this restaurant serves fresh seafood delicacies like prawns, fish curry, and lobster. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
• Indulge in a flavorsome dinner at Malabar Junction. This cozy restaurant offers a fusion of Kerala and international cuisines. Try their signature dishes like Malabar biryani and alleppey fish curry. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.

Friday, December 22: Munnar

Head to the enchanting hill station of Munnar. In the morning, visit the lush tea plantations and experience the process of tea-making at the Tea Museum. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the beautiful landscapes of Echo Point. In the afternoon, explore the wildlife at the Eravikulam National Park and catch a glimpse of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Spend the evening leisurely strolling through the aromatic spice markets.

• Tea Museum: INR 150 ($2) per person, 2-3 hours
• Echo Point: Free, 1-2 hours
• Eravikulam National Park: INR 120 ($1.60) per person, 2-3 hours
• Spice Markets: Cost varies, 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day at Cafe Mornings, a cozy breakfast spot known for its delicious coffee and freshly baked pastries. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
• For lunch, head to Rapsy Restaurant, a local favorite known for its authentic Kerala cuisine. Try their mouthwatering seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
• In the evening, dine at The Farmhouse, a charming restaurant set amidst lush greenery. Enjoy their farm-to-table dishes made with organic ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about ₹600 per person.

Saturday, December 23: Thekkady

Embark on a thrilling adventure in Thekkady. Start your day with a bamboo rafting experience in the Periyar Tiger Reserve, where you can spot various wildlife species and enjoy the beauty of nature. Enjoy a traditional Kerala lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, take a scenic boat ride on Periyar Lake and spot elephants, tigers, and other animals along the shores. End the day with an entertaining Kathakali dance performance.

• Bamboo Rafting: INR 1,500 ($20) per person, 4-5 hours
• Periyar Lake Boat Ride: INR 375 ($5) per person, 2-3 hours
• Kathakali Dance Performance: INR 250 ($3) per person, 1-2 hours

Sunday, December 24: Alleppey

Experience the charm of the backwaters in Alleppey. Start your day with a houseboat cruise through the serene backwaters, enjoying the picturesque views and delicious local cuisine. Relax on the houseboat and soak in the tranquility. In the afternoon, explore the small villages and interact with the locals. Enjoy a traditional Kerala dinner on the houseboat while watching a beautiful sunset.

• Houseboat Cruise: INR 8,000-10,000 ($107-134) per night, 6-8 hours
• Exploring Villages: Free, 2-3 hours

Monday, December 25: Kovalam

Head to the charming beach town of Kovalam. Spend the morning relaxing on the sandy shores of Lighthouse Beach. Enjoy a scrumptious seafood lunch at a beachside restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the Lighthouse and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline. Indulge in a rejuvenating Ayurvedic spa treatment at one of the wellness centers. End the day with a mesmerizing sunset view at Hawa Beach.

• Lighthouse Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
• Lunch at Beachside Restaurant: Cost varies, 1-2 hours
• Lighthouse Visit: INR 10 ($0.14) per person, 1-2 hours
• Ayurvedic Spa Treatment: Cost varies, 2-3 hours

Tuesday, December 26: Trivandrum

Visit the capital city of Kerala, Trivandrum. Start your day with a visit to the iconic Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple, known for its intricate architecture. Explore the fascinating exhibits at the Napier Museum and Art Gallery. Enjoy a traditional Kerala lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, relax at the beautiful Kovalam Beach and indulge in water activities. End the day with a serene walk through the beautiful gardens of the Kanakakunnu Palace.

• Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
• Napier Museum and Art Gallery: INR 20 ($0.27) per person, 2-3 hours
• Kovalam Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
• Kanakakunnu Palace: Free, 1-2 hours

Wednesday, December 27: Departure

On your last day in Kerala, spend the morning relaxing at the hotel and packing your bags. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and check-out from your hotel. If time permits, explore the local markets for some last-minute souvenir shopping. Bid farewell to the beautiful state of Kerala and board your flight back home.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a family-friendly off the beaten path experience, visit the Athirapally Waterfalls, located near Kochi. The majestic falls offer breathtaking views and a chance to immerse in nature. Another hidden gem is the Varkala Beach, where you can enjoy pristine beaches, cliff views, and indulge in water sports. Both destinations offer a unique blend of adventure and relaxation, perfect for families.