Kerala Family Friendly Itinerary - October 13-16, 2023

Friday October 13: Exploring Kochi

Start your trip in Kochi, also known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea. Begin your morning by visiting the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets at Fort Kochi Beach. These historic nets are a unique sight and provide a great photo opportunity. Head to the Mattancherry Palace in the afternoon, also known as the Dutch Palace, to explore its beautiful murals and artifacts. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the Marine Drive promenade, enjoying the sunset and the bustling atmosphere.

• Chinese Fishing Nets at Fort Kochi Beach: Entrance is free, around 1-2 hours.
• Mattancherry Palace: Entrance fee is estimated to be INR 5 for Indians and INR 100 for foreigners, around 1-2 hours.
• Marine Drive: Free to visit, perfect for a relaxing evening walk.

Saturday October 14: Exploring Munnar

Head to Munnar, known for its tea plantations and breathtaking views. Start your day by visiting the Tea Museum to learn about the history and process of tea production. Afternoon is the perfect time to take a scenic drive to the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. In the evening, enjoy a peaceful walk through the picturesque tea gardens and soak in the serene atmosphere.

• Tea Museum: Entrance fee is estimated to be INR 120 for adults and INR 90 for children, around 1-2 hours.
• Eravikulam National Park: Entrance fee is estimated to be INR 120 for adults and INR 90 for children, around 3-4 hours.

Sunday October 15: Backwaters of Alleppey

Experience the famous backwaters of Alleppey on a houseboat cruise. Spend the morning floating along the tranquil canals, surrounded by lush greenery and traditional Kerala villages. Enjoy a delicious lunch prepared on board as you relax and take in the scenic views. In the afternoon, explore the small villages and interact with the friendly locals. In the evening, witness a stunning sunset over the backwaters.

• Houseboat Cruise in Alleppey: Cost starts at around INR 6,000 per night for a family, around 24 hours.

Monday October 16: Wildlife Safari in Thekkady

Head to Thekkady, known for its wildlife sanctuary and spice plantations. Start your day with an exciting boat ride on the Periyar Lake, where you can spot various wildlife like elephants, deer, and birds in their natural habitat. Opt for a guided nature walk in the afternoon to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. In the evening, visit a spice plantation and learn about the cultivation and processing of different spices.

• Periyar Lake Boat Ride: Cost starts at around INR 225 per person, around 2-3 hours.
• Guided Nature Walk: Cost starts at around INR 300 per person, around 2-3 hours.
• Spice Plantation Visit: Entrance fee is estimated to be INR 200 per person, around 1-2 hours.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique family experience, consider visiting the Elephant Junction in Thekkady. Here, you can participate in activities like elephant bathing, feeding, and riding. Another hidden gem is the Athirapally Waterfalls near Kochi. These majestic falls are a sight to behold, and you can even take a dip in the refreshing waters. Both these attractions are family-friendly and offer unforgettable memories.

For hotel and flight options in Kerala, you can check prices and availability here.