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Family Friendly Kerala Adventure on a Budget

Day 1: Friday, December 8, 2023 - Arrival in Cochin

Morning: Arrive at Cochin International Airport and check into your hotel. Spend the morning exploring Fort Kochi, a historic neighborhood with charming colonial architecture and Chinese fishing nets. Don't miss a visit to the iconic Mattancherry Palace.

Afternoon: Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at one of the local restaurants. Then, take a ferry ride to Bolgatty Island and visit the picturesque Bolgatty Palace and Island Resort.

Evening: Witness an enchanting Kathakali dance performance that showcases Kerala's traditional art form. You can also explore the bustling markets of Jew Town and indulge in some souvenir shopping.

  • Fort Kochi: Free entry, 2-3 hours
  • Mattancherry Palace: INR 5 (approx. USD 0.07) entry fee, 1-2 hours
  • Bolgatty Palace and Island Resort: Free entry, 1-2 hours
  • Kathakali performance: INR 300-500 (approx. USD 4-7) per person, 1-2 hours
Day 2: Saturday, December 9, 2023 - Munnar Exploration

Morning: After an early breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Munnar, known for its lush tea plantations and breathtaking views. Explore the Tea Museum to learn about tea processing and enjoy a refreshing cup of tea.

Afternoon: Visit the beautiful Mattupetty Dam and take a boat ride on the serene Mattupetty Lake. Don't miss the opportunity to spot wildlife at the Rajamalai (Eravikulam) National Park, famous for its endangered Nilgiri Tahr.

Evening: Take a leisurely walk through the captivating tea gardens and enjoy the tranquility of nature.

  • Tea Museum: INR 100 (approx. USD 1.40) entry fee, 2-3 hours
  • Mattupetty Dam: INR 10 (approx. USD 0.14) entry fee, 1-2 hours
  • Mattupetty Lake boat ride: INR 500-700 (approx. USD 7-10) per boat, 1-2 hours
  • Rajamalai (Eravikulam) National Park: INR 120-220 (approx. USD 1.70-3) entry fee, 2-3 hours
Day 3: Sunday, December 10, 2023 - Houseboat Experience in Alleppey

Morning: Travel to Alleppey, also known as the Venice of the East, famous for its backwaters and houseboat cruises. Board your traditional houseboat and embark on a memorable journey through the serene backwaters of Kerala.

Afternoon: Enjoy a delicious traditional Kerala-style lunch prepared onboard the houseboat while cruising past lush greenery and local life. Take in the scenic beauty and capture precious moments with your family.

Evening: Watch the mesmerizing sunset over the tranquil backwaters and disembark at Alleppey to spend the night at a budget-friendly waterfront accommodation.

  • Houseboat cruise: INR 5,000-8,000 (approx. USD 70-110) for 8 people, including meals, 6-8 hours
Day 4: Monday, December 11, 2023 - Beach Fun in Kovalam

Morning: Travel from Alleppey to Kovalam, a beautiful beach town on the Arabian Sea coast. Spend the morning relaxing on the sandy shores and taking a dip in the clear blue waters of Kovalam Beach.

Afternoon: Visit the famous lighthouse at Kovalam Beach for panoramic views of the coastline. Indulge in some water activities like swimming, surfing, or banana boat rides.

Evening: Explore the vibrant local markets and relish a seafood dinner at a beachfront restaurant while enjoying the stunning view.

  • Kovalam Beach: Free entry, full day
  • Kovalam Lighthouse: INR 20 (approx. USD 0.30) entry fee, 1-2 hours
Day 5: Tuesday, December 12, 2023 - Wildlife Safari at Periyar National Park

Morning: Travel to Thekkady, home to the famous Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve. Start your day with an exciting wildlife safari where you can spot elephants, tigers, deer, and various bird species.

Afternoon: Take a boat ride on the Periyar Lake, located within the national park, and enjoy the picturesque surroundings.

Evening: Explore the spice plantations and learn about the rich flavors of Kerala's spices. Don't forget to try some authentic local cuisine for dinner.

  • Periyar National Park safari: INR 250-450 (approx. USD 3.50-6) per person, 3-4 hours
  • Periyar Lake boat ride: INR 225-525 (approx. USD 3-7) per person, 1-2 hours
Day 6: Wednesday, December 13, 2023 - Thrissur Cultural Experience

Morning: Travel to Thrissur, the cultural capital of Kerala. Explore the iconic Vadakkunnathan Temple, an ancient Hindu temple known for its architectural beauty.

Afternoon: Visit the Kerala Kalamandalam, a renowned center for performing arts, and witness traditional dance and music performances.

Evening: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Thrissur Pooram, a grand temple festival featuring a spectacular elephant procession and fireworks (if the festival aligns with your travel dates, otherwise explore local markets or catch a traditional Kerala martial arts performance).

  • Vadakkunnathan Temple: Free entry, 1-2 hours
  • Kerala Kalamandalam: INR 50 (approx. USD 0.70) entry fee for performances, 2-3 hours
  • Thrissur Pooram festival: Free entry (if available), 3-4 hours
Day 7: Thursday, December 14, 2023 - Agastyarkoodam Trekking and Departure

Morning: Embark on an adventurous trek to Agastyarkoodam, the highest peak in the Agastya Hills of the Western Ghats. This trek requires prior permission from the Forest Department and a guide, so make sure to plan and obtain the required permits.

Afternoon: Enjoy the challenging yet rewarding trek through the dense forest and witness the mesmerizing beauty of nature.

Evening: Head back to Cochin for departure. Bid farewell to Kerala with cherished memories of your family-friendly budget adventure.

  • Trekking to Agastyarkoodam: Permit required (cost varies) with a guide, 6-8 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When traveling with family in Kerala, don't miss the hidden gem of Vagamon, a pristine hill station famous for its green meadows, pine forests, and tranquil lakes. Enjoy activities like paragliding, rock climbing, and boating in the serene Vagamon Lake. Another local favorite is the Athirapally Waterfalls, often referred to as the "Niagara Falls of India." This majestic waterfall surrounded by lush greenery provides an awe-inspiring sight and offers opportunities for picnicking and wildlife spotting.

For more hotel and flight options, check here.

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