A 6-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Kochi

Monday, October 9: Exploring Fort Kochi

Start your trip in Fort Kochi, a historic neighborhood known for its colonial architecture and cultural attractions. In the morning, visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, a unique sight where massive nets are used for fishing. Take a leisurely stroll through the streets lined with art galleries and quaint shops in the afternoon. In the evening, catch a Kathakali dance performance at the Kerala Kathakali Centre for a glimpse into the traditional art form.

• Chinese Fishing Nets: Ticket prices vary, around 1 hour
• Explore Art Galleries and Shops: Free, 2-3 hours
• Kathakali Dance Performance: INR 400-600 per person, 1-2 hours

Tuesday, October 10: Backwater Cruise and Kathakali Museum

Embark on a backwater cruise in Alleppey, a tranquil experience amidst Kerala's scenic landscapes. Enjoy a traditional Kerala lunch prepared with fresh local ingredients on board. In the afternoon, visit the Kerala Kathakali Museum to learn more about the history and significance of this classical dance form. Experience the intricate makeup and costumes demonstrations. Wrap up the day with a visit to the nearby Vasco da Gama Square.

• Backwater Cruise: Around INR 1,500 per person, 6-7 hours
• Lunch on board: Included in cruise package
• Kerala Kathakali Museum: INR 100 per person, 1-2 hours
• Vasco da Gama Square: Free, 1 hour

Wednesday, October 11: Cherai Beach and Marine Drive

Enjoy a relaxing day at Cherai Beach, a beautiful stretch of golden sand. Spend the morning building sandcastles and dipping your toes in the Arabian Sea. Indulge in fresh seafood at a beachside restaurant for lunch. In the afternoon, head to Marine Drive, a picturesque promenade along the backwaters. Take a boat ride to experience the serene beauty and spot dolphins. As the evening sets in, explore the local shops and waterfront cafes.

• Cherai Beach: Free, timing depends on personal preference
• Seafood Lunch: Varies based on restaurant, timing depends on personal preference
• Marine Drive Boat Ride: Around INR 300 per person, 2-3 hours
• Exploring Shops and Cafes at Marine Drive: Varies based on personal preference, timing depends on personal preference

Thursday, October 12: Hill Palace Museum and Wonderla Amusement Park

Start your day by visiting the Hill Palace Museum, a former royal residence showcasing artifacts and archaeological findings. Learn about the history and culture of Kerala. Enjoy a traditional Kerala lunch nearby. In the afternoon, visit Wonderla Amusement Park, a thrilling experience for the whole family. Brave the roller coasters, enjoy water rides, and explore various entertainment options. Wrap up the day with dinner at a local restaurant.

• Hill Palace Museum: INR 30 per person, 2-3 hours
• Traditional Kerala Lunch: Varies based on restaurant, 1 hour
• Wonderla Amusement Park: INR 1,000-1,500 per person, 4-5 hours
• Dinner at a Local Restaurant: Varies based on restaurant, timing depends on personal preference

Restaurants

• For breakfast, you can try the cozy Café Papaya which offers a variety of delicious breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
• Enjoy a delightful lunch at Dhe Puttu, known for its authentic Kerala cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
• For dinner, head to Fusion Bay, a waterfront restaurant serving a fusion of international and local dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.

Friday, October 13: Kochi-Muziris Biennale and Shopping at Jew Town

Explore the contemporary art scene by visiting the Kochi-Muziris Biennale, an international art exhibition held in Fort Kochi. Immerse yourself in the diverse range of artworks on display. Enjoy lunch at a local cafe in the vicinity. In the afternoon, visit Jew Town, known for its antique shops and spice markets. Find unique souvenirs and spices to take back home. Don't miss the exquisite Jewish Synagogue before heading to a riverside restaurant for dinner.

• Kochi-Muziris Biennale: INR 100 per person, 2-3 hours
• Lunch at a Local Cafe: Varies based on cafe, 1 hour
• Jew Town Shopping: Varies based on personal preference, timing depends on personal preference
• Jewish Synagogue: INR 5 per person, 30 minutes
• Dinner at a Riverside Restaurant: Varies based on restaurant, timing depends on personal preference

Saturday, October 14: Athirappilly Waterfalls and Elephant Training Center

Spend the day surrounded by nature's beauty. Start by visiting the awe-inspiring Athirappilly Waterfalls, known as the "Niagara Falls of India." Enjoy the mesmerizing views and take a refreshing dip in the natural pools. Have lunch at a restaurant offering panoramic views of the falls. In the afternoon, visit an elephant training center to get up close and personal with these gentle giants. Observe their training routines and even take an elephant ride if available. Return to Kochi in the evening and enjoy a farewell dinner.

• Athirappilly Waterfalls: INR 20 per person, 3-4 hours
• Lunch with Panoramic Views: Varies based on restaurant, 1 hour
• Elephant Training Center: INR 100 per person, 1-2 hours
• Return to Kochi: Travel duration depends on the location of the training center
• Farewell Dinner: Varies based on restaurant, timing depends on personal preference

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When in Kochi, be sure to visit Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, offering a fascinating glimpse into Kerala's rich history and architecture. Another offbeat attraction is the Indo-Portuguese Museum, showcasing the Indo-Portuguese heritage and artifacts. For a fun family outing, head to the Subhash Park, a serene and well-maintained park with a toy train ride and boating facilities. Don't forget to try the local delicacies like appam with stew and fresh seafood dishes at local eateries.

For checking hotel and flight prices, you can visit https://kayak.com/in?a=kan_252520_563153&p=v1&lc=en&url=%2Fstays.