7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Kerala, India

Friday, July 12: Arrival in Kochi

In the morning, arrive in Kochi, the gateway to Kerala. Start your trip by visiting Fort Kochi, a charming neighborhood known for its colonial history and Chinese fishing nets. In the afternoon, explore the Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, to admire its beautiful murals and artifacts. As the evening sets in, witness a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional Indian art form.

• Fort Kochi: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Mattancherry Palace: Cost estimate - INR 5 (approx. $0.07), Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Kathakali dance performance: Cost estimate - INR 300-500 (approx. $4-$7), Time spent - 2-3 hours

Saturday, July 13: Munnar

Start your day with a refreshing morning walk in the beautiful tea gardens of Munnar. Afternoon visit to the Tea Museum to learn about the history and process of tea production. In the evening, enjoy a tranquil boat ride at Kundala Lake and witness the breathtaking sunset.

• Tea Gardens: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Tea Museum: Cost estimate - INR 100 (approx. $1.40), Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Kundala Lake: Cost estimate - INR 200-300 (approx. $2.80-$4.20) for boat ride, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Sunday, July 14: Thekkady

In the morning, embark on an exciting jungle safari in Periyar National Park to spot wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and more. Afternoon visit to the Spice Plantations to explore the aromatic world of spices. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kathakali and martial arts performance.

• Periyar National Park: Cost estimate - INR 450-700 (approx. $6-$10), Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Spice Plantations: Cost estimate - INR 100 (approx. $1.40) for a guided tour, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Kathakali and martial arts performance: Cost estimate - INR 300-500 (approx. $4-$7), Time spent - 2-3 hours

Monday, July 15: Alleppey

Embark on a memorable houseboat experience in the backwaters of Alleppey. Morning cruise through the serene waterways, witnessing the scenic beauty and local life. Afternoon enjoy delicious Keralan cuisine on the houseboat. In the evening, indulge in a relaxing Ayurvedic spa treatment.

• Houseboat experience: Cost estimate - INR 7,500-10,000 (approx. $105-$140) for 24 hours, Time spent - Full day
• Keralan cuisine on the houseboat: Cost estimate - Included in houseboat package, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Ayurvedic spa treatment: Cost estimate - INR 1,000-3,000 (approx. $14-$42), Time spent - 1-2 hours

Tuesday, July 16: Kovalam

Spend the morning relaxing at the beautiful Kovalam Beach, known for its pristine shores and clear blue waters. Afternoon visit to the Lighthouse Beach and explore the nearby fishing village. In the evening, treat yourself to a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage by the beach.

• Kovalam Beach: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Lighthouse Beach: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Ayurvedic massage: Cost estimate - INR 500-2,500 (approx. $7-$35), Time spent - 1-2 hours

Wednesday, July 17: Varkala

Start your day with a visit to Janardhana Swamy Temple, an ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Afternoon relax at the serene Varkala Beach, which offers stunning cliffs and tranquil surroundings. In the evening, catch the breathtaking sunset view from the famous cliffside restaurants.

• Janardhana Swamy Temple: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Varkala Beach: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Sunset view from cliffside restaurants: Cost estimate - Varies based on restaurant choice, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Thursday, July 18: Departure

Spend your last morning shopping for souvenirs at local markets in Kochi. Bid farewell to Kerala with memories of its rich culture and natural beauty.

• Shopping in Kochi: Cost estimate - Varies based on personal preference, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Kerala, don't miss the opportunity to visit Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, a paradise for birdwatchers. Enjoy a backwater cruise from Kollam to Alleppey, where you can witness the traditional way of life along the canals. Also, consider visiting the small hill station of Vagamon for its scenic beauty and pleasant weather.

Planning your trip to Kerala? Check out the latest hotel and flight prices here.