Kerala Nature Family-Friendly Itinerary - June 7-12, 2024
Day 1: Friday, June 7 - Arrival in Kochi
Start your Kerala adventure by arriving at Cochin International Airport, Kochi's main airport. Spend the morning exploring Fort Kochi, a historic neighborhood known for its colonial architecture and Chinese fishing nets. In the afternoon, visit the Indo-Portuguese Museum to learn about the city's Portuguese influence. In the evening, witness a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional art form unique to Kerala. Stay overnight in Kochi.
Kathakali Performance: INR 500 per person, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Saravana Bhavan: Enjoy a traditional South Indian breakfast at Saravana Bhavan, known for its delicious dosas and idlis. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
Rapsy Restaurant: For lunch, head to Rapsy Restaurant and savor their mouthwatering Kerala cuisine, including fish curry and appam. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Dhe Puttu: Indulge in a sumptuous dinner at Dhe Puttu, where you can relish a variety of authentic Kerala puttu preparations. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Royale, known for its freshly brewed coffee and scrumptious pancakes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, head to Rapsy Restaurant and enjoy a variety of Kerala specialties such as Malabar fish curry and appam. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
In the evening, indulge in a flavorful dinner at Copper Castle Restaurant, offering a range of Indian and international dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Alleppey is Café de Kochi which offers a wide variety of delicious breakfast dishes. With an average cost of around 200 rupees per person, you can enjoy a satisfying breakfast in a cozy atmosphere.
For lunch, head to Vembanad Restaurant by the backwaters, where you can relish authentic Kerala cuisine. The restaurant offers a serene ambiance with stunning views. The average cost for a meal here is about 400 rupees per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at Dreamers Restaurant, known for its romantic setting and delicious seafood dishes. With candlelit tables and live music, the restaurant creates a charming ambiance. You can expect to spend around 800 rupees per person for a meal here.
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Del Mar, located near the Alleppey backwaters. Enjoy a variety of freshly brewed coffee, mouthwatering pastries, and hearty breakfast dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a tasty lunch in Alleppey, head to Cassia Restaurant, known for its delectable Kerala seafood dishes. From sizzling prawns to flavorful fish curries, there's something to satisfy every seafood lover. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
In the evening, savor a memorable dining experience at The Glass House, nestled by the backwaters. This rooftop restaurant offers breathtaking views while you indulge in a fusion of Indian and international cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast in Kochi, head to Anaadi Breakfast Café. This charming café offers a variety of breakfast options including pancakes, omelettes, and traditional South Indian dishes. The average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, try Dal Roti. This popular restaurant serves authentic North Indian cuisine with a Kerala twist. Enjoy flavorful curries, biryanis, and tandoori dishes. The average cost for a meal is about INR 400 per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, visit Oceanos Restaurant and Bar. Located by the waterfront, this restaurant specializes in fresh seafood prepared in a variety of delicious styles. Enjoy dishes like grilled fish, prawn curry, and seafood platters. The average cost for a meal is about INR 800 per person.
Day 2: Saturday, June 8 - Munnar Hill Station
Embark on a scenic journey to Munnar, a famous hill station renowned for its tea plantations and picturesque landscapes. Start your day early and enjoy a refreshing morning walk through the tea gardens. Afterward, visit the Tea Museum to learn about the tea-making process. In the afternoon, explore the stunning Rajamalai (Eravikulam) National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Return to Munnar and spend the evening at leisure.
Rajamalai National Park: Entrance fee - INR 120 per person, 3-4 hours
Day 3: Sunday, June 9 - Backwaters of Alleppey
Experience the tranquil beauty of Kerala's backwaters in Alleppey. Start your morning with a relaxing houseboat cruise, drifting along the serene backwaters lined with lush greenery. Indulge in traditional Kerala cuisine prepared on board. In the afternoon, explore the charming Alleppey town, known for its intricate network of canals and bridges. Enjoy a peaceful sunset by the backwaters before returning to your houseboat for an overnight stay.
Houseboat Cruise: Starting from INR 6,000 per night (approx.), 8-10 hours
Alleppey Town: Free entry, 2-3 hours
Day 4: Monday, June 10 - Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Head towards Periyar National Park, a protected area known for its diverse wildlife and scenic beauty. Start your day with a thrilling guided boat safari on Lake Periyar, where you might spot elephants, tigers, and various bird species. In the afternoon, take a rejuvenating nature walk through the spice plantations surrounding the park. End your day with an informative visit to the Elephant Junction, where you can interact with these gentle giants.
Lake Periyar Boat Safari: INR 450 per person, 3-4 hours
Nature Walk: INR 200 per person, 2-3 hours
Elephant Junction: INR 400 per person, 2-3 hours
Day 5: Tuesday, June 11 - Varkala Beach
Travel to Varkala, a coastal town renowned for its cliffside beaches and ancient Hindu temples. Spend your morning relaxing at Varkala Beach, renowned for its golden sands and inviting waters. Explore the magnificent Janardanaswamy Temple and take in the stunning views from the cliff-top. In the afternoon, enjoy a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage or indulge in some shopping at the local markets. Witness a breathtaking sunset before retiring for the night.
Varkala Beach: Free entry, 3-4 hours
Janardanaswamy Temple: Free entry, 1-2 hours
Ayurvedic Massage: Starting from INR 1,000, 1-2 hours
Day 6: Wednesday, June 12 - Departure from Kochi
On your last day, bid farewell to the serene landscapes of Kerala. If time permits before your departure, you can visit the famous Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, to admire its unique architectural style and historical artifacts. Then, head to Kochi International Airport for your return journey home.
For a family-friendly adventure, consider visiting the Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, located near Kochi. This lesser-known sanctuary is home to a variety of rare bird species and provides an excellent opportunity for bird-watching amidst lush greenery. Another hidden gem is the Athirapally Waterfalls, often referred to as the "Niagara Falls of India." These majestic falls offer a breathtaking sight and the chance to experience nature's power in all its glory.