7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary: Rajasthan & Kerala

Sunday, December 24: Arrival in Rajasthan, India

Morning: Arrive at Jaipur International Airport and transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon, visit the magnificent Amer Fort, known for its stunning architecture and intricate design. Enjoy an elephant ride up the hill to the fort. In the evening, explore the bustling markets of Jaipur and indulge in some shopping for local handicrafts and textiles.

• Amer Fort: Estimated Cost - INR 200 per person (excluding elephant ride), Estimated Time - 2-3 hours
• Jaipur Markets: Cost varies, Time spent based on personal preference

Monday, December 25: Jaipur - The Pink City

Morning: Visit the iconic Hawa Mahal, also known as the Palace of Winds, and admire its intricate facade. Explore the grand City Palace complex and its museums, showcasing the rich history and culture of Jaipur. In the afternoon, explore the Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observatory. Enjoy a traditional Rajasthani dinner at Chokhi Dhani, a village-themed open-air restaurant.

• Hawa Mahal: Estimated Cost - INR 50 per person, Estimated Time - 1-2 hours
• City Palace: Estimated Cost - INR 500 per person, Estimated Time - 2-3 hours
• Jantar Mantar: Estimated Cost - INR 200 per person, Estimated Time - 1-2 hours
• Chokhi Dhani: Estimated Cost - INR 800 per person, Estimated Time - 3-4 hours

Tuesday, December 26: Udaipur - The City of Lakes

Morning: Fly to Udaipur and check into your hotel. Take a boat ride on Lake Pichola to admire the beautiful landscapes and visit the famous Lake Palace. In the afternoon, explore the City Palace, an architectural marvel, and visit the Jag Mandir Palace. Enjoy a traditional Rajasthani dance performance in the evening.

• Boat Ride on Lake Pichola: Estimated Cost - INR 400 per person, Estimated Time - 1-2 hours
• City Palace: Estimated Cost - INR 300 per person, Estimated Time - 2-3 hours
• Jag Mandir Palace: Estimated Cost - INR 300 per person, Estimated Time - 1-2 hours
• Traditional Rajasthani Dance Performance: Estimated Cost - INR 500 per person, Estimated Time - 1-2 hours

Wednesday, December 27: Explore Fort Kochi - Gateway to Kerala

Morning: Fly to Kochi and check into your hotel. Explore the historic Fort Kochi area, known for its Portuguese and Dutch colonial architecture. Visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets and St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India. In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Fort Kochi Beach and enjoy the sunset.

• Chinese Fishing Nets: No entrance fee, Estimated Time - 1-2 hours
• St. Francis Church: No entrance fee, Estimated Time - 30 minutes
• Fort Kochi Beach: No entrance fee, Estimated Time - 1-2 hours

Thursday, December 28: Backwaters of Alleppey

Morning: Transfer to Alleppey and embark on a traditional houseboat for a mesmerizing backwater cruise. Sail through the serene backwaters, surrounded by lush greenery and paddy fields. Enjoy a delicious lunch onboard. In the afternoon, explore the local village life and interact with the friendly locals. Overnight stay on the houseboat.

• Traditional Houseboat: Estimated Cost - INR 8,000 onwards (varies with amenities), Estimated Time - Full day

Friday, December 29: Munnar - Hill Station Retreat

Morning: Drive to Munnar, a beautiful hill station in Kerala famous for its tea plantations. Explore the tea gardens and learn about the tea-making process at a tea museum. In the afternoon, visit the stunning Mattupetty Dam and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Take a leisurely walk in the aromatic spice gardens.

• Tea Museum: Estimated Cost - INR 150 per person, Estimated Time - 1-2 hours
• Mattupetty Dam: No entrance fee, Estimated Time - 1-2 hours
• Spice Gardens: Estimated Cost - INR 100 per person, Estimated Time - 1-2 hours

Saturday, December 30: Departure from Cochin

Morning: Drive back to Kochi and explore the vibrant markets and shops for some last-minute souvenir shopping. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Jew Town and the Paradesi Synagogue, one of the oldest synagogues in India. Bid farewell to the enchanting land of Rajasthan and Kerala as you catch your flight back home.

• Market Shopping: Cost varies, Time spent based on personal preference
• Jew Town and Paradesi Synagogue: No entrance fee, Estimated Time - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While in Rajasthan, don't miss the hidden gem of Bagru, famous for its hand-block printing and textiles. Take a day trip from Jaipur and explore the traditional craft-making process while supporting local artisans. In Kerala, head to the offbeat destination of Varkala, known for its stunning cliffs and beautiful beaches. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and indulge in yoga and Ayurvedic treatments.

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