7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in Kerala

Saturday, February 10: Arrival in Kochi

Welcome to Kerala! Begin your trip by arriving at Kochi International Airport. In the morning, explore the historic Fort Kochi, known for its colonial architecture and Chinese fishing nets. Afternoon can be spent visiting the famous Mattancherry Palace and exploring the colorful Jew Town. End the day with a mesmerizing Kathakali dance performance in the evening.

• Fort Kochi: Entrance fee – INR 15, Time – 3 hours
• Mattancherry Palace: Entrance fee – INR 5, Time – 1-2 hours
• Jew Town: No entrance fee, Time – 1-2 hours
• Kathakali dance performance: Tickets – starting from INR 200, Time – 1-2 hours

Sunday, February 11: Munnar – The Hill Station

Wake up early and embark on a scenic drive to Munnar, a picturesque hill station known for its tea estates. Spend the morning visiting the Tea Museum and enjoy a refreshing cup of tea. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. End the day by witnessing the stunning sunset at the Top Station viewpoint.

• Tea Museum: Entrance fee – INR 100, Time – 1-2 hours
• Eravikulam National Park: Entrance fee – INR 135 (foreigners), INR 90 (Indian adults), INR 65 (Indian children), Time – 3-4 hours
• Top Station: No entrance fee, Time – 1-2 hours

Monday, February 12: Backwaters of Alleppey

Embark on a memorable houseboat cruise in the backwaters of Alleppey. Spend the morning floating along the serene backwaters, witnessing the village life and lush green landscapes. Enjoy a delicious traditional Kerala lunch on board. In the afternoon, explore the small villages and interact with the locals. Witness a mesmerizing sunset over the backwaters and spend the night on the houseboat.

• Houseboat Cruise: Starting from INR 7,000, Time – Full day

Tuesday, February 13: The Enchanting Athirapally Falls

Travel to Athirapally in the morning and behold the majestic Athirapally Falls, often referred to as the Niagara of India. Spend the morning marveling at the beauty of the waterfall and exploring the surrounding lush forests. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Vazhachal Falls and enjoy a scenic nature walk. End the day by visiting the picturesque Charpa Falls.

• Athirapally Falls: Entrance fee – INR 40, Time – 2-3 hours
• Vazhachal Falls: Entrance fee – INR 20, Time – 1-2 hours
• Charpa Falls: No entrance fee, Time – 1-2 hours

Wednesday, February 14: Thrissur – Cultural Gem of Kerala

Explore the vibrant city of Thrissur, known for its cultural heritage and festivals. In the morning, visit the iconic Vadakkunnathan Temple and explore its ancient architecture and mural paintings. Afternoon can be spent exploring the Thrissur Zoo and indulging in some shopping at the local markets. End the day with a visit to the Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary for a thrilling eco-tourism experience.

• Vadakkunnathan Temple: No entrance fee, Time – 1-2 hours
• Thrissur Zoo: Entrance fee – INR 10 (adults), INR 5 (children), Time – 2-3 hours
• Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary: Entrance fee – INR 155 (foreigners), INR 15 (Indians), Time – 3-4 hours

Thursday, February 15: Kovalam Beach bliss

Head to Kovalam, a popular beach destination, in the morning. Spend the day relaxing on the pristine beaches, swimming in the clear blue waters, and indulging in water sports activities. In the evening, witness a mesmerizing cultural show at the Kovalam Art Gallery.

• Kovalam Beach: No entrance fee, Time – Full day
• Water sports activities: Prices vary, Time – Varies
• Kovalam Art Gallery: Entrance fee – INR 20, Time – 1-2 hours

Friday, February 16: Thekkady – Wildlife Sanctuary Experience

Visit Thekkady in the morning and explore the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Embark on a jungle safari to spot diverse wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and various bird species. In the afternoon, take a boat ride on Periyar Lake and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding forests. End the day with a visit to a spice plantation to learn about Kerala's famous spices.

• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Entrance fee – INR 450 (foreigners), INR 50 (Indians), Time – 4-5 hours
• Boat ride on Periyar Lake: Tickets – starting from INR 150, Time – 2-3 hours
• Spice plantation tour: Entrance fee – INR 100, Time – 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, visit the Mararikulam beach, a serene and less crowded spot with soft sands and turquoise waters. Explore the scenic beauty of the Palaruvi Waterfalls, located amidst the dense forests. Enjoy a day trip to Varkala, known for its stunning cliffs and beach. It is also home to the ancient Janardhana Swamy Temple. Don't forget to try the traditional Kerala cuisine, especially the mouthwatering seafood delicacies.

For hotel and flight prices in Kerala, check out Kayak.