7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary for Kerala in June 2023

1. Day 1: Kochi
   40 minutes (19.5 km) from Cochin International Airport

   Start your morning with a visit to the Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, which is famous for its stunning mural paintings. In the afternoon, head to the Fort Kochi Beach and take a stroll along the picturesque coastline. End the day with a visit to the Paradesi Synagogue, the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations.

2. Day 2: Munnar
   4 hours 30 minutes (130 km) from Kochi

   Explore the breathtaking tea plantations in Munnar and enjoy a cup of freshly brewed tea. Visit the Mattupetty Dam and the Kundala Lake for picturesque views. Take a nature walk in the Eravikulam National Park and spot endangered species like the Nilgiri Tahr.

3. Day 3: Thekkady
   3 hours 15 minutes (91 km) from Munnar

   Embark on a jungle safari in the Periyar National Park and get a chance to spot wild elephants, tigers, and leopards. Take a boat ride in the Periyar Lake and enjoy the scenic views. In the evening, watch the traditional Kathakali dance performance at the Mudra Cultural Centre.

4. Day 4: Alleppey
   3 hours 30 minutes (138 km) from Thekkady

   Take a backwater cruise on a traditional houseboat in Alleppey and witness the serene beauty of the Kerala backwaters. Enjoy the local cuisine on board and relax while cruising through the canals. In the evening, visit the Alleppey Beach and watch the sunset.

5. Day 5: Kovalam
   3 hours 30 minutes (176 km) from Alleppey

   Relax on the beautiful beaches of Kovalam and soak up the sun. Visit the Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach, and Samudra Beach for a fun-filled day. Take a stroll along the promenade and indulge in some local snacks.

6. Day 6: Trivandrum
   30 minutes (14 km) from Kovalam

   Visit the famous Padmanabhaswamy Temple, which is known for its intricate architecture and spiritual significance. Explore the Napier Museum and the Shri Chitra Art Gallery for a glimpse into Kerala's rich history and culture. End the day with a visit to the Kovalam Art Gallery for some local artwork.

7. Day 7: Varkala
   1 hour 30 minutes (50 km) from Trivandrum

   Visit the Janardana Swami Temple, which is believed to be 2000 years old and is known for its stunning architecture. Relax on the Varkala Beach and enjoy the scenic beauty. Take a dip in the natural spring, Papanasam Beach, which is believed to have medicinal properties.

Recommendations

Do not miss the opportunity to try the local delicacies like the appam, puttu, and dosa. Take a side trip to the Athirappilly Waterfalls, which is known as the "Niagara of India". To maximize your fun, try some adventure activities like zip-lining and trekking in Munnar and Thekkady.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Mattancherry Palace (1-2 hours, INR 5)
• Fort Kochi Beach (1-2 hours, Free)
• Paradesi Synagogue (1-2 hours, INR 5)
• Tea Plantations in Munnar (3-4 hours, Free)
• Eravikulam National Park (2-3 hours, INR 120 per person)
• Periyar National Park (3-4 hours, INR 450 per person)
• Backwater Cruise in Alleppey (5-6 hours, INR 10,000-15,000 per houseboat)
• Kovalam Beaches (3-4 hours, Free)
• Padmanabhaswamy Temple (1-2 hours, Free)
• Napier Museum (1-2 hours, INR 20 per person)
• Janardana Swami Temple (1-2 hours, Free)
• Varkala Beach (2-3 hours, Free)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 10,600-15,600 (excluding houseboat rental)