Kerala Family Fun Itinerary - July 2023

1. Day 1: Fort Kochi
   1 hour 20 minutes (24.3 miles) from Cochin International Airport

   Fort Kochi is a charming little town with a rich history influenced by Arabs, British, Chinese, Dutch, and Portuguese. Start your day by exploring the famous Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace. Then, take a stroll through the Jew Town and visit the Paradesi Synagogue, the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations. In the afternoon, visit the St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India. End your day by watching the mesmerizing sunset at the iconic Chinese fishing nets.

2. Day 2: Munnar
   3 hours 10 minutes (85 miles) from Fort Kochi

   Munnar is a breathtaking hill station popular for its tea plantations and picturesque landscapes. Start your day by visiting the Mattupetty Dam and taking a boat ride in the serene waters. Then, head to the Tea Museum to learn about the history and processing of tea. In the afternoon, visit the Eravikulam National Park, famous for the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. End your day by watching the sunset at the Top Station viewpoint, offering panoramic views of the Western Ghats.

3. Day 3: Kumarakom
   4 hours 20 minutes (104 miles) from Munnar

   Kumarakom is a serene village situated on the banks of Lake Vembanad, known for its backwaters and bird sanctuary. Start your day by cruising through the backwaters on a houseboat, enjoying the picturesque views and local delicacies. Then, visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, home to a variety of resident and migratory birds. In the afternoon, indulge in a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage at a local spa. End your day with a peaceful sunset at the Kumarakom Beach.

4. Day 4: Kovalam
   3 hours (99 miles) from Kumarakom

   Kovalam is a popular beach destination known for its tranquil waters and lighthouse. Start your day by visiting the lighthouse and enjoying the panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Then, relax on the pristine beaches and indulge in water sports like surfing and parasailing. In the afternoon, visit the Halcyon Castle, a beautiful palace dating back to the 1930s. End your day with a delicious seafood dinner and a mesmerizing sunset at the Kovalam Beach.

Recommendations

Don't miss the chance to experience the cultural extravaganza of Kathakali, a traditional dance-drama of Kerala. You can also take a side trip to Alleppey to experience the famous backwaters on a traditional canoe. To maximize your fun, try the local delicacies like appam, puttu, and fish curry. Finally, don't forget to buy some spices and tea as souvenirs.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Fort Kochi Dutch Palace (2 hours, INR 50)
• Paradesi Synagogue (1 hour, INR 5)
• St. Francis Church (1 hour, INR 10)
• Mattupetty Dam (2 hours, INR 20)
• Tea Museum (1 hour, INR 100)
• Eravikulam National Park (3 hours, INR 120)
• Houseboat Backwater Cruise (5 hours, INR 8000)
• Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary (2 hours, INR 50)
• Ayurvedic Massage (2 hours, INR 2000)
• Kovalam Lighthouse (1 hour, INR 20)
• Water Sports (2 hours, INR 500)
• Halcyon Castle (1 hour, INR 50)
• Seafood Dinner (1 hour, INR 500)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 10535