7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Kerala

Friday, November 24: Arrive in Kochi

Morning: Start your trip in Kochi, the gateway to Kerala. Visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets and explore the historic Fort Kochi area. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage by visiting the St. Francis Church and the Indo-Portuguese Museum.

• Chinese Fishing Nets: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
• Fort Kochi: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• St. Francis Church: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 30 minutes
• Indo-Portuguese Museum: Estimated cost - INR 20-30, Time spent - 1 hour

Afternoon: Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at a local restaurant. Then, take a relaxing boat ride through the serene backwaters of Kochi and witness the enchanting sunset.

• Boat Ride: Estimated cost - INR 200-500 per person, Time spent - 2 hours

Evening: Explore the bustling streets of Marine Drive and sample some local snacks and street food. Witness the beautiful views of the waterfront promenade lit up at night.

• Marine Drive: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Saturday, November 25: Munnar - Hill Station Retreat

Morning: Head to Munnar, a picturesque hill station known for its tea plantations. Visit the Tea Museum to learn about the tea-making process and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.

• Tea Museum: Estimated cost - INR 100-200, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Afternoon: Explore the beautiful Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Take a guided trek and spot unique flora and fauna along the way.

• Eravikulam National Park: Estimated cost - INR 125-500, Time spent - 3-4 hours

Evening: Enjoy a stroll through the tea gardens and indulge in a refreshing cup of locally-produced tea. Experience the tranquility of Munnar's serene surroundings.

• Tea Gardens: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Sunday, November 26: Thekkady - Wildlife Adventure

Morning: Travel to Thekkady, known for its wildlife sanctuary. Embark on an exciting jungle safari in Periyar National Park and spot elephants, tigers, and various bird species.

• Periyar National Park: Estimated cost - INR 500-750, Time spent - 3-4 hours

Afternoon: Visit the Spice Plantations in Thekkady and learn about the various spices grown in Kerala. Engage in interactive sessions and indulge in some spice shopping.

• Spice Plantations: Estimated cost - INR 100-200, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Evening: Enjoy a traditional Kathakali dance performance, a classical dance form of Kerala. Immerse yourself in the vibrant costumes, elaborate makeup, and graceful movements.

• Kathakali Dance Performance: Estimated cost - INR 200-500, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Monday, November 27: Alleppey - Backwaters Bliss

Morning: Cruise through the serene backwaters of Alleppey on a traditional houseboat. Experience the peaceful surroundings, observe the rural life, and enjoy a fresh seafood lunch on board.

• Houseboat Cruise: Estimated cost - INR 5,000-10,000 (depending on houseboat type), Time spent - 4-5 hours

Afternoon: Explore the rustic beauty of Alleppey by indulging in a village tour. Interact with the locals, witness traditional handicrafts, and enjoy a cup of local toddy (coconut palm wine).

• Village Tour: Estimated cost - INR 500-1000, Time spent - 3-4 hours

Evening: Enjoy a serene sunset cruise on the backwaters and witness the magical colors reflecting on the water. Marvel at the tranquility and scenic beauty surrounding you.

• Sunset Cruise: Estimated cost - INR 500-1000, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Tuesday, November 28: Kumarakom - Lakeside Delights

Morning: Travel to Kumarakom, a charming village situated along the Vembanad Lake. Explore the enchanting Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary and spot various migratory birds in their natural habitat.

• Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 50-100, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Afternoon: Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the Vembanad Lake, the longest lake in India. Experience the serene beauty and spot local fishermen in their traditional canoes.

• Boat Ride on Vembanad Lake: Estimated cost - INR 500-1000, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Evening: Witness the traditional art form of Kerala, the Kathakali dance, at a local cultural center. Admire the elaborate costumes, expressive facial makeup, and rhythmic movements.

• Kathakali Dance Performance: Estimated cost - INR 200-500, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Wednesday, November 29: Varkala - Beach Bliss

Morning: Proceed to Varkala, a serene beach town known for its stunning cliffs and pristine beaches. Relax and rejuvenate yourself by enjoying a leisurely walk along the scenic Golden Island.

• Golden Island: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Afternoon: Indulge in some beach activities and soak up the sun at Varkala Beach. Take a dip in the turquoise waters, try some water sports, or just lounge on the golden sands.

• Varkala Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3-4 hours

Evening: Witness a mesmerizing sunset at the Varkala Cliff, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Explore the vibrant shacks and cafes lining the cliff and savor some delicious seafood.

• Varkala Cliff: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Thursday, November 30: Departure from Kochi

Morning: Return to Kochi and explore the vibrant Jew Town in the Mattancherry area. Visit the historic Paradesi Synagogue and browse through the antique shops and spice markets.

• Paradesi Synagogue: Estimated cost - INR 5-10, Time spent - 1 hour
• Jew Town: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Afternoon: Enjoy a traditional Kerala lunch at a local restaurant before departing for your onward journey. Take this time to soak in the memories of your wonderful trip to Kerala.

• Local Restaurant: Estimated cost - INR 200-500, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Evening: Depart from Kochi with beautiful memories of your family-friendly Kerala vacation.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When visiting Kerala, don't miss out on the hidden gems and local favorites. Spend a day at Wonderla Amusement Park in Kochi, offering thrilling rides and entertainment for the whole family. Explore the stunning Athirappilly Waterfalls near Kochi, known as the "Niagara of India." For a unique experience, take a day trip to the idyllic village of Mararikulam and enjoy the beautiful beach and local village life.

For more travel options and to book hotels and flights, check out Kayak.