Welcome to Kerala! Begin your journey in Kochi, a vibrant city known for its colonial architecture and bustling markets. In the morning, visit Fort Kochi to explore its historic sites, including the iconic Chinese fishing nets and St. Francis Church. Afterward, indulge in a delicious seafood lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, take a leisurely backwater cruise through the serene waterways surrounding Kochi. In the evening, witness a mesmerizing Kathakali dance performance, a traditional art form of Kerala.
On this Christmas day, head to Munnar, a picturesque hill station famous for its tea plantations. Start your morning with a visit to the Tea Museum, where you can learn about the tea-making process and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. End your day with a tranquil boat ride at Mattupetty Dam and enjoy the scenic beauty.
Experience the magical backwaters of Alleppey today. Morning is the perfect time to embark on a houseboat cruise along the serene backwaters, witnessing the local lifestyle and lush green surroundings. Enjoy a traditional Kerala lunch on the houseboat as you soak in the tranquility. In the evening, explore the charming canals and villages on a canoe ride.
Today, visit Thekkady, known for its Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. In the morning, embark on an exciting jungle trek, where you can spot various wildlife species and capture the beauty of nature. After the trek, enjoy a boat safari in Periyar Lake, offering excellent opportunities to observe elephants, birds, and other wildlife up close. In the evening, explore the bustling spice markets of Thekkady.
On this day, visit Kumarakom, a beautiful village known for its backwaters and bird sanctuary. Spend your morning exploring the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, which is home to numerous migratory birds. Take a relaxing boat ride through the intricate network of canals and enjoy the serenity of the backwaters. In the evening, treat yourself to an Ayurvedic massage, Kerala's ancient therapeutic practice.
Head to Kovalam, a popular beach destination, to enjoy a day of relaxation and water activities. Spend your morning sunbathing on the golden sands of Kovalam Beach or take a refreshing dip in the Arabian Sea. Indulge in some delicious seafood for lunch at a beachfront restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Lighthouse Beach and explore the local markets for souvenirs.
It's time to bid farewell to Kerala. Take a last stroll around Kochi's shopping streets in the morning to pick up some souvenirs. Enjoy a delicious traditional Kerala meal for lunch. In the afternoon, visit the Indo-Portuguese Museum to learn about the region's colonial history. Depart from Kochi with beautiful memories of your family adventure in Kerala!
If you have extra time during your visit to Kerala, consider exploring the lesser-known gems loved by the locals. One such place is Marari Beach, a serene and less crowded beach known for its tranquility. You can also visit the enchanting Athirapally Falls, often referred to as the "Niagara Falls of India," located near Thrissur. These hidden gems offer a peaceful escape and showcase the natural beauty of Kerala.
For adventurous families, a visit to Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is highly recommended. Explore the dense forests, spot wildlife, and take a thrilling jungle safari. Another popular family-friendly attraction is Wonderla Amusement Park in Kochi, where you can enjoy thrilling rides, water slides, and various entertainment options.
Experience the warmth and hospitality of Kerala's locals by engaging in a homestay. These traditional houses offer a unique glimpse into the local culture and allow you to savor authentic homecooked meals.
For more details about hotel and flight prices in Kerala, check out kayak.com.