Cochin Family Friendly Itinerary

Thursday January 18: Exploring the Rich Cultural Heritage

Start your trip by immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Cochin. In the morning, visit the famous Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace. Explore its stunning architecture and admire the beautiful murals depicting Hindu mythology. In the afternoon, head to the Indo-Portuguese Museum to learn about the history and legacy of the Portuguese in Cochin. In the evening, take a relaxing stroll along Fort Kochi Beach and witness the mesmerizing Chinese fishing nets in action.

• Mattancherry Palace: INR 50 (Estimated cost), 2-3 hours (Estimated time spent)
• Indo-Portuguese Museum: INR 25 (Estimated cost), 1-2 hours (Estimated time spent)
• Fort Kochi Beach: Free, 1-2 hours (Estimated time spent)

Friday January 19: Backwaters Adventure

Embark on a memorable backwater adventure on this day. In the morning, take a scenic drive to Alleppey, known as the "Venice of the East". Board a traditional houseboat and cruise through the beautiful backwaters of Kerala, surrounded by lush greenery. Enjoy a delicious lunch on the houseboat while admiring the serene surroundings. In the afternoon, explore the small villages along the backwaters and interact with the locals. Witness the traditional fishing activities and indulge in some local delicacies. In the evening, return to Cochin and relax after a day of enchanting experiences.

• Houseboat Cruise in Alleppey: INR 8,000 - 12,000 (Estimated cost for a day), 6-8 hours (Estimated time spent)
• Village Exploration and Interaction: Free, 2-3 hours (Estimated time spent)

Saturday January 20: Wildlife Safari

Spend the day exploring the wildlife and nature reserves around Cochin. In the morning, visit the Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary, a haven for bird lovers. Take a leisurely walk along the trails and spot various species of migratory and resident birds. In the afternoon, head to the Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, known for its rich avian diversity. Embark on a thrilling bird watching expedition and get closer to nature. In the evening, return to Cochin and enjoy a traditional Kathakali performance, a classical dance form of Kerala.

• Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary: Free, 2-3 hours (Estimated time spent)
• Thattekad Bird Sanctuary: INR 50 (Estimated cost), 3-4 hours (Estimated time spent)
• Kathakali Performance: INR 300-500 (Estimated cost), 2-3 hours (Estimated time spent)

Sunday January 21: Exploring Cochin's History and Cuisine

On the final day of your trip, delve deeper into Cochin's history and cuisine. In the morning, visit the iconic Fort Kochi, known for its colonial architecture and rich heritage. Explore the St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, and the Santa Cruz Basilica. In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the Jewish Synagogue and the Jew Town, famous for its antique shops. Indulge in some traditional Kerala cuisine at a local restaurant for lunch. In the evening, wander through the bustling streets of Marine Drive and soak in the breathtaking views of the waterfront.

• Fort Kochi and Heritage Walk: Free, 3-4 hours (Estimated time spent)
• Jewish Synagogue and Jew Town: INR 10 (Estimated cost), 2-3 hours (Estimated time spent)
• Traditional Kerala Cuisine: INR 300-500 (Estimated cost), 1-2 hours (Estimated time spent)
• Marine Drive: Free, 1-2 hours (Estimated time spent)

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For some off the beaten path experiences, consider visiting the Kochi Biennale, a contemporary art exhibition, held every two years. It's a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the local art scene. You can also explore the unique Chinese fishing nets at Kumbalangi, a fishing village near Cochin. Engage in eco-tourism activities and enjoy a serene boat ride in the backwaters. Another local favorite is the Folklore Museum, showcasing the diverse cultural heritage of Kerala through exhibits and performances.

For hotels and flight prices, you can check KAYAK.