7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in Kerala

If you're planning a family-friendly trip to Kerala, here's a 7-day itinerary that will allow you to explore the beauty of this southern Indian state while keeping everyone entertained.

Saturday, December 23: Kochi

Start your Kerala adventure in Kochi. In the morning, visit Fort Kochi to see the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets and explore the historic Fort Kochi area. Enjoy a traditional Kerala lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, take a scenic backwater cruise in the neighboring village of Alappuzha. In the evening, attend a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional Indian dance-drama.

• Chinese Fishing Nets: Free, 1 hour
• Fort Kochi: Free, 2-3 hours
• Backwater Cruise: INR 2000-2500 ($30-35) per person, 3-4 hours
• Kathakali Dance Performance: INR 300-500 ($4-7) per person, 2 hours

Sunday, December 24: Munnar

Head to the hill station of Munnar and spend the morning exploring the breathtaking tea plantations. Enjoy a picnic amidst the lush greenery. In the afternoon, visit the Tea Museum to learn about the process of tea production. End the day with a visit to the scenic Mattupetty Dam and take a boat ride in the reservoir.

• Tea Plantations: Free, 2-3 hours
• Tea Museum: INR 100 ($1.40) per person, 1-2 hours
• Mattupetty Dam: INR 10-20 ($0.14-0.28) per person, 1 hour
• Boat Ride: INR 500-700 ($7-10) per boat, 30 minutes

Monday, December 25: Thekkady

Embark on a wildlife adventure in Thekkady. Spend the morning exploring Periyar National Park on a guided nature walk. In the afternoon, take a boat safari in Periyar Lake and spot elephants, deer, and other wildlife. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kathakali performance.

• Periyar National Park: INR 450-600 ($6-8) per person, 2-3 hours
• Boat Safari: INR 400-500 ($5-7) per person, 2 hours
• Kathakali Performance: INR 200-300 ($3-4) per person, 1-2 hours

Tuesday, December 26: Alleppey

Experience the famous backwaters of Kerala in Alleppey. Start your day with a houseboat cruise along the tranquil backwaters, enjoying the scenic beauty and traditional Kerala cuisine on board. In the afternoon, visit the Alleppey Beach for some beachside relaxation.

• Houseboat Cruise: INR 8,000-10,000 ($112-140) per boat, 5-6 hours
• Alleppey Beach: Free, 2-3 hours

Wednesday, December 27: Varkala

Head to Varkala, a coastal town known for its stunning cliffs and beaches. Spend the morning soaking up the sun at Varkala Beach. In the afternoon, explore the Varkala Cliff, lined with shops, restaurants, and beach shacks. Enjoy a beautiful sunset from the top of the cliff.

• Varkala Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
• Varkala Cliff: Free, 2-3 hours

Thursday, December 28: Kovalam

Visit Kovalam, a popular beach destination. Spend the morning relaxing at the famous Lighthouse Beach, known for its picturesque view and water activities. In the afternoon, visit the Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave Temple and enjoy a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage.

• Lighthouse Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
• Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave Temple: INR 10-20 ($0.14-0.28) per person, 1 hour
• Ayurvedic Massage: INR 1,000-2,000 ($14-28) per person, 1-2 hours

Friday, December 29: Thiruvananthapuram

End your Kerala trip in Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city. Visit the Kanakakkunnu Palace and explore the beautiful gardens. In the afternoon, visit the Napier Museum and Zoo to see a diverse collection of art and wildlife. Wrap up your trip by strolling along the Kovalam Beach promenade.

• Kanakakkunnu Palace: Free, 1-2 hours
• Napier Museum: INR 10-20 ($0.14-0.28) per person, 2-3 hours
• Kovalam Beach Promenade: Free, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

If you're looking for some off-the-beaten-path attractions and places loved by locals, don't miss these during your trip to Kerala:

• Explore the beautiful hill station of Wayanad, known for its scenic landscapes and wildlife sanctuaries.
• Visit the tranquil village of Kumarakom and indulge in a houseboat stay to experience the beauty of Kerala's backwaters.
• Discover the charming town of Thrissur and witness the grandeur of the Thrissur Pooram festival, a vibrant temple festival.

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