Family-Friendly City & Nature Itinerary: Kochi and Varkala

Day 1: Explore Kochi

Kochi, India

8:00AM

Fort Kochi Beach

Start your day with a leisurely walk along Fort Kochi Beach, capturing the essence of this historic fishing village.
Fort Kochi Beach is easily accessible by auto-rickshaws or taxis from the city center.
Free, 1-2 hours

11:00AM

Fort Kochi

Visit the iconic Fort Kochi, known for its colonial architecture, and explore the St. Francis Church and Chinese Fishing Nets.
Fort Kochi is best explored on foot, allowing you to soak in the rich history of the area.
INR 50 per person for St. Francis Church entry, 2-3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Kashi Art Cafe

Indulge in a delicious and artistic meal at Kashi Art Cafe, known for its fusion cuisine and vibrant ambiance.
Kashi Art Cafe is located in Fort Kochi and offers a range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.
INR 500 per person, 1 hour

4:00PM

Mattancherry Palace

Explore the historical Mattancherry Palace to admire its murals, artifacts, and learn about Kochi's royal past.
Mattancherry Palace is easily reachable by auto-rickshaws or taxis from Fort Kochi.
INR 5 per person, 1-2 hours

6:00PM

Local Market Shopping

End the day with some shopping at the local markets in Kochi, known for spices, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
Head to the nearby market areas in Fort Kochi or Mattancherry for a unique shopping experience.
Varies, 1-2 hours
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Day 2: Scenic Drive to Varkala

Varkala, India

9:00AM

Travel to Varkala

Embark on a scenic drive from Kochi to Varkala, enjoying picturesque views of the Arabian Sea along the way.
Drive along NH 66 for a smooth journey that takes approximately 4-5 hours.
Cost of car rental or train ticket, 4-5 hours

2:00PM

Check-in at Varkala Beach Resort

Relax and unwind at Varkala Beach Resort, a family-friendly property offering stunning views and comfortable amenities.
Varkala Beach Resort is conveniently located near the North Cliff area and provides easy access to the beach.
Cost of stay as per booking, Free time

7:00PM

Dinner at Darjeeling Cafe

Enjoy a sumptuous dinner at Darjeeling Cafe, known for its fusion cuisine and cozy ambiance, perfect for families.
Darjeeling Cafe is situated on the North Cliff and offers a unique dining experience.
INR 800 for a meal for two, 1-2 hours
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Day 3: Beach Day in Varkala

Varkala, India

9:00AM

Varkala Beach

Spend a relaxing day at Varkala Beach, known for its golden sands, clear waters, and vibrant cliffside views.
Varkala Beach is a short walk from the North Cliff, offering various water sports and beach activities.
Free, Full day

1:00PM

Lunch at Abba Restaurant

Enjoy a seafood feast at Abba Restaurant, overlooking the Arabian Sea and serving fresh catch of the day.
Abba Restaurant is located on the North Cliff and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
INR 600 for a meal for two, 1 hour

4:00PM

Cliff Walk

Take a leisurely stroll along the Varkala Cliff, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the bustling beach life.
The cliff walk is easily accessible from Varkala Beach, providing a serene escape from the crowds.
Free, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Cafe Delhi Heights

End the day with a delightful dinner at Cafe Delhi Heights, offering an array of Indian and international dishes.
Cafe Delhi Heights is located near the North Cliff and is known for its cozy ambiance and diverse menu.
INR 700 for a meal for two, 1-2 hours
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Day 4: Backwaters Exploration

Varkala, India

9:00AM

Backwaters Boat Tour

Embark on a scenic boat tour of the tranquil backwaters near Varkala, witnessing the lush greenery and local life.
Book a backwaters tour through a local operator or your accommodation for an authentic experience.
INR 1500 per person, 3-4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Sree Ganesh Cafe

Enjoy a traditional meal at Sree Ganesh Cafe, known for its South Indian cuisine and flavorsome dishes.
Sree Ganesh Cafe is located near the Varkala Beach and offers a range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.
INR 400 for a meal for two, 1 hour

3:00PM

Ayurvedic Massage

Treat yourself to a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage at one of the many wellness centers in Varkala, promoting relaxation and well-being.
Choose a reputed Ayurvedic center near the North Cliff for an authentic and therapeutic experience.
INR 2000 onwards for a massage, 1-2 hours

6:00PM

Sunset Yoga Session

Join a calming sunset yoga session on the beach, absorbing the tranquil vibes and practicing mindfulness with the family.
Attend a yoga class offered by local instructors or your accommodation for a peaceful end to the day.
INR 300 per person, 1 hour
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Day 5: Cultural Immersion in Varkala

Varkala, India

9:00AM

Janardanaswamy Temple

Begin the day with a visit to Janardanaswamy Temple, a 2000-year-old Vishnu temple known for its religious significance.
The temple is located near Papanasam Beach and welcomes visitors of all faiths to experience its spiritual aura.
Free, 1-2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Oottupura

Indulge in a traditional Kerala meal at Oottupura, offering authentic vegetarian dishes in a rustic setting.
Oottupura is located near the temple area and is a popular choice for experiencing local cuisine.
INR 500 for a meal for two, 1 hour

3:00PM

Varkala Aquarium

Explore the marine life at Varkala Aquarium, featuring a variety of aquatic species and informative exhibits for all ages.
The aquarium is within walking distance from the North Cliff, providing an educational and enjoyable experience.
INR 100 per person, 1-2 hours

6:00PM

Shopping at Tibetan Market

Shop for souvenirs and handicrafts at the vibrant Tibetan Market, known for its unique trinkets and cultural treasures.
The Tibetan Market is situated near the North Cliff, offering a colorful shopping experience with local vendors.
Varies, 1-2 hours
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Day 6: Adventure Day in Varkala

Varkala, India

9:00AM

Water Sports at Varkala Beach

Engage in thrilling water sports activities at Varkala Beach, including surfing, parasailing, and jet skiing for some family fun.
Visit the beachside water sports operators for equipment rentals and guided sessions for a safe and exciting experience.
Varies based on activities chosen, 2-3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Coffee Temple

Relish a meal at Coffee Temple, a cozy cafe offering aromatic coffee blends and delectable snacks to recharge after the adventure.
Coffee Temple is located near the North Cliff and provides a range of beverages and light bites.
INR 400 for a meal for two, 1 hour

2:00PM

Varkala Lighthouse

Climb the Varkala Lighthouse for panoramic views of the coastline and the Arabian Sea, ideal for a family-friendly adventure.
The lighthouse is open to visitors and offers a unique perspective of Varkala, accessible via a short trek.
INR 20 per person for entry, 1-2 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Odayam Beach

Unwind at the serene Odayam Beach, away from the crowds, and enjoy the calm waters and golden sands for a peaceful evening.
Odayam Beach can be reached by a short drive or auto-rickshaw from the North Cliff, providing a secluded escape.
Free, 2 hours
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Day 7: Farewell to Varkala

Varkala, India

9:00AM

Yoga Retreat

Participate in a morning yoga session or meditation retreat at a tranquil center in Varkala, focusing on wellness and relaxation.
Many yoga centers around Varkala offer drop-in classes and retreat programs for all levels of practitioners.
INR 400 per person, 1-2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Queen's Haven

Indulge in a regal dining experience at Queen's Haven, known for its royal ambiance and delectable multi-cuisine menu.
Queen's Haven is located near the North Cliff, offering a luxurious setting for a memorable meal.
INR 1000 for a meal for two, 1 hour

3:00PM

Varkala Art Village

Explore the creative hub of Varkala Art Village, showcasing paintings, sculptures, and traditional artworks from local artists.
The art village is a short walk from the North Cliff and provides insight into the cultural heritage of the region.
Free, 1-2 hours

6:00PM

Sunset Dinner Cruise

End your Varkala adventure with a memorable sunset dinner cruise, sailing along the coastline and enjoying a scenic view of the horizon.
Book a sunset cruise through local operators for a relaxing and romantic evening on the Arabian Sea.
INR 2000 per person, 2-3 hours
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