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12-Day Family-Friendly Road Trip Itinerary in Kerala

Viewed by 216 travelers

Day 1: Arriving in Kochi

Kochi, India

10:00AM

Explore Fort Kochi

Start your day by exploring the historical area of Fort Kochi with its vibrant streets filled with colonial architecture and cultural sites.
Walk around Fort Kochi; it's pedestrian-friendly.
INR0, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Seafood Palace

Savor delicious local seafood dishes at the popular Seafood Palace, with stunning views of the Arabian Sea.
Short drive or a 15-minute walk from Fort Kochi.
INR1000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Chinese Fishing Nets

Witness the unique Chinese fishing nets in action at the beach and capture some memorable family photos.
A 5-minute walk from the restaurant.
INR0, 1 hour

4:00PM

Kochi Marine Drive

Unwind at Kochi Marine Drive, enjoying the scenic beauty and natural breezes from the waterfront.
Drive to Marine Drive; approximately 20-minute drive.
INR0, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Fort Queen

Wrap up the day with a delightful dinner at Hotel Fort Queen with a range of local and continental options.
Short drive back to Fort Kochi.
INR900, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Kochi

Day 2: Exploring Munnar

Munnar, India

8:00AM

Drive to Munnar

Depart from Kochi early for a scenic drive through winding mountains and lush plantations to the hill station of Munnar.
Drive to Munnar; approximately 4-hour drive.
INR3000 (fuel), 4 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan

Enjoy a vegetarian lunch at Saravana Bhavan which is renowned for their south Indian cuisine.
Driving distance within Munnar; about 10 minutes.
INR500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Tea Museum

Discover the history of tea plantations at the Munnar Tea Museum, with interactive exhibits the whole family will enjoy.
Short drive from the restaurant.
INR250, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Mattupetty Dam & Boating

Spend the late afternoon at Mattupetty Dam, where you can enjoy paddle boating or take relaxed family photos.
Drive to Mattupetty; around 30 minutes.
INR700 (boating), 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Spice Tree Restaurant

Dine at Spice Tree Restaurant, offering delectable Kerala and North Indian cuisine within lush surroundings.
Drive back to Munnar town; about 30 minutes.
INR800, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Munnar

Day 3: Nature and Spice Plantation

Munnar, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Savor a hearty breakfast at your hotel to fuel up for an adventurous day.
In-house at your hotel.
INR600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit to Spice Plantation

Take a guided tour of a local spice plantation, where you can learn about the cultivation of spices and sample delicious herbal teas.
About a 30-minute drive from Munnar.
INR300 (entrance fee), 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Hotel Hillview

Enjoy local delicacies served in a scenic setting at Hotel Hillview.
Drive back to Munnar; approximately 30 minutes.
INR600, 1 hour

2:00PM

Eravikulam National Park

Explore the vast Eravikulam National Park, known for its wildlife and breathtaking views of Neelakurinji flowers (if in season).
15-minute drive from the restaurant.
INR1500 (entrance fee for family), 3 hours

6:00PM

Evening at Anamudi Peak

Witness the beautiful sunset from Anamudi Peak, Maharashtra’s highest point.
A 1-hour drive back towards Munnar; time permitting.
INR0, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at The Panoramic Getaway

End the day with an exceptional dinner experience at The Panoramic Getaway with stunning mountain views.
Drive within Munnar; approximately 15 minutes.
INR900, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Munnar

Day 4: Wildlife Adventures

Thekkady, India

8:00AM

Drive to Thekkady

Pack your bags and drive 3 hours to Thekkady, famous for its wildlife sanctuary.
Direct route from Munnar to Thekkady.
INR2000 (fuel), 3 hours

11:30AM

Explore Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Start with a boat ride on Periyar Lake to see elephants and other wildlife, providing an unforgettable experience for the family.
15-minute drive to Periyar from your hotel.
INR600 (boat ride for family), 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Thekkady Bamboo Cafe

Have lunch at Thekkady Bamboo Cafe, known for its fresh and local ingredient-rich menu.
5-minute drive.
INR700, 1 hour

3:00PM

Spice Plantation Tour

Experience a guided tour of a local spice plantation, learning about various spices and herbs native to the region.
10-minute drive.
INR300, 2 hours

6:00PM

Evening Nature Walk

Take a serene nature walk with a knowledgeable guide who will share insights about the flora and fauna of the area.
Back near the sanctuary entrance.
INR500, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Bar-B-Que Restaurant

Enjoy a delightful dinner at Bar-B-Que Restaurant surrounded by cool mountain air and trees.
A short drive from your accommodation.
INR800, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Thekkady

Day 5: Houseboat Dream in Alleppey

Alleppey, India

8:00AM

Drive to Alleppey

Start your day with a fulfilling breakfast before the drive to Alleppey, which takes around 4 hours.
Drive from Thekkady to Alleppey.
INR3000 (fuel), 4 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Spice Route

Indulge in a delicious lunch featuring traditional Kerala dishes at The Spice Route in Alleppey.
Short drive from your houseboat jetty.
INR800, 1 hour

2:00PM

Check-in to Houseboat

Relax as you check into your houseboat and begin your journey through the backwaters of Alleppey.
Houseboat jetty.
INR12000 (family package for overnight stay), 3 hours

5:00PM

Evening Backwater Cruise

Enjoy a leisurely evening cruise on the Vembanad Lake while observing the local village life along the shores.
On board the houseboat.
Included in houseboat package, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner on Houseboat

Savor a delicious dinner prepared onboard, consisting of freshly caught seafood and traditional Kerala cuisine.
Onboard your houseboat.
Included in houseboat package, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Alleppey

Day 6: Beach Fun in Kovalam

Kovalam, India

8:00AM

Breakfast on Houseboat

Enjoy breakfast onboard your houseboat, surrounded by serene backwater views.
Onboard your houseboat.
Included in houseboat package, 1 hour

10:00AM

Drive to Kovalam

Depart from Alleppey following your houseboat experience, heading towards Kovalam which takes about 4 hours.
Drive from Alleppey to Kovalam.
INR3000 (fuel), 4 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at The Tides Restaurant

Dine at The Tides Restaurant, offering a variety of local and Italian cuisines right by the beach.
Located on the beach.
INR900, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Kovalam Beach

Spend a relaxing afternoon at Kovalam Beach, soaking up the sun or playing beach games with family.
Just steps from the restaurant.
INR0, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Suwanna Restaurant

Enjoy a delectable dinner at Suwanna Restaurant featuring fresh seafood and a mix of Indian and Thai cuisine.
A short walk along the coast.
INR900, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Kovalam

Day 7: Explorations in Kovalam

Kovalam, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a healthy breakfast at your hotel, preparing for an adventurous day ahead.
In-house at your hotel.
INR600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Lighthouse Beach

Spend the morning at Lighthouse Beach, exploring the stunning views from the lighthouse and swimming in the sea.
Short walk from your hotel.
INR0, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The onsite restaurant

Enjoy an onsite lunch at your hotel’s restaurant, featuring Kerala specialties.
Onsite; easy access.
INR800, 1 hour

1:30PM

Ayurvedic Spa Treatment

Indulge in a family-friendly Ayurvedic spa treatment to relax and rejuvenate after days of travel.
Pre-arranged at your hotel.
INR2000 (for family), 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Samudra Beach

Head to the serene Samudra Beach for leisurely walks and relaxing moments by the shoreline.
Short drive or a ride; approx. 15 minutes.
INR0, 2 hours

6:00PM

Sunset at Kovalam Beach

End your day watching the beautiful sunset at Kovalam Beach, perfect for memorable family photos.
Back to main beach area; close to dinner spot.
INR0, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at The Fisherman's Café

Dine at The Fisherman's Café for a casual outdoor dining experience with delicious seafood and refreshing drinks.
Short walk from Kovalam Beach.
INR800, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Kovalam

Day 8: Culture in Trivandrum

Trivandrum, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kovalam Hotel

Enjoy a delightful breakfast before departing for Trivandrum.
In-house at your hotel.
INR600, 1 hour

10:00AM

Drive to Trivandrum

Drive to the cultural city of Trivandrum, about an hour from Kovalam.
Direct route, easy commute.
INR1000 (fuel), 1 hour

11:30AM

Visit Padmanabhaswamy Temple

Explore the ornate Padmanabhaswamy Temple, famous for its architecture and spiritual significance.
10-minute drive from the city center.
Free entry (donations welcome), 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Villa Maya

Savor a delightful lunch at Villa Maya, set in a 19th-century villa with stunning surroundings.
Short drive from the temple.
INR1000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Museum Visit - Napier Museum

Visit the Napier Museum housing an extensive collection of art and historical artifacts, offering a glimpse into Kerala's rich culture.
20-minute drive from restaurant.
INR350, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Café Sabharaj

Enjoy an informal dinner at The Café Sabharaj featuring South Indian dishes with a twist.
Back downtown; drive 20 minutes.
INR700, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Trivandrum

Day 9: Beach and Cliffs in Varkala

Varkala, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before traveling to Varkala.
In-house at your accommodation.
INR600, 1 hour

10:00AM

Drive to Varkala

After breakfast, drive for around 1.5 hours to arrive at the beautiful Varkala beach.
Direct drive; very scenic route.
INR1500 (fuel), 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit Varkala Beach

Take a relaxing stroll on Varkala Beach, famous for its cliffs, and enjoy the stunning ocean view.
Beach access is easy.
INR0, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Cliff House

Dine at The Cliff House, with gorgeous views and delicious seafood offerings.
Located atop the cliffs overlooking the beach.
INR900, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore the cliffs

Explore the beautiful cliffs and perhaps even enjoy some shopping at local markets nearby.
Just a short walk from your restaurant.
INR0, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Sea Pearl

Savor the local cuisine at Sea Pearl while enjoying the serene views at sunset.
Short walk from the beach.
INR800, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Varkala

Day 10: Backwaters of Kollam

Kollam, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Varkala Hotel

Start your day with breakfast at your accommodation with local specialties.
In-house at your hotel.
INR600, 1 hour

10:00AM

Drive to Kollam

After breakfast, take a scenic drive for about 1.5 hours toward Kollam.
Direct route; scenic journey.
INR1500 (fuel), 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit Ashtamudi Lake

Explore the picturesque Ashtamudi Lake, known for its natural beauty and backwaters.
10-minute drive from the city center.
INR0, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Quilon

Savor a delectable South Indian lunch at The Quilon, celebrated for its seafood.
Short drive from the lake.
INR900, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Kollam Beach Visit

Spend the afternoon enjoying the beach in Kollam, perfect for unwinding in the sun.
A 10-minute drive.
INR0, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Allseason

Indulge in a delightful dinner at Hotel Allseason, offering regional and international cuisine.
Short drive to the hotel.
INR800, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Kollam

Day 11: Exploring Nature in Wayanad

Wayanad, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kollam Hotel

Dine on breakfast featuring local specialties at your hotel in Kollam.
In-house at your hotel.
INR600, 1 hour

10:00AM

Drive to Wayanad

Travel to Wayanad, located around 3 hours away, renowned for its lush greenery and wildlife.
A scenic drive; enjoy the countryside.
INR2000 (fuel), 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Wayanad Coffee Tree

Enjoy a delightful lunch amidst coffee plantations at Wayanad Coffee Tree.
10-minute drive from your stay.
INR800, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Edakkal Caves

Explore the ancient Edakkal Caves with fascinating petroglyphs and great hiking for family-friendly activity.
30-minute drive from the restaurant.
INR500 (entrance fee), 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Green Gates

Dine on local Kerala cuisine at The Green Gates in a picturesque setting with greenery surrounding you.
Short drive from your hotel.
INR900, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Wayanad

Day 12: Calicut Bound - A Beautiful Closure

Calicut, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Wayanad Hotel

Enjoy your final breakfast among the lush surroundings of Wayanad before your journey concludes.
In-house at your hotel.
INR600, 1 hour

10:00AM

Drive to Calicut

Drive to the beautiful city of Calicut, known for its rich history and culture, which takes around 2 hours.
Direct route; scenic views ahead.
INR1200 (fuel), 2 hours

12:00PM

Visit Kappad Beach

Relax at Kappad Beach, the historic landing place of Vasco da Gama, enjoying some leisure time here.
15-minute drive from Calicut center.
INR0, 2 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Paragon Restaurant

Savor a farewell lunch at Paragon Restaurant, famous for its Malabar biryani and other local dishes.
Return to the city center; about 30-minutes drive.
INR900, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Explore Calicut Beach

Spend your last hours exploring Calicut Beach, taking a walk along the shore as your trip comes to an end.
Short drive to the beach.
INR0, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Sea View

End your wonderful trip with a delightful dinner at The Sea View restaurant overlooking the Arabian Sea.
A 10-minute drive from the beach.
INR900, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Calicut
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