8-Day Family Friendly Itinerary: Thekkady, Varkala, and Kovalam

Day 1: Arrival in Thekkady

Thekkady, India

9:00AM

Breakfast at Thekkady Cafe

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Thekkady Cafe, enjoying local South Indian delicacies such as dosa and idli that fuel your adventures ahead.
N/A
INR500, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Embark on a family-friendly nature walk in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can spot animals like elephants and various bird species. This guided tour is both educational and fun for all ages.
10-minute drive to the sanctuary entrance.
INR800 Family Ticket, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Spice Route

Enjoy a delicious lunch at The Spice Route, featuring a menu that highlights flavors from Kerala with dishes like fish curry and coconut rice.
Short 5-minute drive from the sanctuary.
INR1000, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Boat Ride on Periyar Lake

Take a serene boat ride on Periyar Lake, perfect for spotting wildlife and enjoying the tranquility of nature, while the kids can enjoy watching the playful animals.
Short walk to the boat dock from the restaurant.
INR600, 1 hour

5:00PM

Explore Local Spice Markets

Wander through the local spice markets where you'll find fragrant spices and charming souvenirs to take home, immersing yourselves in the local culture.
10-minute drive from the lake.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at the Green Treat

End your day with a family dinner at Green Treat, enjoying healthy vegetarian meals that cater to both adult palates and kids' tastes.
5-minute drive from the market.
INR800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Wildlife and Adventure

Thekkady, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Savor breakfast at the hotel, choosing from various options like parathas, fresh fruit, and local specialties to prepare for an action-packed day.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Nature Walk Experience

Join a guided nature walk, perfect for children with interactive elements like birdwatching and plant identification that keeps them engaged.
Close to the hotel; a short walk.
INR500 per person, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Elephant Junction

Head over to Elephant Junction, where families can enjoy elephant rides and feed the gentle giants, creating unforgettable memories for the kids.
15-minute drive from the nature walk.
INR1200 Family Ticket, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Thekkady Cafe

Return to Thekkady Cafe for lunch to recharge, sampling more local delicacies, ensuring everyone finds something they love on the menu.
Drive back to the cafe.
INR1000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Kalaripayattu Show

In the afternoon, witness a mesmerizing Kalaripayattu martial arts show, a fantastic cultural experience that will captivate both kids and adults.
15-minute drive from the cafe.
INR600 Family Ticket, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at the Green Treat

Return for dinner at Green Treat, reminiscing about your day's adventures over a satisfying meal with plenty of vegetarian options.
Short drive back to the restaurant.
INR800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Travel to Varkala

Varkala, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Enjoy a delicious breakfast at your hotel, preparing for your journey to the beautiful beaches of Varkala.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Varkala

Leave Thekkady and travel to Varkala in a comfortable private taxi for a scenic ride through Kerala’s lush landscapes.
Taxi ride.
INR3500, 4 hours

1:00PM

Check-in and Lunch at The Haiwa Beach Restaurant

Check into your hotel and enjoy lunch with stunning views at The Haiwa Beach Restaurant, sampling fresh seafood and local cuisine.
Short walk from hotel.
INR1200, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax at Varkala Beach

Spend your afternoon unwinding at Varkala Beach, where kids can play in the sand while adults relax and appreciate the striking cliffs and ocean views.
Short walk from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Sunset Viewing

Enjoy a mesmerizing sunset on the cliffs, making for perfect family photos and unforgettable moments together.
On the beach.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Trattorias

Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at Trattorias, which serves delicious Italian cuisine that satisfies even the pickiest eaters.
10-minute walk from the beach.
INR1500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Explore Varkala's Culture

Varkala, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Start your day with a variety of breakfast options provided at the hotel, ensuring everyone gets their favorite dish.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Ayurvedic Spa Session

Treat the family to a relaxing Ayurvedic spa experience, introducing kids to soothing treatments that promote health and relaxation.
10-minute drive to the spa.
INR2500 Family Package, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Coffee Temple

After pampering, enjoy a delicious lunch at Coffee Temple, featuring mouth-watering sandwiches and fresh juices that are perfect for everyone.
10-minute drive from the spa.
INR1000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Janardhana Swami Temple

Experience a cultural visit to the Janardhana Swami Temple, where the family can learn about local traditions and admire beautiful architecture.
15-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore Varkala Cliff Shops

Stroll along the Varkala Cliff, discovering beach shops selling clothing, handmade crafts, and souvenirs that the whole family will enjoy shopping for.
Short walk from the temple.
Free (shopping cost varies), 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Cliff House

For dinner, enjoy stunning views and a superb dining experience at The Cliff House, serving both local and international dishes to please everyone in the family.
10-minute walk from the shops.
INR1500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Beach Adventures in Varkala

Varkala, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Fuel up for another day of fun with a nourishing hotel breakfast featuring a range of delicious items to choose from.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Water Sports at Varkala Beach

Dive into adventure with water sports at Varkala Beach, where families can enjoy activities like banana boat rides and jet skiing for a thrilling experience.
Stationed at Varkala Beach.
INR3000 for activities, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Haiwa Beach Restaurant

Enjoy a leisurely lunch back at The Haiwa Beach Restaurant, savoring the fresh catch of the day alongside a vibrant view of the sea.
5-minute walk from the beach activity area.
INR1200, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Varkala Aquarium

Take the family to visit the Varkala Aquarium, where kids can learn about marine life and observe colorful fish species native to the waters of Kerala.
15-minute taxi ride.
INR500 Family Ticket, 1 hour

4:00PM

Relax at the Beach

Wind down with some beach time, allowing the kids to splash around in the water while parents relax on the sandy shore.
Return to Varkala Beach.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Clifftop Restaurant

Conclude the day at The Clifftop Restaurant for a delicious dinner, with a menu that highlights local dishes and international favorites.
Short walk from the beach.
INR1400, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Travel to Kovalam

Kovalam, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel to get ready for your journey to Kovalam, a beach destination renowned for its beauty.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Kovalam

Set off for Kovalam with a taxi ride that takes you along the scenic coast, making the journey enjoyable for everyone.
Taxi ride.
INR2000, 1 hour

10:30AM

Check-in and Relax

Upon arrival, check into your hotel and take some time to relax before lunch, exploring the hotel’s amenities with the kids.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at The Seafood Grill

Savor delicious seafood at The Seafood Grill, offering fresh options cooked to perfection with a lovely beachside ambiance.
Short walk from the hotel.
INR1600, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Kovalam Lighthouse

Spend the afternoon at Kowalam Lighthouse, climbing to the top for stunning panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the coastline.
15-minute taxi ride.
INR100 Family Ticket, 1 hour

4:00PM

Relax at Lighthouse Beach

After visiting the lighthouse, unwind at Lighthouse Beach, where the family can enjoy some sun and play in the waves.
Short walk from the lighthouse.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Garden Restaurant

End the day with dinner at The Garden Restaurant, indulging in fresh, local dishes with a gorgeous outdoor setting surrounded by nature.
Short walk from the beach.
INR1400, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Beach Day in Kovalam

Kovalam, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Fuel up for sun and fun with breakfast at the hotel featuring options that appeal to all ages.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Water Sports at Kovalam Beach

Dive into excitement with water sports activities at Kovalam Beach, perfect for families looking for thrills like kayaking and parasailing.
Stationed at Kovalam Beach.
INR3000 for activities, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Fisherman’s Wharf

Enjoy a tasty lunch at The Fisherman's Wharf, offering delicious seafood in a relaxed setting ideal for families.
Short walk from the beach.
INR1600, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Samudra Beach

Spend your afternoon at Samudra Beach, known for its quieter atmosphere, perfect for families to relax together away from the busier beaches.
15-minute taxi ride.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Kids' Play Area at Kovalam

Let the kids enjoy some time at Kovalam's play area, designed to engage young ones with fun activities while parents can relax nearby.
Short drive from Samudra Beach.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at the Beach Cafe

Wrap up your day at the Beach Cafe, where you can feast on an array of delicious dishes while enjoying the sound of the waves.
Short walk from the play area.
INR1200, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Farewell and Memories

Kovalam, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Indulge in a final breakfast at the hotel, cherishing the last moments of your trip together as a family.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Kovalam Beach

Take one last stroll along Kovalam Beach, allowing the kids to play in the sand while capturing beautiful family photos to remember your trip.
Short walk from the hotel.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Check-out and Last-minute Shopping

Check out of your hotel and wander the local shops for some last-minute souvenirs and gifts before heading home.
Short drive or walk to nearby shops.
Free (shopping cost varies), 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at a local restaurant

Enjoy a farewell lunch at a local restaurant, filled with memories of your fantastic journey throughout Kerala.
Nearby local restaurant.
INR1200, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Departure

Depart from Kovalam, carrying beautiful memories of your family vacation in Kerala back home.
Travel to your next destination or airport.
Dependent on travel arrangements, N/A
View Hotel Availability