A Family's Enchanting Journey Through God's Own Country: Kerala

Travel Adventure

A Family's Enchanting Journey Through God's Own Country: Kerala

Embark on an unforgettable adventure filled with amazing experiences

8
Days
37
Activities
1
Traveler
1

Day 1 - Arrival in Kochi & Colonial Charm

Saturday, December 20, 2025
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Activities
5

Arrival at Cochin International Airport (COK)

Cochin International Airport (COK), Kochi, Kerala
Cost is an estimate for an 8-day private car hire (approx. ₹24,000), paid upfront or daily. Ensure the car is family-friendly (e.g., an Innova).

Check-in at Fort Kochi Hotel

Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala
Suggestions: Brunton Boatyard (Luxury), Old Harbour Hotel (Heritage), or a family-run homestay for a more local feel. Book well in advance as this is peak season.

Sunset at the Chinese Fishing Nets

Fort Kochi Beach, Kochi, Kerala
You can pay a small fee (around ₹100-200) to the fishermen to help them operate the nets. It's a fun, interactive experience.

Kathakali Cultural Performance

Kerala Kathakali Centre, Fort Kochi
Shows are typically 1-1.5 hours long. The makeup session starts about an hour before the show. Book tickets in advance.

Dinner at Oceanos Restaurant

Elphinstone Annexe, Fort Kochi
Try the 'Karimeen Pollichathu' (Pearl Spot fish baked in banana leaves). They also have milder options suitable for children.
2

Day 2 - Kochi Exploration & Scenic Drive to Munnar

Sunday, December 21, 2025
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Activities
5

Morning Walk in Fort Kochi

Jew Town, Mattancherry, Kochi
Wear comfortable shoes. The area is best explored on foot. The synagogue has specific opening hours and a dress code (shoulders and knees covered).

Lunch at Kashi Art Cafe

Burgher Street, Fort Kochi
It's very popular, so there might be a short wait. Their chocolate cake is a hit with kids and adults alike.

Drive from Kochi to Munnar

NH 85, Kerala
The drive is winding, so those prone to motion sickness should take precautions. The driver will know the best spots to stop for views.

Check-in at Munnar Resort

Munnar, Kerala
Suggestions: The Fog Munnar (Resort), Tea County (KTDC), or Kaivalyam Wellness Retreat (Views & Activities). Ensure your hotel has heating as evenings can be chilly.

Dinner at the Hotel

Your Hotel in Munnar
A warm bowl of soup or a local 'Thali' would be perfect for the cool Munnar evening.
3

Day 3 - Munnar: Tea Plantations & Mountain Peaks

Monday, December 22, 2025
Activities
4

Eravikulam National Park

Eravikulam National Park, Munnar
Book tickets online in advance to avoid long queues, especially during peak season. The park can be closed in Feb-Mar for the calving season. December should be fine.

Tata Tea Museum (Nallathanni Estate)

Nallathanni Estate, Munnar
This is an engaging and educational experience for all ages. Backup plan: If Eravikulam is too crowded or misty, spend more time here and at a tea factory.

Lunch at Rapsy Restaurant

Munnar Town
It's a no-frills local eatery, providing an authentic taste of the region. Can be crowded, but the service is quick.

Mattupetty Dam & Echo Point

Mattupetty Dam, Munnar
Cost includes dam entry fee and an estimated price for a family boat ride. It's a popular spot, so expect crowds.
4

Day 4 - Thekkady's Spices & Wildlife

Tuesday, December 23, 2025
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Activities
5

Drive from Munnar to Thekkady

Kerala State Highway 41
The journey offers different landscapes compared to the Kochi-Munnar drive. Ask your driver to stop at a viewpoint for photos.

Check-in at Thekkady Hotel

Thekkady, Kerala
Suggestions: Spice Village (Luxury Eco-resort), The Elephant Court (Premium), or a smaller guesthouse near the spice plantations.

Spice Plantation Tour

Various plantations near Kumily
Tours are very informative and engaging. You can also buy fresh, high-quality spices to take home. Most plantations are organic.

Boating on Periyar Lake

Periyar Tiger Reserve, Thekkady
Book tickets online (Kerala Forest Department website) well in advance as they sell out fast. The evening slot offers pleasant weather and good sighting chances. Cost includes park entry and boating fee.

Dinner at Bar-B-Que

Kumily, Thekkady
Ask for the daily specials. They offer a good variety that caters to different spice levels.
5

Day 5 - Alleppey: Christmas Eve on the Backwaters

Wednesday, December 24, 2025
Activities
4

Drive from Thekkady to Alleppey

Thekkady-Alleppey Route
The drive takes you through scenic countryside, offering a glimpse into the rural life of Kerala.

Board a Private Houseboat (Kettuvallam)

Alleppey Finishing Point, Alappuzha
Choose a reputable houseboat operator. Cost includes a private boat with crew (captain, chef), all meals (lunch, evening tea/snacks, dinner, breakfast), and an overnight stay. Confirm safety features and cleanliness before booking.

Traditional Keralan Lunch on Board

On the Houseboat, Alleppey Backwaters
Inform the operator in advance about any dietary restrictions or preferences for the kids. The meal is included in the houseboat package.

Cruising the Backwaters

Vembanad Lake & Connecting Canals
This is a great time for bird watching and simply enjoying the tranquility. A perfect digital detox for the family.
6

Day 6 - Christmas Day on Varkala's Cliffs

Thursday, December 25, 2025
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Activities
5

Breakfast on the Houseboat

Alleppey Backwaters
Enjoy the final hour of your cruise as the boat makes its way back to the jetty.

Drive from Alleppey to Varkala

Coastal Highway
The drive is relatively short and takes you along the beautiful Keralan coastline.

Check-in at Varkala Cliff Hotel

Varkala North Cliff, Varkala
Suggestions: The Gateway Hotel (Taj), Clafouti Beach Resort, or Black Beach Resort. A room with a sea-view balcony is highly recommended.

Christmas Lunch at a Cliff-Top Cafe

Varkala Cliff
Cafe del Mar or Darjeeling Cafe are popular choices with great views and a relaxed vibe suitable for families.

Relax on Papanasam Beach

Papanasam Beach, Varkala
The currents can be strong, so be cautious while swimming, especially with children. The southern end of the beach is generally calmer.
7

Day 7 - Varkala's Charms & Journey to Trivandrum

Friday, December 26, 2025
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Activities
5

Explore Varkala Cliff & Janardanaswamy Temple

Varkala Town & Cliff
A strict dress code is enforced at the temple (men: dhoti, women: saree/long skirt). Dhotis are available for rent nearby. Non-Hindus may be restricted from entering the inner sanctum.

Drive from Varkala to Trivandrum

Varkala-Trivandrum Road
The journey is quick, allowing for afternoon sightseeing in Trivandrum.

Check-in at Trivandrum Hotel

Trivandrum, Kerala
Suggestions: The Leela Kovalam (Luxury Beach Resort), Hilton Garden Inn (City Center), or Hycinth Hotel.

Napier Museum & Zoo

LMS Vellayambalam Road, Trivandrum
A great combination for an afternoon with kids. The museum's architecture is as impressive as its collection. The zoo provides a pleasant walking experience.

Dinner at Villa Maya

Near Muthoot Sky Chef, Trivandrum
Reservations are highly recommended. It's a special occasion restaurant, perfect for the last night of your trip.
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Day 8 - Trivandrum's Grandeur & Departure

Saturday, December 27, 2025
Activities
4

Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple

West Nada, Fort, Trivandrum
Entry into the temple is restricted to Hindus who adhere to a very strict dress code (men in mundu/dhoti, women in saree). Even from the outside, it is an incredibly impressive sight.

Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping

Chalai Market / SMSM Institute, Trivandrum
SMSM Institute (Sree Moolam Thirunal Shashtiabdapurthi Memorial Institute) is a government emporium with fixed prices and authentic goods.

Lunch at Indian Coffee House

Central Station Road, Trivandrum
Try the beetroot cutlet, masala dosa, and their famous coffee. It's a fun and quirky experience for the whole family.

Departure from Trivandrum International Airport (TRV)

Trivandrum International Airport (TRV)
Ensure you leave for the airport at least 3 hours before your flight departure time.