Itinerary for 12 day trip to Kerala

Kerala, often referred to as "God's Own Country," is a fantastic destination for families, with its lush landscapes, serene backwaters, and rich culture. Here’s a fun and family-friendly 12-day itinerary that balances relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Arrival in Kochi

Morning: Arrive at . Check into your hotel and freshen up.
Afternoon: Head to . Explore the iconic Chinese fishing nets and take a leisurely stroll along the beach.
Evening: Enjoy a family dinner at a local restaurant. Try some Kerala-style seafood or a traditional thali.

Day 2: Kochi Sightseeing

Morning: Visit the and the . Kids will love the colorful tiles and the history!
Afternoon: Explore the spice markets in Jew Town. Let the kids pick out some spices to take home.
Evening: Attend a . The costumes and storytelling will captivate the whole family!

Day 3: Munnar

Morning: Drive to Munnar (about 4 hours). Enjoy the scenic views along the way.
Afternoon: Check into your hotel and relax. Visit the to learn about tea production.
Evening: Take a short nature walk around your hotel. The cool climate is refreshing!

Day 4: Munnar Exploration

Morning: Visit the . Spot the Nilgiri Tahr and enjoy the stunning views.
Afternoon: Head to the for a family picnic. Let the kids run around and enjoy the fresh air.
Evening: Visit the local market for some shopping. Don’t forget to buy some tea!

Day 5: Thekkady

Morning: Drive to Thekkady (about 3 hours). Check into your hotel.
Afternoon: Go for a boat ride on . Keep an eye out for elephants and other wildlife!
Evening: Enjoy a spice plantation tour. Kids will love learning about different spices and their uses.

Day 6: Thekkady Adventures

Morning: Go for a nature walk or a bamboo rafting experience in .
Afternoon: Visit the for an interactive experience with elephants. Kids can feed and bathe them!
Evening: Relax at your hotel or enjoy a cultural show featuring traditional Kerala art forms.

Day 7: Alleppey (Alappuzha)

Morning: Drive to Alleppey (about 4 hours). Check into a houseboat for a unique experience.
Afternoon: Cruise through the backwaters. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and spot local life along the banks.
Evening: Have dinner on the houseboat. The kids will love the experience of dining on the water!

Day 8: Alleppey to Varkala

Morning: After breakfast on the houseboat, disembark and head to Varkala (about 4 hours).
Afternoon: Check into your hotel and relax on . The cliffs and views are stunning!
Evening: Enjoy a beachside dinner. Try some local seafood or vegetarian dishes.

Day 9: Day

Morning: Spend the day at the beach. Kids can play in the sand while you relax.
Afternoon: Try some water sports like parasailing or jet skiing (if the kids are old enough).
Evening: Visit the . It’s a beautiful place and offers a glimpse into local culture.

Day 10: Kovalam

Morning: Drive to Kovalam (about 1 hour). Check into your hotel.
Afternoon: Spend time at the famous Lighthouse Beach. The kids can enjoy the waves!
Evening: Take a family stroll along the beach promenade and enjoy some local snacks.

Day 11: Relaxation and Exploration in Kovalam

Morning: Enjoy a family yoga session or Ayurvedic spa treatment (many resorts offer family-friendly options).
Afternoon: Visit the nearby fishing village and learn about local fishing practices.
Evening: Have a farewell dinner at a beachside restaurant, soaking in the last views of the ocean.

Day 12: Departure from Trivandrum

Morning: Drive to Trivandrum (about 30 minutes). If time permits, visit the Padmanabhaswamy Temple.
Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure. Take back wonderful memories of Kerala!

Tips for Traveling with Family:

Transportation: Consider hiring a private vehicle for convenience.
Food: Kerala cuisine is diverse; ensure to try local dishes but also have some familiar options for the kids.
Health: Keep hydrated and carry any necessary medications, especially for the kids.
Pacing: Don’t rush; allow for downtime to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

I hope this itinerary helps you create unforgettable memories in Kerala with your family! Enjoy your trip! 🌴✨