kerala-family-escape

Your Kerala family escape begins with your arrival in Cochin, the vibrant gateway to India's southern treasures. Upon landing, you will be greeted and transferred to the luxurious Brunton Boatyard, a heritage hotel that blends colonial charm with modern comforts. Take time to freshen up before heading out to explore Fort Kochi, an area rich in history and culture. Stroll through its quaint streets lined with Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences, stopping to admire the iconic Chinese fishing nets that have become symbolic of this coastal town. For lunch, savor traditional Kerala cuisine at the highly recommended Malabar Junction, where dishes like appam with stew and seafood specialties highlight the region's culinary heritage. In the afternoon, visit the fascinating Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, and learn about Kerala's royal history through its stunning murals and artifacts. As evening falls, enjoy a Kathakali performance, a classical dance-drama known for its elaborate costumes and expressive storytelling. Return to Brunton Boatyard for a relaxing dinner overlooking the serene waters of the Arabian Sea, as the city lights shimmer in the distance. Unwind in your elegant room and prepare for the adventures ahead in this beautiful land of spices, tea plantations, and tranquil backwaters.

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at CGH Earth Kochi, featuring locally inspired dishes. This morning, embark on a guided tour of Kochi's cultural treasures, including the Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with intricate murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana. Then, visit the historic Jewish Synagogue, an awe-inspiring structure built in 1568 in the Jewish Quarter. Stroll through Jew Town, an atmospheric area perfect for antique shopping. Enjoy an authentic Kerala-style lunch at the award-winning Brunton Boatyard. After lunch, return to the hotel or treat yourself to an optional Ayurvedic massage. In the evening, watch a mesmerizing Kathakali dance performance, Kerala's signature classical dance-drama, known for its vivid costumes and expressive gestures. Return to your luxurious haven at CGH Earth Kochi to relax and rejuvenate. Highlights: - Guided tour of Mattancherry Palace and Jewish Synagogue - Traditional Kerala lunch at Brunton Boatyard - Evening Kathakali performance

After a sumptuous breakfast at CGH Earth Kochi, bid farewell to the coastal city and embark on your journey to Munnar, a tranquil hill station nestled in the Western Ghats. Your private chauffeur will guide you on a scenic 4.5-hour drive through winding roads framed by rolling tea plantations, mist-clad hills, and cascading waterfalls. Along the way, consider stopping at Cheeyappara or Valara Waterfalls for a quick photo opportunity or simply to soak in the natural beauty. Upon arriving in Munnar, check in to your luxurious family-friendly accommodation at the Spice Tree Munnar, known for its elegant suites, attentive service, and unparalleled views of the surrounding valleys. Spend your afternoon at leisure with options tailored for every member of the family. Explore the resort's guided nature walks, take a tea plantation tour to learn about the region's thriving tea industry, or enjoy some indoor games with your children. For relaxation, parents may indulge in a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage at the resort's spa. As night falls, savor a delectable dinner at the resort's in-house restaurant, offering a curated menu of local Kerala delicacies and continental dishes, all made with organic and locally-sourced ingredients. Unwind under the starlit sky, surrounded by the serene beauty of Munnar's landscapes.

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the resort before venturing out to explore Munnar's iconic tea country. Start with a visit to a local tea plantation, where you'll gain insights into tea cultivation and even get to pluck tea leaves yourself. Next, head to the Tea Museum, which features fascinating exhibits on the history, processing, and evolution of tea production in the region. After a refreshing Kerala-style lunch at a local restaurant, proceed to Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its biodiversity and breathtaking mountain scenery. Enjoy a pleasant walk amidst the rolling hills dotted with blooming Neelakurinji flowers (seasonal) and return to your resort by evening. Relax with some family time or soak in the serene ambiance of your luxury accommodations. Highlights: - Visit to a tea plantation and Tea Museum - Scenic hike in Eravikulam National Park - Luxury stay at a family-friendly mountain resort

Savor your last breakfast in Munnar before setting off on a 5-hour drive to Alleppey, famous for its serene backwaters. On arrival, step aboard your private luxury houseboat, your floating retreat for the night. Inspired by Kerala's traditional kettuvallam, the houseboat offers state-of-the-art amenities, spacious rooms, and a dedicated crew to ensure a relaxing journey through the tranquil lagoons and canals. Enjoy a freshly prepared lunch featuring local seafood delicacies as you cruise past lush paddy fields, quaint villages, and coconut groves. The afternoon is perfect for unwinding on the deck with a book or simply basking in the enchanting views. At sunset, enjoy freshly brewed chai served with hot snacks. Later in the evening, indulge in a multi-course dinner prepared by your onboard chef. Drift off to sleep to the sounds of gently lapping water. Highlights: - Scenic 5-hour drive to Alleppey - Luxury houseboat experience - Sunset chai and onboard gourmet dining

Rise to the soothing sounds of the Alleppey backwaters and savor a traditional South Indian breakfast aboard your private luxury houseboat, featuring specialties like piping hot appam and coconut-infused stew. As your morning cruise begins, drift through the tranquil canals and lagoons, offering intimate glimpses of backwater life-fishermen casting nets, women tending to laundry by the water's edge, and vibrant houseboats adorned with floral designs. Your personal guide will share cultural insights about the region as you pass by picturesque villages and ancient temples nestled amidst the greenery. After the morning cruise, the houseboat docks, allowing you to explore Alleppey at your own pace. Opt to relax at the serene Marari Beach or indulge in a rejuvenating Ayurvedic spa treatment at the award-winning Carnoustie Ayurveda & Wellness Resort. For lunch, enjoy an expertly curated meal aboard the houseboat, featuring freshly caught seafood and local delicacies prepared by your private chef. In the afternoon, a private transfer can be arranged to visit Alleppey's bustling markets or admire the quaint architecture of its colonial-era churches. Wind down your day with an optional sunset dinner at the acclaimed seafood restaurant, Harbour View, or return to your houseboat for a peaceful evening under the stars. Let the sounds of the water lull you into relaxation as your luxurious escape continues.

After a leisurely breakfast aboard your luxurious houseboat, featuring a menu of freshly prepared Kerala specialties such as appam with stew or tropical fruits, it's time to bid farewell to the serene backwaters. Relish the final moments of tranquility as you glide past swaying palms and shimmering waters before disembarking at Alleppey. A private chauffeur will be waiting to assist with your bags and escort you on a seamless journey to Cochin International Airport (COK), approximately 1.5 hours away. En route, enjoy the comfort of your premium vehicle, designed to ensure relaxation after your idyllic stay. If time permits, consider stopping at the upscale Brindhavan Restaurant in Kochi for a refreshing cup of Kerala chai or a light traditional snack. Alternatively, you may wish to pause at a local handicraft boutique to purchase last-minute souvenirs, such as handwoven textiles or aromatic spices, to take home a piece of Kerala's vibrant culture. Your Kerala family escape concludes as you arrive at Cochin International Airport, renowned for its eco-friendly design and solar-powered operations. As you board your departure flight, reflect on the unforgettable moments shared in this enchanting land-from the lush green tea plantations to the warm hospitality of your luxury accommodations, such as Kumarakom Lake Resort or The Zuri Kumarakom.

Kerala Family Escape works best for children aged 5 and above. The houseboat, Periyar wildlife boat safari, and Munnar tea estates are all engaging for children 5+. Children under 3 require extra supervision on the houseboat (open water access at deck level). We recommend requesting the toddler safety gate add-on.

Yes. All properties on this circuit are accustomed to Indian families and offer full vegetarian and children's menus. South Indian breakfast (idli, dosa, upma) is available everywhere. We can also arrange packed lunch boxes (paratha, dry curry, fruit) for the Munnar and Periyar excursion days.

Yes. We use only the Periyar Tiger Reserve boat safari and the Guruvayur elephant sanctuary — both are government regulated. We do not offer elephant rides or any contact activity that requires training chains. Your coordinator can explain our wildlife ethics policy in detail before the visit.

We recommend booking at least 3–4 months in advance for peak season travel (October–March). For off-peak travel, 6–8 weeks is generally sufficient. Bespoke itineraries need a minimum 8 weeks for full confirmation.