Kerala—a haven of tropical beauty, lush landscapes, and mesmerizing backwaters—is the ultimate family destination, offering a seamless blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion. Whether it’s cruising through serene backwaters, unwinding on pristine beaches, or engaging with rich traditions, Kerala promises a family vacation filled with lasting memories. This comprehensive guide provides the ultimate Kerala tour packages for family travel, catering to diverse interests and ensuring an enjoyable holiday for everyone.
Why Choose Kerala Tour Packages for Family?
Kerala is renowned for its exceptional range of experiences—from tranquil houseboat cruises and lush hill stations to wildlife safaris and immersive cultural activities. The state’s natural beauty is matched by its warm hospitality and welcoming environment, making it ideal for families. Kerala’s mild climate and safety standards further enhance its appeal as a family-friendly destination, offering something unique and enjoyable for each family member.
Best Time to Visit Kerala for a Family Vacation
The ideal time to explore Kerala is from October to March, when the weather is cool and dry, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. This season is perfect for exploring the beaches, hills, and wildlife sanctuaries. Those interested in experiencing Kerala’s renowned monsoon can consider visiting between June and September, when the state’s landscapes are at their lushest but may require flexible travel plans.
Top Kerala Tour Packages for Family
Explore these curated Kerala family tour packages, each designed to ensure memorable and enjoyable experiences for all ages.
1. Backwater and Houseboat Adventure
- Highlights: Alleppey, Kumarakom, Backwater Cruises
- Duration: 3–5 Days
- Package Inclusions: Houseboat stay, local tours, meals, guided village walks.
Begin your Kerala family vacation by experiencing its iconic backwaters on a traditional houseboat. Families will enjoy the tranquil beauty of interconnected lakes, rivers, and lagoons while drifting past lush paddy fields, quaint villages, and coconut groves. A stay on a houseboat offers a unique experience for both kids and adults, with opportunities to savor local cuisine and observe Kerala’s village life up close.
Suggested Itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrive in Alleppey, board the houseboat, and enjoy a sunset cruise.
- Day 2: Explore local villages and visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.
- Day 3: Optional additional backwater cruising or cultural workshops.
2. Kerala Beach Bliss
- Highlights: Kovalam, Varkala, Marari Beach
- Duration: 4–6 Days
- Package Inclusions: Beach resort stay, water sports, Ayurvedic spa sessions.
Kerala’s beautiful coastline provides the perfect backdrop for families to relax by the sea. Kovalam and Varkala beaches offer a range of water sports such as snorkeling and parasailing, while Marari Beach provides a tranquil retreat with luxurious beachfront resorts. Unwind under the sun or experience Ayurvedic therapies and beachside activities with your loved ones.
Suggested Itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrive in Kovalam, relax at the resort.
- Day 2: Enjoy beach activities and water sports.
- Day 3: Rejuvenate with an Ayurvedic spa session.
- Day 4: Day trip to Varkala for sightseeing and beach relaxation.
3. Hill Station and Wildlife Retreat
- Highlights: Munnar, Thekkady, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
- Duration: 5–7 Days
- Package Inclusions: Hill station stay, wildlife safari, tea plantation tour.
Kerala’s hill stations are perfect for families who love stunning scenery and the refreshing mountain air. Munnar, with its sprawling tea plantations and misty valleys, offers a peaceful escape. The nearby Thekkady provides a thrilling wildlife experience, with guided safaris in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, where families can spot elephants, tigers, and a variety of birds.
Suggested Itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrive in Munnar, visit tea plantations and explore local markets.
- Day 2: Sightseeing at Echo Point and Mattupetty Dam.
- Day 3: Arrive in Thekkady, embark on a boat safari in Periyar.
- Day 4: Enjoy a guided nature walk in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.
4. Cultural Kerala Tour
- Highlights: Kochi, Thrissur, Alleppey
- Duration: 6–8 Days
- Package Inclusions: Cultural performances, temple tours, Kathakali show, culinary experiences.
Kerala’s rich culture is best experienced through this immersive tour. Families can explore historic sites, attend live Kathakali and Kalaripayattu performances, and enjoy the state’s culinary delights. Kochi’s historic quarters, Thrissur’s temples, and Alleppey’s serene backwaters offer a rich blend of history and local traditions, making it an ideal package for culture enthusiasts.
Suggested Itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrive in Kochi, visit Fort Kochi and Mattancherry Palace.
- Day 2: Attend a live Kathakali performance.
- Day 3: Temple tours and sightseeing in Thrissur.
- Day 4: Culinary tour and cooking lessons in Alleppey.
5. Ayurveda and Wellness Retreat
- Highlights: Kovalam, Wayanad, Vythiri
- Duration: 7–10 Days
- Package Inclusions: Ayurvedic treatments, wellness programs, yoga sessions.
Designed for families seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, Kerala’s wellness retreats offer authentic Ayurvedic experiences, ideal for unwinding from daily stresses. Set amid serene landscapes, Wayanad and Vythiri provide a peaceful atmosphere for healing treatments, yoga, and meditation, creating an enriching experience for the entire family.
Suggested Itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrive in Kovalam, begin with a wellness orientation.
- Day 2: Daily yoga and meditation sessions.
- Day 3: Travel to Wayanad for nature-based wellness activities.
- Day 4: Enjoy guided forest therapy and spa treatments in Vythiri.
Ideal Places to Visit in Kerala for Families
1. Munnar
A hill station paradise surrounded by tea plantations, Munnar offers family-friendly attractions such as Eravikulam National Park and the Tea Museum. Scenic viewpoints like Top Station and Echo Point further enhance Munnar’s appeal for families.
2. Thekkady
The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary offers activities like elephant rides, boat cruises, and guided nature walks. Families can observe Kerala’s diverse wildlife and enjoy the lush landscapes of Thekkady’s serene forests.
3. Alleppey and Kumarakom
Known for their scenic backwaters, Alleppey and Kumarakom provide families with a unique experience on traditional houseboats. Attractions include Vembanad Lake and the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, offering beautiful views and close encounters with Kerala’s diverse birdlife.
4. Kochi
Kochi’s rich history and culture make it a perfect destination for families interested in heritage sites. Highlights include Fort Kochi, Jew Town, and the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets. Kochi is also a gateway to Kerala’s traditional performing arts.
5. Wayanad
Ideal for family hikes, Wayanad’s Edakkal Caves and Chembra Peak offer breathtaking views. With abundant greenery and natural beauty, Wayanad is a peaceful escape and an opportunity to explore Kerala’s diverse ecosystems.
Suggested Packing List for Kerala Family Tour
- Lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for Kerala’s tropical climate
- Umbrellas and rain jackets (for monsoon season)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Essential toiletries and sunscreen
- Insect repellent, especially for wildlife trips
- Hats and sunglasses for sun protection
- Camera or smartphone for capturing memorable moments
Kerala’s stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and diverse activities make it the perfect family vacation destination. From tranquil backwaters to exhilarating wildlife safaris, Kerala’s tour packages offer families unforgettable experiences that cater to all ages. We invite you to explore these thoughtfully crafted Kerala tour packages for family travel and plan a trip that will create cherished memories for everyone.
