Kerala is a wonderful destination for families. Children love the elephants, boats, tea gardens, waterfalls and beaches, while parents enjoy the relaxed pace and comfortable resorts. With a little planning, a Kerala holiday can be easy and memorable for every generation.
Why Kerala Works for Families
- Shorter driving distances than many Indian circuits
- Plenty of nature and animals to see
- Family-friendly resorts with pools and gardens
- Mild climate for most of the year
- Food that can be adjusted for children
Kid-Friendly Places and Activities
Munnar
- Eravikulam National Park – spotting the Nilgiri tahr
- Tea Museum and tea estate walks
- Boating at Mattupetty Dam and Echo Point
- Rose and flower gardens
- Pony rides at Kundala Lake
Thekkady
- Periyar Lake boat ride to see elephants and bison
- Spice plantation tour with lots to touch and smell
- Kalaripayattu martial arts show – a big hit with children
Alleppey
- A family houseboat with several bedrooms
- Shikara rides through narrow canals
- Watching ducks, fishermen and village life
Beaches
- Kovalam's calm bays in season
- Marari Beach near Alleppey
- Varkala's cliffs (supervise children near edges)
Kochi
- Chinese fishing nets
- Ferry rides
- Kathakali make-up session
Other ideas
- Athirappilly Falls (viewpoints only)
- Wonderla amusement park near Kochi
Houseboat Safety with Children
- Choose a houseboat with railings and ask for life jackets in children's sizes.
- Never leave children unattended on deck.
- Request simple, mildly spiced meals for kids.
- Carry mosquito repellent suitable for children.
Best Time for a Family Holiday
- October to February: pleasant weather.
- April–May school holidays: focus on hill stations like Munnar and Wayanad.
- Monsoon: possible, but outdoor activities may be limited.
Sample 6-Day Family Itinerary
- Kochi: fishing nets, ferry ride, early night.
- Kochi to Munnar: waterfall stops; resort with play area.
- Munnar: Eravikulam, Tea Museum, Mattupetty boating.
- Munnar to Thekkady: spice tour and Kalaripayattu show.
- Thekkady to Alleppey: family houseboat overnight.
- Alleppey to Kochi: departure, or extend to Marari Beach.
Tips for Travelling with Kids
- Keep driving days short with frequent breaks.
- Carry motion-sickness remedies for hill roads.
- Choose resorts with pools and family rooms.
- Pack snacks and refillable water bottles.
- Plan one relaxed day without sightseeing.
- Carry children's medicines and a basic first-aid kit.
Food for Children
Most restaurants can prepare mild dishes like idli, dosa, appam with stew, plain rice and dal, chapati and fried banana fritters. Inform hotels and houseboats about allergies in advance.
Packing List
- Light cotton clothes and a jacket for Munnar
- Hats, sunscreen and sunglasses
- Swimwear
- Rain gear in the monsoon
- Mosquito repellent
- Favourite toys or books for drives
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kerala good for a family holiday with kids?
Yes – wildlife, boats, tea gardens, beaches and family resorts make it ideal for children.
Are houseboats safe for children?
Yes, with supervision, railings and children's life jackets.
What is the best time to visit Kerala with kids?
October to February; April–May for hill stations during school holidays.
How many days are ideal for a family trip to Kerala?
Six to seven days at a relaxed pace.
Which places in Kerala do kids enjoy most?
Munnar's Eravikulam, Thekkady's boat ride and Kalaripayattu, and the Alleppey houseboat.
Plan Your Trip with On Travel
Our Kerala family packages include family rooms, private car, child-friendly houseboats and relaxed pacing.
- Phone / WhatsApp: +91 9220564155
- Email: info@ontravel.in
Plan Your Trip with On Travel
Ready to go? These itineraries cover the places in this guide and can be customised to your dates and budget:
- Kerala Honeymoon – Munnar, Thekkady & Kovalam, 5 Nights / 6 Days
- Grand South India & Kerala Journey – Madurai to Kochi, 11 Nights / 12 Days
- Exotic Kerala – Kochi to Kovalam, 7 Nights / 8 Days
- Kerala & Kanyakumari Tour – Kochi to Trivandrum, 7 Nights / 8 Days
Browse all Kerala tour packages.
Related reading: Vagamon Travel Guide · Wayanad Travel Guide · Kochi (Cochin) Travel Guide
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