Places to Visit in Kerala with Family for 2 Days - Complete Travel Guide
You’ve landed at Cochin International Airport and want to see the best of Kerala, but your time is restricted to 1-2 weeks. Ernakulam (Kochi) and Idukki are important sites that encapsulate Kerala and should be on your agenda if you are just there for a short time. These districts, along with nearby towns like Kottayam or Thrissur, are easily accessible from the airport, making journeys easier and less expensive. Spending time in Ernakulam and one or two surrounding districts allows you to see the diversity of Kerala’s landscapes—lush hills, backwaters, and dynamic city life—without having to drive far. The best spots to visit in Kerala with family for two days are highlighted in this guide, guaranteeing a hassle-free and enjoyable trip.
Places to Visit in Kerala with Family
When you arrive at Cochin Airport and plan to spend about two weeks in Kerala, these are the must-see attractions in each surrounding district. Ernakulam, Kottayam, Alappuzha, Idukki, and Thrissur are important neighboring districts. You can explore Kochi’s dynamic city life and historical sites by exploring Ernakulam. Kottayam provides tranquil backwaters and cultural experiences, whereas Alappuzha is ideal for houseboats and gorgeous canals. Thrissur is renowned for its temples and cultural celebrations, while Idukki displays verdant hills and spice farms. Spending time in these districts allows you to explore the different beauties of Kerala with your family while also making travel convenient and enjoyable.
Places to Visit in Ernakulam District with Family
Cochin International Airport is situated in Ernakulam District, making it an ideal starting point for touring the region. Ernakulam provides the ideal fusion of metropolitan conveniences, tradition, cuisine, and culture for a two-day family vacation.
Why Stay Here:
Ernakulam blends rich historical and cultural experiences with contemporary metropolitan conveniences. Comfortable lodging, regional food, shopping, and lively cultural events make it the perfect starting point for family vacations.
Must-Visit Places:
- Fort Kochi & Mattancherry: Explore colonial architecture, bustling spice markets, and charming art cafés.
- Jew Town: Famous for antique shops, quaint streets, and historical significance.
- Chinese Fishing Nets: Iconic coastal attractions perfect for photography and family sightseeing.
- Marine Drive: Scenic promenade with stunning views, ideal for evening walks and shopping.
- Cultural Experiences: Don’t miss traditional Kathakali performances, showcasing Kerala’s classical dance and storytelling.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Ernakulam is from October to March, when the weather is nice and suitable for sightseeing and outdoor sports.
The Ernakulam district is a must-see on your Kerala itinerary since it provides a unique combination of modernism, heritage, and family-friendly activities.
Places to Visit in Kottayam/Alappuzha District with Family
Kottayam and Alappuzha districts are located roughly 85-100 kilometers from Cochin International Airport, which takes about 2-3 hours by road, making them ideal for a family vacation. These districts are well-known for their tranquil villages, scenic backwaters, and genuine Keralan experiences.
Why Explore Kottayam / Alappuzha:
Kottayam and Alappuzha are recognized for their original Kerala backwaters, traditional houseboats, and bustling rural life, providing a calm escape from the city throng.
Best For:
- Relaxation and unwinding
- Photography enthusiasts
- Slow-paced, immersive travel experiences
Major Tourist Attractions & Activities:
- Houseboat Cruise on Vembanad Lake: Glide through serene backwaters and enjoy the scenic landscapes.
- Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: Spot migratory birds and enjoy nature walks with family.
- Churches and Temples in Kottayam: Explore historic religious sites and experience local culture.
- Rubber Plantations & Villages: Witness rural life and lush greenery that Kerala is known for.
- Alappuzha (Alleppey): Famous for its canals, coir industry, and traditional boat races during the season.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Kottayam and Alappuzha is from October to March, when the weather is comfortable enough for houseboat tours and sightseeing.
Families can enjoy the tranquil backwaters, cultural landmarks, and scenic splendor of these regions without feeling hurried on a two- to three-day excursion from Kottayam to Alappuzha, which is ideal for an unforgettable Kerala vacation.
Places to Visit in Idukki District with Family
Idukki district is located roughly 110-130 kilometers from Cochin International Airport, which takes 3-4 hours by car, making it suitable for a family vacation. Idukki, renowned for its lush hills, expansive tea gardens, and wildlife sanctuaries, provides a revitalizing getaway into the natural world.
Why Explore Idukki:
Idukki is the ideal destination for hikers, environmental enthusiasts, and photographers since it offers a tranquil haven amidst Kerala’s hill stations and wooded areas.
Major Tourist Attractions & Highlights:
- Munnar: Renowned for its rolling hills, tea estates, and Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. In addition, Munnar has lovely waterfalls and stunning vistas that make for great family portraits.
- Thekkady: Explore the Periyar Tiger Reserve, go bamboo rafting, and visit spice plantations to learn about Kerala’s rich biodiversity and culture.
- Thodupuzha: A peaceful town renowned for its greenery, rivers, and distinctive local character.
- Malankara Dam: Ideal for a relaxing family outing and beautiful pictures.
Best For:
- Experiencing green hillscapes and tea plantations
- Wildlife and nature exploration
- Hiking, photography, and leisurely family outings
Idukki district is a must-see for a 2-3 day nature-focused vacation, allowing families to experience the hills, wildlife, and scenic splendor while remaining conveniently connected to adjacent towns and Cochin Airport. Read our blog to know more on tourist attractions in Idukki.
Places to Visit in Thrissur District with Family
The Thrissur area is about 75-90 kilometers from Cochin International Airport, which takes about 2-2.5 hours by car, making it an ideal destination for a family vacation. Thrissur is renowned for its temples, classical arts, and colorful festivals, earning it the title of Kerala’s cultural center.
Why Explore Thrissur:
Families who like to learn about temples, traditional arts, and local heritage will love Thrissur’s unique cultural experience.
Best For:
- Temples and spiritual experiences
- Classical arts and cultural performances
- Festivals, including the famous Thrissur Pooram (held in May)
Major Attractions & Highlights:
- Thrissur Town: Explore historic temples like Vadakkunnathan Temple, enjoy local cuisine, and visit Thrissur Zoo & Museum for family-friendly experiences.
- Athirappilly Waterfalls: Just 1.5 hours from Kochi or Thrissur, these stunning waterfalls are ideal for nature lovers and photographers.
Trip Duration:
A 1-2 day family trip to Thrissur is enough to visit cultural icons, temples, and neighboring natural attractions.
Best Time to Visit:
The best months to visit Thrissur are October through March, when the weather is nice and great for touring and attending festivals.
What to Pack for a Kerala Trip
Packing properly can make your Kerala trip more comfortable and pleasurable, whether you’re visiting backwaters, hill stations, or beaches.
Clothing:
Lightweight, breathable clothing is best for humid coastal places, whereas warm layers are advised for highland stations such as Munnar and Idukki. Carry raincoats if traveling during the monsoon season (June-September), and don’t forget suitable walking shoes or sandals.
Accessories & Essentials:
Pack sunscreen, insect repellent, hats, and sunglasses. Swimwear is helpful for hotel pools, beaches, and waterfalls. Bring travel documents, a power bank, chargers, and a camera or smartphone so you may take pictures of Kerala’s breathtaking scenery.
Health & Safety:
Keep basic first aid supplies like hand sanitizer, wet wipes, and necessary medications in your pack.
Optional Items:
A lightweight bag for day outings and binoculars for bird watching in places like Kumarakom or Thekkady can be useful.
Return to Cochin Airport
All of the districts you’ll visit in Kerala—Ernakulam, Kottayam, Alappuzha, Idukki, and Thrissur—are within 4-5 hours’ drive of Cochin Airport. This allows you to arrange your return journey without stress, guaranteeing a pleasant end to your family holiday in Kerala.
You can effortlessly arrive at the airport in time for your flight while thinking back on an unforgettable journey, regardless of whether you’re traveling from the backwaters of Alappuzha, the hills of Idukki, or the cultural center of Thrissur.
Why Exotiland is the Best Choice for a Stay if Planning to Move from Ernakulam (Kochi) to Idukki
Making travel plans from Ernakulam (Kochi) to Idukki can be difficult. It can be challenging to have a comfortable and laid-back stay while visiting Kerala’s hills, backwaters, and natural surroundings due to lengthy drives and dispersed tourist attractions.
Exotiland is the best homestay to explore the places to visit in Kerala with family for 2 days. Situated in Thodupuzha, it provides a convenient starting point for seeing all of Idukki’s main attractions as well as those in the surrounding areas. Exotiland, which is surrounded by acres of verdant fruit farms, allows you to relax in the great outdoors, take advantage of roomy, tranquil lodgings, and lessen the effects of travel tiredness.
With convenient access to Munnar, Thekkady, and Malankara Dam, Exotiland is the ideal choice for families and environmental lovers alike.