Arrival in Kochi and the Journey to Munnar

As soon as we landed at Cochin International Airport, the warm and humid air of Kerala embraced us. Our family was greeted by Benny, our ever-smiling driver, who would be our guide for the next four days. With three kids in tow, I was a bit apprehensive about the long drive to Munnar, but Benny’s friendly demeanor and the comfortable private car quickly put my worries to rest.

The drive to Munnar was nothing short of spectacular. We made pit stops at the Valara and Cheeyappara Waterfalls, where the kids had a blast splashing around and taking in the refreshing mist. The lush greenery and the sound of cascading water were a welcome change from the hustle and bustle of city life. As we continued our journey, the landscape transformed into rolling hills covered with tea plantations, and the air became cooler and crisper.

Upon reaching Munnar, we checked into the Era Resort, a stunning property perched atop a mountain. The resort’s beautiful landscaping and spacious balcony overlooking the valley made it the perfect retreat for our family. The kids were thrilled to explore the gardens, while my husband and I enjoyed the serene views with a cup of freshly brewed tea.

Exploring Munnar’s Natural Beauty

The next day, we set out to explore Munnar’s breathtaking scenery. Our first stop was the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. The kids were fascinated by these unique mountain goats, and the park’s well-maintained trails made it easy for us to navigate with our little ones.

We then visited the Mattupetty Dam, where we took a leisurely boat ride on the serene lake. The kids loved spotting the various birds that call this area home, and the views of the surrounding hills were simply mesmerizing. Our day continued with a visit to the Kannan Devan Tea Museum, where we learned about the history of tea production in the region. The interactive exhibits kept the kids engaged, and we all enjoyed sampling the different varieties of tea.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Echo Point, a picturesque spot where the kids had a blast shouting their names and hearing them echo back. The cool breeze and the stunning views made it a perfect end to our day in Munnar.

A Luxurious Houseboat Experience in Alleppey

After two days in Munnar, we headed to Kumarakom for the highlight of our trip: an overnight stay on a traditional Kerala houseboat. As we boarded the spacious houseboat, the kids’ eyes widened with excitement. The luxurious interiors and the attentive crew made us feel like royalty.

Cruising along the tranquil backwaters of Vembanad Lake was an unforgettable experience. The kids were captivated by the sight of local villagers going about their daily lives, and the lush coconut and palm trees lining the shores added to the picturesque setting. We enjoyed a delicious meal prepared by the onboard chef, featuring fresh local ingredients and traditional Kerala flavors.

As night fell, we relaxed on the deck, gazing at the starry sky and listening to the gentle lapping of the water against the boat. It was a magical experience that left us feeling rejuvenated and grateful for the opportunity to explore this beautiful part of India.

Discovering the Charm of Kochi

Our final day was spent exploring the vibrant city of Kochi. We visited the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, where the kids were fascinated by the unique fishing technique. A stroll down Princess Street gave us a glimpse of the city’s colonial past, with its charming cafes and boutique shops.

We also visited the Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica, a stunning example of Gothic architecture that left us in awe. The kids enjoyed learning about the history of the church and its significance in the region.

As our trip came to an end, we reflected on the incredible experiences we had in Kerala. From the lush hills of Munnar to the serene backwaters of Alleppey and the vibrant streets of Kochi, this trip was a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Our family left with cherished memories and a newfound appreciation for the beauty and culture of Kerala.