Melange of Tales

Category: Kerala

Explore the best of Kerala with our expert family travel guide. From backwater cruises and hill stations to kid-friendly adventures in Thekkady and Wayanad.

Mesmerizing Thekkady: The Ultimate Offbeat Kerala Trip with Kids
Travel after parenthood isn’t just about the destination; it’s about the family-friendly experiences we can share. For many Indian parents, finding a balance between adventure and safety is the top priority. When searching for an offbeat, cultural, and safe adventure for my 2-year-old, Thekkady in “God’s Own Country” was the obvious choice. If you are looking for the best places to visit in Kerala with toddlers, this spice-scented hill station should be at the top of your list.

Ziplining in Kerala

How to Reach Thekkady: A Scenic Road Trip

We opted for a road trip from Bangalore to Thekkady via Madurai. Driving allows for flexible breaks, which is essential when traveling with a toddler.
- By Air: The nearest international airport is Madurai (IXM), followed by Cochin (COK) and Trivandrum (TRV).
- Pro Tip: If you fly into Madurai or Kochi, the drive to Thekkady offers stunning views of the Western Ghats.
Where to Stay & Commute

While there are many hotels in Thekkady, we chose an estate stay just outside the main town. This allowed us to enjoy nature while staying close enough for activities. We used our own car, but hiring a taxi or a jeep in Thekkady is very easy via your hotel.

Note: Scooters are fun for grown-ups without kids!

Coffee Routes

Top 5 Things to Do in Thekkady with Kids

Elephant Junction Thekkady: A Family Milestone

The first time my toddler sat on an elephant was right here. It was a beautiful family ride where all of us sat together on one of these gentle giants. If you’re worried about the load on the elephant, don’t be! We confirmed with the local tourist office that compared to an elephant’s size, we are like the weight of a fly. It is perfectly safe, and seeing my daughter’s excitement made this one of our best memories from Thekkady.

Elephant safari

Adventurous Jeep Safari

This is a must-do. We explored the outskirts of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in a rugged jeep. Holding my 2-year-old tight while she took in the wild sights was an incredible experience. It’s easily one of the best things to do in Thekkady for families.

Jeep ride with my toddler

Authentic Kathakali Show

Introduce your children to Indian heritage early. Kathakali is a mesmerizing traditional dance drama. While a toddler might not follow the complex stories, the vibrant costumes and expressive face paint are visually captivating for kids.

Note: You can either ask your hotel to reserve tickets for you or you can book by yourself at the Kadathanadan centre for both Kathakali and Kalari.

Picture with the artists

Kalaripayattu Performance

Witnessing the ancient martial art of Kalaripayattu is a high-energy experience. The rhythmic movements and agility of the performers are enough to keep even a restless toddler glued to their seat.

Spice Plantation Tours

Thekkady is world-famous for its spices. Taking a walk through plantations is both educational and sensory. Kids love touching the leaves and smelling fresh cinnamon, cardamom, and pepper right off the vine. If you inform your hotel front desk or jeep drivers they can arrange for one such tour near your stay.

Shopping in Thekkady: Spices and Souvenirs

No trip to Kerala is complete without a bit of shopping in Kumily.
- Spices: Head to the local markets for fresh cardamom, cinnamon sticks, and star anise.
- Handicrafts: Look for Rosewood carvings and traditional Kerala sarees.
- Banana chips: Show your kids how banana chips are actually made in Thekkady.
Tea & Coffee: Pick up locally grown varieties that are much fresher than anything you’ll find in the city.

Banana chips in the making

Buying traditional Kerala dresses

Awesome Places Near Thekkady for Families

Kid-friendly day trips
- Periyar Lake: Take a boat ride to spot wild elephants and boars at the water’s edge.
- Chellarkovil Viewpoint: For stunning views of the plains of Tamil Nadu and cascading waterfalls.
- Gavi: A short drive away, this eco-tourism spot is perfect for families who want to go deeper into the forest.
My tiny pet lover after the jeep safari

Extend your Thekkady family vacation
- Vagamon: Meadows and hills like Thekkady – pick one!
- Munnar: Elephants, safaris and camping thrills.
- Kodaikanal: Cool hill station with lakes, views and pine forests (You can check out my Kodaikanal blog).
- Kookal: Quiet spots near Kodaikanal for offbeat fun (You can check out my Kookal blog).
- Madurai: Meenakshi temple (3 hours away) for temple magic.
A 3-4 day family trip to Thekkady for toddlers and kids gives them exposure to wildlife wonders, cultural shows, nature play and family bonding.

Periyar River
March 16, 2026
Wayanad – Places to Visit and Things to Do
I always used to look forward to monsoon trips before having a child. In 2025 I decided to take the plunge of doing a monsoon trip with my toddler. My experiment turned out to be the best decision I ever took when it came to monsoon travel with kids. Considering Wayanad’s proximity to Bangalore, I had chosen to travel to Wayanad which was in all its glory especially since it was monsoon. In this post I will detail all the places to visit and things to do in Wayanad when travelling with kids.

Travel to Wayanad

Wayanad is HUGE when it comes to its land area with dense forests. If you are travelling to Wayanad from Bangalore, then you can choose to commute via Nagarhole (with extremely bad roads) or Bandipur (butter smooth roads). The entry checkpoint opens at 6am at both the places and closes at 6 pm in Nagarhole and 9 pm in Bandipur.

Nagarhole Vs Bandipur

Stay at Wayanad

The places you visit in Wayanad will mostly be based on where you stay. Since it is a huge district with so many points of attraction spread across, it is recommended to either stay where you want to visit or visit the tourist options near your place of stay.

I visited Wayanad in June and Dec months. First time it was in Meppadi and 2^nd time it was in Periya. Sulthan Bathery and Vythiri are also other stay options that I can suggest.

I am a big-time believer of slow travel when with kids as it gives both, them and us enough time to soak in the new environment and enjoy every moment and not just rush travel to fulfill our bucket list or all the places to visit.

Food at Wayanad

Puttu, Idiyappam, Idli, Dosa, Parotta(not Paratha) and curries cooked with coconut milk in coconut oil make my mouth water even when I think of it. Vegetarian options are less in Wayanad. If you are a non-vegetarian then fish, chicken and mutton would be your go-to food options for someone coming from outside Kerala.

Places to visit in Wayanad (during monsoon)

Banasura Sagar Dam

Banasura Sagar Dam is India’s largest Earth dam. It is built over a tributary of River Kabini. Enjoy a relaxed picnic in shaded areas, marvel at panoramic reservoir views, or explore the expansive site on foot. I enjoyed the uphill walk with my kid and downhill would have been easier had she not gotten cranky. For convenience, there’s an optional shuttle or jeep service from the base to the top which is ideal for those who’d rather skip the uphill walk (currently Rs.15 one way or Rs.25 for a round trip for a person).

Banasura Sagar Dam

ONLY Online Tickets

Car parking at the dam

Family <3

Top down view

Note: If you are wondering which is the world’s largest Earth dam, it is Tarbela dam in Pakistan. Entry ticket cost: Rs. 40 (adults), Rs. 20 (kids)
Timing: 9 AM – 5 PM

Kottiyoor temple

I was fortunate enough to visit the Akkare Kottiyoor temple in late June 2025. This is a Shiva temple in the neighboring Kannur district and visited by people of all faiths in Kerala. It is situated in a dense forest alongside a river. There is a mahotsavam that happens yearly once for 28 days in July. The history of this temple dates to the period when Sati immolated herself. Since we went during the Vyshaka Mahotsavam, we visited the Akkare Kottiyoor (temporarily structured) temple as the Ikkare Kottiyoor (permanently structured) temple was closed.

Vyshaka Mahotsavam

Skypark – 900 Kandi Bridge

This is Wayanad’s first and longest glass bridge which is 900 feet from the ground. You must do an offroad safari of 2 km in a jeep to reach the destination. The offroad safari would cost around Rs.1500 for one jeep. The view from the glass bridge will leave you with a spell bounded experience. There are many other small activities of interest which you would want to try here as well.

Entry ticket cost: Rs. 200
Timing: 9 AM – 6 PM

Read also: Coorg: Ultimate Guide to 10 Must Visit Places And Things To Do

Other famous places to visit in Wayanad

Chembra Peak

I visited Chembra peak in 2018 December. There were no rules on the number of people who could trek but now after Covid, the Kerala Forest Department gives only 200 tickets every day. A group of 10 Indian nationals can pay anywhere between Rs.750 – Rs. 1000. In case of foreign nationals, a group of 5 could pay anywhere between Rs. 1500 – Rs. 2000.

Chembra Peak

It is worth visiting Chembra peak if you get the chance to do it. The heart shaped lake overlooking the wide lush green valley will make you feel its worth waking up early in the morning for this 1-2 hour of climbing uphill. I will strictly recommend against climbing with kids and for anybody to not climb during monsoon.

Edakkal Caves

Edakkal Caves dates to 6000 BCE and trust me, you wouldn’t want to miss it. It takes climbing 330+ steps to reach the cave area so I’d not recommend this for people with babies/toddlers.

Entry ticket cost: Rs.40 (Indian nationals), Rs.100 (Foreign nationals)
Timing: 9 AM – 4 PM (Ticket counter closes at 1 PM)

Soochipara falls

Soochipara falls is a sight to behold with a majestic waterfall flowing all the way down from a height of 650 feet. It is relatively close to the offroad safari starting point for 900 Kandi Glass Bridge. I wouldn’t want to take my toddler here as the rocks are extremely sharp and I have personally seen kids getting hurt in the fall area. If you can be mindful of the steps you take, then you wouldn’t want to miss this place.

Soochipara falls

Note: Soochipara can be closed during monsoons due to heavy rainfall.

Meenmutty falls

Meenmutty falls is 3-tiered waterfall and you will have to walk for a km from the starting point. There are ropes which guide people to the falls which can also be held for support. If you are visiting Banasura Sagar Dam, then you can plan your visit here as well as it is in walkable distance to the dam.

Note: Meenmutty falls can be closed during monsoons due to heavy rainfall.

Kuruvadeep islands (Kuruva islands)

It is a group of uninhabited islands with an area of 950 acres. You have to take a bamboo raft over Kabini river to get to the island. It is not recommended to swim in these islands due to crocodiles. The forest department gives out only 200 tickets everyday between October to March to enter these islands. If you are a bird watcher, you will love this place.

Kuruvadeep islands

Entry ticket cost: Rs.80 (Indian nationals), Rs.150 (Foreign nationals)
Bamboo rafting cost: Rs.300 (per 6 people)
Timing: 9 AM – 4 PM

Things to do in Wayanad

Trekking

Wayanad is a trekking paradise and safe for day treks when you visit in the right season. The most famous treks are as below but there are umpteen mini treks in and around the district.
- Banasura hill trek
- Chembra peak trek
- Bhramagiri peak trek
- Thusharagiri waterfall
- Edakkal Cave trek
ChembraPeak

Best time for trekking: Oct – May

Tea picking

You can see sprawling tea estates all over Wayanad. To get a hands on about how tea picking is there are multiple estates which offer you the unique tea picking experience. You can also check with your own stay owners/managers regarding tea picking in the estates managed by them for an offbeat tea picking experience.

Ziplining

You can zipline at Banasura Sagar dam, Karapuzha dam, 900 Kandi, Wayanad Adventure Park and even in few estates in Suthan Bathery region. I have ziplined twice in Wayanad and I enjoyed it both the times. I would highly recommend this activity.

Shopping in Wayanad

Kerala is renowned as the historic land of spices, making spice shopping an essential part of any Wayanad trip. Discover local spice shops throughout every town in Kerala and, whether buying or just browsing, immerse yourself in the variety and aroma that define Kerala’s rich spice heritage.

Top Tips for Spice Shopping in Wayanad
- Shop in local spice stores found in every Kerala town to experience the freshest quality.
- Even if not purchasing, visiting shops lets visitors learn about the distinct appearance, aroma, and grade of each spice.
- Seek out whole spices, check freshness by aroma and appearance, and ask about grades and sourcing for the best experience.
Spices and wooden items for sale in a spice shop

Wayanad is the perfect destination for people from different walks of life. It has something for you in all the seasons. You should choose on what fits best for you in which season. You can use my post as a guide for you to explore the places in Wayanad and things to do in Wayanad especially when travelling with toddlers.

If you ask me if I will go back to Wayanad? HELL YES!!

Read also: My other posts from Kerala
August 30, 2025
Jatayu Earth’s Centre – Unveiling the Greatness of World’s Largest Bird Sculpture in Kerala
On the second day of the Varkala trip, the highlight was visiting the famous Jatayu Earth’s Centre at Chadayamangalam in Kollam. Renting a two-wheeler made the commute easy and flexible, avoiding the longer bus route via Varkala-Paripally-Chadayamangalam and the subsequent jeep ride to the rock sculpture.

What to Carry for Jatayu Earth’s Centre

Visitors are required to store all belongings like bags, drones, and water bottles in lockers near the ticket counter, except for mobile phones and wallets.

Only parents with children are allowed to carry bags inside the premises, ensuring a safe and clutter-free experience.

The Four Hills of Jatayu Earth’s Centre

Hill 1

Home to the world’s largest bird sculpture with exciting cable car and heli ride options.
- Rope car (single person): Rs. 535 (inclusive of GST)
Hill 2

Adventure zone featuring rappelling, paintball, zip-lining, and more — trekking shoes are mandatory here.
- Adventure activities (per person): Rs. 595 (inclusive of GST), with some additional costs for specific games.
- Group visits recommended for enhanced fun.
Hill 3

Offers forestation projects, campfire experiences, sky cycling, and moonlit family dinners.

Hill 4

Features Siddha rejuvenation therapies and natural cave accommodations for a serene stay.

Mighty Jatayu

Additional Attractions and Tips
- There is a Lord Rama Temple and a 6D museum within the sculpture.
- Visitors can enjoy a 12D experience and various interactive games on the way out.
- It is advisable to book tickets in advance, especially on weekends, to avoid crowds due to tourists and school field trips.
Timings

The centre is open daily from 10 am to 9 pm, providing ample time to explore all attractions and activities.

I’d would suggest booking your slots before you plan to visit the Jatayu Earth’s centre because the weekends might be crowded with tourists and field trips from school.

One of the indoor play areas in Jatayu

Whether it’s adventure, spirituality, or immersive experiences you seek, Jatayu Earth’s Centre near Varkala promises a memorable and enriching day trip in Kerala.

Read more: Travel attractions in Kerala
December 10, 2019
Varkala – My Exclusive Travel Guide to the Unruffled Coastal town in Kerala
Kerala is celebrated as one of South India’s most beautiful destinations, with Varkala recognized as a top offbeat attraction boasting stunning beaches, dramatic cliffs, tranquil sunsets, and lush greenery. For an October getaway, Varkala stands out for its scenic coastal charm and relaxed atmosphere.

Why visit Varkala in October?
- Varkala is ideal to visit from October to March when the weather is pleasant, dry, and perfect for beach activities, cliff walks, and sightseeing.
- The town is renowned for its Varkala Cliff, unique geological formations, and panoramic views of the Arabian Sea.
- Visitors can enjoy Papanasam Beach, explore local temples, sample fresh seafood, and embrace Kerala’s bohemian vibe
How to reach Varkala

Train

Board the Kochuveli Express from Krishnarajapuram Railway Station, Bangalore, to Kollam (14-hour journey); frequent local trains run from Kollam to Varkala, taking around 25 minutes.

Ticket costs:
- Bangalore to Kollam (AC 3 Tier): Rs. 1100+
- Kollam to Varkala: Rs. 30
Bus

There are many private buses plying between Varkala and Bangalore. The cost is between Rs.2000 – Rs.2500 one way. KSRTC Airavat and sleeper buses are also available to Varkala from Bangalore.

Local Commute Tips
- Upon arrival, autos are available to commute within Varkala; fares from the railway station to the cliffs typically range around Rs. 100, but auto drivers may charge a premium due to tourism demand.
- The best way to explore Varkala is by renting a two-wheeler, which provides flexibility and comfort for visiting beaches, cafes, and local attractions.
- Budget accommodations, cliffside hotels, and unique stays are plentiful and cater to every traveler, from solo visitors to families.
Varkala – First Impression

Varkala, Kerala is famed for its breathtaking cliffs and serene beaches, making it a sought-after coastal destination on the Arabian Sea. Arriving at Varkala Railway Station, the aroma of traditional South Indian breakfast—idli, dosa, and sambhar—welcomes travelers before heading out to the town’s scenic North Cliff and Papanasam Beach.

The excited me waiting to explore Varkala

Varkala Cliff Experience
- The Varkala Cliff is a unique geo-heritage site adjacent to the Arabian Sea, offering panoramic ocean views, a lively flea market, and a range of restaurants along the coastline.
- North Cliff features top eateries like Rock N Roll Cafe, Sea Queen, and Gods Own Country Kitchen, where continental, Indian, and seafood specialties are served at moderate to high prices.
- Papanasam Beach, located just steps from the cliff, is popular for its rejuvenating atmosphere and sacred springs.
Exploring Anjengo Town & Lighthouse
- Anjengo lies 12–14 km from Varkala and boasts a 130-foot lighthouse with captivating views of the Arabian Sea, backwaters, and the historical Anjengo Fort, built by the British East India Company.
- The lighthouse welcomes visitors from 3–5 pm; entry is around Rs.30, and climbing around 180–200 steps offers an epic coastal panorama.
- Renting a two-wheeler (approx. Rs. 300/24 hrs) is the most efficient way to travel locally, especially since rickshaws can be expensive or hard to find outside main areas.
View from the Anjengo lighthouse

Visiting hours: 3-5 pm
Entry fee: Rs.30

Some historical info: Next to the lighthouse you can find the Anjengo Fort established by the British East India Company. The fort served as the first signaling station for the ships arriving from England.

The entrance to the Anjengo fort

Sunset at Kappil Beach
- The west coast of India, especially Kappil Beach, is known for spectacular sunsets and tranquil evenings. Kappil is located 6 km from Varkala town and features picturesque views of Edava Lake and untouched golden sands.
- Visitors can stroll along a narrow strip separating the lake from the sea, enjoy peaceful nature photography, and relax away from busy tourist crowds.
- Early mornings or golden hour are ideal for birdwatching or capturing the coastline’s natural beauty.
Sunset

Sivagiri Mutt – Varkala

Sivagiri Mutt in Varkala is a revered pilgrimage site known for its tranquil ambiance and the legacy of Sree Narayana Guru, who built a hermitage atop Sivagiri hill for spiritual practice and social reform. The Saraswathi temple sits at the foothills, while the Guru’s Samadhi on top is open to visitors until 7:30 pm, making it an ideal spot for meditation and reflection.

Points to note before visiting the Mutt:
- The mutt is surrounded by lush greenery and features educational facilities established by Sree Narayana Guru, including an elementary and night school for marginalized communities.
- Dress conservatively and consider attending prayer sessions for a deeper cultural experience.
- The serene environment and inclusive philosophy welcome travelers and spiritual seekers year-round, with significant events held in August, September, and the annual pilgrimage at the end of December.
Jatayu Earth’s Centre – Guinness World Record Attraction
- Located 27 km from Varkala in Kollam district, Jatayu Earth’s Centre boasts the world’s largest functional bird sculpture, recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records.
- The center offers adventure activities, scenic views, and is open from 10 am to 9 pm.
- Commute options include renting a two-wheeler for convenience, or taking a bus to Paripally, transferring to Chadayamangalam, followed by a jeep ride to Jatayu; there is no direct train route from Varkala.
Timings: 10 am – 9pm

Statue of Women Safety and Honour

Varkala Aquarium Visit
- Situated near Thiruvambadi Beach, Varkala Aquarium is a popular destination for learning about aquatic biodiversity, featuring indigenous and exotic fish in a three-story spiral building.
- Timings are 10 am–6:30 pm; entry fee is Rs. 30 per person.
- The aquarium offers educational exhibits for children but some visitors note concerns about limited space for larger species.
Timings: 9.30 am – 6.30 pm
Entry fee: Rs.30

Variety of fishes

Food & Local Cuisine

Varkala features many small and affordable restaurants where one can savor Kerala delicacies such as Idiyappam, Appam, Puttu, and Kadala curry, all at minimal cost.

Romantic Dinners on the Varkala Cliff
- Most cliff restaurants in Varkala, like Trattorias, Claffouti, and Cafe Italiano, are known for sea-facing tables, cozy ambiance, and candlelight settings.
- Trattorias specializes in multi-cuisine dishes, including Italian, Thai, and fresh seafood, garnering praise for its friendly staff and relaxed cliffside atmosphere.
- Evening dining here is accompanied by the soothing sounds of the Arabian Sea, elevating the overall experience.
Morning Walk to Janardhana Swamy Temple

Early mornings in Varkala are ideal for beach walks and temple visits. The 2000-year-old Janardhana Swamy Temple, an architectural marvel and major pilgrimage site, is just 2 km from the cliff. The temple features a serene setting overlooking Papanasam Beach, blending spirituality with coastal charm.

Note: Visitors should wear traditional, modest attire covering arms and legs, as short clothes are discouraged out of respect for temple customs.

2000 years old temple

Surfing in Varkala

Varkala is a premier destination for water sports enthusiasts, especially those interested in learning and practicing surfing. The cliffside beach hosts numerous surf schools with experienced instructors who provide safe, beginner-friendly lessons, making it the perfect spot even for non-swimmers eager to challenge themselves. Whether a novice or looking to improve skills, Varkala surfing offers an exciting adventure against the stunning backdrop of Kerala’s coastline. Give surfing in Varkala a try for an unforgettable water sports experience!

Bye Varkala: Continuing the Adventure
- Departing Varkala by train to Kollam is convenient, and a KSRTC bus is a popular onward route to Bangalore.
- With extra time in Kollam, the Thangassery Lighthouse, open daily except Monday, 10 am–1 pm and 2 pm–6 pm, offers panoramic coastal views and fascinating colonial history.
- Thangassery is one of Kerala’s tallest lighthouses, painted in red and white, surrounded by ruins of colonial churches and forts, making it a must-see for history and photography enthusiasts.
Varkala: A Top Kerala Destination
- Known for dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, spiritual temples, and vibrant restaurant scenes, Varkala stands out as one of the most beautiful and best places to visit in Kerala.
- Whether planning romantic escapes, spiritual journeys, or scenic beach adventures, this travel guide ensures an unforgettable Varkala experience.
Read also: Travel attractions in Kerala
December 2, 2019