Heritage Trails of Malabar: Forts, Backwaters & Coastal Cuisine | 6 Nights and 7 Days Kerala Package






- Transfer Included
- Stay Included
- Meals Included
- Sightseeing Included
Overview
a carefully curated Kerala tour package ideal for families who want a relaxed yet immersive Kerala Family tour package experience. This 6 nights / 7 days Kerala Family package explores the historic forts of Malabar, serene backwaters, pristine beaches and the world-famous coastal cuisine of northern Kerala. Perfect for travellers seeking culture, cuisine and gentle exploration at a family-friendly pace.
Highlights:
- Bekal Fort sunset visit and beach walk
- Houseboat / Backwater cruise on Valiyaparamba backwaters
- Beypore boat-building and Kozhikode coastal food walk
- St. Angelo's Fort and Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach in Kannur
- Traditional Malabar cooking demonstration and seafood tasting
This itinerary is designed as a 6 and 7 Kerala Family tour package offering a balance of heritage, nature and culinary experiences.
Itinerary
Arrival, Kozhikode Orientation & Coastal Evening
Arrive at Kozhikode (Calicut) airport/railway station. Transfer to your hotel and relax. Afternoon city orientation walk including Mananchira Square and the historic lanes of SM Street (Mittayi Theruvu). Evening visit to Kozhikode Beach and sunset by the shore. Dinner features a welcome tasting of Kozhikodan Malabar cuisine — small plates and seafood specialities.
Tip: If you arrive early, opt for a short guided walk to sample local snacks like 'kalathappam' and 'halwa'.
Beypore Heritage & Kozhikode Culinary Experience
Morning drive to historic Beypore, famous for traditional dhow (Uru) building. Watch artisans at work and learn about maritime history. Return to Kozhikode for a visit to Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary (seasonal) or a relaxed boat ride. Late afternoon join a Malabar cooking demonstration — learn to prepare coconut-based curries and seafood dishes, followed by a family-style dinner.
Important: Bird sanctuary visits are seasonal — check local timings. The cooking demo is family-friendly and suitable for children.
Drive to Kannur — Forts, Culture & Beaches
After breakfast, drive north to Kannur (approx. 2.5–3 hours). On arrival, explore St. Angelo's Fort and enjoy panoramic sea views. Afternoon at Payyambalam Beach for relaxation. In the evening attend a cultural performance — Theyam (seasonal) or a local folk show — offering insights into Malabar's living traditions.
Note: Theyam performances run mainly between October and May; when not available, an alternate folk performance will be arranged.
Kannur Exploration & Coastal Villages
Start with Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach — one of India's longest drive-in stretches. Visit Arakkal Museum to learn about Kerala's only Muslim royal family and the maritime legacy. Afternoon village walk through fishing hamlets, meet local fishermen, and experience traditional fish-drying yards. Evening leisure and optional local shopping for handloom textiles.
Tip: Carry sunscreen and a hat for the beach drive; the drive-in beach is ideal for family photos and gentle drives.
Bekal & the Mighty Fort
Drive to Bekal in Kasaragod district (approx. 2–2.5 hours). Spend the day at the imposing Bekal Fort — walk its ramparts, explore ancient tunnels and enjoy the beach below. Take a guided heritage walk to learn about Malabar's coastal defenses and colonial encounters. Enjoy a fresh seafood dinner with local Malabar spices.
Note: Bekal Fort is an excellent spot for sunset photography — plan your visit in the late afternoon for the best light.
Valiyaparamba Backwaters — Houseboat Cruise & Village Life
Transfer to Valiyaparamba backwaters for a private houseboat or traditional kettuvallam cruise. Glide through palm-fringed canals, watch village life unfold, and stop at small islands for short walks. Onboard, savour a specially prepared Malabar coastal cuisine lunch and dinner featuring local spices and seafood. Evening fishing with the crew or a relaxed stargazing session.
Important: Houseboats are family-friendly; rooms are comfortable but basic. Inform us in advance for dietary preferences or mobility needs.
Return to Kozhikode & Departure
After breakfast aboard the houseboat, transfer back to Kozhikode for your onward journey. If time permits, visit Kappad Beach (Vasco da Gama landing site) on the way for a brief historical stop. Drop-off at Kozhikode airport or railway station. End of the Heritage Trails of Malabar itinerary.
Tip: Allow buffer time for road traffic when planning flights. Ask us about extending the package with Munnar or Kochi add-ons.
Inclusions
- 6 nights accommodation in family-friendly hotels and 1-night houseboat (as per itinerary)
- Daily breakfast (6) and selected lunches/dinners as noted
- All transfers and sightseeing by private air-conditioned vehicle
- Guided visits and local entrance fees as per itinerary
- One Malabar cooking demonstration and cultural show (where available)
- Houseboat cruise on Valiyaparamba backwaters with meals onboard
- Bottled water during transfers
- Local taxes (hotel taxes included)
Inclusions are designed for a family-friendly Kerala Family Retreat package. Customisation available on request.
Exclusions
- International / domestic flights to Kozhikode
- Travel insurance and personal expenses
- Additional meals and beverages not specified
- Tips, porterage and laundry
- Entrance fees for optional activities or seasonal Theyam unless specified
- Any government levies introduced after booking
Note: Optional experiences (e.g., private Theyam viewing, specialised photography tours) can be added for an extra cost.
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