if you're already going to Goa, you don't have to make a trip to Kerala specifically for its beaches. But, there is much of interest and beauty there, and I would recommend it as a destination. How about some time at the Karnataka hill stations like Ooty and Coonoor? YOur kids and you would love the Nilgiri Mountain railway that connects the two. Also, in Kerala, as time in the backwaters The kids would probably love the houseboat. Kerala backwater areas are beautiful, lush, and unique., so at one point you should take a country boat--almost like a canoe--to get into some of the narrower waterways which the houseboat can't reach.
Bangalore? I've spent time only in the airport, but i t's not usually on the radar as a great tourist or family destination.
Finally, if you've not already done so, search indiamike for great family trip ideas and reports.

Bangalore is a great place to live, but there are much better places to go on a vacation! I would do the Kerala houseboat, but I say that because it is one of the things we *haven't* done yet, and everyone keeps nagging us about it.

One thing to think about: where will you be for Diwali?

Has anyone ever used Chalukya Grace Tours out of Trivandrum? They were recommended to us by a travel group in the North of India? I would love to hear some feedback on their services.

A houseboat in Kerala is a great idea and something I'm sure your kids will love. Another idea is to go to the east coast -- Chennai and/or Madurai. The culture and Hindu temples will be very different from what you see in Rajasthan and Goa, and could make for a wonderful experience.

You could consider a road trip starting Chennai and ending in Cochin and covering Mammallapuram, Pondicherry, Tanjore, Trichy, Madurai, Thekkady, Munnar, Allepey and a houseboat cruise