A Week in Kerala on a Shoestring Budget

1. Day 1: Kochi
   45 minutes (29.3 km) from Cochin International Airport

   In the morning, explore Fort Kochi's colonial architecture and Chinese fishing nets. In the afternoon, visit the Mattancherry Palace and Jewish Synagogue. Enjoy an evening stroll along Marine Drive.

   • Fort Kochi Sightseeing: ₹100 ($1.34), 4 hours
2. Day 2: Munnar
   4 hours 30 minutes (126.5 km) from Kochi

   Spend the morning in the tea gardens of Munnar, enjoying panoramic views. Afternoon visit to the Tea Museum and Eravikulam National Park. In the evening, explore the local markets.

   • Tea Museum: ₹75 ($1.01), 2 hours
   • Eravikulam National Park: ₹120 ($1.61), 3 hours
3. Day 3: Thekkady
   3 hours 30 minutes (91.2 km) from Munnar

   Spend the morning exploring Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and go for a boat ride on Periyar Lake. In the afternoon, visit spice plantations and enjoy an elephant ride. Evening free for leisure.

   • Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: ₹25 ($0.34), 4 hours
   • Elephant Ride: ₹400 ($5.36), 1 hour
4. Day 4: Alleppey
   3 hours 15 minutes (138.8 km) from Thekkady

   Take a leisurely morning houseboat cruise through the serene backwaters of Alleppey. In the afternoon, visit Alleppey Beach and explore the local markets. Enjoy a peaceful evening by the backwaters.

   • Houseboat Cruise: ₹2,000 ($26.78), 4 hours
5. Day 5: Kovalam
   3 hours 30 minutes (161.7 km) from Alleppey

   Relax on the beautiful beaches of Kovalam in the morning. Afternoon visit to the Lighthouse Beach and explore the lively beachside markets. Enjoy a stunning sunset by the Arabian Sea.

   • Kovalam Beach Relaxation: Free, 4 hours
6. Day 6: Varkala
   1 hour 30 minutes (49.9 km) from Kovalam

   Spend the morning at Varkala Beach, known for its cliffs and natural springs. Afternoon visit to the Janardanaswamy Temple and enjoy a rejuvenating Ayurvedic spa session. Evening for leisure and sunset views.

   • Ayurvedic Spa Session: ₹1,500 ($20.08), 2 hours
7. Day 7: Trivandrum
   1 hour (44.1 km) from Varkala

   Explore the cultural sights of Trivandrum in the morning, including Padmanabhaswamy Temple and Napier Museum. In the afternoon, wander through the vibrant markets and indulge in local delicacies.

   • Padmanabhaswamy Temple Visit: Free, 2 hours

Recommendations

Are there any other local attractions, events, or experiences I should also consider? How about day trips? Any good ideas on how to get the most for my money and have a lot of fun?

Other attractions to consider include Athirapally Falls, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, and the famous backwater village of Kumarakom. For day trips, you can explore the beautiful hill station of Ponmudi or take a boat ride to Poovar Island. To get the most out of your budget, try local street food and consider using public transportation for intercity travel.

For checking hotel and flight prices, you can visit this link.