Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

Shoestring Budget 7-Day Itinerary in Kerala

Wednesday, November 1: Kochi

In the morning, explore the historic Fort Kochi area with its charming colonial buildings and Chinese fishing nets. Visit the St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, and the Indo-Portuguese Museum. In the afternoon, take a ferry ride to Willingdon Island for a relaxing stroll along the waterfront. In the evening, watch a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional form of storytelling through dance and music.

  • Fort Kochi: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
  • St. Francis Church: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
  • Indo-Portuguese Museum: Estimated Cost - INR 20, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Willingdon Island: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Kathakali Performance: Estimated Cost - INR 300-500, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Thursday, November 2: Munnar

Start your day with a visit to the enchanting Attukad Waterfalls. Take a leisurely walk through the tea gardens and enjoy the panoramic views of the lush green hills. In the afternoon, explore the Mattupetty Dam and go for an optional boating experience. End your day with a visit to the Tea Museum to learn about the history and production of tea in the region.

  • Attukad Waterfalls: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Tea Gardens: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Mattupetty Dam: Estimated Cost - INR 10, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Boating: Estimated Cost - INR 300-500, Time Spent - 1 hour
  • Tea Museum: Estimated Cost - INR 75, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Friday, November 3: Thekkady

Embark on a morning trek in the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its diverse flora and fauna. Take a boat ride on Periyar Lake to spot wildlife in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, visit a spice plantation and learn about the various spices grown in the region. In the evening, enjoy a cultural performance showcasing traditional art forms.

  • Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated Cost - INR 450, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
  • Periyar Lake Boat Ride: Estimated Cost - INR 225, Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Spice Plantation: Estimated Cost - INR 100, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Cultural Performance: Estimated Cost - INR 150-300, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Saturday, November 4: Alleppey

Start your day with a relaxing backwater cruise in a traditional houseboat. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the backwaters, lush greenery, and village life. In the afternoon, explore the narrow canals and visit the coir-making units to witness the traditional craftsmanship. Spend the evening strolling along the Alleppey Beach and enjoying the sunset.

  • Backwater Cruise: Estimated Cost - INR 400-600, Time Spent - 4-6 hours
  • Canal Exploration: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Coir-Making Units: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Alleppey Beach: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
Sunday, November 5: Varkala

Start your morning with a visit to the ancient Janardhana Swamy Temple. Relax on the pristine Varkala Beach and take a dip in the Arabian Sea. Indulge in some delicious seafood at the beachside shacks. In the afternoon, explore the stunning cliffs of Varkala and enjoy the panoramic views. End your day with a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage.

  • Janardhana Swamy Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Varkala Beach: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
  • Cliffs of Varkala: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Seafood: Estimated Cost - INR 300-500, Time Spent - 1 hour
  • Ayurvedic Massage: Estimated Cost - INR 500-1000, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Monday, November 6: Kovalam

Start your day by visiting the iconic Lighthouse Beach in Kovalam. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and beach activities. In the afternoon, explore the Hawa Beach and Samudra Beach. Treat yourself to a traditional Kerala sadya (feast) for lunch. End your day with a relaxing Ayurvedic spa session.

  • Lighthouse Beach: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
  • Hawa Beach: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Samudra Beach: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Kerala Sadya: Estimated Cost - INR 200-400, Time Spent - 1 hour
  • Ayurvedic Spa: Estimated Cost - INR 500-1000, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Tuesday, November 7: Trivandrum

In the morning, visit the famous Padmanabhaswamy Temple, known for its architectural beauty. Explore the Napier Museum and Art Gallery, showcasing a vast collection of historical and contemporary artifacts. In the afternoon, take a stroll through the lush green gardens of the Kanakakunnu Palace. End your day by visiting the Kovalam Art Gallery, promoting local art and handicrafts.

  • Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Napier Museum and Art Gallery: Estimated Cost - INR 20, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Kanakakunnu Palace: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Kovalam Art Gallery: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path experiences, head to the quiet village of Mararikulam, located south of Alleppey. Enjoy the serene Marari Beach, known for its tranquility and pristine beauty. Take a cycling tour through the nearby villages to witness the traditional way of life. Another hidden gem is the Anamudi Shola National Park, perfect for nature lovers and trekking enthusiasts.

For local favorites, visit the local markets in each destination to taste authentic Kerala cuisine at affordable prices. Don't miss trying the local delicacies like appam, puttu, and fish curry. Engage with locals and learn about their culture and traditions, as they are always welcoming and eager to share their experiences.

Check hotel and flights prices for your trip to Kerala here.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version