Two Days in Kerala on a Shoestring Budget

  1. Day 1: Explore Fort Kochi
    Start at Vasco da Gama Square
    1-2 hours (2.2 km) from Cochin International Airport

    Begin your day by exploring the charming and historic Fort Kochi area. Visit St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, and learn about its rich history. Take a walk on the promenade and catch a glimpse of the famous Chinese fishing nets. Spend some time browsing the quaint shops and cafes in the area. For lunch, try some authentic Kerala cuisine at Dal Roti, a popular spot with great reviews. A walk through the spice market is a must-see for any food lover. End your day by visiting the Paradesi Synagogue, the oldest existing Jewish synagogue in the world.

  2. Day 2: Admire Nature in Munnar
    Start at the Munnar Tea Museum
    4-5 hours (126 km) from Fort Kochi

    Experience the natural beauty of Kerala and visit the tea plantations in Munnar. Start at the Munnar Tea Museum to learn about the history of tea production in the region. Next, take a guided tour of the Kolukkumalai Tea Estate and watch the tea-making process. You'll be treated to panoramic views of the tea plantations and hills. Continue your adventure by visiting the Mattupetty Dam, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area and a chance to spot wildlife, such as the Nilgiri tahrs. Finally, take a stroll through the Rose Garden for a relaxing end to your day.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Vasco da Gama Square (free)
  • St. Francis Church (20 minutes, free)
  • Chinese Fishing Nets (free)
  • Dal Roti restaurant (1 hour, INR 300 for two)
  • Spice Market (30 minutes, free)
  • Paradesi Synagogue (45 minutes, INR 5)
  • Munnar Tea Museum (1 hour, INR 120)
  • Kolukkumalai Tea Estate (2 hours, INR 1000 per person)
  • Mattupetty Dam (1-2 hours, INR 10)
  • Rose Garden (free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 1515 (approximately $21 USD)

Useful Tips

If you have extra time, consider adding a visit to the backwaters of Kerala, a unique ecosystem of canals, lagoons, and lakes. Kumarakom and Alleppey are popular destinations for boat rides through the backwaters. For those with less time, consider shortening your Munnar visit to only a few hours and spend the rest of the day exploring the beaches of Kovalam or Varkala.

0