Kerala on a Shoestring Budget: A 4-Day Itinerary

  1. Day 1: Fort Kochi
    30 minutes (12.8 km) from Cochin International Airport

    Explore the historical and cultural neighborhood of Fort Kochi, home to many European colonial influences, including the Dutch Palace and St. Francis Church. Take a stroll along the Fort Kochi Beach and spot the famous Chinese Fishing Nets. End your day with a Kathakali Dance Performance at the Kerala Kathakali Centre.

  2. Day 2: Munnar
    4 hours (126 km) from Fort Kochi

    Visit the tea plantations in Munnar, a picturesque hill station famous for its rolling green hills and cool climate. Take a guided tour of the tea-making process at the Tea Museum and enjoy the scenic views at Echo Point and Top Station.

  3. Day 3: Thekkady
    3 hours (91 km) from Munnar

    Explore the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Thekkady. Take a boat ride around Periyar Lake to see herds of elephants and other wildlife. Experience a spice plantation tour and learn about the cultivation of a variety of spices.

  4. Day 4: Kochi
    4 hours (145 km) from Thekkady

    Complete your trip with some shopping and sightseeing in Kochi. Check out the local handicrafts at the Kerala Government Handicrafts Emporium and Princess Street. Visit the Mattancherry Palace and the Paradesi Synagogue, the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations.

Time and Costs Estimates:

  • Dutch Palace (1 hour, INR 5)
  • St. Francis Church (30 minutes, free)
  • Fort Kochi Beach (1 hour, free)
  • Kathakali Dance Performance (2 hours, INR 450)
  • Tea Museum (1-2 hours, INR 135)
  • Echo Point (1-2 hours, free)
  • Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (4-5 hours, INR 25 for Indians)
  • Spice Plantation Tour (1-2 hours, INR 100)
  • Kerala Government Handicrafts Emporium (1-2 hours, free)
  • Paradesi Synagogue (30 minutes, INR 5)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 720

Useful Tips:

If you have more time, consider adding a visit to the backwaters in Kumarakom for a peaceful houseboat ride. For wildlife enthusiasts, the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, located 2 hours (60 km) from Munnar, is home to a variety of animals. On a tighter budget, skip the Kathakali Dance Performance or opt for free walking tours in Fort Kochi instead of guided tours.

0