Kerala on a Shoestring Budget for 4 Days

  1. Day 1: Fort Kochi
    1 hour 30 minutes (35.1 km) from Cochin International Airport

    Explore the charming streets of Fort Kochi where you can see the mix of Portuguese, Dutch and British influences on the architecture. You can visit the famous Chinese fishing nets at the beach and visit the many art galleries and shops in the area. End the day with a traditional Kathakali dance performance.

  2. Day 2: Munnar
    4 hour 20 minutes (130 km) from Fort Kochi

    Take a scenic drive up to the hill station of Munnar where you can visit a tea plantation and learn about the tea-making process. Stop by the waterfalls of Attukad and Lakkam before heading to the Top Station for a stunning view of the hills and mountains. You can also visit the Eravikulam National Park to see the Nilgiri Tahr, an endangered mountain goat.

  3. Day 3: Alleppey
    4 hours 20 minutes (142 km) from Munnar

    Spend the day in Alleppey, known as the Venice of the East. Take a serene boat ride on the backwaters and enjoy the lush scenery. Visit the Alleppey beach and the St. Andrews Basilica. In the evening, witness a traditional performance of the Theyyam dance.

  4. Day 4: Kovalam
    2 hours 10 minutes (76.3 km) from Alleppey

    Relax at the beautiful beaches of Kovalam, popular for its clear blue waters and coconut groves. Visit the iconic lighthouse beach and Samudra Beach. Take a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage on the beachside or visit the nearby Halcyon Castle.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Chinese Fishing Nets (30 mins, free)
  • Kathakali Dance Performance (1 hour, INR 200 - INR 500)
  • Tea Plantation Visit (2 hours, INR 100 - INR 200)
  • Eravikulam National Park (2-3 hours, INR 125 - INR 420)
  • Boat Ride on the Backwaters (2 hours, INR 200 - INR 800)
  • Theyyam Performance (1 hour, INR 600 - INR 800)
  • Ayurvedic Massage (1 hour, INR 500 - INR 2500)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 1500 - INR 4620

Useful tips

If you have more time, consider visiting more of Kerala's beaches or taking a houseboat ride on the backwaters. For a food adventure, try traditional Kerala cuisine like fluffy appams paired with spicy curries. If you have less time, skip the Theyyam performance or the tea plantation visit.

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