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7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary in Kerala

Friday, October 13: Arrive in Kochi

Welcome to Kerala! Start your trip by exploring the historic city of Kochi. In the morning, visit Fort Kochi and explore the charming streets lined with colonial-era buildings. Afternoon, head to the Chinese Fishing Nets and watch the fishermen at work. In the evening, catch a traditional Kathakali dance performance.

  • Fort Kochi: Approximately ₹100 ($1.50), 3 hours
  • Chinese Fishing Nets: Free, 1 hour
  • Kathakali Dance Performance: Approximately ₹300 ($4.50), 2 hours
Saturday, October 14: Munnar

Head to Munnar, a hill station known for its tea plantations. In the morning, take a scenic drive through the lush greenery and visit the Tea Museum to learn about the history of tea production. Afternoon, explore the beautiful Eravikulam National Park and spot endangered Nilgiri Tahr. In the evening, enjoy a peaceful walk around the serene Mattupetty Dam.

  • Tea Museum: Approximately ₹150 ($2.25), 2 hours
  • Eravikulam National Park: Approximately ₹125 ($1.85), 3 hours
  • Mattupetty Dam: Free, 1 hour
Sunday, October 15: Alleppey

Experience the backwaters of Kerala in Alleppey. In the morning, take a relaxing houseboat cruise and enjoy the scenic beauty of the backwaters. Afternoon, visit the famous Alleppey Beach for some beach time. In the evening, explore the local markets and indulge in delicious seafood.

  • Houseboat Cruise: Approximately ₹5,000 ($75), 6 hours
  • Alleppey Beach: Free, 2 hours
  • Local Markets: Budget as per preference, 2 hours
Monday, October 16: Thekkady

Head to Thekkady, home to the Periyar National Park. In the morning, go for a guided jungle trek in the national park and spot wildlife. Afternoon, take a serene boat ride on Periyar Lake and enjoy the picturesque surroundings. In the evening, immerse yourself in the aroma of spices at a local spice plantation.

  • Periyar National Park: Approximately ₹400 ($6), 4 hours
  • Boat Ride on Periyar Lake: Approximately ₹200 ($3), 2 hours
  • Spice Plantation Visit: Approximately ₹100 ($1.50), 2 hours
Tuesday, October 17: Varkala

Visit the laid-back coastal town of Varkala. In the morning, relax at the scenic Varkala Beach and soak up the sun. Afternoon, visit the ancient Janardanaswamy Temple, which is believed to be 2000 years old. In the evening, enjoy the stunning sunset views from the cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea.

  • Varkala Beach: Free, 4 hours
  • Janardanaswamy Temple: Free, 1 hour
  • Cliffs: Free, 2 hours
Wednesday, October 18: Kovalam

Head to Kovalam, another beautiful coastal destination. In the morning, relax at the pristine beaches of Kovalam and take a dip in the clear blue waters. Afternoon, visit the ancient Padmanabhaswamy Temple and admire its architectural grandeur. In the evening, indulge in some shopping at the local markets.

  • Kovalam Beaches: Free, 4 hours
  • Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Free, 2 hours
  • Shopping: Budget as per preference, 2 hours
Thursday, October 19: Thiruvananthapuram

Explore the capital city of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram. In the morning, visit the iconic Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple and marvel at its intricate Dravidian architecture. Afternoon, explore the Napier Museum and Art Gallery to admire its impressive collection. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the beautiful Kovalam Beach.

  • Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Free, 2 hours
  • Napier Museum and Art Gallery: Approximately ₹20 ($0.30), 2 hours
  • Kovalam Beach: Free, 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the beautiful hill station of Ponmudi, known for its lush green landscapes and misty mountains. Another hidden gem is the village of Kumbalangi, where you can experience the authentic rural life of Kerala and indulge in delicious seafood.

For local favorites, explore the vibrant streets of Kozhikode (Calicut) and indulge in the famous Malabar cuisine. Don't miss trying the traditional Malabar biryani and banana chips.

For more personalized recommendations, check out KAYAK to find the best hotel and flight prices for your travel dates.

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