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7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary in Kerala

Sunday, October 15: Kochi

Explore the historic city of Kochi in the morning by visiting the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets and the bustling Jew Town. In the afternoon, take a leisurely boat ride on the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey. As the evening sets in, attend a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional art form of Kerala.

  • Chinese Fishing Nets: Free, 1 hour
  • Jew Town: Free, 2 hours
  • Alleppey Backwaters Boat Ride: INR 500 ($7) per person, 3 hours
  • Kathakali Dance Performance: INR 300 ($4) per person, 2 hours
Monday, October 16: Munnar

Start your day with a visit to the Eravikulam National Park, famous for its endangered Nilgiri Tahr. In the afternoon, indulge in a tea tasting session at a local tea plantation. Enjoy a serene evening by taking a stroll through the enchanting Munnar Tea Gardens.

  • Eravikulam National Park: INR 120 ($2) per person, 3 hours
  • Tea Tasting: INR 100 ($1.5) per person, 1 hour
  • Munnar Tea Gardens: Free, 2 hours
Tuesday, October 17: Thekkady

In the morning, embark on a thrilling jungle safari in the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, home to diverse flora and fauna. Afternoon can be spent exploring the spice plantations and participating in a spice tour. Wrap up the day with a relaxing boat ride on the Periyar Lake while enjoying the scenic beauty.

  • Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: INR 200 ($3) per person, 4 hours
  • Spice Plantation Tour: INR 100 ($1.5) per person, 2 hours
  • Periyar Lake Boat Ride: INR 150 ($2) per person, 2 hours
Wednesday, October 18: Varkala

Start your day with a rejuvenating sunrise yoga session on the stunning Varkala Beach. In the afternoon, visit the ancient Janardhanaswamy Temple and take a dip in the holy waters of the Papanasam Beach. Spend the evening exploring the vibrant cliff-side shops and cafes.

  • Sunrise Yoga: Free, 1 hour
  • Janardhanaswamy Temple: Free, 1 hour
  • Papanasam Beach: Free, 2 hours
Thursday, October 19: Kovalam

Begin your day by relaxing on the beautiful Kovalam Beach and indulge in water activities like swimming and surfing. In the afternoon, visit the famous Padmanabhaswamy Temple, known for its intricate architecture. Witness a mesmerizing sunset at the iconic Lighthouse Beach.

  • Kovalam Beach: Free, 3 hours
  • Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Free, 1 hour
  • Lighthouse Beach: Free, 2 hours
Friday, October 20: Kumarakom

Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Kumarakom by taking a serene houseboat cruise on the backwaters. Enjoy a freshly prepared traditional Kerala meal on the houseboat while admiring the lush green landscape. In the evening, explore the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary and spot various bird species.

  • Houseboat Cruise: INR 3,000 ($40) per person, 6 hours
  • Kerala Meal on Houseboat: INR 500 ($7) per person
  • Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: INR 50 ($0.7) per person, 2 hours
Saturday, October 21: Wayanad

Start your day by visiting the spectacular Edakkal Caves and exploring the ancient rock carvings. In the afternoon, hike to the scenic Soochipara Falls and take a refreshing dip in the natural pool. Spend the evening witnessing a traditional tribal dance performance.

  • Edakkal Caves: INR 40 ($0.5) per person, 3 hours
  • Soochipara Falls: INR 80 ($1) per person, 2 hours
  • Tribal Dance Performance: INR 200 ($3) per person, 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

One of the hidden gems in Kerala is the offbeat destination of Marari Beach. It offers a peaceful and less crowded alternative to the popular beaches. For nature lovers, a visit to the Silent Valley National Park is a must, where you can explore untouched forests and spot unique wildlife. Additionally, exploring the backwaters of Kozhikode in a traditional houseboat is a unique and budget-friendly experience.

Check hotel and flight prices in Kerala to plan your trip within your shoestring budget.

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