Kerala on a Shoestring Budget: A 5-day Itinerary

  1. Day 1: Fort Kochi
    35 minutes (13.3 km) from Cochin International Airport

    Explore the beautiful colonial architecture, charming streets, and eclectic art scene of Fort Kochi. Visit St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, Chinese Fishing Nets, and the Dutch Palace.

  2. Day 2: Munnar
    4 hours 10 minutes (126.1 km) from Fort Kochi

    Take a scenic bus ride to the picturesque hill station of Munnar. Trek through the lush green tea plantations, visit Mattupetty Dam, and enjoy the stunning views from Top Station.

  3. Day 3: Thekkady
    3 hours 5 minutes (91.2 km) from Munnar

    Experience the wildlife and nature of Thekkady. Take a guided tour of Periyar National Park, where you can spot elephants, tigers, and other wildlife. Take a boat ride on Periyar Lake and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding forests and hills.

  4. Day 4: Alleppey
    3 hours 40 minutes (149.8 km) from Thekkady

    Relax and unwind as you cruise along the idyllic backwaters of Alleppey. Book a houseboat and enjoy the traditional Kerala cuisine while admiring the tranquil scenery of paddy fields, coconut trees, and lagoons.

  5. Day 5: Kovalam Beach
    3 hours 20 minutes (179.7 km) from Alleppey

    End your trip with some sun, sand, and sea at the popular Kovalam Beach. Enjoy the warm waters, try some fresh seafood at the beach shacks, and watch the stunning sunset from the lighthouse.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • St. Francis Church (30 mins, Free)
  • Chinese Fishing Nets (30 mins, Free)
  • Dutch Palace (1 hour, INR 5)
  • Mattupetty Dam (1-2 hours, INR 10)
  • Top Station (2-3 hours, INR 25)
  • Periyar National Park (3 hours, INR 50)
  • Houseboat in Alleppey (24 hours, INR 5000-7000)
  • Kovalam Beach (2-4 hours, Free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 5050-7050

Useful Tips

If you have more time, add a day at Wayanad for trekking, wildlife, and scenic waterfalls. Alternatively, skip Thekkady and spend the day at Varkala Beach for some surfing, yoga, and beachside cafes. If you have less time, skip Alleppey and end your trip at Kovalam. Find the cheapest mode of transportation by booking in advance and carry snacks and water for long bus rides.

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