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Kerala, India Shoestring Budget 7-Day Itinerary

Monday, December 18: Check Hotel and Flight Prices

Start your trip in Kerala by exploring the beautiful backwaters of Alleppey. In the morning, take a leisurely cruise along the serene canals flanked by lush greenery. Experience the unique lifestyle of the locals living in houseboats. In the afternoon, visit the Alleppey Beach and relax on its sandy shores. As the evening sets in, wander through the crowded and lively Alleppey Market, where you can soak in the local culture and grab some inexpensive street food.

  • Alleppey Backwaters Cruise: Cost Estimate - INR 500 ($7), Time Spent - 4 hours
  • Alleppey Beach: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Alleppey Market: Cost Estimate - INR 200 ($3), Time Spent - 2 hours
Tuesday, December 19: Munnar

In the morning, head to Munnar, a picturesque hill station known for its tea gardens and scenic beauty. Visit the Tea Museum to learn about the history and process of tea production. Enjoy a refreshing cup of locally-grown tea. In the afternoon, take a nature walk to explore the mesmerizing landscapes, waterfalls, and flora of the region. As the evening approaches, visit the local market to purchase fresh spices and aromatic tea leaves.

  • Tea Museum: Cost Estimate - INR 100 ($1.4), Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Nature Walk in Munnar: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 3 hours
  • Local Market: Cost Estimate - INR 200 ($3), Time Spent - 1 hour
Wednesday, December 20: Thekkady

Embark on a thrilling adventure in Thekkady, known for its wildlife sanctuary. In the morning, go for a guided jungle trek to spot various animals and bird species. Enjoy the scenic beauty of Periyar Lake during a boat ride in the afternoon. As the evening sets in, attend a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional form of dance-drama unique to Kerala.

  • Jungle Trek in Thekkady: Cost Estimate - INR 500 ($7), Time Spent - 4 hours
  • Boat Ride on Periyar Lake: Cost Estimate - INR 250 ($3.5), Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Kathakali Dance Performance: Cost Estimate - INR 200 ($3), Time Spent - 2 hours
Thursday, December 21: Kochi

In the morning, explore the historical city of Kochi. Visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets and enjoy the mesmerizing views of the backwaters. Take a tour of the Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, to witness its beautiful architecture and historical artifacts. In the afternoon, wander through the vibrant streets of Jew Town and indulge in some local delicacies. As the evening approaches, watch a traditional Kathakali performance.

  • Chinese Fishing Nets: Cost Estimate - INR 50 ($0.7), Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Mattancherry Palace: Cost Estimate - INR 50 ($0.7), Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Jew Town: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Kathakali Performance: Cost Estimate - INR 200 ($3), Time Spent - 2 hours
Friday, December 22: Kovalam

Head to the coastal town of Kovalam for a relaxing beach getaway. In the morning, spend time sunbathing and swimming at the Lighthouse Beach. Explore the iconic Vizhinjam Lighthouse and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline. In the afternoon, indulge in some Ayurvedic massages and rejuvenate your senses. As the evening sets in, witness a stunning sunset at Hawa Beach.

  • Lighthouse Beach: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 4 hours
  • Vizhinjam Lighthouse: Cost Estimate - INR 30 ($0.4), Time Spent - 1 hour
  • Ayurvedic Massages: Cost Estimate - INR 500-1000 ($7-14), Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Hawa Beach: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
Saturday, December 23: Varkala

Discover the beautiful cliffside beach town of Varkala. In the morning, take a dip in the pristine waters of Varkala Beach and relax on the golden sands. Visit the ancient Janardhana Swamy Temple and immerse yourself in spirituality. In the afternoon, explore the nearby Edava Beach and indulge in some thrilling water sports. As the evening approaches, watch the mesmerizing sunset from the famous Varkala Cliffs.

  • Varkala Beach: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 4 hours
  • Janardhana Swamy Temple: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
  • Edava Beach: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Varkala Cliffs: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
Sunday, December 24: Departure

On your last day in Kerala, spend the morning exploring the local markets for souvenirs and handicrafts. Enjoy a traditional Kerala breakfast. In the afternoon, bid farewell to this beautiful state and depart for your onward journey with memories to cherish.

  • Shopping for Souvenirs: Cost Estimate - INR 500 ($7), Time Spent - 3 hours
  • Traditional Kerala Breakfast: Cost Estimate - INR 200 ($3), Time Spent - 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

One hidden gem in Kerala is the village of Kumbalangi, located near Kochi. It is a tranquil fishing village where you can experience the authentic rural life of Kerala. Take a ride in a country boat, interact with friendly locals, and enjoy delicious seafood prepared in traditional Kerala style. Another local favorite is the village of Kumarakom, famous for its enchanting backwaters and bird sanctuary. Explore the lush green landscapes, spot migratory birds, and relax in eco-friendly resorts.

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