7-Day Nature Rail/Train Trip in Kerala on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Exploring Kochi

Kochi, India

8:00AM

Fort Kochi Beach

Start your day by relaxing at the picturesque Fort Kochi Beach, watching fishermen at work and enjoying the calm sea breeze.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Mattancherry Palace

Visit the Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, to admire its stunning architecture and historical artefacts.
INR 5, 1 hour

2:00PM

Jew Town

Explore the vibrant Jew Town, filled with antique shops, spice markets, and the famous Paradesi Synagogue.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Local Street Food

Indulge in delicious local street food for dinner at venues like Dal Roti or Pai Dosa.
INR 200, 1 hour

Day 2: More of Kochi

Kochi, India

9:00AM

Kerala Folklore Museum

Visit the Kerala Folklore Museum to learn about the rich cultural heritage of Kerala through art and artefacts.
INR 100, 2 hours

12:00PM

Local Market Shopping

Spend your afternoon shopping for souvenirs and handicrafts at the local markets in Kochi.
Variable, 2 hours

4:00PM

Kathakali Dance Show

Witness a mesmerising Kathakali dance performance at the Kerala Kathakali Centre.
INR 300, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Fusion Bay

Enjoy a delicious dinner at Fusion Bay, known for its fusion of Kerala and international cuisines.
INR 400, 1 hour

Day 3: Nature in Munnar

Munnar, India

9:00AM

Tea Plantations

Start your day with a visit to the lush tea plantations of Munnar, where you can witness the tea-making process.
INR 100, 3 hours

1:00PM

Eravikulam National Park

Explore the diverse flora and fauna of Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr.
INR 120, 2 hours

4:00PM

Munnar Town Market

Spend your evening strolling through the Munnar Town Market, picking up local teas and spices.
Variable, 2 hours

7:00PM

Local Dinner

Try authentic Kerala cuisine for dinner at Rapsy Restaurant or Saravana Bhavan.
INR 250, 1 hour

Day 4: Relax in Munnar

Munnar, India

9:00AM

Top Station

Visit Top Station for panoramic views of the Western Ghats and neighbouring state of Tamil Nadu.
INR 20, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lakkam Waterfalls

Cool off at Lakkam Waterfalls, a serene spot for swimming and relaxing in nature.
INR 20, 2 hours

4:00PM

Echo Point

Visit Echo Point to experience the natural echo phenomenon and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Sree Krishna

Feast on traditional Kerala meals at Sree Krishna, known for its authentic flavours and affordable prices.
INR 200, 1 hour

Day 5: Wildlife in Thekkady

Thekkady, India

9:00AM

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Embark on a safari at Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary to spot elephants, tigers, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
INR 450, 3 hours

1:00PM

Spice Plantations

Explore the aromatic spice plantations of Thekkady and learn about the cultivation of various spices.
INR 50, 2 hours

4:00PM

Boat Ride on Periyar Lake

Enjoy a serene boat ride on Periyar Lake, surrounded by lush greenery and wildlife sightings.
INR 150, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Bamboo Cafe

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Bamboo Cafe, offering a mix of Indian and continental dishes.
INR 300, 1 hour

Day 6: Backwaters of Alleppey

Alleppey, India

9:00AM

Backwater Houseboat Cruise

Embark on a relaxing houseboat cruise through the backwaters of Alleppey, soaking in the scenic beauty.
INR 800 (shared boat), 5 hours

2:00PM

Alleppey Beach

Visit Alleppey Beach for some sun, sand, and sea, and enjoy a leisurely afternoon by the Arabian Sea.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Alleppey Market

Explore the local market in Alleppey, known for its coir products, spices, and fresh seafood.
Variable, 1 hour

7:00PM

Seafood Dinner

Indulge in a seafood feast for dinner at Triveni Restaurant, offering a variety of fresh catch cooked to perfection.
INR 400, 1 hour

Day 7: Beach Relaxation in Kovalam

Kovalam, India

10:00AM

Hawah Beach

Spend your morning at Hawah Beach, known for its serene atmosphere and ideal for sunbathing and swimming.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Vizhinjam Lighthouse

Visit Vizhinjam Lighthouse for panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and surrounding coastline.
INR 20, 1 hour

3:00PM

Kovalam Art Gallery

Explore the Kovalam Art Gallery to admire local artworks and immerse yourself in Kerala's artistic culture.
INR 50, 1 hour

6:00PM

Sunset at Samudra Beach

Witness a mesmerising sunset at Samudra Beach, capturing the perfect end to your Kerala trip.
Free, 1 hour