7-Day Kerala Rail Adventure on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Exploring Kochi

Kochi, India

8:00AM

Visit Fort Kochi

Start your day by exploring the historic Fort Kochi area, known for its colonial architecture, ancient churches, and the iconic Chinese fishing nets.
Fort Kochi is a short drive from the city centre. You can hire a tuk-tuk or take a local bus.
INR 100, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Fusion Bay

Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at Fusion Bay, a popular restaurant offering a mix of traditional Kerala dishes and international cuisine.
Fusion Bay is located in Fort Kochi and is easily accessible by foot.
INR 300, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Mattancherry Palace

Visit the Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, to admire its stunning murals depicting Hindu mythological themes.
The palace is a short walk from Fort Kochi and can be reached on foot.
INR 50, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Cherai Beach

Head to Cherai Beach to unwind and watch a beautiful sunset by the Arabian Sea.
Cherai Beach is a 1-hour drive from Fort Kochi. You can hire a cab or take a local bus.
INR 200, 2 hours
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Day 2: More of Kochi

Kochi, India

9:00AM

Visit the Jewish Synagogue

Explore the Jewish Synagogue, one of the oldest synagogues in the Commonwealth of Nations, known for its exquisite Chinese tiles and Belgian chandeliers.
The synagogue is located in the Jew Town area of Mattancherry and can be reached by a short drive.
INR 10, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Dal Roti

Enjoy a traditional North Indian thali at Dal Roti, a cosy restaurant offering authentic Indian cuisine.
Dal Roti is located in the Fort Kochi area and is a short walk from popular tourist spots.
INR 200, 1 hour

2:00PM

Shop at Princess Street

Indulge in some souvenir shopping at Princess Street, a bustling market street with shops selling antiques, spices, and local handicrafts.
Princess Street is located in Fort Kochi and can be explored on foot.
Varies, 2 hours

5:00PM

Watch a Kathakali Performance

End your day with a traditional Kathakali dance performance, a classical Indian dance form known for its elaborate costumes and expressive gestures.
Various venues in Fort Kochi host Kathakali performances. Check timings and book tickets in advance.
INR 300, 2 hours
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Day 3: Scenic Munnar

Munnar, India

9:00AM

Visit Tea Gardens

Explore the lush tea plantations of Munnar and learn about the tea-making process at a local tea factory.
Munnar is a 4-hour drive from Kochi. You can hire a private cab or take a bus to reach the tea gardens.
INR 100, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Rapsy Restaurant

Relish a hearty South Indian meal at Rapsy Restaurant, known for its delicious dosas and filter coffee.
Rapsy Restaurant is located in the heart of Munnar town and is easily accessible by foot.
INR 150, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Eravikulam National Park

Explore the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and offering stunning views of the Western Ghats.
The national park is a short drive from Munnar town and can be reached by hiring a local cab.
INR 120, 2 hours

6:00PM

Watch Sunset at Top Station

Head to Top Station to witness a mesmerising sunset over the rolling hills and tea estates of Munnar.
Top Station is located around 40 km from Munnar town. You can hire a cab or join a guided tour.
INR 50, 2 hours
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Day 4: More of Munnar

Munnar, India

8:00AM

Trek to Lakkam Waterfalls

Embark on a trek to the picturesque Lakkam Waterfalls and enjoy a refreshing dip in the natural pool surrounded by lush greenery.
Lakkam Waterfalls is a short drive from Munnar town. You can hire a cab or join a guided trekking tour.
INR 50, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan

Savour a traditional vegetarian meal at Saravana Bhavan, a renowned chain of South Indian restaurants.
Saravana Bhavan is located in Munnar town and is a popular dining spot for both locals and tourists.
INR 200, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Tea Museum

Explore the Tea Museum to learn about the history of tea cultivation in Munnar and witness antique tea processing equipment.
The Tea Museum is located in Munnar town and can be easily reached by foot or a short drive.
INR 75, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Shopping at Munnar Market

Shop for tea, spices, and souvenirs at the bustling Munnar Market, known for its local produce and handicrafts.
Munnar Market is located in the town centre and can be explored on foot.
Varies, 2 hours
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Day 5: Wildlife in Thekkady

Thekkady, India

9:00AM

Boat Safari at Periyar Lake

Embark on a boat safari at Periyar Lake in the heart of Periyar National Park, known for its diverse wildlife including elephants, tigers, and birds.
Thekkady is a 3-hour drive from Munnar. You can hire a private cab or take a local bus to reach Periyar Lake.
INR 400, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Coffee Garden Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious meal surrounded by nature at Coffee Garden Restaurant, offering a mix of Indian and international cuisine.
Coffee Garden Restaurant is located near Periyar Lake and is easily accessible by foot.
INR 250, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Spice Plantations

Explore the aromatic spice plantations of Thekkady and learn about the cultivation of cardamom, pepper, and cloves.
The spice plantations are a short drive from Periyar Lake and can be visited by hiring a local guide or joining a plantation tour.
INR 50, 2 hours

6:00PM

Attend Kalaripayattu Show

Witness a thrilling Kalaripayattu martial arts performance, showcasing ancient combat techniques and agility.
Various venues in Thekkady host Kalaripayattu shows. Check timings and book tickets in advance for an immersive experience.
INR 200, 2 hours
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Day 6: Backwaters of Alleppey

Alleppey, India

9:00AM

Houseboat Cruise

Embark on a leisurely houseboat cruise through the picturesque backwaters of Alleppey, passing by lush paddy fields and quaint villages.
Alleppey is a 4-hour drive from Thekkady. You can hire a houseboat for the cruise or join a group tour.
INR 1000 (shared houseboat), 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch on Houseboat

Indulge in a traditional Keralite lunch served on the houseboat, featuring fresh seafood and local delicacies.
Lunch will be provided on the houseboat during the cruise.
Included in houseboat price, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Alleppey Beach

Spend the afternoon relaxing at Alleppey Beach, known for its golden sands and serene atmosphere.
Alleppey Beach is a short drive from the backwaters and can be accessed by cab or local transport.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Enjoy Sunset at Alappuzha Lighthouse

Head to the Alappuzha Lighthouse to catch a mesmerising sunset view over the Arabian Sea and backwaters.
The lighthouse is located near Alleppey Beach and can be reached by a short walk.
INR 20, 1 hour
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Day 7: Tranquil Trivandrum

Trivandrum, India

9:00AM

Visit Napier Museum

Explore the Napier Museum, a 19th-century architectural marvel housing a rare collection of archaeological and historic artefacts.
Trivandrum is a 3-hour drive from Alleppey. You can hire a cab or take a local bus to reach the museum.
INR 150, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Zam Zam Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Kerala meal at Zam Zam Restaurant, serving authentic Malabar cuisine in a cosy setting.
Zam Zam Restaurant is located in the heart of Trivandrum and is easily accessible by foot or local transport.
INR 250, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Kuthira Malika (Puthen Malika) Palace

Discover the intricate architecture and royal heritage of Kuthira Malika Palace, adorned with horse motifs and antique furnishings.
The palace is a short walk from the Napier Museum and can be explored on foot.
INR 50, 1 hour

4:00PM

Relax at Shanghumukham Beach

Unwind at Shanghumukham Beach, known for its serene shores and the iconic sculpture of a mermaid by the sea.
Shanghumukham Beach is a short drive from the city centre and can be reached by cab or local transport.
Free, 2 hours
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