Budget-Friendly Family Nature Trip in Kerala by Rail

Day 1: Exploring Kochi

Kochi, India

8:00AM

Fort Kochi Beach

Start your day with a stroll on the iconic Fort Kochi Beach, a perfect spot for some family fun by the sea.
It's a short walk from Kochi railway station, or take a local bus.
INR 0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Mattancherry Palace

Visit the Mattancherry Palace to admire its beautiful Kerala mural paintings and learn about the region's history.
You can take a quick auto-rickshaw ride from the beach area.
INR 5, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Jew Town

Explore Jew Town's quaint streets, shop for souvenirs, and marvel at the Paradesi Synagogue.
Just a short walk from the palace.
INR 0 (shopping costs extra), 2 hours

6:00PM

Local Street Food

End the day with delicious local Kerala street food at the lively markets of Kochi.
Walk around the market area to find various stalls for budget-friendly options.
INR 200, 1 hour
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Day 2: Scenic Munnar

Munnar, India

9:00AM

Tea Plantations

Spend the day exploring the picturesque tea plantations of Munnar, a treat for nature-loving families.
Book a local guided tour or hire a taxi for the day.
INR 500 for guide/taxi, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Tea Estate

Enjoy a traditional Kerala meal amidst the lush greenery of a tea estate for an authentic experience.
Many plantations offer lunch options, so ask your guide for recommendations.
INR 300, 1 hour

4:00PM

Eravikulam National Park

Visit the Eravikulam National Park to see the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and enjoy a family-friendly trek.
The park is a short drive from the town center, accessible by taxi or local bus.
INR 120 (entrance fee), 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at a Local Restaurant

Relish a hearty dinner at one of Munnar's local restaurants, serving authentic Kerala cuisine.
Ask locals or your accommodation for affordable and tasty dining options.
INR 400, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Wildlife in Thekkady

Thekkady, India

9:00AM

Periyar National Park

Embark on a jungle safari at Periyar National Park to spot elephants, bison, and maybe even tigers in the wild.
Book a guided safari through your accommodation or the park's office.
INR 350 (safari cost), 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch by Periyar Lake

Have a picnic lunch by the scenic Periyar Lake, surrounded by the tranquility of nature.
Pack some sandwiches or snacks from Thekkady town before heading to the lake area.
INR 100, 1 hour

3:00PM

Spice Plantations Tour

Take a guided tour of the spice plantations to learn about Kerala's famous spices and their cultivation.
Local tours can be booked in advance or on-site.
INR 200, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at a Local Homestay

Enjoy a traditional dinner at a local homestay, experiencing the warmth of Kerala hospitality.
Ask your hosts for an authentic homemade meal or dine out at nearby eateries.
INR 300, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Backwaters of Alleppey

Alleppey, India

9:00AM

Houseboat Ride

Embark on a relaxing houseboat ride through the stunning backwaters of Alleppey, a must-do experience for families.
Book a budget-friendly shared houseboat tour in advance.
INR 2000 per person, 6 hours

2:00PM

Lunch on the Houseboat

Enjoy a delicious Kerala-style lunch cooked onboard the houseboat as you glide through the serene waters.
Most houseboat tours include meals in the package.
INR 0 (included), 1 hour

4:00PM

Vembanad Lake

Stop by Vembanad Lake for some birdwatching or to simply soak in the beauty of Kerala's largest lake.
You can ask your houseboat captain to make a short detour to the lake.
INR 0, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at a Local Eatery

Indulge in a seafood dinner at a local eatery in Alleppey, known for its fresh catches and coastal cuisine.
Explore the markets near the boat jetty for affordable dining options.
INR 500, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Beach Bliss in Kovalam

Kovalam, India

9:00AM

Lighthouse Beach

Spend a relaxing day at Lighthouse Beach, building sandcastles, swimming, and enjoying the coastal vibes.
Kovalam is well-connected by buses or hire a taxi for a more comfortable ride.
INR 0, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Beach Shack

Have a casual beachfront lunch at one of the cozy shacks serving fresh seafood dishes.
Choose any shack along the beach for a budget-friendly meal with an ocean view.
INR 400, 1 hour

3:00PM

Hawah Beach

Explore the quieter Hawah Beach nearby for a more serene seaside experience with your family.
A short walk or auto-rickshaw ride from Lighthouse Beach.
INR 0, 2 hours

6:00PM

Sunset Yoga on the Beach

Wind down the day with a relaxing beachside yoga session as you witness a stunning Kovalam sunset.
Join a local yoga class on the beach, or practice on your own.
INR 100 (for class), 1 hour

8:00PM

Farewell Seafood Dinner

Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local seafood restaurant, savoring the flavors of Kerala cuisine one last time.
Choose a restaurant near the beach for a memorable dining experience.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
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