7-Day Kerala and Tamil Nadu Family Adventure on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Explore Kochi

Kochi, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Vama

Start your day with a traditional Kerala breakfast of appam and stew at Vama, famous for its local cuisine.
Located near Fort Kochi, easy to walk from local hotels.
INR 200, 1 Hour

9:30 AM

Visit Fort Kochi

Wander the historic streets of Fort Kochi, visiting landmarks like the Chinese fishing nets, St. Francis Church, and the iconic Santa Cruz Basilica.
15-minute walk from Vama.
Free, 2.5 Hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Cafe Marine

Enjoy fresh seafood and local delicacies while overlooking the water at this cozy cafe.
Easily accessible on foot after Fort Kochi.
INR 400, 1 Hour

2:00 PM

Visit Mattancherry Palace

Explore the stunning murals and exhibits that reflect the history of Kochi and its people.
10-minute rickshaw ride from Cafe Marine.
INR 200, 1.5 Hours

4:00 PM

Take a Backwater Cruise

Enjoy a scenic boat ride through the serene backwaters, experiencing the lush green landscapes.
Join a group tour from the ferry terminal.
INR 500, 2 Hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Hotel Rahul

Taste delicious Kerala biryani or kothu parotta at this family-run restaurant.
Short ride or walk from your accommodation.
INR 300, 1 Hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Scenic Munnar

Munnar, India

7:00 AM

Travel to Munnar by Train

Catch a train to Ernakulam and then a bus to Munnar, experiencing the change from coast to hills.
Train station to Ernakulam, bus from Ernakulam to Munnar.
INR 800, 4 Hours

11:30 AM

Check-in and Breakfast at Your Hotel

Settle in and have a light breakfast at your hotel with stunning mountain views.
Various budget hotels in Munnar.
Included in stay, 1 Hour

12:30 PM

Exploration of Tea Plantation

Visit a local tea plantation and learn about the tea-making process while enjoying the breathtaking views.
Reachable via local rickshaw.
INR 300, 2 Hours

3:00 PM

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan

Savor vegetarian South Indian thali at one of the most affordable and famous spots.
Near the main market area.
INR 250, 1 Hour

4:30 PM

Hike to Anamudi Peak

Hike in the Eravikulam National Park and enjoy the flora and fauna while aiming for Anamudi, the highest peak in South India.
Take a cab from the town to the park entry.
INR 500, 3 Hours

8:00 PM

Dinner at Hotel Hillview

End the day with delicious North Indian cuisine against a panoramic backdrop.
Near your hotel, easy to walk back.
INR 350, 1.5 Hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Adventure in Thekkady

Thekkady, India

7:00 AM

Take a Bus to Thekkady

After breakfast, catch a local bus to Thekkady, known for wildlife.
Bus stand in Munnar to Thekkady.
INR 200, 3 Hours

10:00 AM

Check-in and Breakfast at the Hotel

Check in to a budget-friendly hotel and enjoy a hearty breakfast before setting out.
Accessible near the bus station.
Included in stay, 1 Hour

11:00 AM

Explore Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Participate in a jungle trek to spot elephants and exotic birds in their natural habitat.
Join a guided tour from your hotel.
INR 500, 3 Hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at Thekkady Spice Garden

Enjoy organic meals inspired by local flavors amidst spice plantations.
Short walk from the wildlife sanctuary entrance.
INR 350, 1 Hour

3:30 PM

Boat Ride on Periyar Lake

Finish the day with a peaceful boat ride on Periyar Lake, where you might see wildlife along the shores.
Located next to the sanctuary.
INR 400, 1.5 Hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Spices and Slices

Dine on local dishes while enjoying the aroma of freshly ground spices at this eatery.
A short auto-rickshaw ride from your hotel.
INR 300, 1 Hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Visit Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal, India

7:00 AM

Travel to Kodaikanal

Travel via bus from Thekkady to Kodaikanal, enjoying the scenic hills throughout the journey.
Bus station in Thekkady.
INR 250, 3 Hours

10:00 AM

Arrive & Breakfast at Hilltop Hotel

Check in and refresh yourself with a local breakfast at Hilltop Hotel.
Located conveniently in town.
INR 300, 1 Hour

11:00 AM

Visit Kodaikanal Lake

Rent a pedal boat to experience the beauty of Kodaikanal Lake surrounded by lush greenery.
Easily reachable on foot from the hotel.
INR 150, 1.5 Hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Bistro Sky Road

Enjoy a variety of Indian and Continental dishes with a view of the hills.
Walking distance from the lake.
INR 400, 1 Hour

2:30 PM

Visit Pillar Rocks

Explore the beautiful natural rock formations and enjoy the panoramic views from this popular spot.
Local transport can be arranged.
INR 200, 2 Hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at Tandoor Park

Relish delicious kebabs and Indian breads at this family-friendly restaurant.
A short distance from your hotel.
INR 350, 1.5 Hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Cultural Explore Madurai

Madurai, India

7:00 AM

Bus to Madurai

Depart early in the morning for Madurai, known for its temples and culture.
Bus station in Kodaikanal.
INR 200, 3 Hours

10:00 AM

Arrive & Breakfast at Heritage Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional South Indian breakfast with idli and sambar to start exploring Madurai.
Near the bus station.
INR 300, 1 Hour

11:30 AM

Visit Meenakshi Temple

Marvel at the magnificent architecture and artistry of the famous Meenakshi Amman Temple.
A short auto-rickshaw ride from the restaurant.
Free, 2.5 Hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at the Vegetarian Restaurant

Dig into vegetarian thali meals that showcase local flavors.
Close to Meenakshi Temple.
INR 250, 1 Hour

3:30 PM

Visit Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

Discover the royal heritage by exploring the ancient palace showing Indo-Saracenic architecture.
5-minute rickshaw ride from the restaurant.
INR 200, 1.5 Hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Anbu Podar Restaurant

Wrap up a beautiful day with traditional local dishes and dosa specialities.
A short rickshaw ride from the palace.
INR 300, 1 Hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Sacred Rameswaram

Rameswaram, India

7:00 AM

Travel by Train to Rameswaram

Take an early train to Rameswaram, known for its temples and scenic beauty.
Boarding at Madurai Railway Station.
INR 200, 3 Hours

10:30 AM

Breakfast at Hotel Tamil Nadu

Relish some delicious south Indian breakfast options at this budget hotel.
Walking distance from the station.
INR 250, 1 Hour

11:30 AM

Visit Ramanathaswamy Temple

Explore the famous temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its stunning architecture.
Easily reachable on foot from the hotel.
Free, 2.5 Hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at Marwari Restaurant

Sample North Indian cuisine in a laid-back atmosphere, a favorite among locals.
Nearby the temple area.
INR 300, 1 Hour

3:30 PM

Explore Dhanushkodi

Take a short trip to the ghost town of Dhanushkodi, a fascinating historical site with haunting vistas.
Local transport required.
INR 500 (for auto ride), 3 Hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at the Seaside Restaurant

Conclude your day with fresh fish and seafood delicacies overlooking the ocean.
Accessible from Dhanushkodi trip.
INR 400, 1.5 Hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Final Day in Chennai

Chennai, India

8:00 AM

Travel to Chennai by Train

Catch an early morning train to Chennai, the capital city of Tamil Nadu.
Boarding at Rameswaram Railway Station.
INR 300, 6 Hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan

Dine at this famed vegetarian chain well known for its South Indian cuisine.
Located near Chennai Central Station.
INR 300, 1 Hour

3:30 PM

Visit Marina Beach

Relax and enjoy the expansive coastline at Marina Beach, one of the longest in the world.
Easy access via local subway.
Free, 2 Hours

5:30 PM

Explore Fort St. George

Visit this historic fort and museum to learn more about Chennai's colonial history.
Short auto-rickshaw ride from Marina Beach.
INR 200, 1.5 Hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at the Fisherman's Wharf

Enjoy delicious seafood and local dishes as a lovely finale to your Kerala-Tamil Nadu trip.
Accessible via local transport.
INR 500, 1.5 Hours
View Hotel Availability