Family-Friendly Kerala Adventure on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Exploring Kochi

Kochi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kashi Art Café

Begin your day with a delicious continental breakfast surrounded by local art at Kashi Art Café, known for its affordable yet fresh offerings.
Head to the café located in Fort Kochi, easily accessible by walking.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Fort Kochi Beach

Stroll along the beautiful Fort Kochi Beach to enjoy the views, watch local fishermen, and take in the serene atmosphere.
A short 15-minute walk from the café.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Chinese Fishing Nets

Witness the iconic Chinese fishing nets being operated by local fishermen, an incredible photo opportunity for the family.
Located near Fort Kochi Beach, about 10 minutes' walk.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Ginger House Restaurant

Enjoy a simple but flavorful meal with authentic Kerala cuisine, perfect for satisfying the family's hunger.
A 10-minute walk from the fishing nets.
INR 600, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Mattancherry Palace

Visit the historic Mattancherry Palace, which features beautiful murals and fascinating history linked to Kerala's royal past.
Take a local bus to Mattancherry Palace; it’s a 30-minute ride.
INR 20, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

St. Francis Church

Discover the first European church in India, with beautiful architecture and a peaceful atmosphere.
Walk back about 15 minutes to Fort Kochi.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Dhokla Cafe

Wind down your day with an inexpensive Indian thali dinner that caters well to families looking for a filling meal.
A 10-minute walk from St. Francis Church.
INR 500, 1 hour
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Day 2: Nature in Munnar

Munnar, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Restaurant

Grab a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before heading out to Munnar, with options like idlis or dosas.
Eat at the hotel before leaving.
INR 200, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Munnar

Take a state-run bus from Kochi to Munnar, which takes you through picturesque landscapes.
Bus from Kochi to Munnar; estimated travel time is 4 hours.
INR 200 per person, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan

Enjoy a budget-friendly lunch at Saravana Bhavan with delicious vegetarian options that are perfect for families.
Easily accessible from the bus stop in Munnar, just a short walk.
INR 400, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Tea Gardens

Spend the afternoon wandering through beautiful tea plantations where the kids can explore and learn about tea production.
A short taxi ride or walk from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Top Station

Head to Top Station for an unforgettable sunset view over the Western Ghats, a great way to enjoy nature as a family.
Travel via shared jeep from Munnar town to Top Station.
INR 300 per person, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Hotel Hillview

Return to Munnar and enjoy a hearty dinner with local dishes at Hotel Hillview.
A quick jeep or taxi ride back from Top Station.
INR 500, 1 hour
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Day 3: Wildlife in Thekkady

Thekkady, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a filling breakfast with parathas and local fruit at your accommodation before setting out to explore.
Breakfast at the hotel dining area.
INR 200, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Thekkady

Catch a local bus to Thekkady, a journey that will take you through more scenic beauty.
Local bus services connect Munnar to Thekkady; bus ride is about 3 hours.
INR 150 per person, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Thekkady Spice Garden Restaurant

Stop for a delicious lunch with famous local spices and dishes, suitable for the entire family.
Short walk from the bus station.
INR 500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Afternoon safari through Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary to spot elephants and other wildlife in the area, ensuring an exciting experience for children.
Shared jeep will take you from the restaurant to the safari entry point.
INR 600 per person, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Thekkady’s Hotel Ambadi

Enjoy a traditional Kerala dinner at Hotel Ambadi, where the local ambiance adds to the experience.
A short walk from your safari drop-off point.
INR 500, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Backwaters of Alleppey

Alleppey, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Local Café

Start the day with a local breakfast of appam and stew at a nearby café, fueling up for a day in the backwaters.
Walking distance from your accommodation.
INR 250, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Alleppey

Catch a bus from Thekkady to Alleppey, enjoying Kerala’s beautiful scenery along the way.
Local bus services connect Thekkady to Alleppey in approximately 4 hours.
INR 200 per person, 4 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Kreams & Dreams

A cozy café that offers a variety of low-cost meals ideal for refueling, including sandwiches and pizza.
Located close to the bus station.
INR 400, 1 hour

2:00PM

Houseboat Ride

Experience a family-friendly boat ride through the beautiful backwaters of Alleppey - a highlight of your Kerala journey.
Book a shared houseboat ride from the local pier.
INR 500 per person, 2 hours

5:00PM

Explore Local Markets

Stroll through local markets to buy affordable souvenirs and experience the vibrant local culture.
Walking distance from the backwater pier.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Hotel The Grand

End your day with traditional Kerala fare at Hotel The Grand, where the local flavors are sure to delight.
Short walk from the markets.
INR 500, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Relax at Kovalam

Kovalam, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a simple breakfast at the hotel, providing energy for your beach day ahead.
Eat breakfast in your hotel.
INR 200, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Kovalam

Catch a local bus from Alleppey to Kovalam, transporting you to Kerala's famous beach destination.
This journey takes approximately 2.5 hours by bus.
INR 150 per person, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Spice Tree

Savor a delightful lunch featuring local seafood and vegetarian options, perfect for enjoying the beachside.
Located within walking distance of the beach.
INR 600, 1 hour

1:30PM

Relax on Kovalam Beach

Spend the afternoon soaking up the sun at Kovalam Beach, enjoying water activities and building sandcastles.
Direct access from the restaurant to the beach.
Free, 3 hours

5:00PM

Visit Lighthouse Beach

Visit the iconic lighthouse and climb to enjoy breathtaking views over the Arabian Sea, a perfect family activity.
A short 10-minute walk from Kovalam Beach.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Café Samrat

Conclude your Kerala journey with a charming dinner at Café Samrat, offering both local and international dishes in an inviting ambiance.
A 10-minute walk from the lighthouse.
INR 500, 1 hour
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