7-Day Budget Adventure and Outdoor Expedition in South India

Day 1: Explore Cochin

Cochin, India on March 15, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Tea Palace Restaurant

Start the day with affordable and hearty South Indian breakfast options like idli and vada.
INR150, 1 hour

10:30AM

Cochin Fort

Enjoy a scenic walk through the historic Fort Kochi area, relishing the colonial buildings and Chinese fishing nets.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Fort Cochin Beach’s local stalls

Try some affordable seafood and local snacks from street vendors while enjoying beach views.
INR250, 1 hour

2:30PM

Spice Market Tour

Explore the vibrant local spice market, learning how exotic spices have shaped the region’s economy and culture.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Sunset at Marine Drive

Stroll along Marine Drive, perfect for a picturesque sunset without any cost.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Makkah

Enjoy affordable North Indian and local dishes at this budget-friendly restaurant.
INR400, 1.5 hours

Day 2: Nature in Munnar

Munnar, India on March 16, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel Green View

Start your day with a simple and budget-friendly breakfast featuring toast and tea.
INR100, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Tea Plantations

Enjoy a free self-guided tour of the picturesque tea plantations and drink in the panoramic views.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Kannan Devan Tea Museum Café

Grab a simple meal at this museum café, which offers affordable options amidst tea culture.
INR250, 1 hour

1:30PM

Mattupetty Dam

Spend time enjoying the views of the dam; boating is available but can be skipped to save on funds.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Eravikulam National Park (if budget allows)

Enjoy the local flora and fauna; however, if funds are tight, relax at a tea estate instead.
INR150, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Saravana Bhavan

Enjoy a low-cost vegetarian meal with specialties that include dosa and thali.
INR300, 1.5 hours

Day 3: Wildlife in Thekkady

Thekkady, India on March 17, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at a local restaurant

Enjoy affordable South Indian breakfast options such as dosa and chutney.
INR200, 1 hour

9:00AM

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (Self-Guided)

Take a self-guided walk through the sanctuary to see various wildlife; guided tours are optional.
INR200, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Thekkady’s roadside eateries

Enjoy a filling meal at one of the many budget-friendly local eateries around Thekkady.
INR250, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit a Spice Plantation

Take a free self-guided tour to learn about local spices, or choose a low-cost organized tour if desired.
Free or INR400 with tour, 2 hours

5:00PM

Explore Kumily Town

Find local shops and markets, perfect for leisurely exploring without extra costs.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at a local diner

Enjoy a budget meal with options like curry and rice or biryani at a small diner.
INR300, 1.5 hours

Day 4: Backwaters of Alleppey

Alleppey, India on March 18, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at local tea shop

Start your day with simple tea and snacks like biscuits or bread.
INR100, 1 hour

9:00AM

Houseboat Tour (Budget Option)

Consider joining a shared houseboat tour to save costs while enjoying the backwaters.
INR1500, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch on the houseboat or local eateries

If you can, enjoy the lunch provided on the houseboat or opt for a budget-friendly local eatery afterward.
Included or INR250, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit local villages

Explore nearby villages through walking; you can learn about rural life, all at no cost.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Return to Alleppey

Relax and take scenic photos as you return to land.
Free, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at a local restaurant

Enjoy simple yet delicious South Indian food at an affordable local restaurant.
INR400, 1.5 hours

Day 5: Beach Relaxation in Kovalam

Kovalam, India on March 19, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at local inn

Enjoy a simple breakfast of paratha and tea at a budget inn near the beach.
INR200, 1 hour

10:00AM

Lighthouse Beach

Spend the day at the sandy beach soaking up the sun and relaxing without any entry fee.
Free, 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at local food vendors

Try delicious and affordable Kerala-style street food like seafood and rice from local vendors.
INR250, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relax at the beach

Continue enjoying the tranquil atmosphere and sunshine on the beach.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at a low-cost beach shanty

End your day with fresh seafood or a simple meal at beach shanties that offer budget options.
INR300, 1.5 hours

Day 6: Cultural Day in Kanyakumari

Kanyakumari, India on March 20, 2025

6:30AM

Breakfast at budget hotel

Enjoy light breakfast options available at your hotel with South Indian staples.
INR150, 1 hour

8:00AM

Vivekananda Rock Memorial

Take a ferry (inexpensive) to the memorial, known for its scenic beauty and historical significance.
INR200, 2 hours

10:30AM

Kanyakumari Beach

Spend time exploring the beach which is free to access and great for a leisurely stroll.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at local dabbas

Try local lunch meals from budget dabbas known for affordable pricing and delicious food.
INR250, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Thiruvalluvar Statue

Enjoy views and take photos at this iconic statue; visiting is free and scenic.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Sunset at View Tower

Head to this viewpoint to enjoy the sunset over the ocean, a magical experience at no cost.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at cheap restaurant

Indulge in local meals at a budget-friendly restaurant known for its delicious fare.
INR400, 1.5 hours

Day 7: Historical Madurai

Madurai, India on March 21, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at local eatery

Grab a simple breakfast of idlis or dosas at an affordable local eatery.
INR150, 1 hour

9:00AM

Meenakshi Amman Temple

Visit this spectacular temple, a must-see for its incredible architecture; entrance is free.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal

Take in the grandeur of this historic palace; entrance fee is minimal.
INR100, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at economy hotel restaurant

Enjoy a simple meal of rice, curry, and sambar, perfect for a budget-conscious traveler.
INR250, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Gandhi Museum

Explore this museum dedicated to Gandhi, offering free entrance and insightful history.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Shopping at local market

Browse through Nethaji Market for low-priced textiles, spices, and souvenirs.
Free (unless buying), 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at economy restaurant

Conclude your journey with local cuisine including specialties like biryani or parotta at a reasonable price.
INR400, 1.5 hours