5-Day Budget-Friendly Kerala Hill Station Escape from Kochi

Day 1: Travel to Munnar

Kochi to Munnar, Kerala, India on April 16, 2025

8:30AM

Breakfast at Kashi Art Café, Fort Kochi

Enjoy a fresh and wholesome breakfast in this charming café known for its healthy options and coffee before starting the trip.
INR300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Munnar

Start a scenic 4-hour drive to the hill station of Munnar, famous for its lush tea plantations and cool climate.
INR2500 (car rental with driver), 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Rapsy Restaurant, Munnar

Taste authentic Kerala and South Indian delicacies in a budget-friendly establishment offering great local flavors.
INR400, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit Mattupetty Dam and Echo Point

Explore the beautiful reservoir and surrounding scenic views; enjoy boating and listen to the natural echo phenomenon.
INR100 per person, 2 hours

6:00PM

Check-in and rest at a budget hotel in Munnar

Relax and freshen up after the journey in a comfortable yet affordable accommodation.
INR1500 (per night), Overnight stay

7:30PM

Dinner at Saravana Bhavan, Munnar

Dine on delicious vegetarian South Indian meals renowned for quality and taste in a casual environment.
INR350, 1 hour

Day 2: Explore Munnar

Munnar, Kerala, India on April 17, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy the traditional Kerala breakfast, included in your hotel stay, to prepare for a day full of exploration.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Tea Museum visit

Discover the history and processing of tea at the renowned Tata Tea Museum, a must-see for understanding Munnar’s heritage.
INR50 per person, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Eravikulam National Park

Witness endangered Nilgiri Tahr and enjoy panoramic views from the park; open 9AM to 5PM, tickets should be bought early.
INR150 per person, 3 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Rapsy Restaurant

Refuel with a tasty, inexpensive local meal.
INR400, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Top Station

Enjoy the spectacular sunset view point famous for panoramic views of the Western Ghats and valley of Theni district.
INR100 for transport, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Hotel

Relax with a simple homemade style dinner to recharge for the next day's journey.
INR350, 1 hour

Day 3: Travel to Thekkady

Munnar to Thekkady, Kerala, India on April 18, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at hotel

Early breakfast to prepare for road trip to Thekkady.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Thekkady

Enjoy a relaxing 3-hour drive through the scenic Western Ghats hills to Thekkady, known for wildlife and spice plantations.
INR2000 (car rental), 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Thekkady Spice Garden Restaurant

Savor delicious Kerala cuisine highlighting local spices at this well-reviewed budget-friendly spot.
INR400, 1 hour

1:30PM

Check-in and rest

Check into an affordable guesthouse or hotel near Periyar National Park for convenience and budget.
INR1500 (per night), Half day rest

4:00PM

Boat ride in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Take a guided boat ride to spot elephants, deer, and exotic birds; the park is open till 6PM during this season.
INR200 per person, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Local Eatery

Taste local South Indian flavors in a small, friendly restaurant popular with travelers.
INR350, 1 hour

Day 4: Thekkady Wildlife & Spice Tour

Thekkady, Kerala, India on April 19, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Start early with a filling breakfast included with your stay.
Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Guided Spice Plantation Tour

Learn about rare spices grown in Kerala and their uses; tours available early morning to avoid crowds.
INR100 per person, 2 hours

11:00AM

Elephant Ride in Thekkady

Experience an elephant ride through the forest areas near the sanctuary, a unique way to enjoy the wilderness.
INR500 per person, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Grand Coffee Bar

Enjoy a simple and delicious Kerala meal featuring freshly made dishes at a local favorite.
INR400, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relaxation or local market visit

Spend the afternoon exploring Thekkady’s local markets for spices and souvenirs or resting at the hotel.
Free to INR300 (shopping optional), 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Hotel

Finish your day with a hearty dinner preparing you for return travel the next day.
INR350, 1 hour

Day 5: Return to Kochi

Thekkady to Kochi, Kerala, India on April 20, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy your last hotel breakfast in Thekkady before departure.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive back to Kochi

Return drive of approximately 4 hours to Kochi, completing the trip with memories of Kerala’s nature and culture.
INR2500 (car rental), 4 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Fusion Bay, Kochi

Relax and enjoy fresh seafood or Kerala classics in a well-rated local restaurant offering good value.
INR450, 1 hour

2:00PM

Trip concludes

You can choose to rest at home or explore Kochi further at your leisure, wrapping up your budget-friendly hill station getaway.
Free, End of itinerary