Budget-Friendly 3-Day Tamil Nadu and Kerala Highlights

Day 1: City Culture

Chennai, Tamil Nadu on May 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Sangeetha Veg Restaurant

Start your day with an affordable traditional South Indian breakfast including idli, dosa, and filter coffee in a local favourite spot.
INR100, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Marina Beach

Enjoy a scenic, relaxing walk along Marina Beach, one of the longest city beaches in the world - free and great for people-watching.
Free, 1h30m

11:00am

Explore Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Discover the iconic Dravidian-style temple with intricate architecture and a vibrant cultural atmosphere; entry is free.
Free, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Enjoy budget-friendly traditional Tamil dishes such as idli and sambar at this beloved restaurant popular with locals.
INR150, 1h0m

2:00pm

Travel to Munnar by overnight bus and train combination

Take an economical overnight journey combining bus and train from Chennai to Munnar to save daytime and money.
INR600, 10h0m
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Day 2: Hill Station & Tea

Munnar, Kerala on May 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at local homestay

Enjoy a simple and affordable Kerala-style breakfast at your homestay, featuring local fresh produce and flavours.
INR150, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Tea Museum

Explore the small but informative Tea Museum to learn about the history and processing of tea in Munnar; open 9am-5pm.
INR50, 1h30m

11:00am

Walk through tea plantations

Take a self-guided walk through lush tea gardens surrounding Munnar, a free and refreshing nature experience.
Free, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan

Enjoy tasty, affordable vegetarian South Indian meals at this popular chain known for consistent quality and fair prices.
INR200, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Eravikulam National Park (optional)

If budget permits, visit this nearby park famed for Nilgiri Tahr and gorgeous views; otherwise enjoy local markets and streets instead.
INR150, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at local street food stalls

Sample affordable Kerala street snacks in Munnar's evening market, perfect for budget-conscious travellers wishing to taste local cuisine.
INR100, 1h0m
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Day 3: Backwater Escape

Alleppey, Kerala on May 25, 2025

7:00am

Travel to Alleppey by morning bus

Catch an early bus to Alleppey, the gateway to Kerala's famous backwaters; the trip is cost-effective and scenic, approx 4 hours.
INR200, 4h0m

11:30am

Budget houseboat day cruise

Join a shared houseboat cruise to experience Kerala's tranquil backwaters without the higher cost of private boats.
INR800, 4h0m

3:30pm

Lunch on houseboat

Enjoy freshly prepared Kerala culinary favourites as part of your houseboat experience, included in the cost.
Included, 1h0m

5:00pm

Explore Alleppey town market

Spend time wandering the bustling local market, looking at handicrafts and sampling inexpensive local snacks and beverages.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Indian Coffee House

Finish your trip with an affordable and authentic Kerala meal at this iconic and budget-friendly restaurant.
INR150, 1h0m
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