Top 8 Budget-Friendly Tourist Destinations in Kerala for 2021

Kerala: A Brief Overview

Kerala, often referred to as "God's Own Country," is a jewel nestled on the southwestern coast of India. This state is a haven of biodiversity, featuring lush forests, vibrant wildlife sanctuaries, and picturesque hill stations. With its extensive network of backwaters, pristine beaches, and a rich tapestry of culture and history, Kerala stands out as a top destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

In 2021, as travel norms and expectations shift due to global changes, Kerala remains a sought-after destination for those eager to explore its unique landscapes and cultural offerings without breaking the bank.

Budget-Friendly Gems in Kerala

Alleppey: The Venice of the East

Places to Stay:

• Ramada By Wyndham, Alleppey
• Tharavadu Heritage Home
• Bamboo Lagoon Backwater Front Resort
• Treebo Tryst Palmyra Grand Suite

Activities:

• Backwater cruises on houseboats
• Exploring local temples and heritage sites
• Shopping for handicrafts and spices

Key Attractions:

• Alappuzha Beach
• Krishnapuram Palace
• Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
• Revi Karunakaran Museum
• Annual Snake Boat Race

Nearest Airport: Kochi Airport (53 km)

Munnar: Misty Hills and Tea Plantations

Places to Stay:

• Chandy’s Windy Woods
• The Panoramic Getaway
• Devonshire Greens

Activities:

• Guided tours of tea estates
• Trekking at Echo Point
• Wildlife spotting at Eravikulam National Park

Key Attractions:

• TATA Tea Museum
• Life of Pi Church
• Attukal and Cheeyappara Waterfalls
• Indo Swiss Dairy Farm
• Anamudi Peak

Nearest Airport: Kochi Airport (143 km)

Wayanad: Nature's Abode

Places to Stay:

• Arayal Resorts
• Wayanad Wild - CGH Earth
• Mount Xanadu Resort

Activities:

• Bamboo rafting at Kuruva Island
• Boating at Pookode Lake
• Cycling and camping adventures

Key Attractions:

• Thusharagiri Waterfalls
• Thirunelli Temple
• Banasura Hill
• Lakkidi View Point
• Puliyarmala Jain Temple

Nearest Airport: Calicut International Airport (95 km)

Thekkady: Wildlife and Spice Gardens

Places to Stay:

• The Elephant Court
• Paradise Plantation Retreat
• Poetree Sarovar Portico

Activities:

• Boat tours on Periyar Lake
• Bamboo rafting and hiking
• Jungle night patrols

Key Attractions:

• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
• Kadathanadan Kalari Centre
• Elephant Junction
• Mullaperiyar Dam
• Periyar Tiger Trail

Nearest Airport: Madurai Airport (136 km)

Kovalam: Coastal Retreat

Places to Stay:

• Hotel Jasmine Palace
• Hotel Samudra KTDC
• Jumayira Residency

Activities:

• Sunbathing and water sports at the beach
• Ayurvedic treatments
• Cultural tours

Key Attractions:

• Lighthouse Beach
• Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium
• Halcyon Castle

Nearest Airport: Trivandrum International Airport (15 km)

Vagamon: Serene Meadows

Places to Stay:

• Honeycomb by Astral Inn
• Falcon Crest
• The Kissing Mountains

Activities:

• Trekking and off-roading
• Boat rides on serene lakes
• Exploring nearby wildlife sanctuaries

Key Attractions:

• Vagamon Pine Forest
• Thangal Hill
• Maramala Waterfalls

Nearest Airport: Kochi International Airport (94 km)

Bekal: Forts and Beaches

Places to Stay:

• Taj Bekal Resort & Spa
• Kanan Beach Resort
• Malabar Ocean Front Resort & Spa

Activities:

• Exploring historical Bekal Fort
• Relaxing at Bekal Beach
• Visiting Nityanand Ashram Caves

Key Attractions:

• Ananthapura Temple
• Valiyaparamba Backwaters
• Chandragiri Fort

Nearest Airport: Mangalore Airport (72 km)

Kozhikode: Culinary and Cultural Hub

Places to Stay:

• The Gateway Hotel Beach Road
• Sunrise Homestay

Activities:

• Sampling local Malabar cuisine
• Shopping for unique crafts and spices

Key Attractions:

• Kappad Beach
• Thusharagiri Waterfalls
• Mananchira Square

Nearest Airport: Calicut International Airport (28 km)

Conclusion

Kerala offers a plethora of options for budget-conscious travelers, each with its unique charm and attractions. From the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey to the aromatic tea gardens of Munnar, and the historic forts of Bekal, there's something for everyone in this vibrant state. Plan your visit and experience the unparalleled beauty of Kerala without straining your finances.