Your Guide to Budget Friendly Places in Kochi to Explore the Best of the City

Kochi is one of the top tourist attractions in India. Located in the south Indian state of Kerala, this cosmopolitan city is popular for its fine harbors and ancient structures. With lush green Western Ghats on one side and the deep blue oceans on the other, it offers spectacular views. It is also a perfect place for people who love exploring new cultures and hence attracts millions of tourists every year. Travelers from US, especially Newark, flock to this city to explore its heritage, gorge on traditional delicacies, and admire the beauty of nature in this area. There are numerous budget friendly places in Kochi that you can visit to have a great time. You can discover the forts, parks and museums to experience Kochi at its best. 

If you are someone who is on a budget but looking forward to fly to Kochi, Here’s everything you need to know.

Cheap Flights from Newark to Kochi

If you plan your trip ahead of time, you can save a decent amount of money. So you should book flights from Newark to Kochi at least one month before your trip. You can also get a discount if you use your ‘travel miles’. One of the easiest ways of getting a cheap flight ticket is by booking your itinerary with Indian Eagle. This ticket booking company has excellent customer service and has been easing travel for thousands of customers by providing USA to India at affordable prices. 

Budget Friendly Places in Kochi

• Cherai Beach 

Cherai Beach is one of the most peaceful places to visit in Kochi. You can go swimming in the clear waters or try different types of watersports activities offered here. Spend an evening relaxing on the beach or take a walk along the gorgeous shore. If you stop by this beach early in the morning, you can also spot elderly locals indulging in meditation and yoga. There are many resorts or hotels surrounding the beach too, so if it fits your budget, you can also stay at one of these accommodations. 

• Mattancherry Palace

The beautiful Mattancherry Palace is one of the top tourist spots in Kochi that you can visit on a budget. Built in traditional Kerala Nalukettu style of architecture, this quadrangular-shaped palace houses ‘Pazhayannur Bhagavati’, goddess of the Kochi royal family. The black flooring made of charcoal, burnt coconut shells, egg white, lime etc. give this place a distinct look. Tempura style murals painted in warm and rich colors further enhance the beauty of this elegant palace.  

• Marine Drive 

Marine Drive is a great place to hang out especially in the evening. It is also one of the most popular Kochi tourist places. As it faces the backwaters, it offers awe-inspiring views to both the locals and tourists. You can find a lot of small eateries around the area, so if you are craving for an evening snack, you can gorge on the local delicacies. 

• Santa Cruz Basilica

Visit the stunning Santa Cruz Basilica to spend some tranquil moments during your trip. Built in the gothic style of architecture, it offers the visitors a glimpse of its ancient grandeur. You can also admire the beautiful paintings inside the church, especially the one of the Last Supper. 

• Indo-Portuguese Museum

If you are a history buff, you must head to the Indo-Portuguese Museum and check out the rich heritage on display. It has five sections that showcase unique artifacts from the Portuguese era. The museum is surrounded by lush greenery so when you are done checking out the artifacts, you can spend some time outside as well. 

Check Out Some of the Best Budget Hotels in Kochi 

1. Hotel Edassery Mansion
2. Calvin’s Inn
3. Hamilton Residency
4. Flamingo
5. Peniel Residency

Not just hotels, you’ll also find many budget friendly resorts in Kochi. These are ideal if you are looking for a day outing or a short staycation away from the hustle of the city life. These resorts are well-equipped and offer world-class services to visitors. No matter, if you choose to visit the Kochi resorts with friends or family, you are guaranteed a great time.

Shopping in Kochi

If you are looking for cheap shopping places in Kochi, head to Broadway. Here an array of local goods are available at reasonable prices. MG Road provides budget friendly clothing and accessories. Spice Market in Mattancherry is also perfect for picking up spices and souvenirs. For a day out while shopping, Lulu Mall is a perfect place.

Budget Places to Enjoy Food in Kochi

1. Fusion Bay
2. Kashi Art Café
3. Nasi and Mee Asian Canteen
4. Food Stop Diner
5. Hotel Salwa

Here are some of the must-try food items in Kochi. 

Puttu Kadala: Ground rice is layered with desiccated coconut on the top and then steamed to make the puttu. The Kadala curry is a roasted coconut gravy and contains black chickpeas. 

Thattu Dosa: It’s a thicker form of dosa that is served with a basic chammanthi or chutney. 

Kulukki Sarbath: It’s a local version of the lemonade that consists of khus-khus seeds, it’s named so after the Malayalam word ‘kulukki’, which means shaking. 

Meen Molagita Curry: A local favorite, it’s nothing but a fish curry that consists of a lot of chillies.

Kurukku Kalan: This vegetarian delicacy is made using thick curd with toasted raw banana or yam along with curry leaves and a mix of spices.

There are numerous other budget friendly places in Kochi that you can visit to have a great time. But if you are worried about your itinerary, you can book cheap flights from Newark to Kochi through Indian Eagle and save more on your travel expenses.