Travel in South India

When you think of travel in South India, a region rich in ancient temples, lush backwaters, and vibrant cultural traditions. Also known as the southern states of India, it includes Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana—each offering something different, from the misty hills of Ooty to the spice-scented streets of Kochi. This isn’t just another tourist loop. It’s a place where you can walk through 1,000-year-old temples in the morning, sip filter coffee on a beach at noon, and sleep under starry skies in a backwater houseboat by night.

One of the biggest questions people ask is how long to spend in South India. The answer? It depends. You can see the highlights in seven days—Mysore’s palaces, Hampi’s ruins, and a day in Cochin—but if you want to feel the rhythm of the region, give yourself three weeks. You’ll need time to slow down, to sit in a quiet temple courtyard, to let the monsoon rain patter on your roof while you sip tea. The best month to fly to South India, October to March. Also known as the dry season, this window gives you cool mornings, clear skies, and fewer crowds. Avoid April to June—heat can hit 40°C—and July to September, when the monsoon turns roads into rivers. And yes, you can eat salad here. Just choose places where the water is filtered, the veggies are washed in clean water, and the vendor looks busy. Street food isn’t dangerous—it’s often the best meal you’ll have.

South India isn’t just about sightseeing. It’s about budget travel, where a meal costs less than $2, a hotel room under $20, and a train ride across states under $10. Also known as affordable India, it’s one of the cheapest places in Asia to explore deeply. You don’t need luxury to have an unforgettable trip. A simple homestay in Mysore, a shared auto to Hampi, a local bus to the beaches of Kovalam—these are the real experiences. And if you’re wondering whether to pick Goa or Kerala, the answer isn’t about which is prettier—it’s about what you want. Goa has nightlife and Portuguese ruins. Kerala has backwaters and yoga retreats. Mysore has history without the crowds. Each place has its own soul.

What you’ll find below are real, practical guides written by people who’ve been there—not just passed through. How to plan a trip without getting lost. Where to find the safest food. Which city feels like stepping into a living museum. What to pack for the humidity. How to catch a bus without stress. Whether trekking in the Western Ghats is worth it. And why the Taj Mahal, though famous, isn’t the only masterpiece India holds. These posts don’t sell you a fantasy. They give you the tools to make your own journey.