Travel To South India
★★★★★ (59 reviews)
South India is one of India’s most diverse and touristically attractive regions, combining ancient heritage, living temple traditions, tropical landscapes, backwaters, beaches, and rich cultural identity. As a professional Destination Management Company in India, India Travel etc provides international tour operators and travel agencies with full-service destination management across Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Goa.
Our strong regional expertise allows us to design and operate high-quality South India travel programmes covering key routes such as Chennai – Mahabalipuram – Pondicherry – Madurai – Periyar – Alleppey – Cochin – Mysore – Hampi – Goa, as well as lesser-known destinations focused on nature, spirituality, and local culture.
We create customised and scalable South India itineraries for a wide range of markets, including FITs, escorted groups, cultural journeys, spiritual travel, nature-based tourism, and luxury segments.
As your on-ground DMC partner, India Travel etc manages all aspects of your South India programmes, including hotels, transport, sightseeing, guides, and guest support. Our objective is to deliver consistent quality, strong local coordination, and reliable execution, enabling you to sell South India with confidence.
14 nights / 15 days
Enchanting Tamil Nadu and Kerala: A 15 days Southern Sejourn
A 15-day cultural and scenic journey through South India, from Tamil temples to Kerala’s hills, backwaters, and beaches.
20 days
Mumbai & South India Tour
Mumbai and South India Tour Package to explore the vibrant city of Mumbai and delve into the rich culture landscapes of Southern India.
22 days
South India with Andaman Islands: A South India Luxury Tour
Mumbai and South India Tour Package to explore the vibrant city of Mumbai and delve into the rich culture landscapes of Southern India.
15 days
South India Luxury Family Tour
A South India family tour, to explore historical sites and the lush green natural sites of Kerala. 15 days / 14 nights South India Family Tour starting from USD 1998
14 days
Kerala & Madurai Temple Tour
Experience the beauty of nature and marvel at architectural wonders like the Meenakshi Temple on our Kerala & Madurai Temple Tour.
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Culture & Nature Odyssey: Southern Splendours
Explore the enchanting beauty of South India on a captivating Karnataka, Kerala and Mararikulam tour.
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Best of Kerala & Karnataka
Explore the best of Kerala and Karnataka on a 14-day tour from just USD 2599 per person. Explore the culture and nature.
26 days
India Explorer Tour from North to South
North to South India Tour Package offers a diverse range of cultural experiences, historical exploration, and immersive encounters.
21 days
Kerala to Goa Tour: A journey through charms of Malabar Coast
Explore nature & culture through our Kerala to Goa Tour Package.
Rajendra
South India Tour Expert
Some Travel Tips from Our South India Tour Expert
Namaste! I’m Rajendra, your South India Tour Expert, I am here to guide you through a journey of rich culture, serene landscapes, and unforgettable experiences.
Quick Tips:
1. Shop the Local Treasures
South India offers vibrant markets with unique finds! From Kanchipuram silk sarees and Mysore sandalwood to Coimbatore cotton textiles and Kochi antiques, the region is a shopper’s paradise.
2. Experience Local Festivals
Plan your trip to South India around Onam in Kerala, Pongal in Tamil Nadu, or Dasara in Mysore for an incredible cultural experience filled with music, dance, and local traditions.
3. Learn a Few Words in the Local Language
Making an effort to learn a few local phrases can go a long way. Basic greetings like “Vanakkam” (hello) in Tamil, “Namaskara” (hello) in Kannada, and “Nandri” (thank you) in Tamil will help you connect with locals and show respect for their culture.Read More..
4. Indulge in Cultural Experiences
Delve into the region’s rich cultural heritage by witnessing traditional dance forms such as Bharatanatyam and Kathakali. Don’t miss a boat ride on Kerala’s backwaters, and explore ancient temples like Meenakshi Temple and Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple for a spiritual experience.
5. Discover Hidden Gems
Explore lesser-known towns and villages such as Hampi, Coorg, and Alleppey for a more intimate and peaceful experience. Wander through tea plantations in Munnar or explore the Western Ghats for nature’s beauty.
6. Savor the Local Flavors
South Indian cuisine is a delight for the senses! Try dishes like dosa, idli, sambar, and chettinad curry, and don’t miss the traditional banana leaf meal. Visit local eateries to enjoy the authentic taste of the region.
7. Stay in Unique Accommodations
For a truly authentic experience, choose from a variety of heritage hotels, homestays, and backwater resorts in Kerala. Stay in a coastal cottage by the beach or a hilltop bungalow in Munnar to enjoy the best of local hospitality and nature.
Explore South India as you want to see it
21 Days South India Tour
15 days South India Tour
12 days South India Tour
9 days South India Tour
Guide to Traveling in South India
South India is a treasure trove of diverse experiences, offering travelers a perfect blend of spirituality, natural beauty, and cultural vibrancy. From the intricate architecture of ancient temples in Tamil Nadu to the serene backwaters of Kerala, this region is a paradise for those seeking unique and meaningful journeys. From exploring lush hill stations like Munnar and Coorg, strolling through the golden beaches of Karnataka to savoring the spices and flavors of local cuisine, South India tours captivate with its warmth and charm.
What Type of Trip Should You Plan?
Rajasthan caters to all kinds of travelers. Here is how you can plan your dream trip:
- Family Vacations: South India is ideal for families looking for a mix of culture, relaxation, and fun. Explore wildlife sanctuaries like Bandipur, Mudumalai or Periyar, visit the Mysore Palace, or enjoy a houseboat ride in Alleppey. Beaches like Colva Beach in Goa, Pondicherry beach in Tamil Nadu, Mararikulam or Varkala in Kerala provide a perfect spot for family beach holidays in India.
- For Couples: Couples can soak in the beauty of South India’s romantic landscapes. Take a serene backwater cruise in Kerala, stay in colonial bungalows, explore the misty hill stations of Munnar, Ooty, or Coorg, and enjoy candlelight dinners overlooking the beaches of Pondicherry or Kumarakom.
- For Adventure seekers: Adventure seekers will love trekking in the Nilgiris, bamboo rafting in Thekkady, or scuba diving in Pondicherry. Wildlife safaris in Karnataka or bird watching at Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary will add a thrill to your journey.
- Spiritual and Wellness Retreats: For those seeking spiritual solace, South India’s ancient temples in Madurai, Tirupati, or Hampi are perfect. If well-being is your goal, indulge in rejuvenating Ayurvedic therapies in Kerala or attend yoga retreats in Auroville near Pondicherry.
Best Time to Visit South India
The best time to visit South India is during the winter months, from October to April, when the weather is cool, comfortable, and ideal for exploring the region’s breathtaking landscapes. However, it’s advisable to avoid the period from mid-November to mid-December, as brief monsoon showers might occur.
This season is perfect for enjoying outdoor activities such as sightseeing, backwater cruises, and wildlife safaris without the discomfort of excessive heat and humidity.
The pleasant climate also makes it an excellent time to explore beaches, hill stations, and temples, enriching the overall South India travel experience. Moreover, this period coincides with numerous cultural festivals and events, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the vibrant traditions of South India.
Practical Information
- Visa: Most international visitors require a visa to enter India, so ensure you apply well in advance.
- Health: Stay updated on necessary vaccinations and carry basic medications, particularly for travel-related illnesses.
- Packing Tips: When traveling to South India, pack lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for the tropical climate, along with comfortable footwear for exploring. Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect against the sun.
What to See and Do in South India?
- Tamil Nadu: Explore Chennai’s Marina Beach, Kapaleeshwarar Temple, and vibrant markets. Visit the UNESCO-listed sites in Mahabalipuram, the majestic Meenakshi Temple in Madurai, and the sacred Ramanathaswamy Temple in Rameswaram. Relax in the hill stations of Ooty and Kodaikanal, and enjoy nature at its best.
- Kerala: Discover Kochi’s historic Jew Town and the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey. Enjoy the lush greenery and tea plantations of Munnar, and experience wildlife safaris in Thekkady. Kovalam offers serene beaches and Ayurvedic retreats.
- Karnataka: In Bengaluru, explore parks, palaces, and enjoy the café culture. Mysore boasts the stunning Mysore Palace and Chamundi Hills, while Coorg offers coffee plantations and scenic views. Hampi showcases magnificent historical ruins and temples.
- Andhra Pradesh: Hyderabad offers a rich blend of history with Charminar, Golconda Fort, and delicious Hyderabadi Biryani. Tirupati is famous for the revered Tirumala Temple, and Vizag has beautiful beaches and scenic spots like Kailasagiri.
- Puducherry: Enjoy the French-influenced architecture, stroll along Promenade Beach, and visit the peaceful Auroville and Sri Aurobindo Ashram.
- Goa: Known for its pristine beaches like Baga, Calangute, and Anjuna, Goa offers colonial charm with Old Goa churches, vibrant nightlife, and delicious seafood.
Ideal Number of Days to Explore South India?
Rajasthan is India’s largest state, and your ideal duration here depends on how much you want to experience. Here’s a guide:
- 7-9 Days: You can visit major cities like Chennai, Mysore, and Kochi, along with a few hill stations like Ooty and Munnar. This itinerary will allow you to experience a mix of culture, history, beaches, and nature.
- 12-14 Days: For a more in-depth tour, you can explore Chennai, Mahabalipuram, Tanjore, Madurai, Munnar, Alleppey and Kochi, with a focus on historical sites, tea plantations, and scenic landscapes. Kerala’s tranquil beaches, making for a perfect balance of culture, heritage, and relaxtation.
- 14+ Days: If you’re looking for a leisurely pace to thoroughly explore South India, this extended itinerary allows you to visit multiple destinations like Chennai, Mahabalipuram, Tanjore, Madurai, Periyar, Munnar, Kochi, Coimbatore, Mysore, Hampi and Goa. It’s ideal for travelers who want to delve deep into the local culture, visit iconic temples, explore beaches, and enjoy the region’s rich history and natural beauty.
FAQs
The ideal time to visit South India is from October to March, during the cooler months when the weather is pleasant and perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Some of the must-visit places include Chennai, Madurai, Mysore, Coimbatore, Ooty, Kochi, Hampi, Alleppey, and Kovalam. Each destination offers unique cultural, historical, and natural attractions.
A typical trip to South India can range from 9 to 14 days, depending on your itinerary and interests. For a quick tour, 7-9 days is sufficient, while 10-12 days offers a deeper exploration of the region.
South India is rich in culture, with must-see experiences like visiting ancient temples such as Meenakshi Amman Temple, exploring historic forts and palaces in Mysore and Chennai, and enjoying traditional dance forms like Bharatanatyam and Kathakali.
South Indian cuisine is flavorful and diverse, with dishes such as dosa, idli, sambar, chettinad curry, and banana leaf meals. Each state has its own specialty, offering something for every palate.
South India is home to some beautiful beaches, including Marina Beach in Chennai, Varkala Beach in Kerala, Kovalam Beach in Tamil Nadu, and Baga Beach in Goa. These beaches offer a mix of relaxation and water sports activities.
Yes, South India offers various adventure activities such as trekking in Coorg and Munnar, wildlife safaris in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kabini, and Bandipur, and water sports at Varkala and Kovalam beaches.
South India hosts several vibrant festivals, including Pongal (Tamil Nadu), Onam (Kerala), Dasara (Mysore), Karthigai Deepam (Tamil Nadu), and Thrissur Pooram (Kerala), which showcase local traditions, music, dance, and cuisine.