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India (south)
India is known for its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and vibrant cities. Visitors can explore the majestic Taj Mahal, experience the bustling life of Delhi and Mumbai, and enjoy the serene backwaters of Kerala. Its blend of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and cultural experiences makes India a captivating destination.
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Summary
Overview
Months
04. April, 08. August, 02. February, 01. January, 07. July, 09. September, 03. March, 06. June, 05. May
Vacation type
Beach, Couple, Family, Hiking, Nature, Sightseeing, Skiing, Mountains, Party
Expenses
<150€, <200€, <100€, Over 200€, 0-50€
Temperature
20-25°C, Over 30°C, 25-30°C
Rainfall
0-50mm, 50-100mm
Safety
Medium
Continent
Asia
Currency
Indian rupee
Languages
Hindi, English
Currency Converter
When to visit
The best time to visit southern India is during the cooler and drier months, from November to March. This period offers the most pleasant weather, making it ideal for exploring the region’s diverse landscapes, beaches, and cultural sites.
- November to March: Provides comfortable temperatures and lower humidity, perfect for sightseeing in cities like Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Kochi, as well as enjoying the beaches in Goa and Kerala. This is also a great time for experiencing the backwaters of Kerala and the hill stations of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.
- April to June: Temperatures rise significantly, especially in the inland areas, making it quite hot and less comfortable for travel. However, hill stations such as Munnar, Ooty, and Coorg offer cooler climates and are pleasant to visit during this time.
- July to October: Monsoon season brings heavy rainfall and high humidity, particularly along the western coast and in Kerala. While the rains rejuvenate the landscapes and bring lush greenery, they can also cause travel disruptions and make outdoor activities more challenging.
Overall, the period from November to March is the best time to visit southern India, providing the most favorable weather conditions for exploring the region’s attractions and enjoying its natural beauty.
Weather, Crowds and Costs
Per one person
Tourist Season: October-March (Winter & Early Spring)
Budget Vacation ($25-60/day)
Accommodation: $10-30/night (budget hotels, hostels, guesthouses).
Food: $5-15/day (street food, local eateries, casual restaurants).
Activities: $5-20/day (temples, city tours, beaches, museums).
Transportation: $5-10/day (public transport, buses, tuk-tuks).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (souvenirs, small activities).
Mid-Range Vacation ($60-150/day)
Accommodation: $30-80/night (mid-range hotels, boutique guesthouses).
Food: $15-30/day (local restaurants, casual dining, mid-range cafes).
Activities: $15-40/day (guided tours, cultural experiences, day trips).
Transportation: $10-20/day (taxis, private cars, rickshaws).
Other Costs: $10-15/day (souvenirs, special experiences).
Luxury Vacation ($150+/day)
Accommodation: $80+/night (luxury hotels, 5-star accommodations).
Food: $30+/day (fine dining, international restaurants).
Activities: $40+/day (private tours, VIP cultural experiences, scenic cruises).
Transportation: $20+/day (private transport, luxury taxis).
Other Costs: $15+/day (luxury experiences, exclusive shopping).
Off-Peak Season: April-September (Summer & Monsoon)
Budget Vacation ($20-50/day)
Accommodation: $10-20/night (budget hotels, simple guesthouses).
Food: $5-10/day (local eateries, street food).
Activities: $5-10/day (indoor attractions, temples, city tours).
Transportation: $5-10/day (public transport, tuk-tuks).
Other Costs: $5/day (souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($50-120/day)
Accommodation: $20-50/night (mid-range hotels, guesthouses).
Food: $10-20/day (casual dining, local restaurants).
Activities: $10-25/day (cultural sites, city tours, historical experiences).
Transportation: $10-15/day (public transport, taxis).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (souvenirs, small activities).
Luxury Vacation ($120+/day)
Accommodation: $50+/night (luxury hotels, boutique stays).
Food: $20+/day (fine dining, upscale restaurants).
Activities: $30+/day (private tours, guided city tours, scenic experiences).
Transportation: $15+/day (private transport, taxis).
Other Costs: $10+/day (luxury experiences, high-end shopping).
Best Regions to visit
Cities
1. Chennai
- The capital of Tamil Nadu, known for its cultural heritage, historic temples, Marina Beach, and vibrant arts scene. It’s a major cultural and economic hub in South India.
2. Bengaluru (Bangalore)
- The capital of Karnataka, renowned for its technology sector, pleasant climate, and vibrant nightlife. It also features attractions like Lalbagh Botanical Garden and Bangalore Palace.
3. Hyderabad
- The capital of Telangana, known for its historic landmarks like the Charminar and Golconda Fort, as well as its rich culinary traditions including biryani and haleem.
4. Kochi (Cochin)
- A port city in Kerala with a mix of historic colonial architecture, beautiful backwaters, and vibrant cultural events. The Fort Kochi area and the backwaters are key attractions.
5. Madurai
- Known for the Meenakshi Amman Temple, one of the largest and most intricately designed temples in India. The city has a rich history and cultural significance.
6. Mysuru (Mysore)
- Famous for the Mysore Palace, the city also hosts the Dussehra festival and is known for its heritage, silk sarees, and sandalwood products.
7. Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram)
- The capital of Kerala, known for the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, its beaches, and as a gateway to exploring Kerala's backwaters and hill stations.
Chennai
Islands
1. Lakshadweep
- An archipelago in the Arabian Sea, known for its pristine coral atolls, clear waters, and beautiful beaches. Major islands include Kavaratti, Agatti, and Bangaram, which offer excellent snorkeling, diving, and water sports.
2. Andaman and Nicobar Islands
- A group of islands in the Bay of Bengal, known for their stunning beaches, clear waters, and rich marine life. Key islands include:
- Havelock Island: Famous for Radhanagar Beach and its excellent diving and snorkeling spots.
- Neil Island: Known for its laid-back atmosphere, beautiful beaches like Bharatpur Beach, and coral reefs.
- Ross Island: Offers historical ruins and scenic views of the surrounding archipelago.
Things to see
Natural Attractions
1. Munnar
- Explore the picturesque tea gardens, rolling hills, and lush landscapes of this hill station in Kerala, known for its cool climate and biodiversity.
2. Backwaters of Kerala
- Experience the serene waterways of Kerala on a houseboat cruise through the scenic backwaters, surrounded by lush greenery and traditional village life.
3. Coorg
- Enjoy the scenic beauty of this coffee-growing region in Karnataka, known for its misty hills, waterfalls, and spice plantations.
4. Ooty
- Visit this charming hill station in Tamil Nadu, famous for its botanical gardens, Nilgiri Mountain Railway, and scenic vistas.
5. Hampi
Explore the ancient ruins of this UNESCO World Heritage site in Karnataka, featuring stunning temples, palaces, and boulder-strewn landscapes.
6. Kumarakom
- Discover this tranquil village on the Vembanad Lake, ideal for birdwatching and exploring traditional Kerala village life.
Cultural Attractions
1. Mysore Palace
- Visit this grand palace in Karnataka, known for its royal architecture, opulent interiors, and the annual Dasara festival.
2. Hampi Temples
- Explore the historic temples and ruins in Hampi, showcasing intricate carvings and the grandeur of the Vijayanagara Empire.
3. Madurai Meenakshi Temple
- Admire the elaborate architecture and vibrant sculptures of this ancient temple in Tamil Nadu, a major pilgrimage site.
4. Fort Kochi
- Wander through the historic streets of this coastal town in Kerala, known for its colonial architecture, Chinese fishing nets, and cultural heritage.
5. Rameswaram
- Visit this sacred town in Tamil Nadu, famous for its Ramanathaswamy Temple and its significance in Hindu mythology and pilgrimage.
6. Pondicherry
- Experience the blend of French colonial architecture and traditional Indian culture in this coastal town, with its charming streets, beaches, and spiritual ashrams.
Munnar
How to get around
1. Domestic Flights
- India has a well-connected network of domestic flights, with major airlines like IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, and GoAir offering flights between cities and regions. Major airports include those in Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, and Kolkata.
2. Trains
- India’s extensive rail network is operated by Indian Railways. There are various classes of service, from luxury trains like the Palace on Wheels to more budget-friendly options. IRCTC is the platform for booking tickets. Trains connect major cities and rural areas, making them a popular choice for long-distance travel.
3. Public Buses
- Public buses are available in cities and for intercity travel. In major cities like Delhi and Mumbai, state and private bus services operate. For long-distance travel, state transport corporations and private operators offer intercity buses. Companies like KSRTC (Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation) and MSRTC (Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation) provide regional services.
4. Metro
- Several Indian cities have metro systems that offer efficient transportation:
Delhi Metro: Extensive network covering Delhi and surrounding areas.
Mumbai Metro: Connecting key areas in Mumbai.
Kolkata Metro: Serving Kolkata with routes extending to neighboring regions.
Bangalore Metro: Known as Namma Metro, covering the city of Bangalore.
5. Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps
- Taxis are widely available in cities. Ride-hailing apps like Uber, Ola, and Rapido operate in many urban areas, providing convenient transportation options.
6. Car Rentals
- Renting a car can be a good option for exploring specific regions. Companies like Hertz, Avis, and Zoomcar offer rental services. Note that driving in India can be challenging due to traffic and road conditions, so hiring a driver is a common practice.
7. Auto Rickshaws
- Auto rickshaws (also known as tuk-tuks) are a popular and convenient way to get around cities. They are usually inexpensive but may not be suitable for long distances.
8. Motorcycles and Scooters
- Renting motorcycles or scooters is an option in some tourist areas, particularly for short distances and exploring local areas.
9. Boats and Ferries
- For travel to and within regions with water bodies, such as the backwaters of Kerala or the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, boat and ferry services are available.
10. Local Buses
- In rural areas and smaller towns, local buses provide essential connectivity and are often operated by state transport corporations.
For exploring India, domestic flights, trains, and public buses are practical for long-distance and intercity travel. Metro systems offer efficient urban transportation, while taxis, ride-hailing apps, and auto rickshaws are convenient for getting around cities. Car rentals, motorcycles, and scooters provide flexibility for exploring specific regions, and boats and ferries offer access to coastal and island destinations.
What to eat
1. Biryani
- A fragrant rice dish cooked with marinated meat (often chicken or lamb) and spices, a flavorful staple.
2. Masala Dosa
- A crispy rice crepe filled with spiced potatoes, served with coconut chutney and sambar.
3. Butter Chicken
- A rich and creamy chicken curry cooked in tomato sauce, often enjoyed with naan or rice.
4. Palak Paneer
- A vegetarian dish made with paneer cheese cooked in a spiced spinach sauce, typically served with rice.
5. Samosas
- Deep-fried pastry filled with spiced potatoes or meat, commonly served as a snack or appetizer.
Flights
Flight prices are approximate and vary by departure city, airline, and booking time. Check airlines or travel platforms for the latest details.
Main Airports: Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) - Bengaluru, Chennai International Airport (MAA) - Chennai
Flight Prices and Seasons:
From Europe
- Average Round-Trip Cost: €400 to €750.
- Cheapest Months: April to June and September to November.
- Peak Prices: December to February (holiday season).
From North America
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $500 to $900.
- Cheapest Months: March to May and September to November.
- Peak Prices: Summer and December holidays.
From Asia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $300 to $600.
- Cheapest Months: February to April and October to November.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer months.
From Australia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $600 to $1,200.
- Cheapest Months: February to March and September.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer months.
From Africa
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $400 to $800.
- Cheapest Months: February to April and September to November.
- Peak Prices: Summer and December holidays.
Visa
1. Visa Requirement
- Most travelers, including citizens of the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and Australia, need a visa to enter India.
2. Visa Types
- Common visa options include:
- e-Visa: Available for tourism, business, or medical visits, allowing stays of up to 60 days. Apply online before travel.
- Regular Visa: For longer stays or specific purposes (e.g., work or study), typically issued for 6 months to 5 years.
3. Visa Application
- Travelers can apply for an e-Visa online or obtain a regular visa at an Indian embassy or consulate.
4. Processing Time
- e-Visa processing usually takes 3-5 days, while regular visa processing can take several days to a few weeks.
5. Duration of Stay
- e-Visa holders can stay for up to 60 days with double entry; regular visa holders can stay for the duration specified in their visa.
6. Health Requirements
- No specific vaccinations are required for entry, but a Yellow Fever vaccination is necessary if arriving from a Yellow Fever risk country. Travel insurance is highly recommended.
7. COVID-19 Regulations
- Check for any current COVID-19 entry requirements before traveling, as regulations may change.
8. Additional Information
- Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from India.
Important things to know
1. Payments
- The local currency is the Indian Rupee (INR). Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas.
2. Tap Water
- Tap water is generally not safe to drink. Bottled water is recommended.
3. Electricity
- The voltage is 230V, and plug types C, D, and M (two round pins) are used. An adapter may be needed for devices from other regions.
4. Tipping in Restaurants
- Tipping is customary, usually around 10-15% for good service.
5. SIM Cards
- Local SIM cards are available from providers like Airtel and Jio. They can be purchased at stores.
6. Driving Side
- In India, people drive on the left side of the road.