Travel Guide
South India
Our trip through South India in 3 weeks lasted 21 days, covered 10 stops and took us from the incredible Ajanta and Ellora caves all the way to the canals of Kerala.
In this guide you’ll find the full route, what to see at each stop, an approximate budget, where to sleep and what we’d change if we went back tomorrow. We went in mid-August and got lucky with the weather: it barely rained, and we only caught a proper downpour in Fort Kochi. We were blown away by the boulder temples of Hampi, the Mysore palace and the mountain train between Ooty and Coonoor.
We did this trip sleeping in charming boutique hotels and getting around between cities by taxi. Spotting wild elephants in Munnar, wandering Fort Kochi in the rain and waking up on the Alleppey backwaters were some of the most special moments. We’ll walk you through what to see, how much it costs and how to plan it all step by step, because this trip is so worth it!
Ajanta Caves
The Ajanta Caves in southern India are a historical marvel. Their ancient Buddhist frescoes and rock-carved sculptures tell fascinating stories, surrounded by lush landscapes.
Awesome!
Cry Caves
Visiting the Ellora Caves means immersing yourself in centuries of history and art, admiring temples carved into the rock that combine Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain cultures.
A unique spectacle!
Bibi Ka Maqbara
Known as the “Mini Taj Mahal”, this is a mausoleum in Aurangabad, built in the 17th century. The structure is essentially an elegant version of the famous Taj Mahal, with its own quieter charm. It reflects the legacy of the Mughal Empire and ends up being one of those lesser-known places that genuinely surprises you.
Ibrahim Roza
Often compared to the Taj Mahal for its beauty, the harmonious design and the surrounding gardens give the place a real sense of calm. It is a chance to see one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture off the standard tourist circuit, with the splendour of the Bijapur Sultanate in the background.
Hampi
Hampi, the former capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, is a fascinating archaeological site with monumental temples, unique rock landscapes, and a history that transports you to the grandeur of medieval India.
Our favorite highlight.
Mysore Markets
Mysore’s markets are a vibrant mosaic of culture and commerce, where you can find everything from aromatic spices to traditional handicrafts. Explore the authenticity of local life as you explore these bustling spaces, perfect for buying souvenirs and enjoying street food.
Touring these markets is the perfect way to experience the true heart of India.
Toy train in Ooty
A magical experience through breathtaking mountain scenery. This UNESCO World Heritage toy train ride has panoramic views of lush tea plantations and rolling hills. As the train winds its way through the mountains, passengers can soak up the nostalgic atmosphere and natural beauty of South India.
one of the best ways to explore the beauty of South India!
tea plantations
A breathtaking landscape that enchants visitors with its rolling hills covered in vibrant green. Touring the plantations is an immersive way to learn about tea culture: You can learn about the cultivation and harvesting process while enjoying panoramic views that look like something out of a postcard.
A real treat for the senses and a great way to connect with nature.
Wild elephants
It’s a magical experience. These majestic animals live in a stunning natural setting, where you can observe their behavior in their habitat.
It’s a rare chance to connect with wildlife and enjoy the beauty of the region.
Traditional boat in backwaters kerala
Sailing in a traditional boat through the Kerala backwaters is a unique experience.
You’ll pass tranquil canals and floating houses, and experience a rich cultural heritage. Enjoy delicious fresh seafood, explore rice plantations, and soak up the peaceful, authentic atmosphere.
A getaway you can’t miss!
Pig
A fascinating destination that combines history, culture, and natural beauty. From its colonial heritage and famous Chinese fishing nets to its vibrant arts scene and delicious cuisine, Cochin is a one-of-a-kind experience.
You can’t miss it!
its people
We were greeted with genuine smiles and heartfelt hospitality, making every interaction memorable. Their warmth and friendliness create a welcoming and joyful atmosphere, making it a special place. India in an unforgettable destination.
Index
3-week South India travel guide
Three-week itinerary in South India: Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Bijapur, Hampi... and more!
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1. Ajanta Caves 1 dayThe Ajanta Caves, An Ancient Artistic Treasure that has fascinated researchers and tourists for its impressive architecture and elaborate paintings.
- 2. Ellora Caves 1 day
The Ellora Caves, masterfully carved from volcanic rock, represent an impressive architectural and cultural legacy of India.
- 3. Bijapur 2 day
Bijapur, a historic city in southern India, offers a fascinating mix of architecture and culture.
- 4. Hampi 4 day
Hampi, an ancient ruined city that has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, captivates with its stunning beauty and rich history.
- 5. Mysore 1 day
Mysore, the city of palaces and gardens, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and nature.
- 6. Ooty 1 day
Ooty, known as the "Queen of the Hills", is a popular tourist destination in Tamil Nadu, India.
- 7. Coonoor 1 day
Surrounded by lush nature, it is an ideal destination to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy the beauty of South India.
- 8. Munnar 3 day
Munnar, in Kerala, is famous for its tea plantations, spectacular mountains and a cool environment, ideal for ecotourism and outdoor adventures.
- 9. Kerala 2 day
Kerala, known as "God's Land," offers breathtaking landscapes, serene backwaters, and a rich culture. Discover it!
- 10. Cochin 2 day
Fort Kochi, a fascinating destination in Kerala, stands out for its rich history, vibrant culture, and unique coastal scenery. Visit it now!
Map of the South India 3-week itinerary
This map shows the full route of the South India 3-week itinerary, with every stage and its order: the Ajanta and Ellora caves, Karnataka with Hampi and Mysore, the Nilgiri Hills with Ooty, Munnar, and Kerala with Fort Kochi. Use it to understand the distances, plan trains and transfers, and save it to your own Google Maps.
Stop 1. The Ajanta Caves
(1 Day)
The Ajanta caves, an ancient artistic treasure that has fascinated researchers and tourists alike with its impressive architecture and elaborate paintings.
These architectural marvels, surrounded by nature, reflect spirituality and ancient art of India.
Recommendations for the Ajanta caves
How to visit the Ajanta caves?
We recommend doing the visit on foot. You can hire guides on site at very reasonable rates, although be careful: there are unofficial guides offering their services, some of them without English skills. We also recommend arriving early because the Ajanta Caves fill up with tourists quickly, especially during peak season.
Take your time
With 29 caves To visit, plan at least 5-6 hours for thorough exploration. The site is large, and some caves contain unique sculptures or murals that deserve time to be appreciated properly. Furthermore…
The viewpoint overlooking the caves and nature is spectacular!
The Ajanta Caves viewpoint It offers breathtaking views of the valley, where the Waghora River and a waterfall create a spectacular landscape. From there, you can appreciate the horseshoe-shaped arrangement of caves carved into the cliff, surrounded by lush vegetation, perfect for finding peace and spiritual reflection.
Spot 2. The Elora Caves
(1 Day)
The Ellora Caves are an impressive archaeological complex famous for the 34 temples and monasteries carved into the rock, representing Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism. The most remarkable structure is the Kailasa Temple, a unique monolithic piece dedicated to Shiva. The site is one of the most striking testaments to religious art in India.
Recommendations for Ellora Caves
How to visit the Ellora caves?
Arriving early will allow you to explore the Ellora Caves without crowds Enjoying a peaceful atmosphere to admire the architecture and take stunning photos. It’s even more important than in the Ajanta caves.
Wear appropriate footwear and bring plenty of water, especially if you visit in summer, when the climate in Ellora It can be hot
Prioritize the Kailasa Temple
This is the most prominent temple and one of the best places to visit in Ellora. Take time to explore the intricate reliefs, carved into a single rock, and appreciate its grandeur from different angles.
Explore the caves of the three religions
The Ellora Caves They include Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain temples. Visit them all to understand India’s religious and cultural diversity in one place.
Choose a quiet cave and take the opportunity to meditate in this spiritual space, connecting with the sacred environment that inspired its construction.
From the Elora caves we went to....
Spot 3. Bijapur
(2 Days)
Bijapur, located in Karnataka, is famous for its rich historical heritage and impressive Islamic architecture. It is best known for monuments like the Tomb of Gol Gumbaz, which has the second largest dome in the world. Other key sites include the Fort of Bijapur, the Jami Masjid mosque, and the Ibrahim Rauza, all built during the Adil Shahi dynasty in the 16th century.
Bijapur Recommendations
How to visit Bijapur?
Research the Main tourist attractions of Bijapur and create an itinerary to make sure you don’t miss iconic landmarks like the Tomb of Gol Gumbaz (Highly recommended, we loved it) and the Jamia Mosque
Capture Moments
Bring a camera. India is incredibly photogenic and Bijapur is one of the best places to use that camera. The light at sunrise and sunset is the right kind of warm for photographing the architecture and the surrounding landscapes.
Explore the gallery of whispers
Gallery of Whispers Gol Gumbaz is a unique and breathtaking experience. Its exceptional acoustic design allows even a whisper to travel through the dome, creating a magical connection with the history and architecture of the past.
Stop 4. Hampi
(4 Days)
Hampi, located in Karnataka, is an ancient city of the Vijayanagara Empire, famous for its temples, ruins and singular landscapes. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hampi attracts travellers with places like the Virupaksha Temple and the Vittala Temple. Hampi is one of those destinations that goes well beyond the postcard, and is essential on any trip through South India.
Hampi recommendations
Explore the ancient temples of Hampi to experience history
Hampi is famous for its ensemble of ancient temples and monuments of the Vijayanagara Empire, especially the Virupaksha Temple and the Temple of Vittala. These temples reflect a unique architecture with musical columns and detailed carvings, telling stories from over 500 years ago. Exploring each temple is a journey into the past, where you can admire the Hampi’s antiquity and historical beauty and its importance as a spiritual and cultural center in India.
Hire a local guide to learn about the history.
A local guide in Hampi It will help you understand the rich history and culture of the Vijayanagara Empire. This provides unique context for each temple and monument, making your experience more complete and authentic.
Stay at what we think is the best hotel in India
Check out the article below and if you end up staying, enjoy the experience 🙂
THE EXPLORE TV RECOMMENDATION
The hotel that combines luxury with the most magical and historic place in India
#HOTEL EXPLORE
Evolve Back Hampi is a luxury resort located in the heart of Hampi, India. Surrounded by the majestic landscapes of Hampi, World Heritage Site It’s perfect for anyone wanting an exclusive stay full of comfort, elegance, and serenity. Here, contemporary luxury merges with… rich history and culture of ancient India.
It transports you back in time without sacrificing modern comforts, with a construction and design that reflects the splendor of the Vijayanagara Empire.
Stop 5. Mysore
(2 Days)
Mysore, known as the City of Palaces in the state of Karnataka, is famous for its majestic Mysore Palace, with Indo-Saracenic architecture and serious historical weight. It is a perfect base to explore Indian culture and tradition. Also worth visiting is the Devaraja Market, where you really feel the daily life of the city.
Mysore Recommendations
Visit Mysore Palace early to avoid crowds and take advantage of natural light
Arrive early to Mysore Palace It allows you to explore the stunning architecture and details without crowds, as well as capture photos in the best light. The palace has magnificent interiors, frescoes, and mosaics that look even more beautiful in the morning light.
Explore the Devaraja market to buy authentic spices, flowers, and souvenirs.
At the Devaraja Market in Mysore you can find fresh spices, flowers and handcrafted goods. It is a busy place where locals and visitors mix, with an authentic and very colourful side of traditional Indian commerce. Perfect for picking up a souvenir you will actually want to keep.
Stop 6. Ooty
(1 Day)
Ooty, also known as Udhagamandalam, is a picturesque town in the Nilgiri Hills in southern India. Known for its cool climate and very pleasant scenery, it is a popular destination for getaways. Ooty has attractions such as the Botanical Garden, Lake Ooty and tea plantations that produce some of the best teas in the country. Beyond the natural beauty, there are colonial influences and Hindu temples that give the place a particular character.
Ooty Recommendations
Above all... Take a ride on the famous Ooty to Coonor mountain train
Traveling in the Ooty mountain train is a unique experience offering breathtaking views of the mountainous landscape. This route, part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, connects Ooty with Mettupalayam. You’ll enjoy a peaceful journey while admiring tea plantations and lush valleys, making your visit an unforgettable memory. 3-week itinerary through South India.
If you've run out of tickets online...
No problem, you can go to the station to buy them. We recommend that you go 4 hours before the train departs so that you can buy train tickets from Ooty to Coonor even if you haven’t bought them online beforehand.
Our favorite place for breakfast and lunch in India: Le Café
Le Cafe in Ooty is worth a stop, famous for its charming old building and the small shop next door that sells some of the best souvenirs in India. Prices are slightly above India average, but the experience is worth it. A great spot for a coffee, a slow lunch and a bit of shopping.
Stop 7. counoor
(1 Day)
Coonoor, located in the Nilgiri Hills, is a popular destination in India, famous for its tea plantations. This picturesque town has a pleasant climate and stunning views. Visitors can explore the Rose Garden, take the mountain train, and hike the trails around the area. It is one of those places where you can stop, breathe, and just look.
Coonoor Recommendations
Mountain Train Ride
Arrive by train ride from Coonoor to Ooty is an experience. This tour is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers panoramic views of the Nilgiri hills and valleys. Be sure to book your tickets in advance to guarantee your place and enjoy the journey on a vintage train that adds a special touch to your visit.
Take a hiking tour to discover nature in Coonor
A hiking tour in Coonoor is a fantastic way to explore the region’s natural beauty. With a variety of trails available for all levels, you’ll enjoy breathtaking scenery and spot native flora and fauna. This activity is also perfect for adventure and photography enthusiasts. We took tuk-tuks to the main hiking starting points and had an amazing day.
Stop 8. Munnar
(3 Days)
Munnar, located in Kerala, is an ideal destination for anyone who likes nature. Famous for its vast tea plantations, it has a cool climate and lush mountain landscapes. You can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and birdwatching, and Munnar is also home to rich biodiversity, including some endemic species.
Munnar Recommendations
Wild Elephant Sighting
The real highlight here is the chance to watch elephants in their natural habitat. Local guides are experts at tracking these majestic animals and will take you to the best spots to see them, ensuring a safe and respectful experience.
Photography and Nature
Do not forget the camera. The views are striking, and the chance to photograph elephants in their natural habitat does not come around every day. The local flora and fauna also give you plenty of opportunities for solid nature shots.
Go on a Jeep adventure
The adventure begins with an exhilarating jeep ride through the hills. Feel the adrenaline rush as you navigate narrow, winding roads, enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and vegetation.
Don’t say we didn’t warn you! If you want more information about the tour we booked, check out the article below:
#adventure EXPLORE
This place is known for its population of wild elephants, which are often sighted in their natural habitat.
The Anakkulam Wild Elephant Village Tour is more than just a day trip; it’s a deep dive into Kerala’s nature and culture. With its blend of adventure, scenic beauty, and wildlife encounters, this tour is an experience you’ll cherish forever. Don’t miss it on your next visit to Munnar!
Stop 9. Kerala
(2 Days)
Kerala, on the southwest coast of India, is famous for its calm backwaters, its tea plantations and the local culture. Sometimes called “God’s Own Country”, Kerala gives you a very particular kind of trip: local cuisine that you remember, quiet beaches like Varkala, and a relaxed pace you will not get in the bigger cities of India.
Kerala Recommendations
Relax on the beaches of Varkala
The Varkala beaches are great for slowing down. You can also try water sports like surfing or paddleboarding. Make sure you walk along the Varkala cliff, where you will find cafes and small shops. The sunset from here is one of the better ones in Kerala, so the camera is worth bringing.
Explore the Backwaters of Alleppey
Take a tour in houseboat by the famous backwaters From Alleppey. This peaceful journey lets you enjoy lush landscapes and the daily life of the locals. Don’t forget to capture stunning photos and savor the local dishes prepared on board. It’s a unique experience you won’t want to miss!
Take a 1-night excursion on a traditional boat
Do not miss the experience of sailing through the backwaters of Kerala in a traditional boat. During a night cruise you will enjoy the local cuisine while you float along canals lined with palm trees and small villages. The sky here clears up nicely, the air slows down, and you end up disconnecting in a way you did not expect.
THE EXPLORE TV RECOMMENDATION
Discover the Magic of Kerala: An Unforgettable Trip to the Backwaters by Boat
#adventure EXPLORE
Welcome to southern India. Kerala waits with its backwaters, serene landscapes, lush tea plantations and a culture that surprises you in small details. You can sail on a traditional boat through the canals, take in the colonial influence in Fort Kochi, or simply slow down on a quiet beach. Kerala is the kind of destination that works whether you want activity or stillness.
Stop 10. Fort Kochi
(2 Days)
Fort Kochi is an iconic destination in Kerala, famous for its unique blend of history and culture. Here, you can explore the iconic Chinese fishing nets which are a major attraction, and enjoy the colonial architecture that reflects the influence of the Portuguese and Dutch. Also, don’t miss the delicious local cuisine, which blends Indian and European flavors. Fort Kochi is also great for art galleries and traditional dance performances, such as the Kathakali.
Fort Kochi Recommendations
Explore Chinese fishing nets
Visit the famous Chinese fishing nets In Fort Kochi at dawn. This traditional activity is a visual spectacle and an authentic experience you can’t miss. Take the opportunity to capture incredible photographs and learn the history behind this unique fishing technique.
Explore Fort San Angelo
The Fort of San Angelo is a historical gem that you must explore. From its walls, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Learn about its history and the colonial influence on the region as you stroll through this beautiful site.
Try the local cuisine
The Fort Kochi kitchen is delicious and diverse. Don’t leave without trying it. Explore local restaurants to enjoy authentic Kerala cuisine.
Our favorites: Trouvaille and Lila – Curated Experiences. For breakfast, don’t miss: French Toast Fort Kochi.
