Alright, so I’m finally doing it. After months of going back and forth, I’ve decided to book a two-week trip to South India this November—solo, shoestring, and slightly spontaneous. I’ve traveled a fair bit across North India, but this is my first real plunge into the lush, coastal, spicy southern half of the country. So yes, I need some solid advice.

First things first—this isn’t going to be a luxurious getaway. I’m working with a tight budget, and I want to make every rupee stretch without sacrificing the essence of the journey. So if you’re someone who’s done something similar or just knows the scene, keep reading (and maybe even share a tip or two!).

Why November?

Let’s talk timing. November in South India is kind of perfect. The monsoon has said goodbye (finally), the air’s cleared up, and it’s not scorching hot like peak summer. Plus, tourist crowds are just starting to trickle in, which means better prices and more room to breathe.

This is also the season when places like Munnar and Wayanad are fresh, green, and incredibly photogenic—without the downpour. Beaches like Varkala and Gokarna? They start getting their groove back too.

Draft Itinerary (Still Open to Tweaks)

Here’s what I’ve sketched out so far:

• Day 1–3: Chennai (arrival, explore Marina Beach, Kapaleeshwarar Temple, local food)
• Day 4–6: Pondicherry (French Quarter, café hopping, Auroville)
• Day 7–9: Madurai or Trichy (temples, local life)
• Day 10–14: Kerala (Alleppey, Kochi, or maybe even Munnar?)

Too ambitious? Maybe. But I like to move a little fast—especially if there’s a train involved. That said, I’m totally open to slowing things down if it means deeper experiences.

Accommodation on a Budget

Let’s be real. I’m not staying in five-star resorts. But I’m not a fan of grimy backpacker dorms either. I’m looking for the sweet spot—clean, safe, budget guesthouses or homestays, preferably with locals around to chat with or share a cup of chai.

From what I’ve seen on apps like Booking.com and even a few Facebook groups, there are solid options ranging between ₹700–₹1200 per night in most cities, especially if you book a bit early. I’m planning to reserve places for just the first two nights and wing it from there, depending on how the route flows.

If you’ve stayed in a place you’d go back to, feel free to shout it out.

Getting Around Without Going Broke

Now here’s where I need the most help. Trains? Buses? Shared autos? What’s the smartest, cheapest, yet still-safe way to get around in South India?

So far, I’ve heard:

• Trains are reliable, especially if you grab a 2nd-class sleeper ticket in advance.
• KSRTC buses in Kerala and Tamil Nadu are dirt cheap and surprisingly frequent.
• Autos can be hit-or-miss—metered ones are rare, so bargaining becomes a sport.

Should I consider apps like Rapido or Ola for short rides? And for long routes—like Pondicherry to Madurai—do night buses make sense?

Read here

Food: The Joy of Being Cheap

One of the reasons I’m so excited about South India is the food. I mean, idlis, dosas, filter coffee, Kerala sadya meals—it’s a dream. And the best part? You can eat very well on a very small budget.

Street food and local eateries are where I’ll be hanging out most. I’m talking about ₹50 breakfasts and ₹150 thalis. No fancy cafés unless I need Wi-Fi or a clean restroom break. But hygiene is important—so I’ll probably follow the rule of thumb: If it’s crowded with locals, it’s safe to eat.

Cultural Tips? I’m All Ears.

I know the culture in South India is different from the North. More conservative in some parts, more laid back in others. I plan to dress modestly (no shorts unless I’m on the beach), and I’ve been told temples have strict dress codes—like covering shoulders and legs. Got it.

I also hear the people are warm but reserved. So being respectful, smiling, and not being overly intrusive seems to go a long way.

Any local customs, do’s and don’ts, or unexpected surprises I should know about?

One Side Trip I’m Considering

I came across this idea while reading a traveler’s blog—the suggestion to include a Kerala backwater tour at the end of the trip. But instead of going with the expensive, touristy version, I’m hunting for authentic and local experiences. Somewhere I can chill for a bit, maybe kayak or walk through a village, without burning a hole in my pocket.

While digging deeper, I found a recommendation for the best Kerala tour package for first-time travelers—which looked pretty balanced in terms of price and local flavor. I’m still weighing my options but definitely leaning toward something that’s not too commercial.

Final Thoughts – Help Me Out!

So that’s my plan in a nutshell. Exciting, a little chaotic, but full of possibility. If you’ve been to South India on a budget, I’d genuinely love to hear:

• Where you went
• What you skipped and regretted (or didn’t)
• How you managed costs
• And what not to miss!

Also open to hidden gems, temple town tips, and even night bus horror stories—lay it all on me.

Thanks for reading. Hopefully, I’ll come back with some stories worth sharing too.