A Complete Travel Guide for Your South India Trip from the UK

Are you dreaming of a holiday filled with heritage, hills, backwaters, beaches, and unforgettable experiences? A trip to South India is all that and more. If you’re planning your journey from the UK, this blog will help you design the perfect itinerary, from visa procedures to the best experiences across Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.

Ideal Duration: 14–21 Days

To truly enjoy South India’s diversity-from temple towns to spice-scented hills-a 2 to 3-week trip is ideal. This allows a comfortable pace with a mix of history, nature, culture, and relaxation.

Which States to Include?

For a complete South Indian experience, include Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu in your itinerary. Each offers something unique:

1. Karnataka – History, Hills, and Heritage

• Hampi: UNESCO World Heritage site, ancient ruins, and surreal landscapes
• Belur & Halebidu: Stunning Hoysala temples with intricate stone carvings
• Shravanabelagola: Home to the world’s tallest monolithic Jain statue
• Mysore: Palaces, sandalwood, and rich royal heritage
• Kabini: Wildlife safaris and serene backwaters near Nagarhole National Park

2. Kerala – Backwaters, Beaches, and Ayurveda

• Wayanad & Calicut: Waterfalls, spice plantations, and tribal heritage
• Thrissur: Visit Kerala Kalamandalam, the heart of traditional dance & arts
• Cochin: Colonial charm, Chinese fishing nets, and art cafes
• Munnar & Thekkady: Tea estates, trekking, and bamboo rafting
• Alleppey Houseboat: Drift through the backwaters in a luxury houseboat
• Kovalam Beach: Relax with Ayurvedic massages by the sea

3. Tamil Nadu – Temples, Traditions, and Coastal Vibes

• Chennai: Gateway to South India, urban culture, and beaches
• Mahabalipuram: Shore temples and rock-cut sculptures
• Pondicherry: French quarters and bohemian vibes
• Kumbakonam & Tanjore: Chola temples and sacred towns
• Chettinad: Unique mansions and spicy cuisine
• Madurai: Meenakshi Temple and cultural vibrance
• Kanyakumari: India’s southern tip where three seas meet

Where to Stay – Make It Experiential

Forget generic hotels! South India offers some of the most authentic boutique stays and luxury properties:

• CGH Earth Hotels – Eco-luxury with local touches
• Taj Hotels & Leela Hotels – Iconic Indian hospitality
• Niraamaya Retreats – Beachside serenity and Ayurveda
• Hyatt Hotels – Comfort with contemporary design

For a more personal experience, try heritage homestays or plantation retreats in the hills or by the backwaters.

Must-Try Food Experiences

South Indian cuisine is an explosion of flavor. Don’t miss:

• Breakfast: Dosa, Appam with Egg Roast, Idli, or Puttu with Kadala Curry
• Lunch: Traditional Kerala Sadya on banana leaf, Tamil meals, or Karnataka-style Bisi Bele Bath
• Dinner: Kerala Parotta with Chicken or Mutton Stew, Chettinad Chicken, or Malabar Biryani

Experiences You Shouldn’t Miss

• Trekking in Munnar or Wayanad
• Bamboo rafting in Thekkady
• Kathakali performance in Cochin
• Ayurveda massage therapy in Kovalam or Thekkady
• Tea Factory visits in Munnar
• Stay overnight in a houseboat with traditional Kerala meals

Travel from the UK – Essentials

• Visa: Apply for an e-Tourist Visa online via the Indian Government portal
• Travel Insurance: Highly recommended, can be purchased in the UK
• Language: English is widely spoken, especially by your tour guides and drivers

Tour Style – Private & Bespoke

Most UK travelers prefer customised private car tours with:

• English-speaking drivers
• Friendly local tour managers
• Comfortable stays and cultural interactions

Choose the Right Travel Partner

Look for experienced and trusted tour operators like The Travel Planners, who:

• Have 25+ years of experience
• Own offices in Cochin and Trivandrum
• Offer fast itinerary planning by skilled professionals
• Provide on-ground support and personal contacts at key locations
• Maintain an office in the UK for easy coordination

Contacting them via direct email or through their UK office ensures a smooth planning process.