How Long in South India: Best Trip Duration and What to See

When people ask how long in South India, they’re really asking: South India, the region covering Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh, known for its ancient temples, lush backwaters, and distinct food culture—is it worth more than a week? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all, but most travelers find 10 to 14 days gives you real depth without burnout. You don’t need to rush from Mysore to Ooty to Kochi in five days. That’s not travel—that’s a checklist. South India rewards slow movement. You need time to sit by a backwater houseboat, sip filter coffee at a roadside stall, and watch temple dancers move in the golden hour.

Many travelers start with Kerala, the coastal state famous for its serene backwaters, Ayurvedic wellness, and monsoon-green hills, spending 3–4 days on a houseboat ride between Alleppey and Kumarakom. Then they head inland to Mysore, the palace city with royal heritage, silk markets, and the grand Dussehra festival, where a full day isn’t enough—you need two to wander the streets, visit the palace at night, and taste the local sweets. From there, a short trip to Hampi, the ruins of a 14th-century Vijayanagara empire, scattered with boulders, temples, and river views adds history without crowds. If you’ve got extra time, add Chennai’s Marina Beach for coastal energy or the quiet beaches of Puducherry for French-colonial charm. Each spot feels worlds apart, and switching between them takes time—roads are slow, trains are unpredictable, and you’ll want to nap after a hot afternoon.

What most visitors don’t realize is that South India isn’t about ticking off monuments. It’s about the rhythm: the smell of curry leaves frying at dawn, the sound of temple bells echoing in narrow lanes, the way strangers offer you a glass of tender coconut without asking. A 7-day trip gets you the highlights but leaves you hungry for more. A 21-day trip lets you live it, not just see it. The sweet spot? 10–14 days. You’ll still have room to change plans, rest when you need to, and let the place sink in. And if you’re wondering whether to skip the north? You don’t need to. South India stands on its own—no Taj Mahal required.

Below, you’ll find real guides from travelers who’ve walked these roads, sailed these waters, and eaten these meals. Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning for a second, you’ll find the right length, the right pace, and the right spots to make it unforgettable.