South India Trip Cost: Real Prices for Hotels, Food, Transport & More
When planning a trip to South India, the region covering Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh, known for its temples, backwaters, hill stations, and coastal charm, the biggest question isn’t where to go—it’s how much it’ll cost. Many assume India is cheap everywhere, but South India trip cost varies wildly depending on where you stay, how you move, and what you do. A budget traveler can get by on $25 a day. Someone wanting comfort might spend $100 or more. The difference isn’t magic—it’s choices.
Let’s break it down. Accommodation, ranges from ₹500 guesthouses in Mysore to ₹5,000 boutique stays in Alleppey. You don’t need luxury to enjoy the region. Even mid-range hotels in Kochi or Pondicherry often include breakfast and pool access for under $40 a night. Food, is one of the biggest bargains—local meals at dhabas cost under $2, while nice seafood dinners in Goa or Chennai run $8–$15. Street food like dosa, idli, and vada are filling, delicious, and cost less than a coffee in New York. For transport, local trains, are the cheapest way to hop between cities—₹200–₹500 for a 4-hour ride. Taxis and ride-shares add up fast, but hiring a driver for a day in Kerala or Karnataka (around $30–$50) gives you flexibility without the stress of driving yourself.
Entry fees to temples, beaches, and heritage sites are usually under $5. The big splurge? A houseboat in Alleppey, which starts at $50 for a basic overnight stay and goes up to $200 for luxury. You can skip it and still have an amazing trip—just take a shikara ride instead for $10. Don’t forget that airfare into cities like Bangalore or Kochi can be pricey if booked last-minute. Book early, and you’ll save big. The real savings come from avoiding tourist traps, eating where locals eat, and using public transport when you can. This isn’t about being cheap—it’s about being smart.
What you’ll find below are real trip breakdowns, hidden cost traps to avoid, and exact prices from travelers who’ve done it. No fluff. No guesses. Just what it actually costs to explore the temples of Madurai, cruise the backwaters of Kerala, hike the Western Ghats, and relax on the beaches of Gokarna—all without draining your wallet. Whether you’re planning a 5-day escape or a 3-week journey, the answers are here.
