south India Tourism tripadvisor

South India Travel Tips

South India for the first time, it will be an experience mixed with different emotions. South India is more rich in traditions and culture when compared to North India and first time visitors may find them weird.
The four main states in South India are Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala. Each of states have different languages, dressing style, taste of food etc.If you are planning a short trip, then you can choose one state and roam round there completely. If it is a long trip,you can see 2 states. Each state is unique in its own way. Tamil Nadu has lot of temples, Kerala is rich in greenery, Andhra Pradesh has popular forts while Karnataka has cool climate with lot of parks and palaces.
Even though India is a country which greets the visitors to its land with complete enthusiasm, the trip will be more enjoyable for you if you learn more about their traditions and customs.

Eat:
Idli and Dosa: Idli is one of the staples in South India. It’s basically a steamed, spongy cake made of rice and lentils, served with a spicy coconut chutney. Dosas are a crispy, thin pancake made of rice and lentils. A popular variant, the Masala Dosa, is stuffed with mashed potato and served with coconut chutney. You can find different variations of dosas all across South India. Almost every restaurant in South India serves idli and dosa.

Uttapam and Vada: Uttapam is a fried pancake made from rice batter and lentil and finely chopped fresh vegetables. On the other hand, Vada is fried Indian doughnut, but spiced and savoury.

Bhat and Sevai: Bhat includes rice-based dishes cooked in different combinations. Most variations are accompanied by raita (curd). Sevai is rice noodles eaten with gravy. Enjoy Sevai or Bhat with fish curry. The combination will definitely stimulate your taste buds.

Chettinad Cuisine: This cuisine is considered to be one of the spiciest and most aromatic in India. Salted vegetables, sun-dried meat and a wide range of spices are enough to make sure you crave for more. Vellai Paniyaram, Kandharappam, Masala Seeyam and Karuppatti Paniyaram are some of the most popular dishes in this cuisine.

When to Go:
December - February: This is the peak season to visit South India. The climate is the least humid, and temperatures range between 22-30 degrees Celsius. Since some hill stations, such as Munnar in Kerala, remain cooler, it’s always a good idea to carry a light jacket or pullover.

May - October: Ayurveda has played an important role in boosting tourism in the region. It’s considered to be most effective in the monsoons, which extends from May to October. In October/November, most South Indian states also celebrate Dussehra and Diwali.

Getting Around:
Local Transport: Cycle-rickshaws, auto-rickshaws, boats, taxis, buses and trains provide transport around major cities in South India. Cost can vary from one town to another. Before you book a mode of transportation, bargain for the best price. Some drivers may refuse to use meters. You should discuss luggage cost and night charges beforehand. While the cycle-rickshaw is a three-wheeled, pedal cycle, the auto-rickshaw is a three-wheeled motorized vehicle with a canvas or tin roof. It offers space for a maximum three passengers. Travelling in an Indian auto is great fun. Vikrams and tempos are larger-sized auto-rickshaws with more space. They often shuttle between fixed routes.

Taxis: Taxis are usually metered. However, most drivers don’t use meters and charge more for tourists. It’s better to use prepaid taxis. In larger cities, you should be able to hire radio taxis. Travelling in a bus is the most affordable choice. If you want a comfortable journey, make sure you choose a private service operator.

Boat: Many locals offer transport via boats and ferries down and across the many rivers in South India. From wooden canoes to giant ferries, it’s easy to find a service to cross rivers or to enjoy the backwaters. Most larger boats will carry motorcycles, bicycles and even cars for a nominal fee.

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