Solo backpacking trips are on everyone’s bucket list. It is also a challenging adventure, as you won’t have anyone to help or guide you throughout your trip. It took me almost 6 months to make up my mind to go on this solo backpacking trip through South India. Initially, I planned on going on an all-India trip, but then I thought “why not take small and simple steps at first?”.
So here is my itinerary for solo backpacking for the trip I took last month.
Day 1 – Cochin, Kerala
Cochin, also known as Kochi, is like a historic ambiance along with aromatic and appetising sea foods. There are numerous European-style churches and monuments in Kochi which are worth visiting. The Marine Drive gives the most scenic view of the ocean, and Jew Street is famous for its historic ambiance and antique stores. The streets of Kochi are most definitely instagrammable. Hence if you are planning a solo backpacking trip to south India. Cochin is inevitable
There are a multitude of options available for restaurants and cafes in Kochi. Starting from small and cheap tea shops to Starbucks, you can eat and caffeinate your way through Kochi.
I also got to take a house boat ride at Kumarakom. It was very aesthetic and also fun
As I planned for a budget stay, I stayed at Zostel Kochi for the day and took a bus to Bangalore that very night.
Day 2 – Bangalore
I reached Bangalore the next morning. I checked myself into Zostel Bangalore and slept through the day. By evening, I set out to visit Lal Bagh. There were children and joggers in the evening. I just sat on a bench and enjoyed the peaceful environment. By dawn, I checked out of Zostel and took the night bus to Hampi.
south indian food are very colourful and has great flavour and spice.
Day 3-Hampi
I stayed at a budget-friendly homestay at Hampi and visited the historic monuments, temples, and some offbeat cafes in Hampi. Hampi has a pleasant and spiritual vibe and ambiance like Rishikesh. Everyone should visit Hampi at least once in their lifetime. Some of the places you should visit are
- Yantrodharaka Hanuman Temple.
- The Stone Chariot
- Virupaksha Temple
Cafes to visit in Hampi
- Laughing Buddha Cafe
- Mango Tree
- Brown elephant cafe
Day 4 – Goa
As there is no bus service from Hampi to Goa, I had to get back to Bangalore and take another bus to Goa. Goa is a land of beaches and beautiful churches. From Bangalore, I reached Goa in the morning. I visited Baga Beach in the evening but it was too crowded, so I left early for my room at Gostops Baga.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to travel around south india on a budget?
Personally speaking, I usually don’t feel comfortable travelling via train. So I mostly travel via bus. I booked my bus tickets through redbus.
How much does it cost to travel around south india? Is travelling through south india expensive?
No, it’s not expensive, at least from my experience. Ensure that you say at cheap but clean places such as hostels and dorms to make your travel budget friendly.
How much did it cost for a South India backpacking trip?
For me, it cost only around 25000 Indian rupees or less.
- The bus charges cost around 5000 Indian rupees in total.
- Staying in hostels and homestays also costs around 15000 Indian rupees.
- Eating my way through south india cost me around 5000 indian rupees as well.
These are the estimated costs I had to bear for the trip. The prices of food and stays might change according to your preferences.
What are some main important things to pack while backpacking through south india?
- Your prefered clothes ( i would recommend loose fit comfortable outfits)
- Hat or scarfs
- Waterproof shoes or sandals
- Sunscreen
- Power Banks and chargers
- Bath towels and robes if you are staying at a budget hostel or homestay
Available south India tour packages sites.
There are multiple tour packages available in different sites and travel agencies at affordable prices for you to choose from such as makemytrip, thrillophilia, yatra and so on. You can visit their sites for more details and information.
Is South India safe for a solo backpacking trip?
Relatively speaking from my experience, south india is pretty safe to travel. Late nights can be risky as any other place on earth. You should look out for pickpockets in crowded markets and cities like Bangalore and cochin.
Which is the most visited place in South India?
The most visited places in south India are Goa and Bangalore. Goa is a hub for parties and beautiful beaches. Goa is the perfect weekend getaway destination after a stressful week.
Bangalore is known as the IT capital of India where young IT professionals from all over the world start their dreams.
Which is the best place in South India?
The best place to visit in south India is Hampi. Hampi is a place of tranquillity and history.
