South India Slow Lane
Kerala backwaters, Goa beaches and Tamil temples
Gentler than the north and just as cheap. Sleeper-class trains, thali lunches for a dollar and a coastline that runs from party beaches to silent backwater canals.
The route, stop by stop
Arrive, do the Colaba–Bandra circuit, take the night train south.
Arambol hostels, Palolem quiet end, scooter everything.
Boulder fields and ruined temples — backpacker legend.
Chinese fishing nets and Fort Kochi homestays.
Backwater canals by public ferry, not private houseboat.
Cliff-top cafés above a swimmable beach.
Meenakshi temple — the most alive temple in India.
Filter coffee, Marina beach and the flight home.
Totals are estimates built from the per-night budgets above — your real spend will vary.
Getting around
- →Indian Railways sleeper class (book on IRCTC)
- →KSRTC state buses
- →Rented Royal Enfield in Goa
Don't forget
- ✓Loose cotton
- ✓Mosquito repellent
- ✓Toilet paper and hand gel
- ✓Padlock for sleeper berths
Save the stops as a trip, track your budget and find hostels along the way.
Start planning freeMore Asia trails
