3-Day Southern India Tour Packages

Insider tips: Recommended 3-day Southern India tour itineraries

Compiled by

MelissaSouthern India travel expert at TourRadar

• 3 Day Karnataka Itinerary, incl. Bangalore and Nagarhole National Park

  Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hills, and Nagarhole National Park showcase South India's diverse attractions. The trip includes 2 nights at premium lodges and 3 wildlife safaris with expert naturalists.

  

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  • Day 1

    Bangalore to Mysore to Kabini (230 km)

    Leave Bangalore by 7 AM to beat the morning traffic. The drive to Mysore takes 4-5 hours. Visit Mysore Palace in the late morning when the lighting is perfect for photos and you'll find fewer tourists. Foreign visitors pay about $7 USD for entry. Head to Chamundi Hills in the afternoon. You can drive up in 20 minutes or walk the 1000 steps if you're feeling energetic. After seeing St. Philomena's Church, make your way to Kabini, about 1.5 hours from Mysore.

    
  • Day 2

    Nagarhole National Park Safaris

    Your morning safari starts at 6:30 AM. Wear neutral colors to blend in with the environment. Tigers and elephants are most active during these early hours. Take a break at your lodge during the hottest part of the day. The afternoon safari begins around 3:30 PM. Take binoculars to spot some of the park's 250+ bird species. If you're visiting during dry season (October-May), bring a light scarf to protect yourself from dust during the drives.

    
  • Day 3

    Final Safari and Return to Bangalore

    Start your day with one last dawn safari when wildlife activity peaks. After breakfast, start your 5-6 hour journey back to Bangalore. If you have a flight to catch, give yourself at least 3 hours to reach and get through the airport from Kabini.

    

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• 3 Day South India Itinerary, incl. Goa and Badami

  A 500km round-trip from Goa to Badami showcases the UNESCO World Heritage Pattadakal complex and ancient cave temples. Two nights at Badami Court, with expert guiding and daily breakfast costs approx. $140 per day.

  

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  • Day 1

    Goa to Badami

    Leave your Goa hotel early. The 250km drive to Badami takes about 5 hours and morning traffic out of Goa can get busy. The route goes through the Western Ghats so bring motion sickness medication if you need it. Stop at Chorla Ghat viewpoint to take photos and stretch your legs. You'll reach Badami by early afternoon. The Badami Court hotel is a good choice since it's close to the cave temples. Take the rest of the day to walk around the town. It's small enough to explore on foot but keep in mind some streets are quite steep.

    
  • Day 2

    Badami's Ancient Sites

    Visit the Badami Cave Temples at 6 AM opening time to avoid crowds and intense heat. The temperature often reaches 95°F (35°C) by noon. Wear shoes with good grip because the stone steps can be slippery. You'll need 2-3 hours to properly see the four main caves. After lunch take a 30-minute drive to the UNESCO World Heritage site at Pattadakal. Next is the Aihole archaeological site where you should definitely see the Durga Temple with its unique curved design. Remember to bring water and sun protection as these sites offer little shade.

    
  • Day 3

    Return to Goa

    The drive back to Goa takes 5-6 hours depending on traffic. If you have a late flight consider stopping at the spice plantations near Ponda. They're on the way and give you a good look at Goa's farming traditions. The return trip offers nice views of the Sahyadri mountains which are particularly beautiful during monsoon season from June to September.

    

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• 3 Day Kerala Itinerary, incl. Kochi and Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

  Wildlife and culture blend in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary over three days. The program features jungle safaris, lake cruises, and cultural experiences in Thekkady, with comfortable 3-star accommodation and daily breakfast included.

  

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  • Day 1

    Kochi to Thekkady

    Leave Kochi before 8 AM to beat morning traffic on your 4-hour journey to Thekkady. Stop at a cardamom plantation mid-morning to experience Kerala's spice-growing heritage. The final hour includes winding mountain roads so bring motion sickness medication if needed. After reaching Thekkady and having lunch visit the local spice market in the afternoon when it is busiest. End your day at a Kathakali performance. Get there 30 minutes before showtime to watch the performers apply their intricate makeup.

    
  • Day 2

    Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

    Book the 7:30 AM boat safari on Periyar Lake for your best chance to spot wild elephants at their morning drink. Bring a camera but remember to stay quiet. The 3-hour bamboo rafting trip is worth considering if you want to combine water views with forest hiking. If you visit during monsoon season from June to September pack leech socks. Binoculars will help you spot wildlife more easily. Schedule your activities for the morning since afternoon mist can limit visibility.

    
  • Day 3

    Morning Nature Walk and Return to Kochi

    Join a guided nature walk at 7 AM for excellent bird watching. Wear shoes with good grip since trails can be slippery and bring water but keep other gear minimal. For your 4-hour drive back to Kochi take the scenic Munnar route. This path is slightly longer but rewards you with beautiful Western Ghats mountain views and better roads than the direct way. Ask your driver to stop at viewpoints overlooking Munnar's tea estates.

    

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