Places to Visit in February in South India
As February brings warmth and cheer to the southern part of India, it’s the perfect time to embark on a budget-friendly journey through its diverse landscapes. From pristine beaches to ancient temples, South India offers many options for the budget-conscious traveler. In this blog, we’ll explore seven affordable and captivating destinations that promise not just a memorable experience but also an economical one. Let’s dive into the charm of South India and uncover its places to visit in February in 2024 without breaking the bank.
Also Read: Places to Visit in February in India This 2024
Hampi
February is an ideal time to explore the ancient ruins of Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Virupaksha Temple, stroll through the Hampi Bazaar, and marvel at the Lotus Mahal. Enjoy a coracle ride on the Tungabhadra River and witness the sunset at Hemakuta Hill. Indulge in local Karnataka cuisine with Bisi Bele Bath and the delicious Obbattu. It is one of the best places to visit in February with family.
Location: Hampi, Karnataka
Places to Visit: Virupaksha Temple, Hampi Bazaar, Lotus Mahal
Things to Do: Coracle ride, explore ancient ruins, witness the sunset at Hemakuta Hill
Trip Duration: 3-4 days
Budget: Affordable to Moderate
Nearby Cities: Hospet, Bellary
Must-Try Foods: Bisi Bele Bath, Obbattu
How to Reach:
- By Air: Hubli Airport is the nearest airport.
- By Train: Hospet Junction is the nearest major railhead.
- By Bus: Hampi is easily accessible by road with regular bus services run by KSRTC from Hospet and nearby towns.
Ooty
Escape to the lush green landscapes of Ooty in February. Explore the sprawling Botanical Gardens, take a boat ride on Ooty Lake, and enjoy panoramic views from Doddabetta Peak. Experience the charm of the Nilgiri Mountain Railway with a Toy Train ride and visit the vibrant Rose Garden. Relish local delights like Ooty Varkey and Mushroom Soup. It is one of the best place to visit in February in South India for honeymoon
Location: Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Places to Visit: Botanical Gardens, Ooty Lake, Doddabetta Peak
Things to Do: Toy Train ride, boating, visit Rose Garden
Trip Duration: 3-4 days
Budget: Affordable to Moderate
Nearby Cities: Coimbatore, Mysuru
Must-Try Foods: Ooty Varkey, Mushroom Soup
How to Reach:
- By Air: Coimbatore International Airport is the nearest airport.
- By Train: Ooty Railway Station is connected to major cities via the Nilgiri Mountain Railway.
- By Bus: Ooty has good road connectivity with regular bus services run by TNSTC from Coimbatore and Mysuru.
Also Read: Best Places to Visit in February 2024 in North India
Varkala
Varkala, with its laid-back charm, is a budget-friendly beach destination. Relax at Varkala Beach, visit the Janardanaswamy Temple, and explore the Sivagiri Mutt. Enjoy beach activities and take a scenic cliff walk. Immerse yourself in the local culture by attending a Kathakali performance. Don’t miss the delicious Banana chips and Fish Curry Rice. It is one of the best South India places to visit in February.
Location: Varkala, Kerala
Places to Visit: Varkala Beach, Janardanaswamy Temple, Sivagiri Mutt
Things to Do: Beach activities, cliff walk, attend a Kathakali performance
Trip Duration: 2-3 days
Budget: Affordable
Nearby Cities: Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam
Must-Try Foods: Banana chips, Fish Curry Rice
How to Reach:
- By Air: Trivandrum International Airport is the nearest airport.
- By Train: Varkala Railway Station is well-connected to major cities.
- By Bus: Varkala has good road connectivity with regular bus services from Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam.
Gokarna
For a tranquil coastal retreat, Gokarna is an excellent choice in February. Visit the serene Om Beach, explore the ancient Mahabaleshwar Temple, and unwind on the picturesque Half Moon Beach. Engage in beach trekking and relax at beachside cafes like Namaste Café. Indulge in local delights such as Gokarna Thali and fresh seafood. It is one of the best places to visit in February in South India in 2024 with friends.
Location: Gokarna, Karnataka
Places to Visit: Om Beach, Mahabaleshwar Temple, Half Moon Beach
Things to Do: Beach trekking, relax on the beaches, explore Namaste Café
Trip Duration: 3-4 days
Budget: Affordable
Nearby Cities: Karwar, Murudeshwar
Must-Try Foods: Gokarna Thali, Seafood
How to Reach:
- By Air: Dabolim Airport in Goa is the nearest airport.
- By Train: Gokarna Road is the nearest railway station.
- By Bus: Gokarna is well-connected by road, with buses from nearby cities like Karwar and Murudeshwar.
Coorg
February unveils the beauty of Coorg with its lush landscapes. Visit the mesmerizing Abbey Falls, explore the historic Madikeri Fort, and interact with elephants at the Dubare Elephant Camp. Take a coffee plantation tour, indulge in trekking, and experience river rafting. Don’t miss the Coorgi specialties like Pandi Curry and Coorgi Coffee. It is one of the best places to visit in winter in south India.
Location: Coorg, Karnataka
Places to Visit: Abbey Falls, Madikeri Fort, Dubare Elephant Camp
Things to Do: Coffee plantation tour, trekking, river rafting
Trip Duration: 4-5 days
Budget: Affordable to Moderate
Nearby Cities: Mysuru, Mangalore
Must-Try Foods: Pandi Curry, Coorgi Coffee
How to Reach:
- By Air: Mangalore International Airport is the nearest airport.
- By Train: Mysuru and Mangalore are the nearest railway stations.
- By Bus: Coorg has good road connectivity, with buses from nearby cities like Mysuru and Mangalore.
Pondicherry
Pondicherry, with its French influence, offers a unique experience on a budget. Visit the international community of Auroville, relax at the serene Promenade Beach, and explore the Aurobindo Ashram. Wander through the charming French Quarter, engage in water sports, and attend meditation sessions. Savor French delights like Baguette and Crepes. It is one of the best places to visit in February in India for couples.
Location: Pondicherry
Places to Visit: Auroville, Promenade Beach, Aurobindo Ashram
Things to Do: Explore the French Quarter, water sports, attend meditation sessions
Trip Duration: 3-4 days
Budget: Affordable
Nearby Cities: Chennai, Mahabalipuram
Must-Try Foods: French Baguette, Crepes
How to Reach:
- By Air: Chennai International Airport is the nearest airport.
- By Train: Villupuram is the nearest major railhead.
- By Bus: Pondicherry has good road connectivity with regular bus services from nearby cities like Chennai.
Mysuru
Mysuru also known as Mysore, the cultural capital of Karnataka, offers a budget-friendly glimpse into its rich heritage. Visit the opulent Mysuru Palace, trek up Chamundi Hills, and enjoy the musical fountains at Brindavan Gardens. Explore art galleries, visit Mysuru Zoo, and if you’re lucky, attend the grand Dasara Festival. Relish local treats like Mysore Pak and Masala Dosa. It is one of the best places to visit in Feb in South India.
Location: Mysuru, Karnataka
Places to Visit: Mysuru Palace, Chamundi Hills, Brindavan Gardens
Things to Do: Visit art galleries, explore Mysuru Zoo, attend the Dasara Festival
Trip Duration: 2-3 days
Budget: Affordable
Nearby Cities: Bengaluru, Coorg
Must-Try Foods: Mysore Pak, Masala Dosa
How to Reach:
- By Air: Mysuru Airport has limited flights; Bengaluru International Airport is an alternative.
- By Train: Mysuru Junction is well-connected to major cities.
- By Bus: Mysuru is easily accessible by road, with regular bus services from nearby cities like Bengaluru.
Conclusion
South India in February is a treasure trove for budget-conscious travelers, offering a delightful mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and gastronomic delights. From the historical ruins of Hampi to the tranquil beaches of Gokarna and the vibrant streets of Pondicherry, each destination promises an affordable yet enriching experience. Embrace the warmth of the southern sun and the hospitality of the locals as you explore these budget-friendly gems in February 2024.
