Places to Visit in July in South India
South India, with its rich cultural heritage, lush landscapes, and serene backwaters, is a perfect destination for budget travelers. July, with its monsoon showers, brings a unique charm to this region, making it an ideal time to explore its beauty without breaking the bank. Here, we present five budget-friendly places to visit in South India in July 2024, each offering a distinct experience that caters to diverse interests.
Also Read: Places to Visit in July in India This 2024
1. Coorg, Karnataka
Coorg, often referred to as the Scotland of India, is a captivating hill station nestled in the Western Ghats of Karnataka. Known for its sprawling coffee plantations, lush greenery, and pleasant weather, Coorg is a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. Visitors can enjoy trekking, river rafting, and exploring the rich cultural heritage. With its scenic landscapes and aromatic coffee, Coorg offers a rejuvenating escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Location:
Coorg, Karnataka
Places to Visit:
- Abbey Falls
- Raja’s Seat
- Dubare Elephant Camp
- Nagarhole National Park
- Talakaveri
Things to Do:
- Trekking in the Western Ghats
- Coffee plantation tours
- Visiting ancient temples
- Enjoying local cuisine
- River rafting in Barapole River
Trip Duration:
3-4 days
Budget:
₹5,000 – ₹8,000 per person
Nearby Cities:
- Mysore
- Bangalore
- Mangalore
Must Try Foods:
- Pandi Curry (Pork Curry)
- Akki Roti (Rice Roti)
- Bamboo Shoot Curry
How to Reach:
By Air: Nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport (160 km).
By Train: Nearest railway station is Mysore Junction (95 km).
By Bus: Frequent buses from Bangalore, Mysore, and Mangalore.
Top 5 Bus Routes:
- Bangalore to Coorg
- Mysore to Coorg
- Mangalore to Coorg
- Chikmagalur to Coorg
- Hassan to Coorg
2. Munnar, Kerala
Munnar, located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, is a picturesque hill station renowned for its endless tea gardens, misty mountains, and serene valleys. The cool, refreshing climate makes it a perfect retreat during the monsoon. Visitors can explore the famous Eravikulam National Park, take a boat ride on Mattupetty Lake, and trek to the breathtaking Anamudi Peak. Munnar’s natural beauty and tranquility make it a must-visit destination.
Location:
Munnar, Kerala
Places to Visit:
- Eravikulam National Park
- Mattupetty Dam
- Anamudi Peak
- Tea Museum
- Attukal Waterfalls
Things to Do:
- Tea garden visits
- Trekking and hiking
- Wildlife spotting
- Boating in Mattupetty Lake
- Exploring waterfalls
Trip Duration:
3-4 days
Budget:
₹6,000 – ₹9,000 per person
Nearby Cities:
- Kochi
- Madurai
- Coimbatore
Must Try Foods:
- Kerala Sadya
- Appam with Stew
- Fish Curry
How to Reach:
By Air: Nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (110 km).
By Train: Nearest railway station is Aluva (110 km).
By Bus: Regular buses from Kochi, Trivandrum, and Madurai.
Top 5 Bus Routes:
- Kochi to Munnar
- Trivandrum to Munnar
- Madurai to Munnar
- Coimbatore to Munnar
- Thrissur to Munnar
3. Pondicherry
Pondicherry, a charming coastal town with a unique blend of French and Indian cultures, offers a delightful escape for travelers. The town’s French Quarter, with its colonial architecture and vibrant cafes, provides a glimpse into its colonial past. Visitors can relax on the serene beaches, explore Auroville, and visit the spiritual Sri Aurobindo Ashram. Pondicherry’s laid-back vibe, coupled with its cultural richness, makes it a perfect budget-friendly destination.
Location:
Pondicherry, Union Territory
Places to Visit:
- Promenade Beach
- Auroville
- Paradise Beach
- Sri Aurobindo Ashram
- French Quarter
Things to Do:
- Beach hopping
- Exploring colonial architecture
- Visiting spiritual centers
- Cycling around town
- Trying local cuisine
Trip Duration:
2-3 days
Budget:
₹4,000 – ₹7,000 per person
Nearby Cities:
- Chennai
- Bangalore
- Trichy
Must Try Foods:
- Croissants and Baguettes
- South Indian Thali
- Creole Cuisine
How to Reach:
By Air: Nearest airport is Chennai International Airport (150 km).
By Train: Nearest railway station is Villupuram Junction (35 km).
By Bus: Frequent buses from Chennai, Bangalore, and Trichy.
Top 5 Bus Routes:
- Chennai to Pondicherry
- Bangalore to Pondicherry
- Trichy to Pondicherry
- Madurai to Pondicherry
- Coimbatore to Pondicherry
4. Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Ooty, known as the ‘Queen of Hill Stations,’ is a beautiful destination in Tamil Nadu, famous for its cool climate, stunning landscapes, and colonial-era bungalows. Nestled in the Nilgiri Hills, Ooty offers a range of attractions including the picturesque Ooty Lake, lush Botanical Gardens, and the scenic Nilgiri Mountain Railway. Visitors can enjoy boating, hiking, and exploring local markets, making it an ideal getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Location:
Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Places to Visit:
- Ooty Botanical Gardens
- Ooty Lake
- Doddabetta Peak
- Rose Garden
- Nilgiri Mountain Railway
Things to Do:
- Boating on Ooty Lake
- Visiting gardens and parks
- Trekking and hiking
- Riding the toy train
- Exploring local markets
Trip Duration:
3-4 days
Budget:
₹6,000 – ₹9,000 per person
Nearby Cities:
- Coimbatore
- Mysore
- Bangalore
Must Try Foods:
- Varkey
- South Indian snacks
- Homemade chocolates
How to Reach:
By Air: Nearest airport is Coimbatore International Airport (90 km).
By Train: Nearest railway station is Mettupalayam (40 km).
By Bus: Regular buses from Coimbatore, Bangalore, and Mysore.
Top 5 Bus Routes:
- Coimbatore to Ooty
- Bangalore to Ooty
- Mysore to Ooty
- Chennai to Ooty
- Madurai to Ooty
5. Hampi, Karnataka
Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Karnataka, is a treasure trove of ancient ruins and temples set against a backdrop of striking landscapes. The remnants of the Vijayanagara Empire, including the majestic Virupaksha Temple and the iconic Vittala Temple, offer a fascinating glimpse into India’s rich history. Visitors can explore the vibrant Hampi Bazaar, indulge in rock climbing, and enjoy coracle rides on the Tungabhadra River, making Hampi a must-visit for history enthusiasts and adventure lovers.
Location:
Hampi, Karnataka
Places to Visit:
- Virupaksha Temple
- Vittala Temple
- Hampi Bazaar
- Lotus Mahal
- Elephant Stables
Things to Do:
- Exploring ancient ruins
- Rock climbing
- Coracle rides on the Tungabhadra River
- Visiting local markets
- Watching sunset from Matanga Hill
Trip Duration:
2-3 days
Budget:
₹5,000 – ₹8,000 per person
Nearby Cities:
- Hospet
- Bangalore
- Hubli
Must Try Foods:
- Jolada Rotti
- Ennegayi (stuffed brinjal)
- North Karnataka Thali
How to Reach:
By Air: Nearest airport is Hubli Airport (160 km).
By Train: Nearest railway station is Hospet Junction (13 km).
By Bus: Frequent buses from Bangalore, Hubli, and Hyderabad.
Top 5 Bus Routes:
- Bangalore to Hampi
- Hubli to Hampi
- Hyderabad to Hampi
- Belgaum to Hampi
- Goa to Hampi
Conclusion
Exploring South India on a budget in July can be an enriching experience. The monsoon adds a unique charm to the landscapes, making destinations like Coorg, Munnar, Pondicherry, Ooty, and Hampi even more picturesque. Each of these places offers a range of activities, from trekking and exploring ancient ruins to relaxing on serene beaches and indulging in local cuisine. With affordable travel options and budget-friendly accommodations, South India in July promises a memorable trip without stretching your finances.
