Practical essentials for a South India temple tour: cash and cards, SIM and data, drinking water, food choices, laundry and staying well on the road.
Should I carry cash or use cards in South India?
Carry both. Hotels, malls and larger restaurants accept international cards, while temple ticket counters, footwear stands, prasadam stalls and small eateries are cash-only. Keep a supply of small notes; change is often scarce at temple towns.
Can foreign visitors buy an Indian SIM card?
Yes. Prepaid tourist SIMs are sold at international airports on production of your passport and visa or OCI card, and activation usually takes a short while. An eSIM bought before departure is the simplest option if you want connectivity the moment you land.
Is the food safe for visitors from abroad?
Eating at your hotel and at established restaurants is generally trouble-free. Stick to freshly cooked hot food, sealed bottled water and peeled fruit, and be cautious with roadside cut fruit and untreated water, particularly in the first few days.
