Quest to the land of seraphic beauty- South India. South India represents the glorious past of India with its ancient shrines, lavish palaces, wild seas and rich Dravidian culture. South India has a lot to offer you. You can explore its Hill Stations, beaches, monuments, majestic temples, spiritual sites, wildlife activities, and marvellous festivals. It has something to do with everyone, whether it’s a couple, family, or solo traveller. This southern state of India welcomes its tourists with warmth and love. Kerela which is also known as God’s own country and the land of Ayurveda, is one of the most famous honeymoon spots in the country.
From UNESCO heritage sites to national parks, Karnataka will amaze you at every step. Tamil Nadu will give you a feel of the essence of architecture and spirituality. Here are the top 30 destinations of South India that you should add to your bucket list if you are planning to explore South India.
1. The Historic Hampi, Karnataka
Hampi is considered to be the largest open monument and lost city of Asia. A world heritage site, here lies the ruins of the Vijaynagara empire. While the Virupaksha Temple is one of the oldest and finest Hindu temples of the 7th century, the Vittala Temple with animated carvings and a stone chariot reflects the architectural efficacy. While the royal enclosure, carvings of 1008 Shiva lingams, the Queen’s bath, Lotus Mahal and the elephant stables portray the grandeur of the lost city, the water tanks, irrigation channels and civil structures represent the advanced outlook of the rulers. Know more about the top 5 things to do in Hampi.
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2. The Celestial Chennai, Tamil Nadu
While the wild waves of the Bay of Bengal greet you in Chennai, the old lighthouse at the second-longest beach in the world, Marina Beach, takes you back to old times. Tour the Fort St. George church and its museum to view the priceless silverware, paintings, porcelain and coins. While the Parthasarathy Temple is bright with its colourful gopuram, the Kapaleeshwar Temple is an epitome of Dravidian architecture. Besides enjoying a mesmerising sunrise at the Elliot Beach, be close to God at the pristine environment of the Vellankani Shrine.
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3. The Alluring Alleppey, Kerala
The crystalline backwaters of Alleppey quench the thirst of nature lovers. Relax at the luxurious houseboats of Alleppey to wake up to the rippling sounds of water and witness a colourful end of the day. As you pass the beautiful water lilies, green paddy fields and villages, the spotless beauty of God’s Own Country rejuvenates you. Witness the distinguishing Kerala architecture with multiple mural paintings at the Krishnapuram Palace or get to know the rituals of worship at the Krishna Temple of Ambalappuzha.
Read More: Things To Do In Alleppey – 10 Interesting Activities
Suggested Tour: 10 Days South India Tour with Kerala Backwater
4. The Kaleidoscope Kochi, Kerala
Located at the shores of the Arabian Sea, Kochi offers you a soothing atmosphere. Witness the unique fishing technique of Chinese nets here, or just walk along the soft sandy beaches with your loved ones. The Kochi Fort, with a Portuguese air, is the landmark of the city. While the Dutch cemetery narrates the story of several Europeans, the Hill Bungalow and the David Hall represent colonial India. Kochi is home to the oldest European Church in India, the St. Francis Church, where Vasco de Gama was buried. The seafood delicacies and coconut water of Vasco-de Gama Square are a popular hangout zone.
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Suggested Tour: Full Day Cochin Sightseeing Tours
5. The Magnificent Madurai, Tamil Nadu
In Tamil Nadu, as you approach the Meenakshi Temple, the elegance of the shrine amazes you. With unique stonework, four directional entrances, musical pillars and 33000 sculptures, it exhibits the ancient Shilpi Shastra style. While the Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam lies at the middle of an enchanting pond, the Thirumalai Nayak Mahal is aptly known as the wonder of South India with its grandeur and being the blend of Islamic and Dravidian architectural designs. The Vaigai Dam is a relaxing zone with its scenic beauty and also a notable picnic spot while the Gandhi Museum narrates the struggle of the Father of the Nation for the freedom of India.
Read More: The Most Spiritual Meenakshi Amman Temple
Suggested Tour: 12 Days South India Temple Tour
6. The Majestic Mysore, Karnataka
You will surely get awestruck with the grandeur of the Mysore Palace in Karnataka; while day is the time to check out the intricate carvings, the palace is magical at night when it gets illuminated with 98000 lights. While the 90 acres of Karanji Lake offer an arresting view with folks of migratory birds, the Mysore Zoo is entertaining with a collection of animals from all over the world. While the aroma of sandalwood fills the air of Mysore, prayers come out from the deep core of your heart as you climb the 1000 steps to the Chamundeshwari Temple.
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Suggested Tour: 5 Days South India Pilgrimage
7. The Quaint Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu
Kanyakumari lies at the top of India, where the Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal unite, hence the beauty of sunrise and sunset here is unimaginable. The Kanyakumari Temple is the heaven of peace, besides being one of the 108 ‘shakti peeth’ of Hindu mythology. The Rock Memorial is supposed to be on the island where Swami Vivekananda attained enlightenment. Located amidst the wild confluence, the sail to the memorial is both thrilling and a lifetime memory. The enormous gopurams of Suchindrum temple and the Chinese jars and weapons of the Padmanabhapuram Palace exhibit the rich culture of the city. Know about the Best Route to travel from Kanyakumari to Rameshwaram.
Suggested Tour: South India cultural tours
8. The lively Lakshadweep, Union Territory
Lakshadweep, a cluster of 21 islands, is known for its spellbinding scenic beauty. While the waters of the Kadmat Island are rich in marine life, the deep blue waters of the Kavaratti Island are ideal for exhilarating water sports. While the secluded Kalpeni beach is the best place to spend some time with your loved ones, the Minicoy Island portrays the distinctive culture of Lakshadweep.
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Read More: Things to Do in Lakshadweep
9. The Peaceful Pondicherry, Union Territory
Pondicherry is a peaceful heaven where people from all religions and from all over the world can stay in harmony at Auroville, ‘the city of dawn.’ You can find 2007 people residing here from over 44 different countries, irrespective of caste, creed or religion. The memorial of Rishi Aurobindo, the founder of Auroville, is at the Aurobindo Ashram. This ashram is self-sufficient with several offices, a printing press, farms, guest houses, bakeries, playgrounds and even nursing homes. The Immaculate Conception Cathedral is graceful with its golden bordered white structure and is also the oldest of town, dating back to 1791.
10. The Oomphy Ooty, Tamil Nadu
The chilled weather of Ooty is perfect to refresh your stressed mind and body. While the ‘L’ shaped Ooty Lake is perfect for a charming boat ride, the boathouse of the Pykara Lake is an abode for comfort seekers. While the aroma of red roses beckons you to the Rose Garden, the Avalanche is loved by trekkers.
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11. Coorg
If you are a newly married couple or you are a nature enthusiast, then Coorg is the perfect destination for you. This beautiful hill station will offer you enthralling views of mountains that are surrounded by clouds all the time. You can make a trip to Nisargadhama Island, Itupu falls, Omkareshwar temple, etc. If you love trekking, it has plenty of options to offer you such as Pushpagiri peak, Mandalpatti peak, Tadiandaol, and many more.
12. Kumarakom
Kumarkom is one of the major tourist destinations of Kerala and is famous for its pristine backwater. Road surrounded by palm trees, mangroves, coconuts fields, coffee plantations, and rice paddies, its lush greenery will make you fall in love with this land. You can visit Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom Bird sanctuary, houseboat, Pathiramanal island, and many more.
13. Gokarna
In the last few years, Gokarna has become a top tourist destination, for tourists and now it has become a tough task to choose between Goa and Gokarna. Gokarna is famous for its exotic beaches and marvellous landscape. Gokarna beach, Om beach, Mahabaleshwar temple, and Paradise beach are major tourist attractions of Gokarna.
14. Halebidu
Helibidu means old city, and this place once served as the home of the great Hoysala Empire during the 12th century. It is known for its Hoysala architecture and ornate temples. Hoysala Temple, Kadareshwara Temple, and Halebidu Archaeological sites are major tourist spots in this city.
15. Lepakshi
Lepakshi is a little village in Andhra Pradesh that offers admiring scenic rural landscapes. It is home to many ancient archaeological sites and ancient temples. If you are someone who loves history, this place is a must-visit for you. Nandi bull sanctuary, Veera Bhadra temple, and lepakshi temple are famous tourist destinations of lepakshi.
16. Mahabalipuram
Mahabalipuram is a seaside town in southern India that is famous for its ancient temple, which was built in the 7th and 8th centuries. Pancha Ratna which is a fine example of Dravidian architecture is a major attraction of the city. Shore Temple, which is dedicated to lord shiva and lord Vishnu, is another famous temple in this city. Apart from beautiful temples, this city also offers you some amazing beaches and seaside locations.
Suggested Tour: Full Day Mahabalipuram trip from Chennai
17. Dilabad
Adilabad is a city located in Telangana, which is known for its numerous waterfalls, and it also offers a stunning view of the Sahyadri range. If you want to feel a bit close to nature, this place can be a perfect gateway for you. Adilabad is also home to various flora and fauna. Kuntala waterfalls, Jainath temples, Adilabad fort, and Kawal wildlife sanctuary are major tourist destinations.
18. Munnar
Situated in the Western Ghats mountain range of Kerala state, Munnar needs no introduction. This place is famous for its green rolling mountains, lush surroundings and weather. Munnar has many options to visit, such as Pothamedu viewpoints, Anamudi, and many more.
Suggested Tour: 3-day best of Munnar Tour packages
19. Bandipur National Park
Bandipur is considered the most beautiful national park in India. Situated in the Nilgiris biosphere reserve this national park was established in the year 1974 and is located on the Mysore-Ooty highway. This place will offer you a wide range of flora and fauna and the road which will take you toward the Bandipur will pass through a soothing forest and by some beautiful indigenous animals.
20. Maravanthe
Maravanthe beach is one of the most visited beaches of South India, which is located in a small village named Kundapura in Karnataka. The mesmerising view of sunset makes this place a must-visit destination for those looking for a relaxing holiday.
21. Udupi
Udupi is another beautiful South Indian city that is famous for its splendid buildings, less-explored forests, and pristine beaches. This place offers you some delicious South Indian cuisine. Apart from this, Udupi is also known as a pilgrimage centre in Karnataka, which offers you some beautifully styled temples. Beaches add more beauty to this city and make it a tourist hotspot.
22. Murudeshwar
Murudeshwar is a well-known pilgrimage centre and a beach destination that is situated in the Bhatkal taluk district of Karnataka. Murudeshwar is home to Shiva’s tallest statues, and it is bounded by the Arabian Sea and the splendid Western Ghats, which make it the most visited tourist destination in Karnataka. Negreanu Island is another famous tourist destination nearby, which offers you various water activities such as scuba diving and snorkelling.
23. Badami
Badami can steal your heart as it is one of the most beautiful destinations in Karnataka. It offers you a heart-melting landscape and some beautiful rock-cut cave temples, which attract tourists from different parts of the world. If you are planning to visit Badami, make sure to enjoy the breathtaking view of the sunset from the Bhootnath temple. The rays of the sun make everything look golden, and this view is something that can’t be expressed in words. Last but not least, if you are a solo traveller, this place will give you a chance to discover yourself.
24. Nagarhole
Nagarhole is a national park which is situated in two districts, Mysore and Kodagu. Nagarhole is named after the cobra river in the local Kannada language. This place offers you an amazing wildlife experience, and you can witness the mesmerising waterfalls. This area is dominated by nature and will surely take your breath away.
25. Varkala
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Varkala is a coastal town situated in Kerala and is famous for its natural fisheries and springs. Varkala offers you pristine beaches, lakes, hills, and much more. This place offers you one of the best seafood dishes in the whole of Kerala. If you want to spend some time with nature, then pack your bag and explore this hidden treasure of Kerala.
26. Wayanad
Located in the hills of the Western Ghats, Wayanad is one of the top tourist attractions of Kerala. It is a part of Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and is famous for spice plantations, historical caves, and mesmerising waterfalls. One who is looking for peace should pack his/her bag and explore the virgin beauty of Kerala.
Read more - Palaces to Visit in Wayanad
27. Thrissur
If you want cultural feels, then pack your bag and move to Thrissur. Thrissur will introduce you to classical Keralan art and religious sites. Onam and Thrissur Pooram festivals will give you an ethnic touch. Vadakkumnathan Temple, Athirapalley falls, heritage garden and archaeology museums are famous tourist attractions of Thrissur.
28. Dhanushkodi
Dhanushkodi beach is one of the few beaches in India which offers you white sand, pristine blue waters, and breathtaking sunsets, which make it a paradise. Earlier, it was a local market, but during the 1964 Tsunami, this place turned into barren land. It is said that Dhanushkodi is the place from where Lord Rama had ordered Hanuman to build a bridge across the sea that could take him to Sri Lanka. If you want a silent walk and love the silence, this place is a must-visit for you.
29. kandagiri
Skandagiri gives you one of the most splendid views of the sky and the earth during the time of sunrise. Situated at a distance of 60km from Bangalore city, this place is a surreal beauty. If you are an adventure and nature lover, this place is a paradise for you. The short of Skanadagiri starts two hours before sunrise, and it passes through the wilderness until you reach the peak.
South India Popular Tour Packages -
- South India Tour Packages
- South India tour with Kerala backwaters
- 10 days South India temple tour
- 12 days kerala tour packages
- Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka tour packages
- 9 days best of Kerala tour with backwaters
- 12 days Tamil Nadu with Kerala tour
30. Vattakanal
Vattakanal comes from the word Vatta, which means Little Israel. Located on the eastern side of the Western Ghats, this small village is famous among Israeli tourists, and you can see several permanent cottages here. If you want to spend some time away from the hustle and bustle of the city, then this is the perfect location for you.
If you have some more time in India, do not forget to shop for some gorgeous silk and attend classical concerts; the gems of South India.
Also Read: Why India is the Ultimate Destination for Culture Holiday
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