Menu
An Initiative of Travelogy India Pvt. Ltd.
'Orient Rail Journeys' is a brand of 'Travelogy India Private Limited'. All payments related to train tours and services should be in the name of 'Travelogy India Private Limited' only.
Travelogy India Pvt. Ltd.

Approved by Ministry of Tourism, Government of India

Top 10 Places to Visit in South India

  • Admin
  • 16 Oct 2023
  • Share This:

South India is not a mere amalgamation of beaches and temples. Its culture, traditions, cuisines and history along with its amazing scenic beauty attract all, from honeymoon couples to families.

All the southern states of Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh are well-known for its exquisite beaches, hills, waterfalls, backwaters. The nature lovers can satisfy their thirst of traveling in the lap of nature in South India.

Visit the following beautiful places in South India and enjoy the things to do here and make your journey awesome this vacation.

1. Ooty, Tamil Nadu

This hill station down south is one of the most sought after by tourists especially during summers as it has pleasant weather. Temperatures dip as low as 15 degrees during winter, so in summers it does not get over 23 degrees. So, this makes this beautiful hill station an ideal place to tour during the hot summer months.

Another interesting water activity to indulge in is the boat rides on the waters. So, this is another way to beat the heat during summer. Make sure to taste chocolate that is made locally and enjoy camping & trekking that is equally fun.

You can enjoy a peaceful holiday at a resort away from busy city life in the back drop of picturesque landscape.

Major Attractions of Ooty

Have a unique and lively experience in Ooty and make your journey memorable visiting the following sightseeing places in Ooty.

  • Avalanche Lake
  • Ooty Lake
  • Ooty Botanical Gardens
  • Dodabetta Peak
  • Kalhatti Waterfall
  • Kamraj Sagar Dam
  • Madhumalai National Park
  • Mukurthi National Park
  • Ooty Rose Garden
  • Needle View Hillpoint
  • Wax World Ooty
  • Pykara Waterfalls
  • Nilgiri Mountain Toy Train

Things to do in Ooty

Ooty claims to be ‘Queen of Hill Stations’ and honeymoon destination owing to several things to do.

  • Take a ride of the age-old Nilgiri Mountain Railway
  • Trekking in the Dodabetta peak
  • Enjoy the speed boat ride at Pykara lake
  • Feel nostalgic while visiting the Wax World Museum in Ooty
  • Fishing, camping and rafting at Avalanche lake
  • Cycling from Ooty to Masanagudi

Best time to visit Ooty : October to June

How to reach Ooty?

Ooty By Air: Coimbatore International airport is the nearest railway station of Ooty. It will take two and a half hour to drive from airport to Ooty.

Ooty By Rail: Ooty Railway Station is linked to all major cities of Tamil Nadu and all major states in India.

Ooty By Bus: TNSRTC and some private companies offer bus services from Ooty to Coonoor, Coimbatore, Mettupalayam, Darampuram and Tiruppurand also to Bangalore, Mysore, Cochin.

2. Lakkidi, Kerala

Lakkidi is known for its turns almost at 180 degrees and nine of them is like getting through a championship. Then you get to the starting point of the well known tourist destination called ‘Wayanad’. You can climb down the steep Western Ghats to get a misty view of the picturesque scenery from 700 meters high.

Lakkidi View Point is the most famous height from where tourists can get a vivid view of the total valley. The hill slopes and the water streams that pass between provides cool feel in summer. There is a tragic story to learn abut the Ficus tree about how this route through the forest was known. But for that, you would want to go there and listen and see it directly.

Also read : Best Weekend Getaways from Delhi

Major Attractions: Lakkidi, the gateway to Wayanad, offers a picturesque view. The lush greenery of the hills and a panoramic view of the surroundings soothe your mind and soul.

  • Pookat Lake
  • Chain tree
  • Chembra peak
  • Vennimala Sree Rama Lakshmana Perumal Temple
  • Edakkal Cave
  • Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

Things to do in Lakkidi 

The following things to do in Lakkidi will take you away from worries of your daily life and will offer you a sweet escape.

  • Boating at Pookat Lake
  • See aquarium near Pookat Lake
  • Ficus tree, bounded by steel chains, has a historical essence and will take you back to the British Rule in India.
  • Trekking at Chembra peak
  • View traditional architecture of kerala at Vennimala Sree Rama Lakshmana Perumal Temple
  • Feel the thrill of jungle at Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

Best time to visit Lakkidi : January – march (winter)

How to reach Lakkidi?

On the way to Lakkidi from Adivaram, the vehicle drivers face nine hairpin twists.

Lakkidi By Air: karipur International Airport, 110 km. away from Lakkidi, is the nearest airport at Lakkidi.

Lakkidi By Rail: Kozhikode is the nearest railway station. It is 110 km. away from Lakkidi.

Lakkidi By Road: The best way to reach Lakkidi is by bus. KSRTC and private buses depart from all major cities to reach Lakkidi.

3. Munnar, Kerala

Overlooking the picturesque Western Ghats, this beautiful town of tea plantations over vast verdure with sky high waterfalls is the most cool place to visit in South India during summers. A simple walk by the dizzying heights of hill slope tea estates right up to the tallest peak in Kerala – Anamudi, it is a lovely place.

Even the Mattupetty damn is a watery place to visit if you are feeling hot and humid during summer. There are professionals picking tea so, maybe you can try your luck!

Major Attractions in Munnar

Munnar in Western Ghats, hill station in Kerala, beckons nature lovers from distant places.

  • Mattupetty Dam
  • Kundala Lake
  • Echo Point
  • Rajamali National Park
  • Tea Museum
  • Marayoor Sandalwood Forests
  • Attukad Waterfalls
  • Blossom Park
  • Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Lakkom Waterfalls
  • Eravikulam national park

Things to do in Munnar

Interesting things to do in Munnar make anyone fall in love with Munnar.

  • Camping and trekking at Echo Point
  • Explore the dark forests and spot endangered animals at Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary and Eravikulam National Park.
  • Mountain Biking and Cycling
  • Rock climbing
  • Picnic spot near waterfalls
  • Pedal boating at Kundala lake

Best time to visit Munnar : September to June

How to reach Munnar?

Reaching Munnar is not a difficult task owing to comfortable services by air, rail and road.

Munnar By Air: Cochin International Airport, 125 km. away from Munnar, is the nearest airport.

Munnar By Rail: Kochi or Ernakulam is the nearest railway station.

Munnar By Road: KSRTC and private companies provide bus services from all major cities in Kerala to Munnar.

4. Coorg, Karnataka

This suburb set in the backdrop of the scenic Western Ghats is locally called Scotland of the East. It gives a country – side view of a village with the small hamlets scattered here and there. Enjoy the view from Brahmagiri Peak where it is great to go mountaineering too as this is famous among the high mountains that are surrounded by heavy clouds.

Explore wildlife at the Dubare Elephant Camp, and enjoy the aroma of coffee as you walk through the verdure of coffee plantations. The most happening thing to do during summers is to picnic by the scenic waterfalls. You can keep cool and have a wonderful family holiday at the same time.

Major Attractions of Coorg

Coorg, surrounded by stunning landscapes, mountains and gorgeous valleys of Karnataka, attracts travelers from different places of India. The following attractions of Coorg are:

  • Raja’s seat
  • Dubare elephant camp
  • Abbey falls
  • Nagarhole National Park
  • Omkareswar temple
  • Cauvery Nisargadhama
  • Bylakuppe
  • Namdroling Monastery
  • Talacauvery and Bhagamandala
  • Barapole river
  • Iruppu falls
  • Pushpagiri wildlife sanctuary
  • Chelavara falls
  • Brahmagiri peak

Things to do in Coorg

Spend your holiday with your family at Coorg and enjoy the following things to do.

  • Trekking
  • Camping
  • River rafting
  • Jeep safari

Best time to visit Coorg: October to April

How to Reach Coorg?

Travel Coorg with relax by all types of mode of transport.

Coorg By Air: Mangalore International Airport, 135 km. away from Coorg, is the nearest airport.

Coorg By Rail: Mangalore, Mysore and Hassan are nearby railway stations.

Coorg By Road: KSRTC and other private buses connect Coorg with all major cities of karnatka.

5. Alleppey, Kerala

This is a famous tourism spot in Kerala. While it is famous for houseboat rides , there are also water sports too.

Known as the “Land of the Backwaters of Kerala” the watery paths through the thriving mangroves is a great experience while you take a boat ride.

The picturesque beauty of the tranquil backwaters along with the call of nature gives a soothing effect to any traveler's soul.

Major Attractions of Alleppey

Get ready to wander the major attractions and famous tourist places of Alleppey.

  • Alappuzha Beach
  • Marari Beach
  • Mary Forane Beach
  • Mullakal Bhagavathy Temple
  • Karumadi village
  • Alleppey Lighthouse
  • Pathiramanal
  • Vembanad Lake
  • Pandavan Rock
  • Kumarakom bird sanctuary

Things to do in Alleppey

Alleppey, Venice of the East, offers to travelers many things to do.

  • To witness many beautiful birds from all over the world
  • To see mesmerizing carvings of Pandavan rock
  • Enjoy birdwatching at Pathiramanal
  • Get nostalgic at historical monument Alleppey Lighthouse
  • See a half-broken statue of Buddha at Karumadi
  • Be a witness of 500-year old temple

Best time to visit Alleppey: November to March

How to reach Alleppey?

Reaching Alleppey is not a matter of fuss.

Alleppey By Air: Cochin International Airport, 75km. away from Alleppey, is the nearest airport.

Alleppey By Rail: Alleppey Railway station connects all major cities of Kerala.

Alleppey By Road: National Highway-47 connects Alleppey with other major cities in Kerala.

6. Idukki, Kerala

This is one of the most beautiful places on earth or you may think if you reached heaven! This region is a water damn capital with so many sceneries around the huge water damns. You can plan to enjoy an evening or a morning out at one of these watery places to keep cool in summer. Around the damns, there are forestry regions of greenery and ornamental wood because of the constant watering.

Visit any of the innumerable gorgeous waterfalls where you can go picnicking, backpacking, camping, trekking, or any outing that you can think of. This ideal summer hill station is cozily nestled within the beauty of the Western Ghats.

Major Attractions of Idukki

Enjoy several diverse attractions of Idukki to make your journey memorable.

  • Idukki Wildlife Sanctuaru
  • Idukki Arch Dam
  • Painavu
  • Calvary Mount
  • Anchuruli Waterfalls
  • Anakarra Falls
  • Mangala Devi Temple
  • Ayyappancoil Hanging Bridge
  • Ramakkalmedu

Things to do in Idukki

Idukki is a paradise for all adventurous soul and trekking enthusiasts.

  • Watch several species of animals
  • Trekking at Painavu
  • Take a stroll on the longest hanging bridge
  • Watch exquisite beauty of waterfalls
  • Camping
  • Paragliding
  • Boating

Best time to visit Idukki: November to february

How to reach Idukki

Reach Idukki from Cochin either by bus or train.

Idukki By Air: Cochin International Airport, 100 km. away from Idukki, is the nearest airport.

Idukki By Rail: Cochin is the nearest railway station, which is connected to all major cities of Kerala.

Idukki By Road: Both government and private bus services are available from Cochin to Idukki.

7. Mysore, Karnataka

Mysore is a historical place because the name Mysore is related to the great warrior of history ‘Tipu Sultan’. Mysore is known as the City of Palaces owing to Indo-Saracenic architecture and imperial interiors of palaces. Mysore is situated at the foot of Chamundi hills. This city is well known for its heritage structures. During Dasara festivals, the city attracts many tourists from all over the world. It has acquired fame as the Cultural City of Karnataka due to its cultural ambience.

Luxury Train tour Packages to Mysore : Golden Chariot Itinerary

Check out more: 

Click here to Book Golden Chariot Ticket.

Major Attractions of Mysore

Experience major attractions in Mysore that will leave lifelong sweet memories to cherish in you.

  • Mysore palace
  • Brindavan gardens
  • Silk Weaving Factory
  • Mysore zoo
  • Karanji Lake
  • Folklore Museum
  • 3D Selfie Gallery
  • Jaganmohon Palace
  • GRS Fantasy Park
  • Bandipur national Park
  • KRS Dam
  • Chamundi Hills
  • Bonsai garden
  • Shivanasamudra falls
  • Somnathapur temple

Read more: 50% Off on Companion Fare on Golden Chariot Journeys

Things to do in Mysore

Impeccable things to do in Mysore make it a perfect destination.

  • Shopping
  • Feel the essence of history
  • Feel the magic of waterfalls
  • Take selfies
  • Witness the beauty of temples and places

Best time to visit Mysore: October to February

How to reach Mysore

Mysore By Air: Bangalore International Airport, 170 km. away from Mysore, is the nearest airport to Mysore.

Mysore By Rail: Mysore is connected to Bangalore by rail. Trains running between two stations are Chamundi Express, Tippu Express, Mysore express and Kaveri Express.

Mysore By Road: State buses and private buses are available from Kempegowda Bus Station to Mysore.

8. Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu

Pondicherry, the former French colony, is a Union Territory of India. It is located on the southcoast of India. It is adjacent to the state of Tamil Nadu.

Exquisite beaches, meditation centers and ashramas, sacred Churches and temples make Pondicherry an ideal destination for travelers.

You will have a diverse experience at this place. The French architecture in Pondicherry will take you back to history. It is also an excellent weekend destination from Chennai. English and Tamil are two spoken languages here.

Major Attractions of Pondicherry

The following major attractions in Pondicherry make the place a charming holiday destination.

  • Promenade Beach
  • Serenity Beach
  • Paradise beach
  • Kallialay Surf school
  • Puducherry Museum
  • Shri Aurobindo Ashram
  • Eglise de Notre Dame des Anges
  • Auro beach

Things to do in Pondicherry

Pondicherry meets the appetite of your adventurous spirit through the following things to do.

  • Cycling
  • Horse riding
  • Trekking and hiking
  • Rock Climbing
  • Rappelling
  • Parasailing
  • Water Sports like banana boat rides, scuba diving, kayaking, surfing

Best time to visit Pondicherry : October to March

How to reach Pondicherry

Pondicherry By Air: Pondicherry Airport can accommodate flights coming from Bangalore and Hyderabad. Chennai International Airport is the nearest railway station, 135 km. away from Pondicherry.

Pondicherry By Rail: Villupuram is the nearest railway station. Pondicherry is connected to Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Trivendrum and Chennai by trains.

Pondicherry By Road: State and private buses are available from Chennai, Coimbatore and Bangalore to Pondicherry.

9. Hampi, Karnataka

Hampi served as the capital of Vijaynagar Empire in the 14th century. Hampi is now the pilgrimage city of the Hindus. It has been designated as the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In mid-19th century, Alexander Greenlaw visited Hampi and drew the attention of travelers to Hampi. Hampi is famous for its historical and archeological importance. The Hampi monuments are ruins of Vijaynagar empire. Hampi is a pilgrim’s delight as well as a backpacker’s paradise.

Luxury Train tour Packages to Hampi: 8 days Jewels of the Deccan - Deccan Odyssey Train

Read more: 

To book this Train Click here.

Major Attractions of Hampi

Major attractions of Hampi include the following places.

  • Hanuman temple
  • Queen’s bath
  • Hampi Bazaar
  • Riverside ruins
  • Gagan Mahal
  • Krishna Temple
  • Hippie island
  • Elephant Stables
  • Tungabhadra Dam
  • Daroji Bear Sanctuary
  • Archaeological Museum
  • Matanga Hill

Things to do in Hampi

Hampi has a fascinating history and unbelievable architecture. Enjoy the following things to do.

  • Climb Matanga Hill
  • Enjoy the blissful sunset
  • Visit the sacred temples
  • Explore the archaeology of the city
  • Marketing

Best time to visit Hampi : October to early February

How to reach Hampi

Reach Hampi easily from Mysore or Hospet by bus or train.

Hampi By Air: Hubli, 150 km. away from Hampi, is the nearest airport.

Hampi By Rail: Hospet, 12 km. away from Hampi, is the nearest railway station. Hampi Express takes passengers from Mysore to hampi via Bangalore.

Hampi By Road: Many bus services are available from Mysore, Mumbai, Goaa and other major cities to Hampi.

10. Kumarakom, Kerala

Kumarakom, a group of islands on the largest lake of Kerala, Vembanad Lake, is located near Kottayam city. Kumarakom may be called the anthropologist’s paradise and a charming backwater destination.

Kumarakom is home to several species of migratory birds and also of flora and fauna and freshwater fishes. Its pleasant climate throughout the year and its soothing environment attracts tourists and offers them many leisure options.

Major Attractions of Kumarakom

The best places in Kumarakom natural beauty, tranquil lanes, serene backdrops and relaxed village life.

  • Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
  • Vembanad Lake
  • Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall
  • Kumarakom Beach
  • Kumarakom backwaters
  • Kumarakom Craft Museum
  • Pathiramana Island
  • Thanneermukkom Bund

Things to do in Kumarakom

Kumarakom, a paradise for nature lovers, offers many pleasant activities.

  • Houseboat Riding
  • Trekking
  • Enjoy lakeside strolls
  • Watch Kathakali performance
  • Boat race
  • Shopping
  • Watch a wide variety of migratory birds

Best Time To Visit Kumarakom : November to February

How to reach Kumarakom?

Reaching Kumarakom is not an issue because there are all modes of transport here.

Kumarakom By Air: Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport to Kumarakom. The airport is 85 km. away from Kumarakom.

Kumarakom By Rail: Kumarakom has its own railway station, which is connected to other cities of Kerala.

Kumarakom By Road: KSRTC bus services run in between Kumarakom and Kottayam.

FAQ's Related to South India

Q. Which is the best place to visit in January in South India?

A. Ooty in South India can be the best tour destination if anyone want to visit South India in January.

Q. Which is the best place to visit in February in South India?

A. In the second month of the Year, there are numerous spots in South India where you can enjoy your holiday. While the wonderful province of Karnataka will hypnotizes you with its beautifulness when you arrive at Tamilnadu.

Q. Which is the best place to visit in March in South India?

A. The long stretch of March isn't too hot to even think about traveling to numerous spots in India. Plan a vacation in month of March to Ooty to encounter the serenity here, appears the most ideal approach to kill the mid-year heat.

Q. Which is the best place to visit in December in South India?

A. Kerala known as the God's Own nation' is one of the perfect spots to visit in December in South India. The natural beauty of Kerala can make your December vacation more beautiful.

Q. Which is the best place to visit in November in South India?

A. Araku Valley which is situated in Vishakhapatnam district is the best hill of Andhra Pradesh where Traveller can visit in the month of November.

Q. Which is the best destination in South India during winter?

A. Alleppey which is also known as the Venice of the East, is best vacation destination for winter.

Q. Which is the best hill station in south India?

A. Munnar is most excellent and a dazzling hill station close Madurai in South India. You should visit Munnar in your South India tours.

Q. What is South India famous for?

A. South India is famous for coffee, spices, temples, natural beauty and various cultural activities.

Q. What is the famous food of South India?

A. The South Indian cooking is acclaimed for the uses of lentils and flavours, green chillies, crisp coconut and mixture by local vegetables and natural products. Vada, Idli, Dosa, Utthapam are some of the famous food of South India.

Q. Is any luxury train Available to travel South India?

A. Golden Chariot is the luxury train available to travel South India. If you travel by this luxurious train, it will give you a perspective of different picturesque scenes.

Q. When is the best time to visit south India?

A. The best time to visit tropical South India is throughout the winter months, however that being said there are some unmistakable local varieties. The pinnacle season is from December to February when the atmosphere is at its generally wonderful.

You may also read related articles:


You May Also Know About Popular Luxury Trains on India:-