Top 10 Places to Visit in South India

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16 Oct 2023

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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.

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

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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 summer, 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 water. 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 backdrop of a picturesque landscape.

Major Attractions of Ooty

Have a unique and lively experience in Ooty and make your journey memorable by 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 the ‘Queen of Hill Stations’ and a honeymoon destination owing to several things to do.

Take a ride on the age-old Nilgiri Mountain Railway
Trekking to the Dodabetta peak
Enjoy the speedboat 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 hours to drive from the 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 Tiruppur as well as to Bangalore, Mysore, and Cochin.

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2. Lakkidi, Kerala

Lakkidi is known for its turns almost at 180 degrees, and nine of them are 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 entire valley. The hill slopes and the water streams that pass between provide a cool feel in summer. There is a tragic story to learn about 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.

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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 the aquarium near Pookat Lake
Ficus tree, bound by steel chains, has a historical essence and will take you back to the British Rule in India.
Trekking at Chembra Peak
View the traditional architecture of Kerala at Vennimala Sree Rama Lakshmana Perumal Temple
Feel the thrill of the 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.

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3. Munnar, Kerala

Overlooking the picturesque Western Ghats, this beautiful town of tea plantations over vast verdure with sky-high waterfalls is the coolest 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 the Western Ghats, a 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 the Scotland of the East. It gives a countryside 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 summer is to picnic by the scenic waterfalls. You can keep cool and have a wonderful family holiday at the same time.

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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 to Coorg to relax by all types of modes 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 Karnataka.

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5. Alleppey, Kerala

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

Known as the “Land of the Backwaters of Kerala,” the watery paths through the thriving mangroves are 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, the Venice of the East, offers travelers many things to do.

To witness many beautiful birds from all over the world
To see the mesmerizing carvings of the Pandavan rock
Enjoy birdwatching at Pathiramanal
Get nostalgic at the historical monument, Alleppey Lighthouse
See a half-broken statue of Buddha at Karumadi
Be a witness to a 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, 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 have 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 Sanctuary
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 souls and trekking enthusiasts.

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

Best time to visit Idukki: November to February

How to reach Ldukki

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.

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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 the 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.

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Major Attractions of Mysore

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

Things to do in Mysore

Impressive 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.

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8. Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu

Pondicherry, the former French colony, is a Union Territory of India. It is located on the south coast 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 in 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. away from Pondicherry.

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

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

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9. Hampi, Karnataka

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

In the mid-19^th 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 the Vijayanagar Empire. Hampi is a pilgrim’s delight as well as a backpacker’s paradise.

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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, 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, Goa, and other major cities to Hampi.

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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 fish. Its pleasant climate throughout the year and its soothing environment attract tourists and offer them many leisure options.

Major Attractions of Kumarakom

The best places in Kumarakom are 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 a 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. away from Kumarakom.

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

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

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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 wants 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 hypnotize you with its beauty, when you arrive in Tamil Nadu.

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 the month of March to Ooty to encounter the serenity here, which appears to be the most ideal approach to kill the midsummer heat.

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

A. Kerala, known as the God's Own Country', 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 travellers can visit in 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 the best vacation destination for winter.

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

A. Munnar is a most excellent and dazzling hill station close to 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. South Indian cooking is acclaimed for the use of lentils and flavours, green chillies, crisp coconut, and mixtures of local vegetables and natural products. Vada, Idli, Dosa, and Utthapam are some of the famous foods of South India.

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

A. Golden Chariot is a luxury train available for travel in 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.

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