South India

Discover the Hidden Gems of South India

From the misty hills of Kerala to the sun-kissed beaches of Tamil Nadu, and from the ancient ruins of Karnataka to the vibrant streets of Pondicherry, South India has something for every kind of traveller.

Explore the best tour destinations in South India and experience the region’s unique culture, history, and natural beauty.

South India is a treasure trove of diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant traditions. From the majestic hill stations to the serene backwaters, and from the ancient temples to the vibrant cities, South India has something to offer for every kind of traveler.

Popular Tourist Destinations in Kerala

Kerala: Kerala is a state in southwestern India known for its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and diverse attractions. It’s often referred to as “God’s Own Country” due to its lush green landscapes, backwaters, and beaches.

Key Features

1. Natural Beauty: Kerala is home to the Western Ghats, backwaters, and beaches.
2. Cultural Heritage: Kerala has a rich cultural heritage, with traditional dance forms, music, and festivals.
3. Cuisine: Kerala is famous for its unique cuisine, which includes dishes like idiyappam, thoran, and sadya.

Popular Destinations in Kerala

Hill Stations

1. Munnar: Tea gardens, scenic views, and trekking trails.
2. Thekkady: Wildlife sanctuary, trekking trails, and scenic views.
3. Wayanad: Scenic views, wildlife sanctuary, and trekking trails.
4. Vagamon: Scenic views, trekking trails, and natural beauty.
5. Ponmudi: Scenic views, trekking trails, and natural beauty.

Beaches

1. Kovalam: Scenic beach, water sports, and sunbathing.
2. Varkala: Scenic beach, cliff views, and water sports.
3. Marari: Scenic beach, relaxation, and water sports.
4. Cherai: Scenic beach, relaxation, and water sports.
5. Bekal: Scenic beach, relaxation, and water sports.

Backwaters

1. Alleppey: Backwaters, houseboats, and traditional villages.
2. Kumarakom: Backwaters, bird sanctuary, and scenic views.
3. Kollam: Backwaters, traditional villages, and scenic views.

Wildlife

1. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Wildlife sanctuary, trekking trails, and scenic views.
2. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: Wildlife sanctuary, trekking trails, and scenic views.

Cultural Attractions

1. Cochin: Historic city, colonial architecture, and cultural attractions.
2. Thrissur: Cultural attractions, temples, and festivals.
3. Palakkad: Cultural attractions, temples, and scenic views.

These are just a few examples of the many popular destinations in Kerala. The state offers a mix of culture, history, and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for tourists.

Popular Tourist Destinations in Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu is a state in southern India known for its rich cultural heritage, historic landmarks, and natural beauty. Here are some popular tourist destinations:

Hill Stations

1. Ooty: The queen of Hill stations, scenic views, and colonial architecture.
2. Kodaikanal: The princess of hills, scenic views, and natural beauty.
3. Coonoor: The serene hill town, scenic views, and natural beauty.
4. Yercaud: Jewel of south, scenic views, and natural beauty.
5. Yelagiri: The land of seven hills, scenic views, and natural beauty.
6. Kotagiri: The quieter cousin of Ooty, scenic views, and natural beauty.
7. Valparai: The untouched wilderness, scenic views, and natural beauty.
8. Meghamalai: The hidden paradise, scenic views, and natural beauty.

Beaches

1. Marina Beach (Chennai): Scenic beach, water sports, and sunbathing.
2. Mahabalipuram Beach: Scenic beach, historic landmarks, and water sports.
3. Kanyakumari Beach: Scenic beach, water sports, and natural beauty.
4. Rameshwaram (Dhanushkodi Beach): Scenic beach, historic landmarks, and natural beauty.

Cultural Attractions

1. Madurai: Historic city, temples, and cultural attractions.
2. Tanjore: Historic city, temples, and cultural attractions.
3. Kanchipuram: Historic city, temples, and cultural attractions.
4. Mahabalipuram: Historic city, temples, and cultural attractions.
5. Rameshwaram: Historic city, temples, and cultural attractions.
6. Chennai: Historic city, cultural attractions, and natural beauty.
7. Pondicherry: Historic city, cultural attractions, and natural beauty.
8. Trichy: Historic city, temples, and cultural attractions.
9. Coimbatore: Historic city, cultural attractions, and natural beauty.

Wildlife

1. Mudumalai National Park: Wildlife sanctuary, trekking trails, and scenic views.
2. Anaimalai Wildlife Sanctuary: Wildlife sanctuary, trekking trails, and scenic views.

Other Attractions

1. Meenakshi Amman Temple: Historic temple, cultural attractions, and scenic views.
2. Brihadeeswara Temple: Historic temple, cultural attractions, and scenic views.
3. Nilgiri Mountain Railway: Scenic train ride, historic landmarks, and natural beauty.
4. Adiyogi: Historic landmark, cultural attractions, and scenic views.

These are just a few examples of the many popular tourist destinations in Tamil Nadu. The state offers a mix of culture, history, and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for tourists.

Popular Tourist Destinations in Karnataka

While all of India is filled with stunning places to visit, Karnataka is one of the few states that has to offer it all. From the land of royal heritage and magnificent buildings in Mysore to the undiscovered, stunning beaches of Gokarna and the fast paced yet dreamy metropolitan life in Bengaluru, Karnataka boasts of having something in store for each visitor, which is why it’s rightfully described as “One state, many worlds.”

When it comes to hill stations, Karnataka offers some of the best and beautiful hill retreats in the country. The state boasts picturesque hilly retreats that are a paradise for nature lovers, wildlife explorers and adventure seekers.

Hill Stations

The hill stations in Karnataka are known for their scenic views, trekking trails, and coffee plantations. Some popular hill stations include:

1. Coorg: Known for its coffee plantations and scenic views.
2. Chikmagalur: Offers trekking trails and scenic views.
3. Sakleshpur: A popular destination for trekking and hiking.
4. Nandi Hills: Offers scenic views and trekking trails.

Beaches

Karnataka has a long coastline with several scenic beaches. Some popular beaches include:

1. Gokarna: Known for its scenic beach and water sports.
2. Karwar: Offers scenic views and relaxation.
3. Mirjan Fort Beach: A historic beach with scenic views.
4. Mangaluru: A popular beach destination with water sports.
5. Udupi: Known for its scenic beach and temples.
6. Murudeshwar: A scenic beach with historic landmarks.

Cultural Attractions

Karnataka is home to several cultural attractions, including historic cities, temples, and palaces. Some popular cultural attractions include:

1. Hampi: A historic city with ruins and temples.
2. Mysore: Known for its palaces and cultural attractions.
3. Bangalore: A modern city with cultural attractions and nightlife.
4. Belgaum: A historic city with temples and cultural attractions.

Wildlife

Karnataka is home to several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks. Some popular wildlife destinations include:

1. Bandipur National Park: A wildlife sanctuary with trekking trails.
2. Nagarhole National Park: A wildlife sanctuary with scenic views.
3. Bannerghatta National Park: A wildlife sanctuary with trekking trails.
4. Dandeli: A wildlife sanctuary with scenic views.
5. Mudumalai: A wildlife sanctuary with trekking trails.
6. Kudremukh: A wildlife sanctuary with scenic views.
7. Kabini: A wildlife sanctuary with trekking trails.

Other Attractions

Karnataka has several other attractions, including historic cities, temples, and waterfalls. Some popular attractions include:

1. Halebidu: A historic city with temples and cultural attractions.
2. Badami: A historic city with temples and cultural attractions.
3. Aihole: A historic city with temples and cultural attractions.
4. Mahatma Gandhi Waterfalls: A scenic waterfall with trekking trails.

Overall, Karnataka offers a mix of culture, history, and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for tourists.

Popular Tourist Destinations in Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh is a treasure trove of diverse tourist attractions, offering something for everyone. Here are some of the most popular destinations to visit:

Hill Stations and Natural Wonders

Araku Valley: A scenic hill station with breathtaking views, coffee plantations, and waterfalls. Best time to visit: September to February.

Ananthagiri Hills: A haven for nature lovers, with lush green forests, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

Horsley Hills: A picturesque hill station with rolling hills, valleys, and scenic views.

Beaches

Mypadu Beach: A stunning beach in Nellore, perfect for relaxation, water sports, and sunsets.

Kakinada Beach: A scenic beach with calm waters, ideal for swimming and sunbathing.¹ ²

Cultural and Historical Attractions

Tirupati: A sacred city famous for the Sri Venkateswara Temple, one of the most visited pilgrimage centers in India. Best time to visit: September to March.

Vijayawada: A city rich in history and culture, with attractions like the Undavalli Caves, Kondapalli Fort, and Kanaka Durga Temple.

Lepakshi: A historic town with ancient temples, including the Veerabhadra Temple and Lepakshi Temple.

Wildlife and Adventure

Srisailam Tiger Reserve: A wildlife sanctuary with diverse flora and fauna, and opportunities for trekking and hiking.

Papikondalu: A scenic valley with lush green forests, waterfalls, and boating opportunities.

Borra Caves: A network of caves with stunning rock formations and underground streams.

Other Attractions

Amaravathi: A historic city with ancient Buddhist ruins, temples, and museums.

Gandikota: A small village with stunning gorges, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

Konda Reddy Fort: A historic fort with impressive architecture and stunning views.

Popular Tourist Destinations in Telangana

Telangana is a treasure trove of diverse tourist attractions, offering something for everyone. Here are some popular destinations to explore:

Hill Stations and Natural Wonders

Ananthagiri Hills: A scenic hill station with lush green forests, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

Papikondalu: A hill range along the River Godavari, known for its scenic beauty and tranquil environment.

Kuntala Waterfalls: The highest waterfall in Telangana, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Pochera Waterfalls: A beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush forests, ideal for a tranquil escape.¹ ²

Cultural and Historical Attractions

Hyderabad: The City of Pearls, famous for its rich history, iconic landmarks, and modern tech hubs.

Charminar: A 16th-century mosque and iconic monument.

Golconda Fort: A majestic fortress with a rich history.

Ramoji Film City: A massive film studio complex with guided tours and live entertainment.

Warangal: A city steeped in history and culture, known for its ancient temples, forts, and lakes.

Warangal Fort: A historic fort built during the Kakatiya dynasty.

Thousand Pillar Temple: A temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Nizamabad: A city rich in history and cultural heritage, with attractions like the Nizamabad Fort and Kanteshwar Temple.³

Wildlife and Adventure

Kawal Wildlife Sanctuary: A haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Kinnerasani Wildlife Sanctuary: A serene wildlife sanctuary with dense forests and diverse wildlife.

Pocharam Wildlife Sanctuary: A nature lover’s paradise, home to a wide range of flora and fauna.

Amrabad Tiger Reserve: A wildlife sanctuary with diverse flora and fauna, perfect for trekking and hiking.

Pilgrimage and Spiritual Sites

Bhadrachalam: A sacred town known for its association with Lord Rama and the Bhadrachalam Temple.

Vemulawada: A popular pilgrimage site with the Rajarajeshwara Swamy Temple.

Chilkur Balaji Temple: A temple dedicated to Lord Balaji, also known as the VISA Temple.