Tourist Places to Visit in South India
The southern region of India offers a diverse range of experiences beyond just beaches and spice plantations. It’s a blend of various cultures, cuisines, customs, and languages. Whether you’re a newlywed couple or traveling with family, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu extend a warm and hospitable welcome to all tourists. There is something for everyone here – thrill-seekers can enjoy water sports, romantics can relax on backwaters, hikers can explore trekking trails, and nature enthusiasts can admire breathtaking views. Keep reading to discover the tourist places to visit in South India.
Tourist Places to Visit in South India
Coorg, Karnataka
This small town in Karnataka, surrounded by imposing mountains and covered in mist, is a nature lover’s paradise. It is known for its diverse flora and fauna, aromatic spices, and coffee plantations. In addition to waterfalls and trekking routes, Coorg has forts and temples, as well as one of the few Tibetan settlements in Southern India. Aside from sightseeing, there are plenty of shopping opportunities, cultural events, and delicious food to indulge in.
October to March is the best time to visit
There are several key attractions in Coorg: Abbey Falls, Iruppu Falls, Tadiandamol Peak, Raja’s Seat, Talacauvery, Namdroling Monastery, Nagarhole National Park, Barapole River, Madikeri Fort, Omkareshwara Temple, and Gaddige Raja’s Tomb.
Mysore Airport, Mangalore Airport, and Kempegowda International Airport, Bangalore are the nearest airports
Mysore is the nearest railway station
Wayanad, Kerala
Trekking enthusiasts and nature lovers flock to Wayanad, one of the most popular hill stations in Kerala. Its rolling hills and lush green forests are home to a variety of animals and birds, and after the monsoons, the waterfalls come alive with a renewed spirit. It is possible to take a picnic around the dams and lakes in Wayanad. Also worth exploring are the temples and caves.
October to May is the best time to visit
Attractions include Banasura Dam, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Edakkal Caves, Chembra Peak, Soochipara Waterfalls, Kuruvadweep, Thirunelli Temple, Kanthanpara Waterfalls, Wayanad Heritage Museum, and Neelimala Viewpoint.
Calicut International Airport is the nearest airport
Kozhikode is the nearest railway station
Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
Experience the refreshing breeze of Kodaikanal, a hill town in Tamil Nadu, as a delightful escape from the typical humidity of southern India. Embraced by ethereal clouds, this designated “Princess of Hill Stations” offers an array of activities such as hiking, relaxing by lakes, and bathing in waterfalls. The flora here is diverse and fascinating. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the blooming Kurunji shrubs during your visit. As the sun sets, embark on a journey to another realm by visiting the observatory.
Madurai International Airport and Coimbatore International Airport are the nearest airports
Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Contrasting the hustle and bustle of city life with vast tea gardens, Ooty, also known as the Queen of Hill Stations, exudes a unique charm. The town’s British-Raj era bungalows add a romantic touch, making it a sought-after honeymoon destination in South India. Adding to its appeal is the famous miniature toy train, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and enjoyed by people of all ages. A ride from Ooty to Coonoor, another nearby hill station, covers a distance of 19 km and offers a refreshing journey. While in Ooty, be sure to visit its museums, churches, and tea factory for an enriching experience.
October to June is the best time to visit
Government Botanical Garden, Government Rose Garden, Tea Factory and Tea Museum, St. Stephen’s Church, Thread Garden, Nilgiri Mountain Railway Line, Government Museum, Doddabetta, Ooty Lake, Kamaraj Sagar Dam, Catherine Falls. Visit Dolphin’s Nose and Deer Park to learn more about Ooty’s historical sites.
Coimbatore International Airport is the nearest airport
Mettupalayam Railway Station is the nearest railway station
The city of Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, is a charming fusion of ancient and modern elements. It has earned a reputation as a preserver of South Indian customs and practices. The city showcases remarkable historical buildings, while also embracing a trendy urban culture with its eclectic cafes and unique shops. Additionally, Chennai boasts the world’s second longest beach, making it an exciting destination for thrill-seekers. With its diverse offerings, Chennai attracts many families and remains a popular spot in South India.
October to February is the best time to visit
Marina Beach, Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Government Museum, Edward Elliot’s Beach, Santhome Cathedral, Fort St. George, Guindy National Park, Parthasarathi Temple, Valluvar Kottam, Arignar Anna Zoological Park, DakshinaChitra, and B.M. Birla Planetarium. Find out more about historical places in Chennai.
Chennai International Airport is the nearest airport
Chennai Central is the nearest railway station
Gokarna, Karnataka
The beaches of Gokarna, a Hindu pilgrimage site in Karnataka, feature white sand and swaying coconut palms. Apart from the beaches, Gokarna also has a number of old and new temples. The town is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South India for solo travelers. There are a number of vegetarian-only restaurants in the town, but seafood joints and bars are also common.
October to March is the best time to visit
Attractions include Om Beach, Mahabaleshwar Temple, Half Moon Beach, Kudle Beach, Paradise Beach, Maha Ganapathi Temple, Shiva Cave, Koti Teertha, and Sri Bhadrakali Temple.
Goa’s Dabolim Airport is the nearest airport
Ankola and Gokarna Road are the nearest railway stations
Check out North Goa vs. South Goa as well
Hampi, Karnataka
A world heritage site, Hampi takes visitors back to the 15th and 16th centuries with its magnificent ruins, making everyone’s imagination come alive with remnants of temples, monuments, and havelis. It’s a great place to spend an evening at a cute cafe set up on a rooftop offering a variety of cuisines.
October to February is the best time to visit
A few of the key attractions are Virupaksha Temple, Matanga Hill, Hemakuta Hill Temple, Vijaya Vitthala Temple, Hampi Architectural Ruins, Achyutaraya Temple, Kadalekalu Ganesha, Saasivekaalu Ganesha, Lotus Mahal, Hazara Rama Temple, and Stone Chariot.
Bangalore’s Kempegowda International Airport is the nearest airport
Hospet Junction is the nearest railway station
Varkala, Kerala
Located in the state of Kerala, Varkala stands as a small town with a renowned beach among those in South India. The picturesque white sands of the beach are complemented by striking cliffs, making it a favorite spot for photographers. This destination welcomes both backpackers and families, providing an ideal retreat from urban bustle. Aside from its stunning coastline, visitors can also indulge in fresh seafood at local shacks and explore flea markets that add to its charm. However, at its core, Varkala holds significance as a temple town revered by Hindus.
October to March is the best time to visit
Attractions: Varkala Beach, Sivagiri Mutt, Varkala Cliff, Janardanaswamy Temple, Kappil Beach, Golden Island, Anchuthengu Fort, Varkala Cultural Center, and Sreenarayanapuram Temple.
Trivandrum International Airport is the nearest airport
Varkala Sivagiri is the nearest railway station
Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu
Mahabalipuram, once a major seaport, is now a World Heritage Site on every history buff’s bucket list. From carved relief work on stone to cave temples, Mahabalipuram overflows with architectural wonder. Sunsets here are especially special because the soft glow of the setting sun adds to the allure of these monuments. There’s also Krishna’s Butterball to be discovered. Located in close proximity to Chennai, the city is one of the most popular long weekend destinations in South India.
October to March is the best time to visit
Attractions: Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas, Descent of the Ganges, Group of Monuments, Krishna’s Butterball, Thirukadalmallai, Mahabalipuram Beach, Ganesha Ratha, Indian Seashell Museum, Arjuna’s Presence, Mahishasuramardini Mandapa, and Tiger Cave.
Chennai International Airport is the nearest airport
Chennai and Chengalpattu are the nearest railway stations
Tanjore, Tamil Nadu
A beautiful gold relief painting that takes its name from Tanjore is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear about it. Throughout history, Tanjore has served as the bedrock of South Indian art. In addition to its cosmopolitan vibe, Tanjore is an ideal place to find antiques and reproductions to take home with you. The palaces and temples that bear witness to erstwhile kingdoms blend easily with its cosmopolitan vibe.
October to March is the best time to visit
Attractions: Brihadeeswara Temple, Great Living Chola Temples, Saraswathi Mahal Library, Thanjavur Maratha Palace, Sivaganga Park, Aiyarappar Temple, Thanjai Mamani Koil, Royal Palace Museum, and Manimandapam.
Tiruchirappalli International Airport is the nearest airport
Thanjavur Junction and Trichy Junction are the nearest railway stations
Madurai,Tamil Nadu
It is often said that Madurai is Tamil Nadu’s soul. As one of India’s oldest cities, Madurai is a celebration of Tamil culture and heritage. Its temples are both architecturally beautiful and have religious significance. Madurai is not just one of the top tourist destinations in South India because of this. As a vibrant city, it offers a variety of South Indian cuisine. You can choose from roadside dhabas as well as fine dining restaurants.
October to March is the best time to visit
The key attractions include Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal, Koodal Azhagar Temple, Gandhi Memorial Museum, Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam, Alagar Koyil, Thirupparamkunram Murugan Temple, Meenakshi Amman Temple, Samanar Hills, Kazimar Big Mosque, Thirumohoor Kalamegaperumal Temple, and Pandi Kovil Temple.
Madurai International Airport is the nearest airport
Madurai Junction is the nearest railway station
Puducherry
There are not many places in India that reflect the contribution that French culture has made to our heritage like Pondicherry. On one hand, Pondicherry boasts of villas with teak columned courtyards and vibrant yellow walls and on the other is the peaceful aura of Auroville. Its respectful and safe culture and bohemian vibe have made it one of the top tourist destinations for solo travelers in South India. There are also a lot of beaches here where you can watch the day go by easily.
The best time to visit is from October to March
Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple, Promenade Beach, Rock Beach, Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, French War Memorial, Bharathi Park, Aayi Mandapam, and Varadharaja Perumal Temple.
Pondicherry Airport is the nearest airport
Pondicherry Railway Station is the nearest railway station
Munnar,Kerala
As one of the most picturesque hill stations in South India, Munnar is surrounded by misty clouds and rolling green hills. It almost seems as though the place is carpeted with tea plantations. It is the perfect place to sample the various aromas and flavors of tea. It is a popular weekend destination in South India for nature lovers, with elephants, waterfalls and trekking trails.
October to May is the best time to visit
There are a number of things to do in Munnar, including Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, Anamudi, Tea Museum, Pothamedu View Point, Attukal Waterfall, Nayamakad Waterfall, Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, Chokramudi Peak, and Carmelagiri Elephant Park.
Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport
Aluva and Ernakulam are the nearest railway stations
Alleppey ,Kerala
In South India, Alleppey is an idyllic honeymoon destination known as Alappuzha that offers couples the opportunity to fall deeper in love with each other. Floating along the backwaters in a houseboat is the best way to experience this city. If you time your visit just right, you might even be able to watch the famous Kerala boat races. Besides that, Alleppey is home to a thriving coir industry.
The best time to visit is November to February. Boat races are held in August.
Alappuzha Beach, Vembanad, Marari Beach, Pathiramanal, Sree Krishna Swamy Temple, Punnamada Lake, Krishnapuram Palace, Basilica of St. Mary, Mullakkal Temple, International Coir Museum, and Revi Karunakaran Memorial Museum are some of the top attractions in Alleppey.
Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport
Alappuzha Railway Station is the nearest railway station
Kumarakom,Kerala
In South India, Kumarakom is a top weekend destination for nature lovers due to its beautiful blue lake, picturesque villages, and bird sanctuary. A houseboat stay, night fishing, a shikara ride down the backwaters, birdwatching, and more are just a few of the things you can do here, whether you’re here for the weekend or the whole week. The place to be if you want a simple life is Kumarakom.
November to February is the best time to visit
There are several key attractions in Kumarakom, including the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Pathiramanal, Bay Island Driftwood Museum, Thanneermukkom Bund, Village Life Experience, Backwaters, Karthyayani Devi Temple, St. Thomas Church, and Sree Kumaramangalam Subramanyaswamy Temple.
Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport
Kottayam is the nearest railway station
Kochi,Kerala
Kochi boasts an interesting blend of ancient synagogues, grand palaces, charming Chinese fishing nets that sway above the water, and impressive bungalows from the Dutch period. This city is a top choice for both individual travelers in South India and families seeking a memorable destination. In addition to its rich history, Kochi offers a bustling antique market with plenty of opportunities for shopping. And of course, don’t forget to try the delectable appams and other traditional Kerala dishes while you’re there.
October to February is the best time to visit
Fort Kochi, Cherai Beach, Mattancherry Palace, St. Francis CSI Church, Paradesi Synagogue, Hill Palace Museum, Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica, Willingdon Island, Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary, and Princess Street.
Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport
Ernakulam Junction and Ernakulam are the nearest railway stations
Kanyakumari,Tamil Nadu
At the southernmost tip of the Indian mainland, Kanyakumari is renowned for its spectacular sunrises and sunsets over the Bay of Bengal, the Arabian Sea, and the Indian Ocean. The Vivekananda Rock Memorial can transport you to a whole new world within a few minutes. During the day, there are many forts, churches, and temples to visit and paddy fields to photograph.
October to February is the best time to visit
Visit Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Thiruvalluvar Statue, Kanyakumari Beach, Sarvani Shaktipeeth Shri Bhagavathy Temple, Our Lady of Ransom Church, Trisea Sangamam, and Vattakottai Fort.
Trivandrum International Airport is the nearest airport
The nearest railway station is Kanyakumari
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Thekkady,Kerala
As a great break from city life, Thekkady offers a rustic lifestyle. This hill station in South India has everything from lush green rolling hills to spice plantations, ashrams and paddy fields. Periyar National Park is home to tigers, wild bison, and many other types of wildlife. Following your trek through the hills and the smell of spice plantations, you can take cooking classes and tour the bazaars.
November to March is the best time to visit
Attractions include Periyar National Park, Tiger Trail, Thekkady Lake, Green Park Ayurvedic & Spices Plantation, Anakkara, Kadathanadan Kalari Centre, Chellarkovil Viewpoint, and Pandikuzhi.
Cochin International Airport and Madurai International Airport are the nearest airports
Kottayam Railway Station is the nearest railway station
Trivandrum,Kerala
A small city with a glorious heritage, Trivandrum is Kerala’s capital. It is surrounded by low hills, and is the gateway to the beaches of Kovalam and Varkala. The temples here are visited by both pilgrims and tourists. In addition to the palaces and museums that honor the city’s history through beautifully preserved architecture, Trivandrum also boasts the Trivandrum Zoo. Do not miss the food served on plantain leaves while you’re there.
October to February is the best time to visit
The main attractions in Trivandrum are the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Napier Museum, Shankumugham Beach, Kuthira Malika, Trivandrum Zoo, Attukal Temple, Kanakakkunnu Palace, Kowdiar Palace, Koyikkal Palace, Kovalam, and Karikkakom Devi Temple.
Trivandrum International Airport is the nearest airport
Thiruvananthapuram is the nearest railway station
Telangana, Hyderabad
A vibrant cityscape complements the rich history and regality of Hyderabad, the capital of Telangana. On the one hand, the city boasts of palaces, forts, and museums on the other it has a string of cafes by the beautiful Hussain Sagar Lake. Hyderabad is also home to the fascinating Ramoji Film City. Despite being both young and old, traditional and cosmopolitan, it is a fascinating place.
October to February is the best time to visit
Attractions: Charminar, Golkonda Fort, Salar Jung Museum, Hussain Sagar Lake, Chowmahalla Palace, Ramoji Film City, Birla Mandir, Qutb Shahi Tombs, Lumbini Park, Shilparamam, NTR Gardens, Osman Sagar, Necklace Road, and Paigah Tombs. Read more about picnic spots in Hyderabad.
Rajiv Gandhi Hyderabad International Airport, Hyderabad is the nearest airport
Nampally and Hyderabad are the closest railway stations
Warangal,Telangana
A city dotted with temples, forts and ancient monuments, Warangal is one of the most popular places to visit in South India. It’s temples are not only visited by pilgrims but are admired by tourists for their architectural splendor as well. A number of lakes and gardens are perfect for picnics, and emerald fields make a beautiful backdrop for photographers.
October to March is the best time to visit
Attractions include Thousand Pillar Temple, Warangal Fort, Bhadrakali Temple, Padmakshi Temple, Waddepally Lake, Kakatiya Musical Garden, Kakatiya Zoological Park, Kush Mahal, and Bhadrakali Lake.
Rajiv Gandhi Hyderabad International Airport, Hyderabad is the nearest airport
Warangal is the nearest railway station
Araku Valley,Andhra Pradesh
In South India, Araku Valley is a popular weekend destination a few hours’ drive from Vishakhapatnam. The Vistadome train offers a panoramic view of the route. Several trekking routes traverse the hills in Araku Valley for adventure seekers. The valley is known for its spectacular natural beauty, isolated tribes, and organic coffee plantations.
October to March is the best time to visit
Attractions include Padmapuram Gardens, Borra Caves, Coffee Museum, Ananthagiri Water Falls, Rana Jilleda Water Falls, and Katika Water Falls.
The nearest airport is Visakhapatnam International Airport
Araku Railway Station is the nearest railway station
Chikmagalur,Karnataka
There is also the coffee to look forward to in Chikmagalur. Known for its adventure tales of smuggling in the past, it is now best known for its scenic beauty and historic sites. The lush green plantations provide a variety of picnic spots that will make you forget the city you came from. Adventure seekers love the mountain circuits of Sheethalagiri-Baba Budan Giri-Mullayanagiri. The Hebbe and Kalhatti Falls are also nearby.
September to March is the best time to visit
Sharadamba Temple, Kemmangundi, Coffee Museum, Z Point, Hirekolale Lake, Mullayanagiri, Kudurekuha, Hirekolale Lake, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, Baba Budangiri, Kallathigiri Falls, and Hebbe Falls are some of the key attractions.
Mangalore International Airport is the nearest airport
Railway Stations: Chikkamagaluru Railway Station, Kadur and Hassan
Mysore,Karnataka
Famous for its lavish way of living, Mysore is a captivating destination. It is adorned with stunning landmarks and historic structures. One of the must-visit attractions in India is the Mysore Palace, which was once the residence of the Wodeyar Maharajas. The city’s vibrant culture and bustling spice markets draw visitors from all over the globe as well as within India itself. Additionally, many people come to Mysore to immerse themselves in the practice of Ashtanga yoga. If you’re planning a trip, consider visiting during Mysore Dasara for a spectacular festival experience.
July to February is the best time to visit
There are many places to visit in Mysore, including Mysore Palace, Mysore Zoo, Kishkindha Moolika Bonsai Garden, Venugopala Swamy Temple, Jaganmohan Palace, Philomena’s Church, Somanathapura Temple, Brindavan Gardens, Chamundeshwari Temple, and Karanji Lake.
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