Karnataka’s Coorg
Coorg is a nature lover’s delight, surrounded by majestic mountains and shrouded in mist. This small Karnataka town is well renowned for its rich flora and wildlife, aromatic spices, and coffee plantations. Coorg has a lot to offer, from waterfalls and trekking routes to forts and temples. It is also home to one of Southern India’s few Tibetan settlements. Aside from tourism, there is plenty of cultures, retail therapy, and delectable food to be had.
Kerala’s Wayanad
Wayanad, one of Kerala’s most popular hill stations, entices trekkers and environment lovers alike. A variety of animals and birds call its rolling hills and beautiful green woodlands home. The waterfalls come alive with new life after the monsoons. Wayanad’s dams and lakes are great for an afternoon picnic. Then there are the temples and caves to be discovered.
Tamil Nadu’s Kodaikanal
The cold wind of Kodaikanal, a hill town in Tamil Nadu, is a pleasant relief from the humidity of southern India. This hill station, nestled under misty clouds, is appropriately known as the Princess of Hill Stations. There are winding routes for hikers, lakes to relax by, waterfalls to bathe in, and much more. Even the trees and flora here are one-of-a-kind. If you go at the right time, you might be able to see the Kurunji shrubs in bloom. A visit to the observatory at night transports you to another world.
Tamil Nadu’s Ooty and Coonoor
Ooty, the Queen of Hill Stations, strikes a balance between city life and sprawling tea gardens. Ooty’s lovely bungalows from the British-Raj era give a romantic feel, making it one of South India’s most popular honeymoon locations. Its famed tiny toy railroad is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that delights visitors of all ages. A toy train ride to Coonoor can be taken from Ooty, another adjacent hill station. The rail path, which spans 19 kilometers, provides a rejuvenating travel experience. Ooty also has museums, chapels, and a tea factory that should be on your agenda.
Karnataka’s Gokarna
Gokarna, a Hindu pilgrimage place in Karnataka, is well renowned for its white sand beaches and swaying coconut palms. Aside from the beaches, Gokarna is home to both old and new temples. It is regarded as one of the most popular tourist destinations in South India for single visitors. Because the town has religious significance, there are several vegetarian-only restaurants, but seafood restaurants and a relaxing bar are not difficult to find.
Karnataka’s Hampi
Hampi is a popular tourist destination in South India. With its spectacular remains, the world heritage site transports tourists to the 15th and 16th centuries. With relics of temples, monuments, and Havelis, it brings everyone’s imagination to life. Quaint rooftop cafes serve a variety of cuisines and are perfect places to spend the evening.
Kerala’s Varkala
Varkala, a small town in Kerala, is also home to one of South India’s best beaches. Varkala’s pure white sandy beach is framed by majestic rocks, making it a popular photography location. The village caters to both travelers and families. It’s an excellent area to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Aside from the beach, there are shacks selling the fresh catch of the day and flea markets that add to the uniqueness of this location. However, at its core, Varkala is a temple town with religious significance for Hindus.
Tamil Nadu’s Mahabalipuram
Mahabalipuram, once a bustling harbor, is now a must-see World Heritage Site for any history fan. Mahabalipuram is brimming with architectural marvels, from carved relief work on stone to subterranean temples. Sunsets are especially beautiful here because the mellow glow of the setting sun adds to the charm of these landmarks. Then there’s the enigma of Krishna’s Butterball. Because of its proximity to Chennai, the city is a popular long weekend getaway in South India.
Tamil Nadu’s Tanjore
Tanjore’s exquisite gold relief paintings are the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the name Tanjore. Tanjore has a long history that extends back centuries, and it was once the foundation of South Indian art. Today, its metropolitan attitudes easily merge with the palaces and temples that bore testament to former rulers. Tanjore is also an excellent destination to find antiques and reproductions to bring home with you.
Tamil Nadu’s Madurai
Madurai is commonly referred to as Tamil Nadu’s soul. Madurai, India’s oldest city, is a celebration of Tamil culture and heritage. The temples in this area are both religiously significant and architecturally beautiful. This, however, is not the only reason Madurai is ranked as one of the best tourist destinations in South India. It is a bustling city that also serves a range of South Indian cuisine. There’s a world of food waiting for you here, from roadside dhabas to fine dining places.
