There are numerous places to visit in South India. Here is a guide to the most enchanting places in the region. From Celestial Chennai to the kaleidoscope of Kochi, you’ll find a wealth of information and fun! But what is it that makes these destinations so special? Let’s take a look! Read on to discover the best things to do in each of these amazing cities.
1. The Celestial Chennai
Formerly known as Madras, the capital of Tamil Nadu is a cosmopolitan city that is the gateway to southern India. Today, it has plenty to offer the traveler, from a dazzling array of shopping and dining options to an excellent nightlife scene. While many travelers stay only a day or two in this bustling city, the city itself has so much to offer that you’ll probably want to spend longer. Its busy streets, crowds, and gracious hospitality make it an ideal destination for families and solo travellers.
If you’re traveling with children, be sure to pack a picnic basket! There are plenty of delicious street foods and live markets in Madurai. Make sure to try the delicious idlis at the famous Madurai Idli Shop, Amma Mess, and Konar Mess. You can also visit Kerala, which lies on the other side of New Delhi. The state is home to palm trees, high-altitude tea plantations, and beautiful waterfalls. Ayurvedic holidays are also popular in Kerala, and many wellness centers are located there.
2. The Kaleidoscope Kochi 
The Indo-Portuguese Museum is an amalgam of Portuguese and Indian cultures. Founded in 1612 by Dr Joseph Kureethra, Bishop of Kochi, the museum features the architectural masterpieces of Portugal. The interiors have a classical elegance and understated high-tech comfort. The food served at the restaurant highlights local produce and authentic flavours. Be sure to check the hours of operation before you travel. Book Maharajas Express
The Kaleidoscope Marine Drive in the city is not your ordinary promenade. While it is very similar to Mumbai’s Marine Drive, the one in Kochi is a waterside promenade surrounded by lush backwaters. A kaleidoscope of activities and attractions abound on the Marine Drive, including the Rainbow Bridge and numerous shopping arcades and malls.
The Kaleidoscope of adventures in south India is sure to take your breath away. From ancient temples to lavish palaces, from exotic cuisine to vibrant festivals, South India boasts diverse destinations to please any traveler. From pristine beaches to wild seas, South India is one of the most diverse and interesting parts of India. There is something for everyone in this region. And it is a wonderful place to spend an extended holiday.
3. The Historic Hampi
There is so much to see in The Historic Hampi in South India, that it may not even be possible to fit it into a single visit. To ensure the success of the management system, the Hampi World Heritage Area Management Authority (HWAMA) was formed. This body coordinates works from different heritage agencies, allowing local self-government to exercise its powers. The authority also approves development projects within the property, initiates the Joint Heritage Management Program, and is responsible for the protection of the monument and its surroundings.
The historic ruins of Hampi, situated in the Tungabhadra basin in modern Karnataka, were first discovered in 1800. The ruins are still believed to be over a thousand years old. The city was a rich and prosperous kingdom during the 14th century, but was eventually destroyed by Moghul attacks. Despite its lack of modern infrastructure, Hampi’s rich history has inspired the creation of many artifacts and monuments, including chariots and temples.
4. The Alluring Alleppey
If you want to experience the culture of Kerala, you should head to the beautiful town of Alleppey in South India. The town’s history goes back to the 1st century AD, when St. Thomas, one of Jesus Christ’s disciples, preached Christianity in South India. Later, the Portuguese and Dutch came to dominate the state and built the St. Andrews Basilica. During the British era, the town was ruled by Maharaja Marthanda Varma, who is known as the ‘Maker of Modern Travancore’. During this time, many revolts against the British ruled state erupted in this city. During the Indian Independence Movement, the town was a vital stepping stone for freedom.
While visiting Alleppey, be sure to visit the nearby Kuttanad. This town is known as the rice bowl of India and offers a green display of paddy fields sprinkled with coconut trees. You can also take a shikara ride and enjoy the scenic view of the town while you dine on mouthwatering seafood. This enchanting town is perfect for escaping the hectic city life.
5. The Majestic Mysore
If you are looking for the best holiday destinations in South India, you must consider visiting the state capital of Mysore. This beautiful city lies 145 kilometers from Bengaluru and is famous for its splendid cultural heritage and fascinating tourist attractions. From its splendid gardens to its magnificent palaces, Mysore has a lot to offer you. The city also has a renowned art and crafts scene and is famous for its colorful handicrafts.
The Mysore Zoo was established in 1892 as a part of the summer palace of the Maharaja Sri Chamaraja Wodeyar. Today, it is one of the most popular places to visit in Mysore and is a must-visit place for animals and children alike. There are hundreds of different species of animals here, including some that are endangered and rare. You can even adopt an animal from this zoo!
The Chamundi Hills are a 13 km drive from Mysore. There, you can see the famous Chamundeshwari temple. This temple has many ancient temples and is popular with nature lovers. You can also visit the Chamundi Hills. These sacred hills are located 13 km from Mysore and are one of the most popular tourist attractions in Mysore.
6. The Quaint Kanyakumari 
The southernmost tip of India, Kanyakumari is a joy to visit. Not only is it home to the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, but there is much more to Kanyakumari than meets the eye. It is one of the most scenic places in India and is an amalgamation of many religions and cultures. It is the southernmost town on mainland India and attracts hordes of tourists every year. It is home to beautiful temples, historic monuments, serene beaches, and a waterfall.
To experience a quaint atmosphere, visit the beach at Sothavilai. A beautiful four-kilometer stretch, Sothavilai is perfect for those seeking a quiet, quaint environment. This stretch of beach has green lawns, beautiful views, and shallow water. The white sands make it a great beach for beach bums. You can also visit Sanguthurai, a quaint village in Kanyakumari that is renowned for its pristine beaches.
7. The Magnificent Madurai
Located on the banks of the river Vaigai, the city of Madurai, South India, has a rich cultural heritage that dates back to more than 2500 BCE. Once a great cultural center and the capital city of the great Pandya kings, Madurai is still full of history. The city was designed to resemble a lotus, and is therefore known as the lotus city.
The city is one of the oldest living cities in India, and its temples are some of the finest examples of architecture in the world. The city’s Meenakshi-Sundareswarar Temple is the heart of its city, drawing thousands of devotees every year. Madurai once traded with ancient Rome and has retained its unique character in arts, crafts, and shopping. Here, you can purchase hand-loom cotton sarees that are made in co-operatives.
In the north-east of Madurai is the Alagar Koli temple, which is the resting place of Lord Vishnu. It is sacred to followers of Lord Vishnu in the area. The Gandhi Museum features a copy of Gandhi’s blood-stained dhoti, as well as extensive texts about his freedom struggle. At the Pazhamudhir Solai temple, you can see sculptures of Lord Subramaniya, which are located in the front of the temple.
8. The lively Lakshadweep
If you’re looking for a fun and adventurous holiday in South India, the vibrant Lakshadweep is the place for you. The islands are characterized by tropical climates with temperatures ranging from 20 degrees to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Local villagers speak Malayalam as the official language. Before the British came to control the islands, they used the Ponnani script, also known as Arabi Malayalam script. Today, the language serves as a link language for the people of the islands. For example, the Mahl dominated Minicoy Island speaks Malayalam as the main language. Malayalam also has its own dances such as Kolkali, Parichakli, and Lava Dance.
The main island is Kavaratti, which has a population of about 12,000-15,000 people. It has a busy pier and is the administrative capital of the Lakshadweep islands. It is a popular stop on cruise packages from India and North. Many tourists stay at Kavaratti’s resort, located next to the pier. If you’re looking for a place to stay while on a cruise package, the nearby island resort caters to North Indian tourists as well. While visiting Kavaratti, don’t forget to try the local cuisine: the coconut-like fish, coconut rice, and curry beans are all staples of the local cuisine. While enjoying a leisurely day at the beach, be sure to visit the Minicoy Lighthouse. This 50-meter-high lighthouse is a great way to take
9. Murudeshwar in Karnataka
A town in Karnataka, India, Murdeshwar lies on the coast of the Arabian Sea and is famous for the world’s second tallest Shiva statue. Murudeshwara Temple is a must-see attraction when visiting this town. It is located 13 kilometers from the taluk headquarters in Bhatkal. To learn more about Murudeshwar, read on. This article will help you plan a memorable vacation to this seaside town.
You must make time for a visit to the Sun Chariot, a popular tourist attraction located near the Murudeshwar temple. The 123-foot-tall statue is an imposing sight, and is considered one of the city’s major attractions. The area surrounding the temple is popular for picnics, as well. At the top of the rajagopuram, you can enjoy sweeping vistas of the coast.
Another attraction in Murudeshwar is the shiva-lingam. The statue is made of white marble and is the most revered in India. This sacred relic was once worshipped by Hindus. The shiva-lingam is located in the sanctum and devotees are free to perform the necessary rituals from the threshold. A Soul Window is a great travel blog, and I recommend reading it if you plan to visit Murudeshwar.
The name Murudeshwar originated in the Ramayana era. The Hindu gods had attained immortality through Lord Shiva, but Ravana tried to achieve the same from him. The Atma Lingam, a symbol of immortality, was gifted to him by Lord Shiva knowing that he would cause havoc in the world. The Atma Lingam would ultimately return to the Lord Shiva.
10. The Peaceful Pondicherry, Union Territory 
The city of Pondicherry, India is the second largest union territory in the country and is located on the south-eastern coast. It was part of the French Empire during the Seven Years’ War, but it was soon taken over by the British. The British took over again in 1793 during the Siege of Pondicherry, but Pondicherry was returned to the French in 1814.
The economy of Pondicherry is characterized by “openness” – nearly all factors of production flow through the state. Land and water management in neighboring Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh affects the availability of surface water in Pondicherry, and financial flows between the two states are multifaceted and multi-faceted. In addition, the Union Territory has several enclaves within Tamil Nadu.
One of the highlights of a visit to Pondicherry is a visit to the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, where a spiritual teacher named Sri Aurobindo lived and worked. The city’s French connection is strong, with many villages resembling those in France. Auroville, also known as ‘the city of dawn’, is a self-sustaining community that has attracted residents from all over the world. Other highlights include the 1791 Immaculate Conception Cathedral, which was designed by Sainte-Marie d’Auxerre, and other buildings and monuments of the city.
Despite its French heritage, Pondicherry is also a proudly independent nation. Its population of approximately 500,000 people is overwhelmingly Indian. French influence can be found in the language, culture, and food. However, there are about 5000 French nationals in Pondicherry and the surrounding area. The country’s governing bodies have decided to name it Puducherry, which means “the city of the French.”
11. Badami
While there are several reasons to visit Badami, the cave temples may be the most popular. This is because visitors can enter the caves at dawn. As the caves are not live temples, they are crowded. The entrance fee is 100 rupees, which is about $1 USD. You should have cash on hand to pay for camera gear, including lenses, and cell phones. There are several options for parking in the vicinity, but parking will be an additional expense.
Visitors can explore the city by train or bus. There are a few bus services that serve the city. There is also a railway station in Badami. Several trains connect Badami to Bangalore, Mumbai, and Hyderabad. Hubli and Belgaum are also nearby. The city is also well-connected by road, with national highway 218 passing through the area. Taxis and auto rickshaws are readily available in the city. Bicycles are available for tourists to hire, as well.
If you are interested in Hinduism or the history of ancient India, Badami is worth a visit. The town is known for its sandstone cave temples, which date back to the 6th century. Intricate carvings are found on the walls of these ancient temples, which were constructed thousands of years before steel chisels and proper eyewear were invented. The temples are beautiful, but they do require proper care.
12. Thrissur
Thrissur, a south Indian city, is famous for its colourful festivals and sacred sites. Visit Vadakkumnathan Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Indo-Gothic Our Lady of Dolours Basilica is another notable attraction. You can also see elephants at the Thiruvambady Temple. Other important places of interest in Thrissur include the Sakthan Thampuran Palace, an archeology museum with ancient coins and bronze statues.
Thrissur is the cultural heart of Kerala. Many festivals and rituals take place here, making it the “cultural capital” of the state. The Vadakkunnathan Temple plays host to the annual Thrissur Pooram festival, one of the city’s main highlights. While in the city, be sure to check out the historical monuments and temples, as well as visit the local beaches. If you’re a foodie, make sure to try the local delicacies.
Thrissur is 55 km from Cochin International Airport, where direct flights are available to cities in India and throughout the world. Buses also connect the city to the rest of the country. A trip by bus is an excellent option for exploring Thrissur and its surrounding regions. The road to Thrissur passes through beautiful green forests. There are also buses that run regularly between the city and the sea. This is one of the best ways to get around the town.
The Thrissur District has played an important role in the political history of south India. Early political history of the district is related to the Cheras of the Sangam era. Cheras ruled vast parts of Kerala, and the city was the capital of the early Chera Empire. The location was vital to trade between Kerala and the outside world. The Cheras also had many colonies in the region, and the city’s port and tavern served as the main trading center.
13. Vattakanal
When is the best time to visit Vattakanal? The best time to visit Vattakanal is during the fall and winter seasons. Temperatures in these two seasons are generally comfortable, ranging from eight degrees Celsius to twenty degrees. You can expect rain and snow at certain times, but you won’t have to worry about uncomfortable heat and humidity. During the winter, the temperatures can dip to the freezing point. To enjoy the beautiful scenery and lush forests, visit Vattakanal during the autumn and winter months.
When planning your vacation in Vattakanal, you’ll find the perfect destination. This small town sits in the Palani Hills and offers many other attractions. The surrounding forests are beautiful and serene, and you’ll be surrounded by lush plant life and bison. You’ll be able to find a peaceful retreat from the world, and you’ll be amazed at the number of animals you’ll spot. And if you love animals, don’t miss the wildlife!
Food in Vattakanal is not difficult to find. There are few restaurants here, but most of them are run by local villagers. You can sample dishes from the local cuisine including ‘Dosas’ and ‘Dal Chaval’, to delicious ‘Papads’. Most cafes serve vegetarian food, but you’ll find some that serve non-vegetarian fare. A coffee stand in the main street serves delicious ‘R.C. Aunties’ Dosas. You can even get a taste of middle-eastern cuisine and drink some South Indian filter coffee.