Tourist Places In South India

Tourist Places In South India

Surrounded by the ocean and populated by the diversity of the Ghats, it is hard to shortlist places to visit in South India. Every turn reveals something new in this natural wonderland. Marvel at the (Read More) backwaters of Alleppey, party your heart out in North Goa, explore the tea plantations of Munnar, indulge in the scenic beauty of Coorg, or be mystified by the clouds that roll across Kodaikanal. One can spend hours just describing the tourist places of South India, and weeks trying to visit all of them.

Here is the list of 67 Tourist Places In South India

1. Munnar, Kerala - Tea Gardens, Lakes and Pretty little hill-station

Munnar, Kerala - Tea Gardens, Lakes and Pretty little hill-station
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Known For : Echo Point, Munnar Atukkad Waterfalls Munnar Tea Plantations

The idyllic hill station Munnar - famous for its tea estates, exotic lush greenery and craggy peaks, is located in the Western Ghats, in the state of Kerala. It serves as the commercial centre for some of the world’s largest tea estates. In addition, Munnar has many protected areas which are home to endemic and highly endangered species like the Nilgiri Thar and the Neelakurinji.

Best Time: September to May

51 Munnar Attractions

2. Ooty, Tamil Nadu - Queen of the Nilgiris

Ooty, Tamil Nadu - Queen of the Nilgiris
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Known For : Nilgiri Mountain Railway Ooty Lake Emerald Lake, Ooty

The Blue Mountains have always been shrouded in mysticism, and Ooty is no exception to that. For every mountain lover, the very idea of travelling to the city known as the Queen of the Hills holds an allure like no other. Once regarded as the summer headquarters of the East India Company (and for a very good reason), Ooty, also known as Udagamandalam, is a hill station in Tamil Nadu which serves as a very popular tourist destination for anyone looking for a picturesque place to relax and unwind. Ooty is nestled amidst the Nilgiri hills at an altitude of 2,240 meters above sea level and enjoys a favourable climate all year round.

Best Time: Throughout the year

43 Ooty Attractions

3. Alleppey, Kerala - Backwaters, Beaches and Lagoons - Venice of the East

Alleppey, Kerala - Backwaters, Beaches and Lagoons - Venice of the East
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Known For : Houseboats in Alleppey Alleppey Backwaters Kuttanad

Extremely famous for its beautiful backwaters, the city of Alleppey in Kerala is also known for its beaches, temples and traditional boat races. This popular tourist destination in South India also has some very well reputed Ayurvedic spas and wellness centres.

Best Time: June to March

37 Alleppey Attractions

4. Coorg, Karnataka - The Scotland of India

Coorg, Karnataka - The Scotland of India
4.2 /5 View 31+ photos

Known For : Abbey Falls Raja's Seat Mandalpatti

Located amidst imposing mountains in Karnataka with a perpetually misty landscape, Coorg is the place to be for all nature lovers.  This popular coffee producing hill station is not only popular for its beautiful green hills and the streams cutting right through them. It also stands as a popular destination because of its culture and people. The Kodavas, a local clan specialising in martial arts, are especially notable for their keen hospitality.

Best Time: October to March

37 Coorg Attractions

5. Pondicherry - The French Riviera of the East

Pondicherry - The French Riviera of the East
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Known For : Paradise Beach, Pondicherry Aurobindo Ashram Auroville

Pondicherry, also known as Puducherry and commonly referred as just Pondy, is one of the seven Union Territories of India. is often famously referred to as the French Riviera of the East, and it is indeed one of the most charming and mesmerising places to visit in South India. Located in the state of Tamil Nadu, Pondicherry is a little town tucked away on the south-east coastline of India, and it is a destination that promises travellers sanctity and serenity, in the real sense of the terms.

Best Time: October to March

49 Pondicherry Attractions

6. Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu - The land of three seas

Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu - The land of three seas
4.1 /5 View 41+ photos

Known For : Kanyakumari Beach Vivekananda Rock Memorial Thanumalayan Temple - Sthanumalayan Kovil

Located at the southernmost tip of the Indian peninsula, Kanyakumari is a coastal town in the state of Tamil Nadu. Earlier known as Cape Comorin, Kanyakumari is surrounded by mountains and bordered by vibrant sea shores, lined with paddy fields and coconut trees, and also boasts of aesthetic elevated patches of hills with undulating valleys and plains in between the sea and the mountainous terrain. Ever since ancient times, Kanyakumari has been one of the major centres of religion, art and culture. Famous for being the only place in India where you can observe the sunrise and sunset at the same beach, Kanyakumari is a very popular tourist destination, not just because of this unique geographical phenomenon, but also because of its pristine beaches as well as its temples and churches which attract a huge number of tourists to this city all year round.

Best Time: October to February

28 Kanyakumari Attractions

7. Hampi, Karnataka - The abode of bygone ruins, rusty colors and fascinating landscape

Hampi, Karnataka - The abode of bygone ruins, rusty colors and fascinating landscape
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Known For : Virupaksha Temple, Hampi Vithala Temple Lotus Palace

Hampi, the city of ruins, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Situated in the shadowed depth of hills and valleys in the state of Karnataka, this place is a historical delight for travellers. Surrounded by 500 ancient monuments, beautiful temples, bustling street markets, bastions, treasury building and captivating remains of Vijayanagar Empire, Hampi is a backpacker's delight. Hampi is an open museum with 100+ locations to explore and a favourite way to see the city from the perspective of its history.

Best Time: October to March

31 Hampi Attractions

8. Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh - Andhra's temple town

Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh - Andhra's temple town
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Known For : Sri Venkateswara Temple Akasaganga Teertham Silathoranam

The very name Tirupati is enough to evoke strong spiritual feelings, and while the name ‘God’s Abode’ indeed does justice to the place, Tirupati has quite a few other tourist attractions as well that make it a city worth visiting. Situated in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, Tirupati is one of the most popular pilgrimage centres in the country. Home to many heritage sites, and a plethora of ancient temples and monuments, Tirupati is one of the oldest cities of India, and finds mention in plenty of ancient texts.

Best Time: September to March

40 Tirupati Attractions

9. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu - The Princess of Hill Stations

Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu - The Princess of Hill Stations
4.4 /5 View 25+ photos

Known For : Green Valley View (Suicide Point) Kodaikanal Lake Bear Shola Falls

Located in the state of Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal is one of the most famous honeymoon destinations in India. When you think of Kodaikanal, you think of a wonderful climate, cliffs covered in mist, cloud-capped mountains and beautiful lakes and valleys, and once you visit this hill station, you will find that every bit of what you have imagined it to be is true. Nestled amidst the rolling slopes of the Palani Hills in Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal stands at an altitude of 7200 feet above sea level and has a cool, pleasant climate all year round. Kodaikanal means the gift of the forests.

Best Time: September to May

35 Kodaikanal Attractions

10. Andaman & Nicobar - Blue seas, virgin islands and colonial past

Andaman & Nicobar - Blue seas, virgin islands and colonial past
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Known For : Cellular Jail Scuba Diving In Andaman Radhanagar Beach

Lagoons of crystal clear water and scenic beaches topped with a little bit of history make Andaman and Nicobar one of the most perfect choices for an enjoyable, laid-back holiday where you can go on long treks, laze around in the backwaters of the island, or if you’re feeling a little more adventurous, even go for a bit of deep sea diving. From the pristine, untouched beaches of Neil and Havelock Islands to the bustling town of Port Blair, the Andamans have something to offer to every tourist.

Best Time: October to Jun

81 Andaman Attractions

11. Madurai, Tamil Nadu - The Lotus City

Madurai, Tamil Nadu - The Lotus City
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Known For : Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal Vaigai Dam

Madurai is one of the oldest cities of India located in Tamil Nadu. It was ruled by Pandya kings for the longest time in its history and is constructed in the form of a lotus.

Best Time: October to March

20 Madurai Attractions

12. Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu - The Bridge on the Indian Ocean

Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu - The Bridge on the Indian Ocean
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Known For : Rameshwaram Temple Dhanushkodi Temple and Beach Jatayu Tirtham

Rameshwaram is one of the holiest places in India and is located on a beautiful island. It is separated by a small Pamban channel from Sri Lanka. According to the Hindu mythology, this is the place where Lord Rama created a bridge across the sea to Sri Lanka.

Best Time: Throughout the year

22 Rameswaram Attractions

13. Kochi, Kerala - Queen of Arabian Sea

Kochi, Kerala - Queen of Arabian Sea
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Known For : Fort Kochi Mattancherry Palace Santa Cruz Basilica

Situated on the south-west coast of India, Kochi or Cochin is a bustling commercial port city with a trading history that dates back to at least 600 years. Called as the Queen of the Arabian Sea, the city is the financial, commercial and industrial capital of Kerala.

Best Time: July to April

57 Kochi Attractions

14. Goa - Beaches, Sunsets and Crazy Nights

Goa - Beaches, Sunsets and Crazy Nights
4.5 /5 View 114+ photos

Known For : Calangute Beach Fort Aguada Cruise in Goa

When you think of Goa, you think of sandy beaches, amazing parties, beautiful little villages, delicious food, and a magical holiday experience. Yes, Goa is rightfully known as the most popular tourist destination on the West Coast of India, and not just because of its scenic beaches, but also because of its tropical climate and its rich Portuguese heritage, which you can still find lingering on in some parts of the town. Nestled in the Konkan Coast Belt, Goa has a coastline stretching for over a 100 kilometres, and attracts millions of visitors both from within and outside the country all year round.

Best Time: October to March

197 Goa Attractions

15. Kovalam, Kerala - Beaches, Ayurveda and Shopping

Kovalam, Kerala - Beaches, Ayurveda and Shopping
4.2 /5 View 26+ photos

Known For : Kovalam Beach Vizhinjam Lighthouse Aazhimala Shiva Temple

An idyllic village along the coastlines of the Arabian Sea, Kovalam is most famous for its three pristine beaches with shallow waters and low tidal waves where one can go surfing, wooden and motorboat riding.The beach town of Kovalam has three famous beaches - Lighthouse beach, Samudra beach and Hawah beach, which together form its majestic rocky crescent. Kovalam essentially means a ‘grove of coconut trees’ and the little town is filled with these palms.

Best Time: September to March

33 Kovalam Attractions

16. Wayanad, Kerala - Nature's Abode

Wayanad, Kerala - Nature's Abode
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Known For : Banasura Sagar Dam Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary Chembra Peak

Replete with enchanting waterfalls, historical caves, comfortable resorts and home stays, this popular town is famous for its spice plantations and wildlife.

Best Time: Throughout the year

35 Wayanad Attractions

17. Thanjevur, Tamil Nadu

Thanjevur, Tamil Nadu
4.4 /5 View 17+ photos

Known For : Brihadeeswara Temple Saraswathi Mahal Library Shiva Ganga Garden

Also known as Tanjore or the city of temples, Thanjavur has a lot of cultural value and is known for its famous Tanjore paintings, antiques and handicrafts, textiles and saris , its Carnatic music and musical instruments and of course the temples.

Best Time: October to March

15 Thanjevur Attractions

18. Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu

Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu
4.3 /5 View 20+ photos

Known For : Shore Temple Mahabalipuram Beach Five Rathas

Famous for its intricately carved temples and rock-cut caves, Mamallapuram or Mahabalipuram as it is famously known, is a historically important and well-loved tourist location situated on the Coromandel Coast along the Bay of Bengal, in the state of Tamil Nadu.

Best Time: November to February

23 Mahabalipuram Attractions

19. Thekkady, Kerala - Periyar-India's Largest Tiger Reserve

Thekkady, Kerala - Periyar-India's Largest Tiger Reserve
4.0 /5 View 20+ photos

Known For : Periyar National Park Periyar Tiger Trail Bamboo Rafting in Thekkady

Home to the country's largest Tiger Reserve- Periyar, Thekkady is a great way to enjoy a jungle vacation.

Best Time: Throughout the year

24 Thekkady Attractions

20. Gokarna, Karnataka - Land of palm trees, blue seas and golden sands

Gokarna, Karnataka - Land of palm trees, blue seas and golden sands
4.4 /5 View 21+ photos

Known For : Om Beach Mahabaleshwara Temple Paradise Beach, Gokarna

With its pristine beaches and breathtaking landscapes, Gokarna is a Hindu pilgrimage town in Karnataka and a newly found hub for beach lovers and hippies.

Best Time: Throughout the year

20 Gokarna Attractions

21. Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh - The City of Nizams

Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh - The City of Nizams
4.1 /5 View 32+ photos

Known For : Ramoji Film City Hussain Sagar Lake Golconda Fort

A veritable melting pot of the old and the new, Hyderabad, also known as the City of the Nawabs, is a city that exudes an old-world charm of its own while still coexisting with the rapidly growing onslaught of commercialization in perfect harmony. Steeped in history, Hyderabad is home to old mosques and bazaars lined parallelly alongside swanky new office buildings and malls, and it is these very contrasts – these glimpses into the city’s rich past with inherent promises of an even better future – this is what exactly makes Hyderabad a city worth visiting. Maybe even more than once.

Best Time: September to March

102 Hyderabad Attractions

22. Varkala, Kerala - The hidden treasure of Kerala

Varkala, Kerala - The hidden treasure of Kerala
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Known For : Varkala Cliff Water Sports in Varkala Varkala Beach

Popular for its natural fisheries and springs, and the samadhi of Kerala's saint Sree Narayana Guru, Varkala is a coastal town with pristine beaches, hills, lakes, forts and lighthouses - all of this together makes this town a little paradise located on the uniquely formed Cenozoic sedimentary cliffs in Kerala.

Best Time: October to February

26 Varkala Attractions

23. Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu - Golden City of a Thousand Temples

Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu - Golden City of a Thousand Temples
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Known For : Kamakshi Amman Temple Varadharaja Perumal Temple Devarajaswami Temple

Widely known for its beautiful ‘'Kanchipuram sarees' and also referred to as the 'golden city of a thousand temples', Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu is a popular tourist attraction.

Best Time: October to May

16 Kanchipuram Attractions

24. Trivandrum, Kerala - Where nature and spirituality join hands

Trivandrum, Kerala - Where nature and spirituality join hands
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Known For : Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary Padmanabhaswamy Temple Poovar Island

Offering an appealing blend of a strongly rooted heritage and a nostalgic colonial legacy, the city of Trivandrum has an exceptional vibe to it. Despite being the capital of Kerala, the city has, quite astonishingly, managed to keep itself far removed from the ruthless aura that generally surrounds a capital city. Built upon seven hills, this city has long since left the days when it was only used by seafaring explorers behind - today, Trivandrum is a swanky metropolis with a quaint urban charm and plenty of scenic places to visit. Proudly retaining its age-old cultural charm, Trivandrum offers a huge variety of sights including incredible museums, beautifully designed palaces, sacred temples and mesmerizing beaches, making the city one of the best tourist spots in South India.

Best Time: October to February

28 Trivandrum Attractions

25. Jog Falls, Karnataka - Second Highest Waterfall in India

Jog Falls, Karnataka - Second Highest Waterfall in India
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The second-highest plunge waterfall in India, Jog Falls is a major tourist attraction in Karnataka and is the highest waterfall in the state. Second, to the Nohkalikai Falls of Meghalaya, Jog falls drops about a huge 253 m (850 ft. ) in a single fall. However, due to the construction of Linganamakki Dam which is a hydroelectricity plant closeby, the flow in the falls is hugely restricted before monsoons. So, it is best to go during the Monsoon season to see the falls in its full form.

Best Time: July to December

9 Jog Falls Attractions

26. Chennai, Tamil Nadu - A magnificent past and an early metropolitan dream

Chennai, Tamil Nadu - A magnificent past and an early metropolitan dream
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Known For : Marina Beach Government Museum, Chennai MGR Film City

Formerly known as Madras, Chennai is the fourth largest city in the country, and it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in South India. A city that has a rich cultural history, Chennai perfectly balances its heritage with its thriving modern lifestyle. A metropolis with a heart, Chennai’s skyline is famous for its towering skyscrapers which form a scenic vista along the coast, but the heart of Chennai still remains in the multitude of old temples and churches dotting various parts of the city. Steeped in rich South-Indian culture, Chennai is a city that has a plethora of dimensions that one can explore, and regardless of where you go, the city has an old-world charm to it that refuses to be overshadowed.

Best Time: October to March

91 Chennai Attractions

27. Kumarakom, Kerala - Backwaters bay, small islands - Little Venice

Kumarakom, Kerala - Backwaters bay, small islands - Little Venice
4.0 /5 View 18+ photos

Known For : Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary Kumarakom Backwaters Thanneermukkom Bund

Situated on the banks of Vembanad Lake, Kerala's largest lake, Kumarakom is a cluster of many small man-made islands reclaimed from the lake.

Best Time: October - February

18 Kumarakom Attractions

28. Bangalore, Karnataka - Garden city of India

Bangalore, Karnataka - Garden city of India
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Known For : Lalbagh Church Street

Having evolved gradually from being the Garden City to the Silicon Valley of India, Bengaluru is the third largest and one of the most livable cities in India.

Best Time: Throughout the year

104 Bangalore Attractions

29. Araku valley, Andhra Pradesh

Araku valley, Andhra Pradesh

A hill station located close to Vizag is the Araku Valley. Naturally been bestowed upon with beautiful streams, enchanting waterfalls and a lovely weather, Araku valley is placed at a height of 3100 feet in the effluent hills of Anatagiri.

30. Kabini, Karnataka - Home to the Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary

Kabini, Karnataka - Home to the Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary
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Known For : Jungle Safari, Kabini Boating in Kabini

Once a private hunting area for the British, this famous wildlife destination has a rich variety of flora and fauna making it a gorgeous tourist spot.

Best Time: Throughout the year

5 Kabini Attractions

31. Bandipur National Park, Karnataka - Tiger reserves in the Nilgiris

Bandipur National Park, Karnataka - Tiger reserves in the Nilgiris
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Known For : Gopalaswamy Hills Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve

Situated in the state of Karnataka, Bandipur National Park was once the hunting grounds of the Maharaja of Mysore. It was later established as a reserve in 1974, and these deciduous forests rich in wildlife and flora have become a popular tourist attraction since then. Due to a lot of wildlife casualties due to tourist traffic, a ban on traffic between 9 PM to 6 AM has been established to ensure the safety of the animal population.

Best Time: October to May

2 Bandipur Attractions

32. Chikmagalur, Karnataka - The coffee land of Karnataka

Chikmagalur, Karnataka - The coffee land of Karnataka
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Known For : Baba Budangiri Mullayanagiri Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

If you love the aroma of freshly brewed coffee in the mornings, you are going to love Chikmagalur, which has a perpetual fragrance of coffee lingering in the air. Very famously known as the ‘Coffee Land of Karnataka’, Chikmagalur is situated in the foothills of the Mullayangiri Range in Karnataka and stands at an altitude of 3400 feet. Famous for its tall mountains, lush green forests and its tranquil environment (apart from its coffee production), Chikmagalur is a very popular tourist destination and is a quaint getaway from the busy life of the city.

Best Time: Throughout the year

22 Chikmagalur Attractions

33. Papi Kondalu, Andhra Pradesh

Papi Kondalu, Andhra Pradesh
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Known For : Papi Kondalu Hills Gandi Pochamma Temple Perantapalli Village

Papikondalu mountain range runs along the River Godavari (Western Godavari) and is located in Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh. Papikondalu is a sheer fest to the eyes in terms of its scenic beauty. As the hills become closer and closer to the visitor, the width of the mighty Godavari becomes narrower. In accordance with this view resembling the middle partition of a woman's hair, it was initially named as 'Papidi' Kondalu- Paidi in Telugu means the middle partition of a woman’s hair. Later, it came to be known as Papikondalu in the local language. The river narrowing, its twists and turns along with the Papi Hills form a breathtaking visual experience.

Best Time: October to March

5 Papi Kondalu Attractions

34. Mysore, Karnataka - A glimpse of Southern India

Mysore, Karnataka - A glimpse of Southern India
4.2 /5 View 35+ photos

Known For : Mysore Palace Brindavan Gardens Mysore Zoo

Famously known as The City of Palaces, it wouldn’t be wrong to say that Mysore is one of the most flamboyant places in the country. It is replete with the history of its dazzling royal heritage, intricate architecture, its famed silk sarees, yoga, and sandalwood, to name just a few. Located in the foothills of the Chamundi Hills, Mysore is the third most populated city in the state of Karnataka, and its rich cultural heritage draws millions of tourists all year round.

Best Time: Throughout the year

36 Mysore Attractions

35. Thrissur, Kerala - A Keralan Festival

Thrissur, Kerala - A Keralan Festival
4.3 /5 View 44+ photos

Known For : Athirapally Falls Charpa Falls Vadakummnathan temple

Officially known as the cultural capital of Kerala, Thrissur is famous for fostering classical Keralan performing arts, religious sites and the renowned Onam festival, Thrissur Pooram festival and Vadakkumnathan Temple.

Best Time: Throughout the year

41 Thrissur Attractions

36. Yercaud, Tamil Nadu - The Land of Seven Forests.

Yercaud, Tamil Nadu - The Land of Seven Forests.
3.8 /5 View 28+ photos

Known For : Emerald Lake, Yercaud Pagoda Point Botanical Garden, Yercaud

Nestled in the Eastern Ghats, Yercaud is a hill station called poor man's Ooty with abundant forests, vast coffee plantations and some unique species of flora and fauna resulting in gorgeous views.

Best Time: October to June

20 Yercaud Attractions

37. Madikeri, Karnataka - A picturesque getaway down south

Madikeri, Karnataka - A picturesque getaway down south
4.4 /5 View 18+ photos

Known For : Abbey Falls Talacauvery Namdroling Monastery

Generally covered as a part of trips to Coorg, Madikeri is a quaint hill town in Karnataka with vast coffee plantations, lush forests and misty hills, all culminating into a breathtaking view.

Best Time: February to September

18 Madikeri Attractions

38. Bijapur, Karnataka - The City with Gol Gumbaj

Bijapur, Karnataka - The City with Gol Gumbaj
4.5 /5 View 23+ photos

Known For : Gol Gumbaz Ibrahim Rauza Jamia Masjid

Famous for the Gol Gumbaj and other monuments of historical heritage, Bijapur is a tourist destination that takes one back to the days gone by from the royal era.

Best Time: October to March

14 Bijapur Attractions

39. Belum Caves, Andhra Pradesh

Belum Caves, Andhra Pradesh
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At a distance of about 110 km from Kurnool are the longest caves of the India. With stalactite & stalagmite formations, this area offers sights and landscapes you don't get to witness everyday.

40. Coonoor, Tamil Nadu

Coonoor, Tamil Nadu
4.3 /5 View 5+ photos

Known For : Sim's Park Dolphin's Nose Ketti Valley

One of the most beautiful and serene hill stations you will come across in the country, Coonoor is the second largest hill station in the wonderful Nilgiri Hills of the Western Ghats. It is situated at an altitude of 1930 meters and just 19 km from Ooty.

Best Time: October to March

17 Coonoor Attractions

41. Lakshadweep - Blue Sea and Unspoiled Beaches

Lakshadweep - Blue Sea and Unspoiled Beaches
3.8 /5 View 24+ photos

Known For : Minicoy Island Agatti Islands Bangaram Island

Literally meaning a 'hundred thousand islands', Lakshadweep has few of the most beautiful and exotic islands and beaches of India.

Best Time: September to May

17 Lakshadweep Attractions

42. Dandeli, Karnataka - Goa's adventurous extension

Dandeli, Karnataka - Goa's adventurous extension
4.2 /5 View 27+ photos

Known For : River Rafting in Dandeli Kali Tiger Reserve Magod Falls

Bestowed with the lush green forests and laying on the banks of the Kali river, Dandeli is truly a fascinating mix of wildlife, scenic beauty and adventure sports.

Best Time: October to May

25 Dandeli Attractions

43. Shivanasamundram, Karnataka

Shivanasamundram, Karnataka
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Situated on the banks of river Kaveri, Shivanasamudra is essentially a hydropower project location but is more commonly known for its waterfalls.

Best Time: August to February

3 Shivanasamudra Attractions

44. Bekal, Kerala - Beaches, Backwaters and forts

Bekal, Kerala - Beaches, Backwaters and forts
4.3 /5 View 8+ photos

Known For : Bekal Fort Bekal Beach Kappil Beach

Located on the wide expanse of the Malabar coastline, Bekal is famous for its forts, backwaters, and beaches.

Best Time: October to March

12 Bekal Attractions

45. Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh - A gem of South India

Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh - A gem of South India
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Known For : Borra Caves Submarine Museum Kailasagiri

Visakhapatnam, also commonly known as Vizag, is one of the oldest port cities in the country. Situated in the heart of Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam is known for its picturesque beaches and serene landscape, as well as a rich cultural past, which makes it an ideal spot for a fantastic coastal vacation. The port of Visakhapatnam is renowned for being home to the oldest shipyard in all of India, and with a plethora of manmade wonders and natural spectacles, Visakhapatnam is a must-visit tourist destination in South India.

Best Time: September to March

27 Visakhapatnam Attractions

46. Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh - The Abode of Jyotirlinga of Andhra Pradesh

Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh - The Abode of Jyotirlinga of Andhra Pradesh
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Known For : Pathala Ganga Srisailam Tiger Reserve Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple

Srisailam is a celebrated hill town set on a lofty natural setting on the banks of the River Krishna, in Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh. Srisailam is identified with its many ancient temples including a Jyotirlinga, a wildlife sanctuary and a dam.

Best Time: October to February

16 Srisailam Attractions

47. Nagarhole, Karnataka - Of national parks and bird sanctuaries

Nagarhole, Karnataka - Of national parks and bird sanctuaries
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Nagarhole is southern storehouse of rich flora and fauna and is host to Nagarhole national park, celebrated as one of the best wildlife parks as well as the Bandipur bird sanctuary.

Best Time: October to May

7 Nagarhole Attractions

48. Hogenakkal, Tamil Nadu - The one that will take your breath away

Hogenakkal, Tamil Nadu - The one that will take your breath away
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Known For : Hogenakkal Falls Mettur Dam Melagiri Hills

Hogenakkal is where the Kaveri river splits into multiple streams of waterfalls, making it arguably the most heavenly place in the state. The neighboring regions and small villages that surround this place are breathtaking, making your holiday a perfect amalgamation of relaxation and discovery.

Best Time: October to March

9 Hogenakkal Attractions

49. Kudremukh, Karnataka - Close to the Nature's Face

Kudremukh, Karnataka - Close to the Nature's Face
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Known For : Kudremukh Trek Kudremukh National Park Hanuman Gundi Falls

With the promise of a picturesque view of a mountain in the shape of a horse face, Kudremukh is famous for its biodiversity and scenic beauty.

Best Time: October to May

10 Kudremukh Attractions

50. Warangal, Andhra Pradesh

Warangal, Andhra Pradesh
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Known For : Pakhal Lake Thousand Pillar Temple Ramappa Temple

Warangal takes you back to the era of kings and queens with its beautiful historical sites and an impressive natural beauty with Parkhal Lake being worth checking out.

Best Time: September to Apr

23 Warangal Attractions

51. Lepakshi, Andhra Pradesh

Lepakshi, Andhra Pradesh
4.2 /5 View 9+ photos

Known For : Veerabhadra Temple Lepakshi Temple Nandi Bull and Paintings

Lepakshi is a small quaint village with a trail of several great kingdoms that once ruled the area. Lepakshi was founded in 1535 AD by Maharaja Aliya Rama Raya of the Vijayanagara empire. Located in Anantapur District of Andhra Pradesh and 120 km from Bangalore,  this place is a trove of several fascinating archaeological sites, beautiful ancient temples and rich culture.

Best Time: September to February

4 Lepakshi Attractions

52. Shimoga (Shivamogga), Karnataka

Shimoga (Shivamogga), Karnataka
4.4 /5 View 15+ photos

Known For : Kodachadri Jog Falls Agumbe

With nature in its full bloom, the town of Shimoga has been a home to several great dynasties and kingdoms. Steeped in rich heritage and culture, this main city of Shimoga District derives its name from the words 'Shiv-Mukha' implying 'Face of Lord Shiva'.

Best Time: July to December

37 Shimoga Attractions

53. Mantralayam, Andhra Pradesh

Mantralayam, Andhra Pradesh
4.8 /5 View 7+ photos

Known For : Raghavendra Swami Temple Panchamukhi Anjaneya Temple

Mantralayam is a holy town situated 74 km from Kurnool district in Andhra Pradesh and 250 km from its state capital, Hyderabad. It is located near the border of Karnataka and on the banks of the river Tungabhadra. Mantralayam is known for Sri Guru Raghavendra Swami, a saint who entered into a samadhi alive in front of his disciples in 17th Century. He was a Madhwa saint who is considered to be a reincarnation of Prahlada (A daitya king who was saved by Lord Vishnu's Narasimha avatar).

Best Time: October to March

2 Mantralayam Attractions

54. Borra caves, Andhra Pradesh

Borra caves, Andhra Pradesh
4.2 /5 View 5+ photos

With stalactite and stalagmite formations and natural enigma overflowing, Borra Caves are located at 1400 meter above sea level in the Anantagiri area of Visakhapatnam.

55. Anthargange, Karnataka

Anthargange, Karnataka
3.9 /5 View 12+ photos

Anthargange is situated in the Kolar district of Karnataka in the Shathashrunga range, about 70 km from Bangalore. The mountains at an altitude of 1712 meters from sea level with rocky boulders, small caves and dense plantations are one of the best getaways for trekking, rock climbing and cave exploration enthusiasts.

Best Time: October to March

2 Anthargange Attractions

56. Palakkad, Kerala - The Gateway of Kerala

Palakkad, Kerala - The Gateway of Kerala
4.2 /5 View 15+ photos

Known For : Parambikulam Tiger Reserve Silent Valley National Park Vadakkanthara Temple

The quaint twee town of Palakkad boasts of picturesque landscape, tranquil scenery and clear backwaters. Palakkad gets its name from pala trees which once dominated the area. Located near a wide low pass in the Western Ghats mountain ranges, Palakkad is the land of Palmyras and Paddy Fields and is famous as the "gateway of Kerala".

Best Time: July to March

28 Palakkad Attractions

57. Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala

Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala
3.9 /5 View 12+ photos

Also known as Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, this area is home to a large variety of wild animals such as Indian Bison, tigers, elephants, and deer, Panthers, jungle cats, civet cats, monkey, wild dogs and bears.

Best Time: October to May

58. Sabarimala, Kerala - India's own Mecca

Sabarimala, Kerala - India's own Mecca
4.4 /5 View 21+ photos

Known For : Ayyappa Temple Makaravilakku Malikkappuram Devi Temple

More than 30 million pilgrims visit the temple in Sabarimala annually, making it the largest in India and second largest in the world, after Hajj Pilgrimage of Mecca in Saudi Arabia.

Best Time: September to Apr

6 Sabarimala Attractions

59. Murudeshwar, Karnataka - Seashore, Scuba Diving and the Shiva

Murudeshwar, Karnataka - Seashore, Scuba Diving and the Shiva
4.4 /5 View 86+ photos

Known For : Murudeshwar Temple Netrani Island Murudeshwar Beach

With its major attraction as the huge Shiva temple, Murudeshwar is a religious site which also serves as the connecting point for popular scuba diving destination Netrani.

Best Time: October to May

8 Murudeshwar Attractions

60. Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu - Manchester of the South India

Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu - Manchester of the South India
4.1 /5 View 23+ photos

Known For : Vydehi Falls Adiyogi Shiva Statue Kovai Kondattam

Often termed as ?Manchester of South India?, the city is photographically situated on the banks of River Noyyal and has an array of natural attractions.

Best Time: September to March

27 Coimbatore Attractions

61. Pattadakal, Karnataka - A fusion in architecture

Pattadakal, Karnataka - A fusion in architecture
4.4 /5 View 40+ photos

Known For : Virupaksha Temple, Pattadakal Kashiviswanatha Temple Jain Temple

Pattadakal is a tiny village, also known as Raktapura or Pattadakallu, houses a series of ten magnificent stone temples which date back to the 7th and 8th century. Out of these ten, nine are Hindu temples and one is a Jain temple. Lying close to the Badami and Aihole centres of Chalukya monuments, it is a protected site, managed by ASI (Archaeological Survey of India).
These grand, imposing structures were inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. All ten temples are majestic in their sheer size and detailed architecture, reflective of a blend of North Indian Nagara and South Indian Dravidian construction styles. Lying alongside the Malaprabha river, they have aptly earned the epithet “cradle of Indian temple architecture”. The friezes on temple walls depict stories from various Hindu scriptures and tales, such as Mahabharata, Ramayana, Bhagavata Purana, Panchatantra, and Kir't'rjun'ya.

Best Time: October to March

8 Pattadakal Attractions

62. Kollam, Kerala

Kollam, Kerala
3.8 /5 View 43+ photos

Known For : Thevally Palace Amritapuri Mahatma Gandhi Beach and Park

Steeped in rich past, entangled with unique culture and attributed with nature divine, Kolam lies on the southwest coast of India and has many more hidden treasures troves to be explored. It is one of the oldest ports in Arabian Sea bustling with the activities since the time of ancient Rome.

Best Time: September to February

41 Kollam Attractions

63. Auroville, Pondicherry - The City of Dawn

Auroville, Pondicherry - The City of Dawn
3.8 /5 View 37+ photos

Known For : Matrimandir Marc's Cafe Arka

Auroville is one of those towns which appear to come to life right out of fiction. In the union territory of Pondicherry, this township runs on the principles of peace, harmony, sustainable living and 'divine consciousness' which was the philosophy of the Mother of Sri Aurobindo Society, Mirra Alfassa.

Best Time: November to March

21 Auroville Attractions

64. Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh - The Place Of Victory

Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh - The Place Of Victory
3.9 /5 View 11+ photos

Known For : Bhavani Island Kanaka Durga Temple Undavalli Caves

With scrumptious fruits, sensational sweets and scenic marvels, Vijayawada literally translates to 'The Place of Victory'.

Best Time: September to March

25 Vijayawada Attractions

65. Udupi, Karnataka

Udupi, Karnataka
4.3 /5 View 15+ photos

Known For : St. Mary's Island Malpe Beach Krishna Temple

Most famous for its South Indian restaurants all over the country, Udupi is a coastal town with carefully carved temples, architecturally splendid buildings, laidback beaches and unexplored forests.

Best Time: Throughout the year

31 Udupi Attractions

66. Kerala

Kerala

The captivating beauty of Kerala not only offers you long beaches and palm trees but the state is also famous for its vast culture, festivals and local handicrafts. The land of simple and literate citizens, Kerala amuses you with its spectacular dance forms, music and handicraft. Named as one of the ten paradises of the world, Kerala is known for long palm tree beaches, beautiful rivers, pious inland waterbodies and a calm, green atmosphere.

67. Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu

A land of cultural and religious heritage, Tamil Nadu offers every chance to the tourist or pilgrims to be enchanted with the vast plethora of history and beauty that it has. It is a blend of modern and ancient, that makes Tamil Nadu a beautiful destination to explore our past cultural heritage with all the amenities of the present.

South India is as exotic as India can get. From endless beaches to glorious temples, the list of tourist places in South India is endless.

This post was published by Holidify.com

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