20 Best Tourist Places in South India

By - October 11, 2024 - Places to Visit, South India

Encircled by the ocean and populated by the different varieties of Ghats, it is difficult to choose places to visit in South India. Every turn gives out something new in this wonderful land of nature. Wonder at the beautiful backwaters of Alleppey, watch out for the tea plantations in Munnar, enjoy the scenic beauty of Coorg, or be puzzled by the clouds that move around Kodaikanal.

One can spend enough time explaining the tourist attractions of South India and try to explore all the places.

List of the Top 20 Places to Visit in South India:

1. Munnar, Kerala

Munnar is a unique hill station which is popular for its tea estates, craggy peaks, and lush greenery and is situated in the Western Ghats of Kerala. It is set out as the commercial center for some of the largest tea estates in the world.

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Moreover, Munnar contains a lot of prevented spaces which is an abode to endemic and endangered kinds like the Nilgiri Thar and the Neelakurinji. This place is famous for Echo Point, Munnar Pothamedu View Point, and Atukkad Waterfalls.

Things to Do: Munnar is famous for its sprawling tea gardens, misty hills, and wildlife. Key attractions include the Eravikulam National Park, where you can see the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, the scenic Mattupetty Dam, and the Tea Museum. Adventure enthusiasts can enjoy trekking to Anamudi, the highest peak in South India.

How to Reach: The nearest airport is Kochi International Airport, about 110 km away. From Kochi, Munnar can be reached by road. The nearest railway stations are at Aluva (110 km) and Ernakulam (130 km).

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2. Ooty, Tamil Nadu

The Blue Mountains have always been enveloped in spiritual belief and Ooty is not an exception to that. The idea of visiting Ooty also known as the ‘Queen of Hills’ pleasures every mountain admirer. Once this place was considered the summer headquarters of the East India Company, it is also called Udagamandalam which is a hill station in Tamil Nadu and works out as a very famous tourist spot for everyone who is searching for a capturing place to enjoy and relax.

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Here some attractive spots are Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Ooty Rose Garden, and Ooty Lake. Ooty is snuggled in the middle of Nilgiri Hills having a height of 2240 m on top of sea level and has pleasant weather throughout the year.

Things to Do: Ooty, the Queen of Hill Stations, offers visitors the Ooty Lake, Botanical Gardens, and Doddabetta Peak. The Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-experience for its breathtaking views.

How to Reach: Coimbatore, 88 km away, is the nearest airport. Ooty is well connected by road. The nearest railhead is Mettupalayam, 40 km away, which connects to Ooty via the mountain railway.

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3. Alleppey, Kerala


Alleppey is immensely popular for its beautiful backwaters, beaches, temples, and traditional boat races. This tourist spot in South India contains some well-known Ayurvedic spas and wellness centers. This place is famous for its houseboats, and backwaters in Alleppey and Alappuzha Beach.

Popular Itinerary for Kerala:

It is known for its houseboat cruises which pass by the calm backwaters where you can get the best views of green paddy fields, beautiful avifauna, choir-making activities, and watch out for the life of the inhabitants in Kerala.

Things to Do: Alleppey is the heart of Kerala’s backwaters, with houseboat cruises being the primary attraction. The Alappuzha Beach, Krishnapuram Palace, and the annual snake boat race are other highlights.

How to Reach: The nearest airport is Kochi International Airport, 75 km away. Alleppey is well connected by road and rail to major cities in Kerala.

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4. Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu

Kanyakumari, situated in the southernmost part of the Indian peninsula is enclosed by mountains and lined by energetic seashores paddy fields, and coconut trees and also boasts of aesthetic raised patches of hills with smooth valleys and plains amid the sea and the mountain terrain.

During the old times, it was considered one of the main centers of culture, art, and religion. Kanyakumari is a famous tourist spot where you can see the sunrise and sunset on the same beach. It is also known for its temples, pristine beaches, and churches which attract many tourists from all over the world.

Check out the package for Kanyakumari: 5 Nights 6 Days Tirupati Madurai Rameshwaram Kanyakumari Trip Itinerary

Things to Do: At India’s southernmost tip, Kanyakumari offers spectacular sunrise and sunset views, especially at the Vivekananda Rock Memorial and the Thiruvalluvar Statue. The Tsunami Monument and Bhagavathy Amman Temple are also significant.

How to Reach: The nearest airport is Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, about 90 km away. Kanyakumari is accessible by road and has its railway station.

Kanyakumari Articles:

5. Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh

The name Tirupati itself is enough to produce powerful spiritual feelings and the name ‘God’s Abode’ is surely justice to this destination. There are enormous tourist attractions which make this city worth exploring. Located in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, Tirupati is chosen as one of the best holy places in the country.

Tirupati is home to many heritage spots and an excess of old temples and statues can be found here. It is one of the ancient cities of the nation and is mentioned in many of the old texts. You can find famous spots like Swami Pushkarini Lake, Sri Venkateshwara Temple, and Akasaganga Teertham over here. Read More: Top 10 Tourist Destinations to See in Tirupati.

Things to Do: The sacred city is home to the famous Venkateswara Temple atop the Tirumala hills. The Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park and the natural beauty of the waterfalls like Akasaganga Teertham are also worth visiting.

How to Reach: Tirupati has its own airport. It is also well connected by road and rail, making it easily accessible from major cities.

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6. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

Kodaikanal, situated in Tamil Nadu is the most famous honeymoon spot in India. When this place comes into your mind, you think of amazing weather, cliffs filled with mist, beautiful lakes and valleys, and cloud-capped mountains. It is known for the famous Green Valley View (Suicide Point), Bear Shola Falls, and Kodai Lake.

Snuggled in the middle of the rolling slopes of the Palani Hills, Kodaikanal lies at a height of 7200 feet atop sea level and has a cold pleasing climate throughout the year. This place is the presence of the forests.

Things to Do: Known as the “Princess of Hill Stations,” Kodaikanal boasts of the Kodai Lake, Coaker’s Walk, Bryant Park, and the Pillar Rocks. Trekking and boating are popular activities.

How to Reach: The nearest airport is Madurai, 120 km away. Kodaikanal is accessible by road from nearby cities and towns.

Suggested Kodaikanal Package: 3 Nights 4 Days Kodaikanal Trip Itinerary

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7. Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Lagoons of completely transparent water and picturesque beaches topped with some history make Andaman and the Nicobar Islands one of the top-rated choices for having a fun and laid-back vacation where you can indulge in activities like trekking, lounging lazily in the backwaters of the island and if you are wishing to do some adventure, you can opt for deep-sea diving.

Andaman & Nicobar Trip Itinerary:

Scuba Diving, Havelock Island, and Snorkeling are famous in this place.  From the serene beaches of Neil and Havelock Islands to Port Blair, this place has everything to provide to every visitor.

Things to Do: The islands offer pristine beaches, coral reefs, and an introduction to the indigenous tribes. Havelock Island is famous for Radhanagar Beach, and the Cellular Jail in Port Blair is a historical landmark.

How to Reach: Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair is the main entry point. Ships also operate from Chennai, Kolkata, and Vishakhapatnam.

Read Articles on Andaman & Nicobar :

8. Kovalam, Kerala

Kovalam is an idyllic village located across the coastlines of the Arabian Sea and is most popular for its serene beaches covering shallow waters and low tidal waves which can be used for surfing, wooden, and motorboat riding.

The beach town of this place consists of three well-known beaches which are Samudra beach, Hawah Beach, and Lighthouse Beach which jointly form its awesome rocky crescent. Kovalam is known as a ‘grove of coconut trees and the little town is covered with these palms. Check out more about the 10 More Famous Places to Visit in Kovalam.

Things to Do: Kovalam is known for its crescent beaches, the most famous being Lighthouse Beach. Ayurvedic treatments, surfing, and wooden boat rides in the backwaters are popular.

How to Reach: Trivandrum International Airport, 15 km away, is the closest. Kovalam is well connected by road to other parts of Kerala.

Also, read the details on Kerala:

9. Hyderabad, Telangana

Hyderabad, Telangana is also called the City of the Nawabs and it is a place that releases an old-world beauty of its own as it still exists with the fast-growing attack of commercialization in perfect peace. Soaked in history, Hyderabad is an abode to ancient mosques and markets edged parallelly across swanky new official buildings and malls, and these take you to the city’s rich past with pure promises of a better future.

This is the reason why Hyderabad is a worth visiting destination. Some of the well-known places in this place are Ramoji Film City, Hussain Sagar Lake, Chowmahalla Palace, and much more to explore.

Things to Do: The city blends heritage and modernity. The Charminar, Golconda Fort, and the Salar Jung Museum offer glimpses into the rich history, while modern attractions include Ramoji Film City.

How to Reach: Hyderabad is served by Rajiv Gandhi International Airport and has excellent road and rail connectivity.

Check out the Hyderabad (Telangana) Articles:

10. Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Initially known as Madras, Chennai is the fourth biggest city in India and it is one of the most famous tourist destinations in the southern part of India. A city with a rich cultural history, Chennai is very perfect for maintaining its heritage with its attractive modernity.

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The capital of Tamil Nadu, Chennai’s skyline is well known for its amazing skyscrapers which increase the scenic beauty across the coast, but Chennai’s heart still exists in the multitude of ancient temples and churches marking several parts of the city. It is a city which has an abundance of dimensions which one can experience at this place. Marina Beach, MGR Film City, and Breezy Beach are some of the well-known spots over here.

Things to Do: Chennai’s Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world, Fort St. George, and the Kapaleeshwarar Temple reflect the city’s cultural heritage. The city is also known for its South Indian cuisine.

How to Reach: Chennai International Airport connects the city globally. It is also a major railway hub and is well connected by road.

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11. Bandipur National Park, Karnataka

Bandipur National Park, located in Karnataka was at one time the hunting grounds of the Maharajas in Mysore. Later on, it was developed as a reserve in 1974 and the deciduous forests which are rich in wildlife and flora have become a famous tourist spot since then.

This park covers a special place in the efforts of India toward Eco-conservation. It also contains a large number of Tigers. You can find here many animals like sambhar, mouse-deer, four-horned antelope, chital, and the black-knapped hare.

Things to Do: This national park is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and is known for its tiger reserve. Safaris offer sightings of elephants, tigers, and various birds.

How to Reach: The nearest airport is Mysore, 80 km away. The park is accessible by road from Mysore and Bangalore.

Karnataka Trip Itinerary:

12. Mysore, Karnataka

Mysore, popularly known as the City of Palaces is one of the top-rated spots in India. It is well provided with the history of its exciting royal heritage, popular silk sarees, complex architecture, yoga, and sandalwood. Mysore is the third most populated region in Karnataka which is situated in the foothills of the Chamundi Hills.

Because of its rich cultural heritage, many tourists people are attracted to Mysore throughout the year. It consists of the famous Mysore Palace, Brindavan Gardens, and Somanathapura Temple which is great to explore.

Things to Do: Mysore is famous for the Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hills, and during Dasara festivities. The Mysore Zoo and the sprawling Brindavan Gardens are also must-visits.

How to Reach: The nearest major airport is in Bangalore, 170 km away. Mysore is well-connected by road and rail.

Check Mysore Package: 3 Nights 4 Days Mysore and Coorg Trip Itinerary from Bangalore

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13. Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh

Visakhapatnam, locally named Vizag is one of the ancient port cities in India. This place is especially known for its photogenic beaches and serene landscape and also its rich cultural past which converts it into an ideal spot for an awesome coastal holiday.

The port of Visakhapatnam is famous for being home to the ancient shipyard in the nation and having an excess of man-made marvels and natural spectacles, this place is a must-explored tourist spot in South India. Visakhapatnam is famous for the Araku Valley, Submarine Museum, Kailasagiri, and Katiki Waterfalls. Read Also: Best 100 Places to Visit in India

Things to Do: The city offers beautiful beaches, the Submarine Museum, and the hilltop park Kailasagiri. It’s also known for Araku Valley, a short drive away.

How to Reach: Visakhapatnam has its own airport and is well-connected by road and rail.

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14. Chikmagalur, Karnataka

If you are the one who likes the smell of freshly brewed coffee during the morning time then you are surely going to love Chikmagalur which has an everlasting aroma of coffee spreading in the air.

This place is ordinarily known as the ‘Coffee Land of Karnataka’ and is located on the foothills of the Mullayangiri Range in the state of Karnataka and has a height of 3400 feet. It is popular for its tall mountains, calm environment, and lush green forests besides coffee production. It is a renowned tourist attraction and is the best spot to relax from the daily busy life.

Things to Do: In the heart of coffee country, visitors can explore plantations, climb Mullayanagiri Peak, the highest in Karnataka, and visit the serene Hebbe Falls.

How to Reach: The nearest airports are Mangalore and Bangalore. Chikmagalur is accessible by road from these cities.

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15. Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu

Pondicherry is also called Puducherry and its ordinary name is just Pondy. It is one of the seven Union Territories of the country and is popularly named the French Riveria of the East it is surely one of the most lovely and capturing places to explore in South India.

Situated in Tamil Nadu, Pondicherry is a small town away on the southeast coastline of the nation. Paradise Beach, Auroville Ashram, and Seaside Promenade are some of the famous spots here.  It is a place which offers a promise of serenity and sanctity to the visitors in the true sense.

Things to Do: The French Quarter, with its colonial architecture and quaint cafes, the Aurobindo Ashram, and serene beaches define Pondicherry.

How to Reach: The nearest airport is in Chennai, 135 km away. Pondicherry is well-connected by road.

Check Pondicherry Package: 3 Nights 4 Days Pondicherry Trip Itinerary from Chennai

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16. Hampi, Karnataka

Hampi, the city of destruction is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in the shadowed deepness of valleys and hills in Karnataka, this spot is a historical pleasure for visitors.

Encircled by 500 old monuments, bustling street bazaars, charming temples, bastions, treasury buildings and attractive remains of the Vijayanagar Empire, Hampi becomes a great location for travelers. It is an open museum covering more than 100 locations to visit and a best-loved path to witness the city from the outlook of its history.

Things to Do: The ruins of the ancient Vijayanagara Empire at Hampi are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Highlights include the Virupaksha Temple and the stone chariot at the Vittala Temple.

How to Reach: The nearest airport is Hubli, 160 km away. Hampi is accessible by road and rail.

Explore the package for Hampi: 3 Nights 4 Days Hampi Trip Itinerary

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17. Coorg, Karnataka

Coorg is a location for all nature enthusiasts it is located in the middle of imposing mountains in Karnataka with a constantly misty landscape. This famous coffee-making hill station is not only famous for its lovely green hills but also for the streams passing through them.

It is also a well-known place due to its culture and people. A local clan known as Kodavas specializing in martial arts stands out for their determined hospitality.

Things to Do: Often referred to as the Scotland of India, Coorg is famous for its lush coffee plantations, scenic waterfalls like Abbey Falls, and misty hills.

How to Reach: The nearest airports are Mangalore and Bangalore. Coorg is well connected by road.

View the Coorg Package: 2 Nights 3 Days Coorg Trip Itinerary from Bangalore

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18. Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu

Rameshwaram is one of the sacred destinations in India and is situated on a wonderful island. It is divided by a small Pamban channel from Sri Lanka. As per Hindu mythology, this is the area where Lord Rama raised a bridge along the sea connecting to Sri Lanka.

It is well known for Ramanathaswamy Temple which is a Hindu holy site having ornate corridors, holy water tanks, and large sculpted pillars. Dedicated people take a bath in the waters of Agni Theertham towards the east of the temple. Gandamadana Parvatham is a hill where you can get great island sights.

Things to Do: This pilgrimage town is known for the Ramanathaswamy Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlinga temples. Dhanushkodi, at the tip of Pamban Island, is a ghost town with beautiful ocean views.

How to Reach: The nearest airport is in Madurai, 175 km away. Rameswaram is connected by the Pamban Bridge and has its own railway station.

19. Varkala, Kerala

Varkala is a coastal region covered with serene beaches, hills, forts, lakes, and lighthouses which altogether makes this town a small paradise. It is most famous for its springs and natural fisheries including the Samadhi of Kerala’s saint named Sree Narayana Guru.

This place is situated on specially made sedimentary cliffs in the state of Kerala. The renowned spots of this region are Varkala Beach, and Edava Beach and water sports are also popular here.

Things to Do: Varkala Beach is unique for its cliffs adjacent to the Arabian Sea. The Janardanaswamy Temple and the natural mineral springs are also popular.

How to Reach: Trivandrum International Airport, about 50 km away, is the closest. Varkala is well connected by road and rail.

{ Top 10 Places to Visit in Kerala }

20. Lepakshi, Andhra Pradesh

Lepakshi is a tiny village covering a trail of various ideal kingdoms which was once controlling the region. It was discovered in the year 1535 by Maharaja Aliya Rama Raya who belongs to the Vijayanagara empire.

Situated at a distance of 120 km from Bangalore and lying in the Anantapur District of Andhra Pradesh, this area is a valuable storage of interesting archaeological sites, lovely old temples, and rich culture. Veerabhadra Temple, Nandi Bull, Lepakshi Temple, and beautiful paintings are some of the important facts about this place.

Things to Do: Famous for its Vijayanagara architectural style, Lepakshi is home to the Veerabhadra Temple and a giant Nandi statue. The temple’s mural paintings are significant.

How to Reach: The nearest major city is Bangalore, 120 km away. Lepakshi is accessible by road from Bangalore and Anantapur.

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7 thoughts on “20 Best Tourist Places in South India”

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  6. J C.Reddy

    Bhadra reserve forest is better than Bandipur. With Bhadra back waters you can have water sports and also view the wild life. Jungle lodges has it all.

    Reply

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