South India is known for its stunning beaches, unique culture, and magnificent monuments. The region is also known as Peninsular India. It includes the states of Kerala, Karnataka, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, the Union Territories of Puducherry, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and Lakshadweep.
In South India, you can fall in love with the copious scenic beauty, exquisite architecture, ayurvedic spas, stunning wildlife, and delectable cuisine. You can also indulge in thrilling activities like trekking and jet skiing. From Kovalam beach, Munnar tea plantations, Western Ghats, or Kerala backwaters, the region is rich in natural charm. You can admire the warm hospitality of the locals and immerse yourself in the delightful blend of modernity and tradition.
All-Inclusive South India Tour Packages
History and Geography of South India
With its more than 4000-year-old history, South India has witnessed the rise and fall of numerous dynasties and empires. The ancient history dates back to the major dynasties of Cheras, Cholas, and Pandyas, and some smaller ones like Rashtrakutas and Hoysalas, who have noted outstanding contributions to the economy, society, culture, and religion.
Shaped like a vast inverted triangle, South India is flanked by the Arabian Sea in the west and the Bay of Bengal in the east. The Vindhya and Satpura mountains bound its north, and the Indian Ocean is in the south. This layout contributes to the diverse topological and climatic patterns in South India.
Tourist Destinations in South India
1. Kodaikanal
Located in Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal is a hill town perched at 2,000 m height. You can enjoy the pleasant climate, mist-covered mountains, and enchanting waterfalls on these hills. Take a break from the rigors of city life and enjoy life amidst the beauty of nature. The chief attractions in Kodaikanal are the star-shaped Kodaikanal Lake, Bear Shola Falls, Moir Point, Kurinji Andavar Temple, and Bryant Park. Check-out our Kodaikanal tour packages.
2. Thekkady
You can visit Thekkady in Kerala for the country’s largest wildlife sanctuary, Periyar National Park. You can come across extensive tropical flora and fauna in a peaceful atmosphere. Besides, you can witness the 120-year-old dam across the Periyar River. You can enjoy bamboo rafting, boat safari, elephant safari, and sightseeing. Other attractions include Panchalimedu, Abraham’s Spice Garden, Spring Valley Mountain, Gavi, and Chellarkovil. Check-out our Thekkady tour packages.
3. Wayanad
A popular hill station in Kerala, Wayanad offers a magical experience to tourists. You can rejuvenate in the refreshing greenery and tranquil ambiance all around. Besides, you can enjoy adventurous activities like trekking, rock climbing, rappelling, mountaineering, hiking, and camping. Some of the key tourist points in Wayanad include Banasura Sagar Dam, Thirunelli Temple, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Soochipara Falls, Chembra Peak, and Edakkal Caves. Check-out our Wayanad tour packages.
4. Ooty
Nestled in the Western Ghats in Tamil Nadu, Ooty was the erstwhile British summer retreat. The ‘Queen of the Nilgiris’ is a picturesque getaway with its meandering country lanes, gushing waterfalls, lush tea gardens, and astounding colonial past. Some of the prominent tourist attractions in Ooty, you can visit the Mudumalai National Park, Botanical Gardens, Doddabetta Peak, Pykara Waterfalls, Fernhills Palace, Ooty Lake, Tea Museum, and Elk Hills Murugan Temple. Check-out our Ooty tour packages.
5. Alleppey
Kerala’s rustic Alleppey backwaters, lagoons, and canals offer an idyllic atmosphere to rejuvenate and bond with your loved ones. Alleppey is rightly called the ‘Venice of the East’. You can float along in a houseboat and be mesmerized by the tender green paddy fields, curvaceous rice barges, and the countryside along the banks. You must check out the famous Kerala boat races held every year. Check-out our Alleppey tour packages.
6. Mahabalipuram
Once a major seaport of Tamil Nadu, Mahabalipuram is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can view many historical monuments like the Shore Temple and the Five Raths. You can gaze at the intricately carved temples and rock-cut caves. The other key attractions that you can enjoy include India Seashell Museum, Tiger Caves, Krishna’s Butterball, Mahabalipuram Beach, and Arjuna’s Penance. Check-out our Mahabalipuram tour packages.
Other Places to See
In Andhra Pradesh, Gandikota is home to the ancient Belum Caves, Pennar Gorge, and Jamia Masjid. You can also visit the world-famous Tirupati Temple. Located in Karnataka, Skandagiri Hills provide exquisite vistas from an elevation of 1350 m. St. Mary’s Island is an offbeat tourist place on the Karnataka coast with its white sand beaches, rock monoliths, and exotic wildlife. Hampi is a must-visit World Heritage Site. Varkala, with its majestic cliffs and flea markets, is a popular beach in Kerala. You can visit Pondicherry for its French touches and the peaceful aura of Auroville. Dhanushkodi is a small hamlet on the Southeastern tip of Pamban Island.
Nearby Places
On your South India trip, you can also visit nearby places such as Mumbai, Shirdi, Lonavala, Mahabaleshwar, Nashik, Ahmedabad, Statue of Unity, and Vadodara, which are located at a distance of around 700 km from South India.
Somnath Temple is located 900 km away, and Khajuraho is about 1200 km away from South India. Panchmarhi is situated 1500 km away, and Gwalior and Orchha are located 2000 km away from South India. All these places offer unique experiences for travelers looking to explore different parts of the country with varied cultures and traditions.
Shopping/Things to Do in South India
Popular Activities to do
South India offers a treasure trove of activities to explore. You can indulge in trekking in the mountains and jeep safari in the sanctuaries. Kayaking and paragliding on the beaches are must-try activities. You can visit heritage sites like Tanjore Temple in Thanjavur, Meenakshi Temple in Madurai, and Mysore Palace. Art lovers can enjoy performances like Bharatnatyam, Kathakali, and Kalaripayattu.
Popular Shopping Places
South India is a colossal shopping destination. You can head to the vibrant and lively Commercial Street in Bangalore for great bargains. Laad Bazar in Hyderabad is an elegant abode for shoppers. Connemara Market in Trivandrum is a prime shopping hub. You must also check out the local and roadside shops.
Popular Souvenirs From the Place
Kanjeevaram Silk sarees from Chennai, Mysore Silk, and Pochampalli sarees from Andhra Pradesh make great gifts for women. Tea, spices, and coffee from the mountain ranges are wonderful souvenirs. You can also purchase Hyderabadi Pearls, traditional handicrafts, Channapatna wooden toys, ayurvedic items, sandalwood products, and handcrafted jewelry. You can purchase trinkets made from seashells from the beaches.
How to Reach South India
Major cities of South India are well-connected to the different parts of the country by rail, road, and air. Prime cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and Cochin have international airports. All the major aircraft carriers like SpiceJet, Indigo, and Air India operate flights in these regions. The railway network is very good in South India. You have a variety of express and regular trains plying from South Indian cities to all over the country. With an excellent road network, a road trip becomes a must to explore the best places in the South. Both private and government buses ply between all the prominent cities.