20 Best Places To Visit In South India
The southern region of India comprises Telangana, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Kerala states. Each of these states boasts unique culture, traditions, history and art forms that become a major highlight of South Indian Tourism. Apart from these diverse experiences, this colorful region is also popular for its incredible topography.
Top 20 Best Tourist Places To Visit In South India
Right from gorgeous beaches to verdant plantations, cascading waterfalls to vibrant temples, thrilling activities to serene backwater experience, there are plenty of enriching travel experiences to gather from South India. So if you are planning to visit this part of the country, here's an ultimate list of 20 best places to visit in South India. These places must be on the top of your wishlist as these places are nothing short of a dream for the travelers. Take a look!
1. Alleppey
Deemed as the Venice of the East, Alappuzha or Alleppey is a prime tourist destination in Kerala especially during the winter months. Nestled amidst green landscapes, it is no less than a marvel. You can spot a striking resemblance of Venice in Alleppey as you take a trip to this beautiful place in South India.
- Best time to visit Alleppey - November to February
- How to reach Alleppey - Nearest airbase to Alleppey is Cochin International Airport and the nearest railhead is Alleppey Railway Station, which is 78 kilometers and 4 kilometers away from the destination respectively.
2. Coorg
Coorg is probably one of the most popular travel destinations in the state of Karnataka. With coffee and tea plantations, gushing rivers, tranquil meadows, overflowing lakes, and gorgeous waterfalls, Coorg attracts travelers from India and beyond. From backpacker hostels to lavish hotels, there are plenty of options to stay in Coorg.
- Best time to visit Coorg - October to March
- How to reach Coorg - Nearest airbase to Coorg is Mangalore Airport and the nearest railhead is Mysore Railway Station, which is 135 kilometers and 120 kilometers away from the destination respectively.
3. Kabini
Famous for boasting one of the rarest wildlife sanctuaries in India, Kabini is famous for its unique experiences. It is one of the best places in Karnataka to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
- Best time to visit Kabini - October to February
- How to reach Kabini - Nearest airbase to Kabini is Mysore Airport and the nearest railhead is Mysore Railway Station, which is 66 kilometers and 70 kilometers away from the destination respectively.
4. Kodaikanal
One of the most spectacular hill stations in Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal can be visited during both summer and winter seasons. The misty hills covered with fog and cold weather make it one of the most visited places in South India.
- Best time to visit Kodaikanal - March to May
- How to reach Kodaikanal - Nearest airbase to Kodaikanal is Madurai Airport and the nearest railhead is Kodai Road Railway Station, which is 120 kilometers and 95 kilometers away from the destination respectively.
5. Wayanad
Tucked away in and around the lush green forests of Western Ghats, Wayanad is a popular travel destination in South India which is famous for its diverse flora and fauna. It is situated around 16 kilometers away from Sultan Batheyr in Kerala.
- Best time to visit Wayanad - October to May
- How to reach Wayanad - Nearest airbase to Kodaikanal is Karipur Airport and the nearest railhead is Kozhikode Railway Station, which is 100 kilometers and 110 kilometers away from the destination respectively.
6. Agumbe
First, of its kind, the Agumbe rainforest is one of the best places to visit in South India. Home to a wide variety of biomass, this evergreen forest is a paradise for nature lovers. Also, there are several waterfalls around Agumbe for you to chase.
- Best time to visit Agumbe - October to February
- How to reach Agumbe - Nearest airbase to Agumbe is Manguluru Airport and the nearest railhead is Udupi Railway Station, which is 95 kilometers and 50 kilometers away from the destination respectively.
7. Kumara Parvat
For a soul-filling experience, visit Kumara Parvat and trek to Pushpagiri during winters. Several nature lovers and adventurers from all over the country go on a trek on this mountain. The beauty of the cloud-filled cliffs and lush greenery is on another level especially during the winter season.
- Best time to visit Kumara Parvat - October to January and June to September
- How to reach Kumara Parvat - Nearest airbase to Kumara Parvat is Mangalore Airport and the nearest railhead is Mysore Railway Station, which is 150 kilometers and 138 kilometers away from the destination respectively.
8. Nagarjuna Sagar
Built across the River Krishna, the Nagarjuna Sagar Reservoir is a famous tourist spot in the newly formed state of Telangana. Simply gazing at the reservoir brimming with fresh water is absolutely therapeutic, a treat to mind and soul.
- Best time to visit Nagarjuna Sagar - October to March
- How to reach Nagarjuna Sagar - Nearest airbase to Nagarjuna Sagar is Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad and the nearest railhead is Macherla Railway Station, which are 126 kilometers and 24 kilometers away from the destination respectively.
9. Talakona Falls
Perhaps one of the most visited waterfalls in Andhra Pradesh, Talakona Waterfall is tucked away in the Sri Venkateswara National Park in the Chittoor district. Located at a height of 270 feet, it is one of the highest waterfalls in the state and is a must visit place in South India if you wish to grab the beauty of nature.
- Best time to visit Talakona Falls - October to January
- How to reach Talakona Falls - Nearest airbase to Talakona Falls is Tirupati Airport and the nearest railhead is Tirupati Railway Station, which is 75 kilometers and 65 kilometers away from the destination respectively.
10. Bogata Falls
Nestled in the Koivaripuram Village of Khammam District in the state of Telangana, this gorgeous waterfall is a delight for trekkers and nature lovers. It is the second largest waterfall in the state and is totally worth paying a visit. This beautiful site offers an incredible view of nature’s gift to mankind.
- Best time to visit Bogatha Falls - July to September
- How to reach Bogatha Falls - Nearest airbase to Bogata Falls is Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad and the nearest railhead is Bhadrachalam Road Railway Station, which is 330 kilometers and 120 kilometers away from the destination respectively.
11. Ooty
One of the most famous hill stations in South India, Ooty is yet another unmissable destination if you are visiting this side of the country. A beautiful visual retreat situated in the state of Tamil Nadu, Ooty is regarded as the Queen of the hills. Officially known as Udhakamandalam, it is also reckoned as the best honeymoon place in South India.
- Best time to visit Ooty - April to June and September to November
- How to reach Ooty - Nearest airbase to Ooty is Coimbatore Airport and the nearest railhead is Mettupalayam Railway Station, which is 100 kilometers and 47 kilometers away from the destination respectively.
12. Etipothala Waterfall
Located in the town of Marchela in the Guntur district, this splendid waterfall acts as a border between the states of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. The name of this waterfall is derived from two different Telugu words, Etiya which means uplifting, and Potha which means charming. Water gushing from the height of 70 feet is a sight to behold making it one of the most beautiful places in South India.
- Best time to visit Ethipothala Waterfall - July to February
- How to reach Ethipothala Waterfall - Nearest airbase to Ethipothala Waterfall is Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad and the nearest railhead is Macherla Railway Station, which is 126 kilometers and 24 kilometers away from the destination respectively.
13. Kumarakom
This destination in Kerala is no less than a winter wonderland. Also, one of the sought after destinations for honeymooners, this place certainly has a charm which makes the trip even more memorable. Blessed with palm trees, lush green meadows, and a vast stretch of backwaters, Kumarakom is a treat for the senses.
- Best time to visit Kumarakom - November to February
- How to reach Kumarakom - Nearest airbase to Kumarakom is Kochi Airport and the nearest railhead is Kottayam Railway Station, which is 45 kilometers and 16 kilometers away from the destination respectively.
14. Munnar
Nestled in the Kannan Devan Hills in Devikulam taluk of Idukki district, Munnar is a splendid hill station in South India that has derived its name from three rivers that flow through it. Popular for being a honeymoon destination, Munnar is a place that fascinated the holiday makers with its gorgeous beauty and tranquil vibes.
- Best time to visit Munnar - December to February
- How to reach Munnar - Nearest airbase to Munnar is Cochin International Airport and the nearest railhead is Kochi Railway Station, which is 125 kilometers and 124 kilometers away from the destination respectively.
15. Araku Valley
Situated in the Visakhapatnam district of Andhra Pradesh, Araku Valley is a spellbinding hill station in South India. Araku Valley looks absolutely stunning during the winter season. It is a must-visit destination in Andhra Pradesh which spreads across the mountain ranges of the Eastern Ghats.
- Best time to visit Araku Valley - December to February
- How to reach Araku Valley - Nearest airbase to Araku Valley is Vishakhapatnam Airport and the nearest railhead is Visakhapatnam Railway Station, which is 115 kilometers and 114 kilometers away from the destination respectively.