South India is a fascinating region offering a multitude of unique experiences for travelers in search of adventure, spirituality and cultural discovery. From majestic temples and sandy beaches to lush green tea plantations, this region is full of treasures to explore. In this article, we've selected 17 must-see places for you to visit on your trip to South India. Follow us on an unforgettable journey to the heart of this enchanting region!
1. Visit Bangalore
Nicknamed "India's Silicon Valley", Bangalore is a dynamic, cosmopolitan city well worth a visit on your trip to South India. One of Bangalore's must-sees is the Bangalore Palace, a magnificent residence built in the 19th century for the royal family of Mysore. The palace is an outstanding example of neo-classical architecture, with sumptuous reception halls and lush gardens. The Bull Temple, a Hindu temple dedicated to Nandi, Shiva's mount, is another must-see in Bangalore. Finally, don't miss a stroll through the Commercial Street market, one of the city's largest. You'll find everything from clothes and spices to souvenirs and handicrafts.
2. What to visit in South India Cochin (Kochi)
Kochi, the bustling, dynamic city of southern India, is a fascinating destination that's sure to win you over. With its many Dutch, Portuguese, Chinese, Christian, Muslim, Jewish and Malabar influences, Kochi is a veritable cultural kaleidoscope that exudes a romantic and bewitching charm. As you stroll through the Fort Cochin district, you'll admire old colonial mansions converted into charming hotels, decrepit spice warehouses bearing witness to the district's past activity, Portuguese churches, antique shops and trendy bobo cafés, as well as the famous Chinese fishing nets, emblems of the city, and a performance of kathakali, the traditional dance theater of Kerala.
3. Pondicherry
This is one of India's must-see places. Pondicherry, a former French colony until 1954, is a uniquely charming city with a dual identity. Between its white city, the former colonial town, and its black city, the Indian part bounded by the canal, Pondicherry offers a singular and captivating travel experience. As you stroll along the city's wide, tree-lined avenues, you'll admire pastel-colored colonial buildings, traditional Tamil houses and colorful Hindu temples. The city exudes a pleasant sense of tranquility and serenity, far removed from the hustle and bustle of India's big cities. Don't miss a stroll along Beach Road, a beautiful promenade where you can admire the waves of the Bay of Bengal.
4. What to do in South India Auroville, utopian city
Just a few kilometers from Pondicherry lies the utopian town ofAuroville, an experimental city created in 1968 by Mirra Alfassa with the ambition of achieving human unity by bringing together people of all nationalities, cultures and beliefs around an ideal of peace and spiritual progress. The city is organized around a large central park, the Matrimandir, a spherical edifice covered with golden discs that symbolizes the soul of the city. The Matrimandir is surrounded by twelve gardens representing the twelve human qualities, and houses an inner meditation hall where absolute silence reigns. Auroville is also an ecological laboratory, testing sustainable solutions in agriculture, energy, construction and waste management.
5. Chennai
Chennai, formerly known as Madras, is the capital of the state of Tamil Nadu and one of the most important cities in southern India. This dynamic, bustling metropolis is a fascinating blend of tradition and modernity, where Hindu temples rub shoulders with futuristic skyscrapers. A must-see in Chennai is the Kapaleeshwarar temple, a magnificent edifice dedicated to the god Shiva, distinguished by its Dravidian architecture and colorful sculptures. The Government Museum , which houses an impressive collection of art and historical artefacts, is also a must-see. The very long Marina Beach offers a unique spectacle at dusk: street vendors, merry-go-rounds, horses..
6. Partying in Goa
Goa is one of India's top tourist destinations, and also a destination for reliving the hippie vibe. It's the ideal destination for those seeking relaxation and fun on sandy beaches, far from the hustle and bustle of India's big cities. This coastal region is full of treasures to discover, from World Heritage monuments to breathtakingly beautiful landscapes. Goa's beaches are renowned for their festive atmosphere and natural beauty, from the mythical Anjuna beach to Baga and Palolem. One of Goa's must-sees is the French restaurant La Plage, located on Ashvem beach. This chic straw hut is the ideal place to dine with your feet in the sand, while admiring the sunset over the sea.
7. What to visit in South India Madurai
Madurai, in the state of Tamil Nadu, is one of India's oldest and most sacred cities. This thousand-year-old city is a major pilgrimage destination for Hindus, who come here to worship the goddess Meenakshi and the god Shiva in the famous temple dedicated to them. The Meenakshi temple , a true jewel of Dravidian architecture, is one of India's largest and most impressive temples. With its colorful gopurams and detailed carvings, it is a dazzling testimony to the region's cultural and artistic wealth. Don't miss the Thirumalai Nayak Palace, a magnificent 17th-century edifice that now houses a museum, or the Gandhi Market, where you can sample local specialties.
8. Allepey and the Backwaters
Allepey, in the state of Kerala, is a port city famous for its backwaters, a network of canals and lagoons stretching for over 900 kilometers. Known as the "Venice of the East", this region is ideal for couples: a haven of peace and tranquility where you can relax and recharge your batteries. The backwaters of Allepey are the ideal setting for a houseboat cruise, as these traditional wooden boats have been converted into floating hotels. You can cruise the coconut-fringed canals, admire the rice paddies and villages typical of Kerala, and stop off to visit the temples and local markets. In addition to the backwaters, Allepey is also famous for its beach, which stretches for several kilometers along the Arabian Sea.
9. Munnar in Kerala
Located in the state of Kerala, at an altitude of around 1,600 meters, Munnar is a mountain resort renowned for its endless tea plantations, lush green hills and breathtaking scenery. A visit to the tea plantations is one of Munnar's highlights. You can walk through the tea fields, watch the pluckers at work and learn about the various stages of tea production. Many plantations also offer tea tastings. Munnar is also an ideal starting point for hikes to Eravikulam National Park, for example, home to a large population of Nilgiri tahrs, an endangered wild goat.
10. What to do in South India Visit Hampi in Karnataka
Located in Karnataka, Hampi is an archaeological site of great historical and cultural wealth, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With almost 4,000 ruins dating from the medieval period of the Hindu kingdom of Vijayanâgar, this site bears witness to the exceptional architectural mastery of its builders. The Hindu style of architecture at Hampi reflects the splendor of the Vijayanâgar Empire, and is characterized by majestic buildings and detailed carvings. You can explore the site by bicycle, enjoying the magnificent landscape of pink sandstone, sugarcane fields and rice paddies crossed by the Tungabhadra River, which adds a magical touch to the whole site.
11. Relax in Varkala
Varkala is a charming seaside resort renowned for its sandy beaches, dramatic red cliffs and crystal-clear waters, making it a top destination for lovers of lazing around and water sports. Varkala Beach, also known as Papanasam Beach, is one of the most beautiful beaches in the region. Lined with coconut palms and red cliffs , it offers breathtaking scenery. You can swim in the turquoise waters or enjoy water sports such as surfing or paragliding. In addition to its beaches, Varkala is also a place of pilgrimage for Hindus, who come to pray at the Janardanaswamy temple, dedicated to the god Vishnu.
12. Kanyakumari, a sacred place for Hindus
Kanyakumari is a coastal town at the southern tip of India, in the state of Tamil Nadu. What makes it special? It's surrounded by three seas: the Arabian Sea, the Bay of Bengal and the Laccadive Strait. So you can admire the unique spectacle of sunrise and sunset over the sea, with different colors depending on which sea is in front of you. Among Kanyakumari's must-see sites, don't miss a visit to the Kumari Amman temple and the Gandhi memorial, built on the spot where Mahatma Gandhi's ashes were immersed in the sea. Finally, don't miss the 41-metre-high monumental statue of Thiruvalluvar, a Tamil poet and philosopher from the 3rd century BC, and a symbol of Tamil culture and literature.
13. What to visit in South India Mahabalipuram
Mahabalipuram is a small coastal town in the state of Tamil Nadu, about 60 kilometers south of Chennai. The town is famous for its temples and stone sculptures dating back to the Pallava dynasty, which ruled the region in the 7th century. The archaeological site of Mahabalipuram is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to many remarkable monuments, such as the Shore Temple, the Arjuna Penance Temple and the Five Rathas. In addition to its temples, Mahabalipuram is also renowned for its sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.
14. Ooty
Ooty, also known as Udhagamandalam, is a charming mountain resort renowned for its pleasant climate, verdant landscapes and tea plantations as far as the eye can see. Among Ooty's must-see sites, don't miss a visit to the botanical garden, home to a wide variety of exotic plants and flowers, as well as Lake Ooty, where you can take a boat trip or simply enjoy the view of the surrounding hills. Tea lovers can also visit the local tea plantations and learn more about the tea production process.
15. What to do in South India Visit Mysore
Known as the "City of Palaces", Mysore is a historic imperial city that was the capital of the Woodeyars, who ruled the region from the 15th century until India's independence in 1947. The city is one of the few in India with walkable sidewalks, making it a pleasant place to stroll. Among the city's most emblematic monuments, don't miss Mysore Palace, a majestic palace built in the 14th century and a remarkable example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. The Chamundeshwari temple, located on a hill outside the city, is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus. The Mysore Palace Museum is also worth a visit, as are the gardens of Brindavan, renowned for their musical fountains and lighting effects.
16. Tanjore
Tanjore, also known as Thanjavur, is a historic city in the state of Tamil Nadu, famous for its architecture, temples and art. The Brihadeeswarar temple is one of Tanjore's most emblematic monuments. This Hindu temple, built in the 11th century, is a remarkable example of Dravidian architecture, with magnificent sculptures and colorful frescoes adorning the temple walls. Tanjore is also renowned for its art, in particular Tanjore painting, a traditional art form of the region. Tanjore paintings are characterized by the use of gold leaf and precious stones to create intricate, colorful patterns. You can also visit the Tanjore Palace, which exhibits traditional musical instruments, clothing and jewelry.
17. What to visit in South India Periyar
Periyar is a nature reserve in the southern Indian state of Kerala. The reserve is famous for its abundant and diverse flora and fauna, as well as for its magnificent scenery. Periyar National Park is one of India's most popular national parks. It is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, leopards, bison and monkeys. You can explore the park by boat, on foot or by jeep, accompanied by experienced guides. You can also take advantage of the many hiking trails in the area, which offer spectacular views of the surrounding hills and rainforests.
The Little Witty's advice for your first trip to South India:
When planning your first trip to South India, it's important to make sure you have all the necessary documents, such as a valid passport and a visa for India. It's also advisable to consult a doctor about any vaccinations you may need before your trip.
Thebest time to visit South India is between October and March, when the weather is cooler and less humid. Don't forget to pack light, comfortable clothes, but make sure they are respectful of the local culture by avoiding clothes that are too revealing.
South India is vast and there's a lot to see, so it's important to plan your itinerary in advance so you don't miss out on must-sees such as the temples of Mahabalipuram, the backwaters of Kerala, the city of Mysore and the beaches of Goa.
Food in South India is generally spicy, so be prepared to try new flavors, but be careful with street food and tap water. There is a wide variety of accommodation options in South India, from youth hostels to luxury hotels. Book in advance for the most popular places.
Public transport can be crowded and a little chaotic, so it's advisable to hire a chauffeur-driven car for longer journeys. Indians are generally very friendly and welcoming, but it's important to respect their customs and traditions, such as removing your shoes before entering a temple.
As with all travel, be vigilant and take precautions for your own safety. Avoid traveling alone at night, and keep your valuables safe. Finally, learning a few words in the local language can be useful and appreciated, although English is widely spoken in the region.
What itinerary to plan for 15 days in South India?
Now you've made up your mind to head for India (one of the cheapest vacation destinations in the world)? For your first trip to northern India, here are a few tips that may come in handy, especially if you decide to try your luck as a backpacker! Here's a suggested itinerary for a 15-day trip to South India:
Days 1-3: Chennai Start your trip in Chennai, the capital of the state of Tamil Nadu. Visit the Government Museum, Marina Beach and Kapaleeshwarar Temple.
Days 4-5: Mahabalipuram Head to Mahabalipuram, a coastal town known for its carved stone temples dating back to the 7th century. Visit the Five Rathas, the Shore Temple and the Descent of Arjuna.
Days 6-7: Pondicherry Next, head for Pondicherry, a former French colony. Visit Sri Aurobindo's ashram, the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels and the Pondicherry Museum.
Days 8-9: Tanjore Head for Tanjore, a city renowned for its Chola architecture. Visit the Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Tanjore Palace.
Days 10-11: Madurai Next, head to Madurai, a bustling city known for its Meenakshi temple. Visit the temple and attend the evening ceremony.
Days 12-13: Periyar Head to the Periyar Tiger Reserve, where you can enjoy a nature hike and see wild animals such as elephants and monkeys.
Days 14-15: Alleppey End your journey in the backwaters of Kerala. Take a canal cruise and relax in a hotel on the water.
This itinerary will give you an insight into the culture, history and nature of South India. Of course, you can adapt it to suit your budget, interests and preferences.
Did you know that India is home to one of the most haunted places in the world? The ghost town of Bhangarh is said to have been cursed by a wise man, condemning it to remain deserted and haunted.
See also our dedicated article "What to do in North India? 19 places to visit"!
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