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Backwaters, Beaches, and Beyond: A Complete South India Travel Guide

India is known for its diversified landscape and rich culture. It is categorized as north, south, east and west, every state and corner in India is unique in their own way. The Southern part of India captivates the heart of the travelers with its serene and peaceful beaches, natural beauty, backwaters, stunning marvels, tea and coffee plantations and ancient traditions.

This short guide will help you to plan your trip to South India, make sure to take help from the expert Tour operators in India. Taking tips and guidance from the experts will make it easier to enjoy a hassle-free journey to South India.

1. Kerala, nicknamed as God’s Own Country

Hoseboat Cruise

One of the state of South India blessed with eternal beauty is Kerala, tourists will have a fascinating experience exploring the beaches, misty hills, backwaters, and engaging in Ayurveda and Wellness retreats.

When visiting Kerala, don’t miss to visit these fascinating places and engage in these thrilling activities. To skip the trouble of planning get in touch with the Travel Agents in India, who are expertise in this field and knows the place well.

Backwaters of Kerala

No trip to South India is complete without taking a cruise of the backwaters of Kerala. The cruise takes place in traditional houseboats; navigate through the complex network of canals, rivers, and lakes that stretches along the Arabian Sea coast. As you glide through these canals, enjoy the views of the coconut palm grooves, lush paddy fields and the coastal villages. The hotspots for houseboat cruise on the backwaters include Alleppey (Alappuzha) or Kumarakom.

  • What is the Best time to visit for backwater experience? October to March
  • What not to miss? Attend events like the Snake boat races (August), and try the traditional Kerala meals served on banana leaves

Beaches and Hills

Varkala, Kovalam and Marari are the best beach destinations in Kerala, beach lovers head to these destinations for relaxing by the seaside after exploring Kerala.

Kerala is also home to the mesmerizing hill-station, Munnar blessed with eternal beauty. Engross yourself in the misty hills, lush greenery and the cool and pleasant weather. Here don’t miss to explore the tea plantations and do opt for trekking to the waterfalls.

Ayurveda and Wellness

Kerala is the birthplace of Ayurvedic treatment, offering traditional treatments and therapies. There are many local and luxury resorts in Kovalam, Thekkady, and Kumarakom that specializes in this ancient therapy. Visitors seeking wellness retreats don’t miss the opportunity for a wellness retreat in Kerala.

2. Tamil Nadu, popular called the Land of Temples

Tamil Nadu is another state in South India, not only popular for its breathtaking landscape, but houses some of the regal ancient temples.

Majestic Temples and Heritage Sites

Tamil Nadu can be designated as the spiritual hub of South India as many ancient magnificent temples are built here. Some of the top fascinating temples are Meenakshi Temple (in Madurai), Brihadeeswara Temple and the temples of Kanchipuram are known for their Dravidian architecture. These temples are famous for their towering gopurams, and ancient rituals.

Also, don’t miss to visit the Mahabalipuram Shore Temple (Great Living Chola Temples), designated as a UNESCO site due to its enthralling architectural design.

Chennai, visit the gateway to the South

Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu is referred to as the gateway to the South. Its classical Carnatic music, colonial era buildings, bustling markets, the sacred Kapaleeshwarar Temple and the longest beach in the world, Marina Beach, makes it an enticing destination to visit.

Hill Stations and Cultural Trails

Tamil Nadu is also home to the awe-inspiring hill-stations, Ooty and Coonoor located in the Nilgiri hills, blessed with eternal beauty indulge yourself exploring the tea garden, the colonial bungalows and scenic ride through the misty hills. Don’t miss the Nilgiri Mountain Railway (a UNESCO World Heritage site) from Mettupalayam to Ooty.

Tamil Nadu is vast and there are many interesting sightseeing places to visit, with tips and guidance of the best Tour operators in India, have a wonderful trip.

3. Karnataka, rich Heritage and High-Tech

Hampi Temple

Karnataka is known as the high tech state of South India and is renowned globally for the ancient ruins of Hampi.

Bangalore, the modern city of Karnataka

The capital of Karnataka is Bangalore, renowned for its botanical gardens, breweries and tech industries. Here you can visit the nearby Nandi Hills for a tranquil escape to the hills, known for lush greenery and misty hills.

Mysore, the amazing City of Palaces

Located at a short drive from Bangalore is Mysore which houses the stunning Mysore Palace known for grand architectural design and its light work in the evening, more than thousands of lights are enlightened. Also visit the Chamundi Hill and attend the Dussehra festival, if you visit during that time.

Hampi and Badami, home to Ancient Ruins

Hampi is the ancient capital city of the powerful Vijayanagara Empire. Due to its architectural marvels it is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The entire city is spread across acres of land and are dotted with rock cut temples, royal enclosures, and ancient markets.

Badami is also another archaeological gem, known for its intricate rock-cut cave temples. 

Coorg, renowned as the Scotland of India

In Tamil Nadu, you can visit Coorg (Kodagu), a cool hill station renowned for its spectacular coffee plantations, waterfall, lush greenery and the rich Kodava culture. Tourists can engage in trekking, nature walks, and relaxation.

What you can do is get in touch with the best Travel Agents in India who will offer the best customized trip to India. Getting in touch with the experts means, you are in safe hands and you will have a hassle-free trip exploring the best.

4. Andhra Pradesh, popular for rich History and Spirituality

Borra Cave, Andhra Pradesh.
Borra Cave, Andhra Pradesh.

The state of Andhra Pradesh in South India is steeped in rich history and spirituality. Some of the popular pilgrimage sites to visit include Tirupati, Vijayawada and Amaravati and the ancient Borra Caves. Explore the best of Andhra Pradesh by booking your trip with the best Tour operators in India.

Tirupati, the Pilgrimage Centre

The Tirupati temple in Andhra Pradesh is home to Sri Venkateswara Temple, and is one of the most sacred temples of the world wherein millions of tourists visit every year. 

Vijayawada and Amaravati

These cities are not only the emerging modern hubs but are known for its sacred temples as well. Vijayawada is famous for the Kanaka Durga Temple and Amaravati is a sacred Buddhist site.

Beaches and Caves

Andhra Pradesh is a coastal state; some of the popular beaches located near Visakhapatnam (Vizag) are Rishikonda and Bheemili. One of the highlight of Andhra Pradesh is the Borra Caves, located in the Ananthagiri Hills. These caves are estimated to have been formed millions of years ago.

5. Telangana, known for its rich culture

Telangana is another important state of South India, know for the city of Hyderabad, Warangal and home to temple with 100 pillars. 

Hyderabad, popular known as the City of Nizams

Hyderabad is the capital city of Telangana, offering an intriguing blend of tradition and modernity. The top attraction sites to explore are Charminar, Golconda Fort, and Qutb Shahi Tombs.

Don’t miss to try the Hyderabadi Biryani, haleem, and Irani chai for a unique experience.

Warangal and Beyond

In Warangal visit the 1000 Pillar Temple (you will have a chance to know about Telangana’s Kakatiya-era heritage), Ramappa Temple (recognized as a UNESCO site) and the Warangal Fort.

South India is filled with endless destinations to explore and things to do. Whether you are taking a houseboat cruise in the backwaters of Kerala, exploring the tea gardens and coffee plantations, taking scenic drive through the misty hill or enjoying a hike or trek to the waterfalls, the land is full of unforgettable treats.

Planning your trip to India? Contact our travel expert for personalized itineraries and seamless travel experiences. Discover the beauty of India with Gov. approved India Tour operator send your enquiry :https://www.ercotravels.com/enquiry