The southern states of India are blessed with charming landscape, ancient rock cut temples, breathtaking coastal charms and rich culture and tradition. The important cities of South India like Chennai, Bengaluru, and Kochi, lets you know about the city life. Visiting destinations beyond the cities will let you explore the real South India, which is home to enchanting backwaters, misty hill stations, temple towns, tea garden, spice plantations, beaches, and lively local traditions.
To explore the lesser known destinations in Tamil Nadu, take a guided tour offered by a reputed Travel Agency in India. Enjoy a hassle-free, authentic and comfortable journey. Whether you are a spiritual seeker, history buff, nature lover or a cultural explorer, at every turn in South India you can enjoy an authentic experience.
Why Choose South India?
South India is known for its diverse geographical land, comprising of the states of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and the union territory of Puducherry. Each state is known for its diverse landscape, different languages, art forms, cuisines, and unique culture and traditions.
In North India you will be able to see the Mughal splendor, while in South India know about ancient rock cut temples, Dravidian architecture structures, Ayurvedic treatment, and coastal charm.
Top Hidden Gems of South India to Discover on a Guided Tour
Here is a list of the top hidden gems of South India which you must include in your India Tour Packages for an enriching trip.
1. Chettinad, Tamil Nadu
Chettinad, in Tamil Nadu, is known for its rich cultural heritage and amazing woodwork. The Chettinad Palace, the famous heritage site was constructed by the Chettiar community and the structure is built using architectural design combining both Indian and European styles. The region is famous for its Chettinad cuisine, stories of trade, and its holy sites.
2. Araku Valley, Andhra Pradesh
On the Eastern Ghats of Andhra Pradesh is the spectacular Araku Valley, far away from the chaos, where one can find lush greenery and gushing waterfalls. Explore the wonders of this valley with the help of a guide who has knowledge about this place. Take a tour of the coffee plantations, explore the tribal culture, and visit the Borra Caves, Padmapuram Gardens, and tribal museum.
3. Badami, Aihole & Pattadakal, Karnataka
Badami, Aihole, and Pattadakal in Karnataka are lesser-known temple towns, famous for their ancient rock-cut caves and stunning Dravidian-style architectural design, constructed under the supervision of the rulers of the Chalukya dynasty. In Badami, visit the cave temples known for their sculptures of Lord Shiva and Vishnu and also has Jain statues. Aihole, and Pattadakal are known for the Dravidian and Nagara style temples, offering one of the best historical and spiritual experience.
4. Gokarna, Karnataka
Gokarna is known for its beach vibes and spiritual escape; take a guided tour to explore this beautiful beach spot. Important highlights of Gokarna include the Mahabaleshwar Temple and Om Beach.
5. Valparai, Tamil Nadu
This lesser known hill station is nestled in the Anamalai Hills in Tamil Nadu, surrounded by lush tea gardens, tropical rainforests, varied species of flora and exotic wildlife. On a guided tour, you can engage in bird watching, hiking in the jungles, nature walk, visit tea gardens and stay at the eco-lodges.
6. Bekal, Kerala
Bekal is one of the untouched coastal charms situated in North Kerala, here you can explore the famous Bekal fort, relax at the serene and peaceful beaches, Kappil Beach, witness Theyyaam performances, visit the spice market and enjoy backwater cruise in a houseboat.
7. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala-Tamil Nadu Border
For having a wildlife tour other than Periyar and Bandipur in a less crowded wildlife sanctuary, head to Chinnar known for its raw wildlife experience. On a guided tour by a reputed travel agency in India, the tour include wildlife safari, trekking through the buffer zones, visit to the tribal villages, stay in tribal huts, and be a part of eco-tourism.
8. Kumbalangi Village, Kerala
Kumbalangi Village is located near Kochi in India and is a lesser-known village, famous for being India’s first model tourism village. Guided tours are arranged by the tour operators, which includes interaction with the local fishermen, know about crab farming, learn coir making, and try fishing using traditional net.
Unique Experiences Offered by Guided Tours in South India
With India Tour Packages designed by professional tour operators, you will not only visit the places, but will be able to know the stories and have a personalized experience.
1. Heritage & Temple Walks
The temples in South India are living museums of ancient history, spirituality, intricate sculptures and deep-rooted in devotion. Visiting the temples with a guide who has knowledge, you will know its history, mythology, and architecture.
For example take a tour of Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur in the early morning hours, the guide will explain its architecture, the sacred rituals and stories about the powerful rulers of the Chola Kingdom.
2. Culinary Journeys
Every state in South India offers a unique culinary experience and the best way to know the flavors of each state is to take a food tour, know about the regional flavors and their traditional cooking style.
3. Ayurveda & Wellness Tours
If you want take a wellness tour, there is no better place than South India, as it is the birthplace of Ayurveda. Just let the tour operators know, they will include in your tour package, offering personalized Ayurvedic treatments, yoga retreats, and detox diets.
4. Festivals & Cultural Immersion
If you want to be a part of the festivals and have a rich cultural experience, discuss with the tour experts, time your trip with regional festivals like Pongal (Tamil Nadu), Onam (Kerala), Hampi Utsav (Karnataka), and Bonalu (Telangana).
5. Tribal & Rural Tourism
To discover the tribal and rural villages of South India, the expert tour operators have been partnering with tribal communities to offer authentic and sustainable travel experiences.
Why Travel with a Guided Tour Operator in South India?
Traveling independently or with your family to offbeat destinations can be challenging, as there many language barriers, transportation and remote locations with a guided tour offered by a travel agency in India enjoy a stress-free trip.
Customization: Choose your trip according to your requirement, from luxury escapes to budget friendly trips, wellness retreats and cultural tour.
Local Insight: The local guides offered by the tour operators will provide a deep insight into the history of the place.
Cultural Sensitivity: Before visiting the temples, the tour operators educate the tourists on local etiquette, temple customs, and social norms
Comfort and Safety: Have a comfortable journey traveling around the different state of South India as the tour operators ensure your safety and comfort.
Sustainable and Responsible Travel: The tour operators also offers eco-friendly and sustainable tourism.
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
