5 of the Best Places to Visit in South India

India is every traveller’s dream destination. While the northern part of the country is teeming with colonial architecture and a delightful medley of cultures, the southern India is a haven of natural beauty, abundant with magical hills, picturesque backwaters and intricately carved temples.

Next time you book flights to India, do remember India is more than just Agra’s Taj Mahal and Delhi’s Red Fort. Read on and find out more about South India’s major lures.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands

A peaceful retreat on the earth, Andaman and Nicobar is a group of around 600 islands in the Bay of Bengal. One of the seven union territories of India, this place is an ideal tourist destination drawing visitors from all over the world. Magnificent beaches, mesmerising corals, captivating marine life and the remains of Stone Age are some of the highlights of this heavenly paradise. Presenting delightful adventure activities such as scuba diving, trekking, and snorkelling, the islands amaze you with a holiday filled with thrilling experiences.

Coorg, Karnataka

Also known as Kodagu district, Coorg is a beautiful tourist spot situated at the edge of Western Ghats. It is the most famed coffee producing hill station in India attracting nature lovers with its perpetually misty landscape and forest covered hills. A visit to this rural district is not complete without exploring its spice and coffee plantations. Kushalnagar, Virajpet, Somwarpet and Pollibetta are some of the beautiful towns to explore here.

Goa

Synonymous with sun, sand and surf, Goa is one of the best places to revel in the beauty of India. Due to its stunning architecture and popular party scene, this coastal state in Western India is perhaps the best known Indian holiday destination worldwide. Reflecting a colourful blend of Indian and Portuguese culture, Goa is all about the beaches, churches and trance parties. You can also enjoy fun activities like scuba diving, snorkelling, parasailing, rafting, trekking and canyoning here.

Alleppey, Kerala

Loved for its pristine backwaters and floating houseboats, Alleppey, a beautiful city in Kerala, sits along the Arabian Sea. Surfing on its calm waters and staying at one of the houseboats are the most delightful experiences to indulge in here. Known as the “Venice of the east”, the city amazes with its beaches, temples and traditional boat races. With a huge range of Ayurvedic spas and wellness centres, it makes for an ideal relaxation spot in Kerala.

Ooty, Tamil Nadu

Often referred to as “Queen of hill stations”, Ooty is another holiday destination in India where a large number of tourists visit every year. Situated at an altitude of 2,240 metres above sea level, it majorly attracts honeymooners and adventure seekers. The “Nilgiris” or the “Blue Mountains” are the most popular attraction of this place whereas the striking winding roads hold their own charm. While Ooty Lake and Pykara Lake are the best places to attract nature enthusiasts, Fernhill Bungalow and St. Stephen’s Church are some of the spots that excite art lovers.