South India is where every kind of traveller finds joy—temples, beaches, hills, and tasty food all in one place. The culture is warm, the views are stunning, and every state has something special to make your trip memorable.
Visiting South India is a truly unique experience. From ancient temples to lush green hills, calm backwaters to beautiful beaches, this part of the country is something else. The culture here is deep-rooted and full of colours. When you explore the places to visit in South India, you don’t just see places—you feel them.
Every state in South India—be it Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, or Telangana—has its own beauty. The food is amazing, the art and music are soul-touching, and the festivals are celebrated with great energy.
Whether you want a quiet holiday or an adventure trip, this region fits all kinds of travel plans. From the coffee plantations of Coorg to the backwaters of Alleppey, spiritual vibe, wildlife, and whatnot, the options are endless. We at Viacation offer specially designed South India tour packages that cover all the must-visit places. Let’s explore the top places to visit in South India to make your trip easy, comfortable, and full of great memories.
Karnataka is a beautiful state in South India filled with hills, beaches, forests, and heritage cities. Whether you love nature, adventure, or history, this place has something for everyone. Some of the best places to visit in South India are right here in Karnataka, let’s explore these gems:
Coorg is a peaceful hill station famous for its coffee plantations and misty mountains. It’s great for people who love calm and nature. You can visit Abbey Falls, Raja’s Seat, and the Namdroling Monastery here. Trekking at Tadiandamol and river rafting in the Barapole River are also popular. The cool climate and lush green views make Coorg one of the most relaxing places in Karnataka.
Bangalore, also called the “Silicon Valley of India,” is famous for its year-round great weather and tech parks. But it’s not just about IT. The city also has lovely parks like Cubbon Park and Lalbagh Botanical Garden. Bangalore is a great combination of modern life and greenery, making it one of the top 10 places to visit in South India.
You can explore Bangalore Palace and shop at Commercial Street. For foodies, there are hundreds of cafes and restaurants.
Chikmagalur is another lovely hill station filled with coffee estates and forests. It’s perfect for weekend trips and quick getaways. You can visit Mullayanagiri, the highest peak in Karnataka, for amazing views. Other spots include Baba Budangiri and Hebbe Falls. If you enjoy peaceful walks, fresh air, and tasty coffee, Chikmagalur is a must-visit in South India.
Sakleshpur is a quiet hill town surrounded by green hills and spice plantations. It’s one of those hidden gems when talking about places to visit in South India. It’s not very crowded, so it’s perfect if you want to escape the noise. Attractions include the Manjarabad Fort, Bisle Ghat, and beautiful trekking routes. You can also enjoy the Hemavathi River.
Dandeli is a great spot for adventure lovers. Located in the Western Ghats, this place is full of thick forests and wildlife. It’s famous for white water rafting on the Kali River. You can also go for jungle safaris, bird watching, and ziplining. Visit the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary and Syntheri Rocks. It’s the best pick for a mix of nature and thrill.
Mysore is among the top 10 best places to visit in South India, a great place for culture lovers as it’s full of royal beauty and history. The grand Mysore Palace is a major attraction with beautiful architecture. During Dussehra, the whole city lights up and looks magical. Other places to visit are Chamundi Hills, Brindavan Gardens, and the Mysore Zoo. It’s also famous for sandalwood and Mysore Pak.
Mangalore is a coastal city famous for its beaches and temples. It’s a mix of traditions and modern vibes. Popular beaches here are Panambur Beach and Tannirbhavi Beach. You can also visit Kudroli Temple, St. Aloysius Chapel, and local fish markets. Don’t forget to try the Mangalorean cuisine, especially the seafood. Mangalore is a great place for a short holiday by the sea.
Kerala, also called “God’s Own Country”, is one of the most beautiful. Known for its greenery, backwaters, and peaceful beaches, Kerala is perfect for a relaxed holiday with nature, culture, and great food.
Munnar is a hill station in Kerala, famous for its tea gardens, cool weather, and misty mountains. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the greenery all around. It’s one of the best places to visit in South India for a peaceful vacation. Top places to visit in Munnar include the Tea Museum, Eravikulam National Park, and Mattupetty Dam. The scenic views of Anamudi Peak and Echo Point make this town ideal for nature lovers and honeymooners.
Wayanad is a quiet and green district in Kerala with forests, waterfalls, and wildlife. It is a great escape from city life. Edakkal Caves with ancient carvings, Soochipara Waterfalls, and Banasura Sagar Dam are some if its popular attractions. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is home to elephants and other animals. You can also enjoy trekking and camping in Wayanad. If you love nature and want peace, Wayanad is a must-visit in South India for a refreshing break.
Cochin, also known as Kochi, is a mix of modern city life and old-world beauty. It’s one of the top 10 places to visit in South India for a cultural experience. It’s a historic port city that has Portuguese, Dutch, and British influence. Fort Kochi is famous for its Chinese fishing nets, colonial buildings, and churches. Mattancherry Palace and the Jew Town area are also popular, and Marine Drive and Lulu International Shopping Mall show the city’s modern side.
Kovalam is a beach town near Thiruvananthapuram, loved for its beautiful coastline. The most famous spot is the Lighthouse Beach, perfect for sunbathing and beach walks. You can also visit Hawah Beach and Samudra Beach. Water sports like surfing and parasailing are available. Ayurveda massages and seaside cafes make the place even more relaxing. Kovalam is ideal for a beach holiday, especially if you want an escape from the crowd.
Alleppey is known as the “Venice of the East” because of its lovely backwaters and houseboat stays. The best way to enjoy this place is by staying overnight on a houseboat and cruising through the calm waters. Popular spots include Alappuzha Beach, Vembanad Lake, and the famous Snake Boat Races. Alleppey is a unique destination, and if you’re searching for peaceful water views, it’s one of the best places to visit in South India.
Thekkady is home to the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can go on a boat ride and see elephants, deer, and sometimes even tigers. The area is full of spice plantations, so you can take a spice tour too. Visit the Periyar Lake, do bamboo rafting, or go for a jungle trek. The cool weather and green surroundings make Thekkady a calm and adventurous spot, perfect for nature lovers and families.
Trivandrum, officially known as Thiruvananthapuram, is the capital of Kerala. It’s a mix of tradition and modern life. The famous Padmanabhaswamy Temple is the main attraction here. You can also visit the Napier Museum, Kanakakunnu Palace, and Shankumugham Beach. The city is also close to Varkala and Kovalam. Trivandrum is a good stop if you want to explore both religious and cultural places to visit in South India without travelling too far.
Tamil Nadu is one of the most culturally rich and beautiful states in South India. From peaceful hill stations to calm beaches, and from ancient temples to colonial towns, it has a lot to explore.
Ooty is a popular hill station in Tamil Nadu, often called the “Queen of Hills.” Surrounded by tea gardens and misty hills, Ooty is perfect for a relaxing vacation. The main attractions include Ooty Lake, Botanical Gardens, Rose Garden, and the Nilgiri Mountain Railway. Don’t miss the toy train ride for stunning views. It’s a great escape from the heat and noise of city life.
Undoubtedly, one of the top 10 places to visit in South India. Coimbatore is a busy city known for its industries and temples. It’s also close to many natural attractions. You can visit the famous Marudamalai Temple, Perur Pateeswarar Temple, and enjoy peaceful evenings at the Singanallur Lake. Don’t miss the Isha Yoga Centre and the giant Adiyogi statue. Coimbatore is a good base for visiting nearby hill stations and waterfalls.
Pondicherry is a coastal town with a French touch. It’s known for its clean beaches, colourful streets, and peaceful vibe. Some famous places to visit are Promenade Beach, Auroville, Rock Beach, and the French Quarter. Pondicherry offers a mix of Indian and French culture, making it a unique spot in Tamil Nadu. It’s a calm and charming place to relax and explore.
Kodaikanal is a quiet hill station known for its lakes, forests, and cool weather. Located in the Western Ghats, it’s a perfect spot for nature lovers. Places to see include Kodaikanal Lake, Coaker’s Walk, Bryant Park, and Pillar Rocks. The fresh air, peaceful atmosphere, and scenic beauty make it a favourite holiday spot in Tamil Nadu.
Chennai is the capital city of Tamil Nadu, and it’s one of the top places to visit in South India. It has beautiful beaches like Marina Beach, historical places like Fort St. George, and cultural spots like Kapaleeshwarar Temple and Santhome Church. You can also visit the Government Museum and enjoy local South Indian food.
Masinagudi is a small and peaceful place near the Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary. It’s great for those who love nature and wildlife. You can enjoy jungle safaris, bird watching, and peaceful forest stays. The area is full of greenery and animals like deer, elephants, and even tigers. It’s perfect for a quiet and adventurous holiday away from the city.
Coonoor is another lovely hill station in the Nilgiris, close to Ooty but quieter. It’s surrounded by tea gardens and offers great views of the hills. Sim’s Park, Dolphin’s Nose, and the Heritage Train ride are its main attractions. Coonoor is ideal for long walks, fresh air, and scenic beauty. It’s also a great place to taste fresh tea and homemade chocolates.
Andhra Pradesh is a mix of beautiful beaches, peaceful hills, spiritual sites, and historic places. Whether you want nature, temples, or city life, Andhra Pradesh will make you experience all of it at once.
Hyderabad, though officially in Telangana now, still holds cultural roots in Andhra Pradesh. The city is famous for its iconic Charminar and the grand Golconda Fort. Don’t miss Ramoji Film City and Hussain Sagar Lake. Street food lovers must try Hyderabadi biryani. The mix of old markets like the Laad Bazaar and modern malls makes it exciting for every traveler.
Horsley Hills is a peaceful hill station perfect for a short escape. Surrounded by thick forests, it offers cool weather and calm views. You can visit the View Point, Environmental Park, and the famous Mallamma Temple. It’s a great place for nature walks and relaxing in the fresh air.
Visakhapatnam, also called Vizag, is a beautiful coastal city. It’s one of the top 10 best places to visit in South India for beach and hill lovers. It has lovely beaches like RK Beach and Rushikonda. You can visit Kailasagiri Hill Park for great views and the Submarine Museum for something unique. Araku Valley and Borra Caves nearby are perfect for a day trip.
Tirupati is one of the most famous spiritual places in India. The main attraction is the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, where lakhs of devotees come every year. Besides the temple, visit the ISKCON Temple and Sri Vari Museum. The town is completely immersed in a strong spiritual feel, and pilgrims from across the country visit Tirupati regularly.
Chittoor is known for its natural beauty and temples. The Kaundinya Wildlife Sanctuary is perfect for those who love nature and animals. You can also visit the famous Kanipakam Vinayaka Temple and Nagalapuram Falls. It’s close to Tirupati, so many visitors cover both places together. Chittoor is less crowded, which makes it good for quiet getaways.
A. Munnar, Coorg, Ooty, and Alleppey are some of the best honeymoon destinations in South India. These places have a romantic weather year-round. Couples love the greenery, hills, backwaters, and tea gardens. These destinations are perfect for a relaxing and private holiday together.
A. Ooty, Munnar, Kodaikanal, Coorg, and Wayanad are the most popular places for a summer vacation in South India. These hill stations offer cool weather and fresh air. Families and couples visit here to explore its green valleys, waterfalls, and lakes.
A. Hampi in Karnataka is known as “Little Israel of India.” Many Israeli tourists visit this place, giving it a unique vibe. The village of Hampi has cafes with Hebrew menus and Israeli food. It is popular for its ancient temples, rocky landscapes, and peaceful riverside views.
A. Some famous beaches in South India include Marina Beach in Chennai, Kovalam Beach in Kerala, Gokarna Beach in Karnataka, and RK Beach in Visakhapatnam. These beaches are the most popular places to visit in South India, and are perfect for evening walks, sunsets, and water activities.
A. South India’s summer is mostly hot and humid, especially in coastal areas. Cities like Chennai and Hyderabad can get very warm. However, hill stations like Ooty, Munnar, and Coorg have cool and pleasant weather. These places are best for escaping the summer heat.
A. Kerala is often called the most beautiful part of South India. It has backwaters, beaches, forests, and hill stations. Places like Munnar, Alleppey, and Wayanad attract nature lovers. The mix of culture, greenery, and peaceful spots makes Kerala a top choice for all types of travelers.
