15 Splendid Places To Visit In South India

South India has always been the popular choice for Indian and international tourists when it comes to a holiday destination. The sea, coupled with great experiences to enjoy, is what has visitors flocking here.

While there are endless choices when it comes to picking the perfect holiday destination in South India, there are some that are a cut above. These places are home to some of the best sites and experiences for tourists to enjoy. We’ve listed them all in our guide to the best tourist places to see in South India.

Tourist Places In South India: Karnataka

1. Coorg

Coorg is blessed with one of the best landscapes in South India. It is a haven for explorers, nature and adventure sports lovers. The vast green lands means that Coorg is great for hiking.

There’s also dense forests and wildlife to explore. Some good places to see in Coorg are Namdroling Monastery, Talakaveri Temple, Mallalli Falls, Talakaveri.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March for Adventure Sports, March to May if you just want to relax
• Where to Stay : Treebo Hotels in Coorg

2. Hampi

Hampi is a  great tourist destination. The Karnataka city has been awarded a UNESCO certificate because it is home to some of the best ancient temples and sites in India.

In Hampi, you can explore the old Vijayanagara empire, have a look at its mighty architectures and browse through gorgeous temples, rock formations and monoliths. Make sure you visit the Virupaksha Temple, Matanga Hill and the Achyutaraya Temple.

• Best Time to Visit: August to March

3. Mysore

Mysore is popular for the Mysore Palace. This palace is one of the grandest in South India and it looks stunning at night. Make sure you stay till late evening to watch the Mysore Palace when it is lit with over a lakh lamps.

Another great place to see is the Jaganmohan Palace, those that love the outdoors must visit the Brindavan Gardens and the Karanji Lake.

• Best Time to Visit: October to May  
• Where to Stay :Hotels in Mysore

4. Gokarna

Gokarna might not be as popular as Goa, but it is still up there as one of the top tourist destinations in South India. The beaches in Gokarna are mostly laidback, cosy and serene.

Some of them have water sports such as parasailing, snorkeling and banana boat rides. Some amazing beaches to visit in Gokarna are Kudle, Om, Half Moon and Paradise. Those looking to do a bit of sightseeing can visit the stunning temples in Gokarna.

• Best Time to Visit: October to May

5. Chikmagalur

If you are looking to step back in time and take a break from t bustling city life, Chikmagalur should be the place for your next destination. Home to serene coffee plantations and stunning hills, outdoor enthusiasts will love exploring Chikmagalur.

Make sure to hike up to the Hebbe Falls or Mullayanagiri. Camp at Ballalarayana Durga or enjoy long walks in the coffee plantations.

• Best Time to Visit: October to May
• Where to Stay :Hotels in Chikmagalur

Tourist Places In South India: Tamil Nadu

1. Ooty

When in Ooty, you will think you are in paradise. Surrounded by the magnificent Nilgiri mountains, Ooty has always been the top choice for travellers. There are a lot of temples that one can see in Ooty, all built in true Dravidian architectural style. Explorers and nature lovers will love walking in the many gardens in Ooty and on the hills.

• Best time to visit: October to June
• Where to Stay : Hotels in Ooty 

2. Kodaikanal

In Tamil Nadu, there is no better place for a holiday than Kodaikanal, known as the “Princess of Hill Stations”. The misty hills are the perfect setting for a holiday, especially if you love nature and the outdoors. It’s also equally good for a summer escape as the weather is not too hot. Coaker’s Walk, Silver Cascade and Kodai Lake are must see places on your visit to this hill station.  

• Best Time to Visit: April to July, October to March
• Where to Stay : Hotels in Kodaikanal

3. Mahabalipuram

Visiting Mahabalipuram is like a live history lesson. In this historical town, tourists can get to see ancient Hindu temples and figurines from mythology. The most famous temple in Mahabalipuram is Shore. Another great site to see is Krishna’s Butter Ball, a huge rock – resting on a hill.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March

4. Madurai

Madurai is a hub of Tamil culture. Visiting this place will give you a deep understanding of it. From temples to food and festivals, everything is inspiring about Madurai.

The Meenakshi Temple is one of the oldest in Tamil Nadu. Dedicated to goddess Parvati, this temple should be on every traveller’s must-visit list. For a taste of Tamil art, visit the famous Vilachery Pottery Village in Madurai.

• Best Time to Visit: October to May
• Where to Stay : Hotels in Madurai

5. Thanjavur

Rooted in Tamil history, Thanjavur is home to iconic temples and is a hub for art and culture. Every tourist that loves exploring art and Indian architecture should pay a visit to this town. Begin your trip by first visiting the temples in the town; start with the exemplary Brihadeeswarar temple. In the temple premises, they have regular Bharatanatyam recitals.

• Best Time to Visit: December to March  

Tourist Places In South India: Kerala

1. Alleppey

Called the Venice of the East, Alleppey gives tourists the perfect platform to explore the best portions of the backwaters. The lazy waters, swaying palm trees and peaceful stillness makes Alleppey the ideal getaway spot for a quick, relaxing holiday.

Alappuzha Beach is a great place to unwind and soak in the lovely surroundings. Other good places to visit are the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Marari Beach and the Punnamada Lake.

• Best Time to visit: October to May
• Where to Stay :Hotels in Alleppy

2. Munnar

Munnar is amazing for those who love the outdoors. Surrounded by splendid green hills, the climate in Munnar for most parts of the year is excellent for exploring. In Munnar, you can choose to visit the many tea and coffee plantations around or engage in thrilling adventure sports.

• Best Time to Visit: October to May
• Where to Stay : Hotels in Munnar

3. Kumarakom

Kumarakom might not be as popular as other places in Kerala, but this little hamlet is a great place for a holiday. Whether you are going with friends, family or even on a romantic holiday, there’s something for you to enjoy in Kumarakom.

There’s good food to savour and scenic nature trails. You can even play a few adventure sports.

• Best Time to Visit:  October to May

4. Wayanad

Wayanad is an ideal holiday destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. There are plenty of waterfalls around the place that are ideal for treks and swimming. There’s also a sanctuary in Wayanad and a few archaeological sites to see. Some must visit places are Chembra Peak, Neelimala, and Pakshipathalam.

• Best Time to Visit: October to May
• Where to Stay : Hotels in Wayanad

5. Thekkady

The trek from Moozhiyar to Thekkady Gavi in Thekkady is one of the most enjoyable and scenic ones in Kerala. Anyone who visits Thekkady has to go on this trek. Apart from trekking in Thekkady, you can enjoy boating at the lakes or you can tour the many sanctuaries and wildlife parks in and around the area.

• Best Time to Visit: October to February  
• Where to Stay : Hotels in Thekkady

South India has some great places to see and explore. But, if you want to enjoy a splendid holiday, it is best that you visit any of these 15 places we have mentioned in this article.

If you are looking for something specific to enjoy at these places or are looking for more tourist places to visit in India, write a comment below with your question and we will suggest you with great places to visit.