20 Best Places To Visit In South India

The southern region of India comprises Telangana, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Kerala states. Each of these states boasts unique culture, traditions, history and art forms that become a major highlight of South Indian Tourism. Apart from these diverse experiences, this colorful region is also popular for its incredible topography.

Top 20 Best Tourist Places To Visit In South India

Right from gorgeous beaches to verdant plantations, cascading waterfalls to vibrant temples, thrilling activities to serene backwater experience, there are plenty of enriching travel experiences to gather from South India. So if you are planning to visit this part of the country, here's an ultimate list of 20 best places to visit in South India. These places must be on the top of your wishlist as these places are nothing short of a dream for the travelers. Take a look!

1. Alleppey

Deemed as the Venice of the East, Alappuzha or Alleppey is a prime tourist destination in Kerala especially during the winter months. Nestled amidst green landscapes, it is no less than a marvel. You can spot a striking resemblance of Venice in Alleppey as you take a trip to this beautiful place in South India.

• Best time to visit Alleppey - November to February
• How to reach Alleppey - Nearest airbase to Alleppey is Cochin International Airport and the nearest railhead is Alleppey Railway Station, which is 78 kilometers and 4 kilometers away from the destination respectively.

2. Coorg

Coorg is probably one of the most popular travel destinations in the state of Karnataka. With coffee and tea plantations, gushing rivers, tranquil meadows, overflowing lakes, and gorgeous waterfalls, Coorg attracts travelers from India and beyond. From backpacker hostels to lavish hotels, there are plenty of options to stay in Coorg.

• Best time to visit Coorg - October to March
• How to reach Coorg - Nearest airbase to Coorg is Mangalore Airport and the nearest railhead is Mysore Railway Station, which is 135 kilometers and 120 kilometers away from the destination respectively.

3. Kabini

Famous for boasting one of the rarest wildlife sanctuaries in India, Kabini is famous for its unique experiences. It is one of the best places in Karnataka to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.  

• Best time to visit Kabini - October to February
• How to reach Kabini - Nearest airbase to Kabini is Mysore Airport and the nearest railhead is Mysore Railway Station, which is 66 kilometers and 70 kilometers away from the destination respectively.

4. Kodaikanal

One of the most spectacular hill stations in Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal can be visited during both summer and winter seasons. The misty hills covered with fog and cold weather make it one of the most visited places in South India.

• Best time to visit Kodaikanal - March to May
• How to reach Kodaikanal - Nearest airbase to Kodaikanal is Madurai Airport and the nearest railhead is Kodai Road Railway Station, which is 120 kilometers and 95 kilometers away from the destination respectively.

5. Wayanad

Tucked away in and around the lush green forests of Western Ghats, Wayanad is a popular travel destination in South India which is famous for its diverse flora and fauna. It is situated around 16 kilometers away from Sultan Batheyr in Kerala.

• Best time to visit Wayanad - October to May
• How to reach Wayanad - Nearest airbase to Kodaikanal is Karipur Airport and the nearest railhead is Kozhikode Railway Station, which is 100 kilometers and 110 kilometers away from the destination respectively.

6. Agumbe

First, of its kind, the Agumbe rainforest is one of the best places to visit in South India. Home to a wide variety of biomass, this evergreen forest is a paradise for nature lovers. Also, there are several waterfalls around Agumbe for you to chase.

• Best time to visit Agumbe - October to February
• How to reach Agumbe - Nearest airbase to Agumbe is Manguluru Airport and the nearest railhead is Udupi Railway Station, which is 95 kilometers and 50 kilometers away from the destination respectively.

7. Kumara Parvat

For a soul-filling experience, visit Kumara Parvat and trek to Pushpagiri during winters. Several nature lovers and adventurers from all over the country go on a trek on this mountain. The beauty of the cloud-filled cliffs and lush greenery is on another level especially during the winter season.

• Best time to visit Kumara Parvat - October to January and June to September
• How to reach Kumara Parvat - Nearest airbase to Kumara Parvat is Mangalore Airport and the nearest railhead is Mysore Railway Station, which is 150 kilometers and 138 kilometers away from the destination respectively.

8. Nagarjuna Sagar

Built across the River Krishna, the Nagarjuna Sagar Reservoir is a famous tourist spot in the newly formed state of Telangana. Simply gazing at the reservoir brimming with fresh water is absolutely therapeutic, a treat to mind and soul.

• Best time to visit Nagarjuna Sagar - October to March
• How to reach Nagarjuna Sagar - Nearest airbase to Nagarjuna Sagar is Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad and the nearest railhead is Macherla Railway Station, which are 126 kilometers and 24 kilometers away from the destination respectively.

9. Talakona Falls

Perhaps one of the most visited waterfalls in Andhra Pradesh, Talakona Waterfall is tucked away in the Sri Venkateswara National Park in the Chittoor district. Located at a height of 270 feet, it is one of the highest waterfalls in the state and is a must visit place in South India if you wish to grab the beauty of nature.

• Best time to visit Talakona Falls - October to January
• How to reach Talakona Falls - Nearest airbase to Talakona Falls is Tirupati Airport and the nearest railhead is Tirupati Railway Station, which is 75 kilometers and 65 kilometers away from the destination respectively.

10. Bogata Falls

Nestled in the Koivaripuram Village of Khammam District in the state of Telangana, this gorgeous waterfall is a delight for trekkers and nature lovers. It is the second largest waterfall in the state and is totally worth paying a visit. This beautiful site offers an incredible view of nature’s gift to mankind.

• Best time to visit Bogatha Falls - July to September
• How to reach Bogatha Falls - Nearest airbase to Bogata Falls is Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad and the nearest railhead is Bhadrachalam Road Railway Station, which is 330 kilometers and 120 kilometers away from the destination respectively.

11. Ooty

One of the most famous hill stations in South India, Ooty is yet another unmissable destination if you are visiting this side of the country. A beautiful visual retreat situated in the state of Tamil Nadu, Ooty is regarded as the Queen of the hills. Officially known as Udhakamandalam, it is also reckoned as the best honeymoon place in South India.   

• Best time to visit Ooty - April to June and September to November
• How to reach Ooty - Nearest airbase to Ooty is Coimbatore Airport and the nearest railhead is Mettupalayam Railway Station, which is 100 kilometers and 47 kilometers away from the destination respectively.

12. Etipothala Waterfall

Located in the town of Marchela in the Guntur district, this splendid waterfall acts as a border between the states of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. The name of this waterfall is derived from two different Telugu words, Etiya which means uplifting, and Potha which means charming. Water gushing from the height of 70 feet is a sight to behold making it one of the most beautiful places in South India.

• Best time to visit Ethipothala Waterfall - July to February
• How to reach Ethipothala Waterfall - Nearest airbase to Ethipothala Waterfall is Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad and the nearest railhead is Macherla Railway Station, which is 126 kilometers and 24 kilometers away from the destination respectively.

13. Kumarakom

This destination in Kerala is no less than a winter wonderland. Also, one of the sought after destinations for honeymooners, this place certainly has a charm which makes the trip even more memorable. Blessed with palm trees, lush green meadows, and a vast stretch of backwaters, Kumarakom is a treat for the senses.

• Best time to visit Kumarakom - November to February
• How to reach Kumarakom - Nearest airbase to Kumarakom is Kochi Airport and the nearest railhead is Kottayam Railway Station, which is 45 kilometers and 16 kilometers away from the destination respectively.

14. Munnar

Nestled in the Kannan Devan Hills in Devikulam taluk of Idukki district, Munnar is a splendid hill station in South India that has derived its name from three rivers that flow through it. Popular for being a honeymoon destination, Munnar is a place that fascinated the holiday makers with its gorgeous beauty and tranquil vibes.

• Best time to visit Munnar - December to February
• How to reach Munnar - Nearest airbase to Munnar is Cochin International Airport and the nearest railhead is Kochi Railway Station, which is 125 kilometers and 124 kilometers away from the destination respectively.

15. Araku Valley

Situated in the Visakhapatnam district of Andhra Pradesh, Araku Valley is a spellbinding hill station in South India. Araku Valley looks absolutely stunning during the winter season. It is a must-visit destination in Andhra Pradesh which spreads across the mountain ranges of the Eastern Ghats.

• Best time to visit Araku Valley - December to February
• How to reach Araku Valley - Nearest airbase to Araku Valley is Vishakhapatnam Airport and the nearest railhead is Visakhapatnam Railway Station, which is 115 kilometers and 114 kilometers away from the destination respectively.

16. Tirupati

A fascinating place in Andhra Pradesh, Tirupati must be on your travel agenda if you wish to discover the religious diversity of India. Home to Sri Venkateswara Temple which is one of the famous temples in India, this temple town is visited by a large number of pilgrims. You can also visit beautiful places like Akasaganga Teertham, Swami Pushkarini Lake, Silathoranam etc which are highlights of Tirupati Tourism.

• Best time to visit Tirupati - September to February
• How to reach Tirupati - Nearest airbase to Tirupati is Tirupati Airport in Renigunta which is 15 km away from the main city. Nearest railheads are Renigunta, Tirupati Main and Anantharajupet which are well connected to all other cities.

17. Thanjavur

A heritage town in Tamil Nadu, Thanjavur is a dream destination in South India that gives a kaleidoscopic view of religious practices and architectural marvels of the state. Home to the Great Living Chola Temples which are also recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Thanjavur is a hub where you can discover the rich heritage of India.

• Best time to visit Thanjavur - October to March
• How to reach Thanjavur - The nearest airbase to Thanjavur is Tiruchirapalli International Airport and the nearest railhead is also in Tiruchirapalli which is about 59 kms away from the heritage city.

18. Hampi

An ancient village in Karnataka, Hampi is yet another gem of South Indian Tourism which attracts a lot of tourists to its famous relics of Vijayanagar dynasty. Regarded as the famous UNESCO World Heritage site, this stunning place is home to many marvelous sites that display exceptional craftsmanship through its gorgeous monolithic sculptures and monuments. Also known as the bouldering capital of India, Hampi is a wonderful place for rock climbers as well.

• Best time to visit Hampi - October to February
• How to reach Hampi - The nearest airbase to Hampi is in Bellary which is about 60 km away. The nearest railhead is in Hospet which is about 12 km away from Hampi.

19. Gokarna

A small temple town on the coastal belt of Karnataka, Gokarna is known as a pilgrimage place that is home to revered Mahabaleshwar Temple. It is also famous for its pristine beaches making it a must visit place in South India especially for people who are looking for peaceful and relaxing vacation spots.

• Best time to visit Gokarna - October to March
• How to reach Gokarna - Nearest airbase to Gokarna is Dabolim airport in Goa which is about 145 km away. The nearest railhead is Gokarna road which is about 10 km from the main city.

20. Mahabalipuram

Situated on the Coromandel Coast along the Bay of Bengal, Mahabalipuram is a must visit place in the state of Tamil Nadu. It is famous for its intricately carved temples, rock-cut caves, silvery beaches, Crocodile Bank and many other beautiful sites such as Arjuna's Penance, Alamparai Fort and whatnot.

• Best time to visit Mahabalipuram - October and March
• How to reach Mahabalipuram - The best way to reach Mahabalipuram is by reaching Chennai as both the nearest airbase and the nearest railway station are located in Chennai. It is about 40 kms away from Mahabalipuram.

FAQs Related To South India Tourism

Q. Which is the best place to visit in South India?
A. You can consider Munnar, Alleppey and Coorg as the best places to visit in South India as these are a real gem.

Q. Which is the coolest place to visit in South India?
A. You can consider Gokarna as the coolest place in South India since it has a laid back atmosphere which transports you to another world.

Q. Which is the No. 1 tourist place in South India?
A. It is very difficult to pick the number 1 place in South India as every place has something unique to offer. However, Kerala is extremely popular among the tourists so we can call it the No.1 tourist place.

Phew! Listing down these places to visit in South India made us feel like visiting all these places right now! Do you also want to visit these tourist places in South India? Then make your way to Adotrip, and book the cheapest flight tickets, hotels, tour packages, buses and more. With us, nothing is far!