These are the most beautiful places in South India

India is a land of superlatives and the southern states do not disappoint even the most demanding visitors. With oceans on three sides, high mountain ranges, rivers and Ghats, it is still difficult to choose which places in South India you should visit.

In the south of India, there is something special to discover everywhere. Enjoy the picturesque backwaters in Alleppey, wander through the tea plantations in Munnar, explore the beautiful Coorg or admire the fairy-tale landscapes in Kodaikanal. You could spend hours describing all the beautiful places in India, and months to actually visit them all.

In the south of India, every province has its own philosophy, past, traditions, and heritage. This makes the region a source of special and inspiring experiences for every tourist. There is so much to see, but where do you really have to go? Below you will find an overview of the most beautiful places in South India. 

These are the most beautiful places in South India

- Munnar

- Hampi  

- Gandikota 

- Mysore 

- Gokarna  

- Coorg 

- Tirupati  

- Kodaikanal 

- Mahabalipuram 

- Pondicherry

Munnar: Lakes and tea plantations

This picturesque town in Kerala is known for its tea and herb gardens, beautiful lakes and green mountain tops. It is located in the West Ghats mountain range and is seen as the headquarters for one of the largest tea plantations in the world. 

Munnar is strategically located on the banks of three rivers: the Nallathanni, Periavaru, and Madupetti. It is also the base for visiting various tourist highlights in the area. Sights include the Matupettu dam, the tea museum and the viewpoint of Pothamedu. But don't forget to climb to the top of Anamudi. This is the highest mountain in the south of India and there are several hiking trails going up.

Best travel time: February to May Things to do: Hiking, wildlife watching, buying souvenirs such as tea and herbs, learning to make tea according to local traditions and much more.

Hampi: History and heritage

For many travelers, Hampi is the favorite destination in India when it comes to history and heritage. The city is on the UNESCO World Heritage List and is beautifully situated in an impressive landscape of giant boulders. You will find almost 500 monuments, ruins, temples and relics from a bygone era. Hampi was the last known capital of the Vijayanagar empire in 1500 and was then considered the richest and second-largest city in the world.

In addition to its heritage, the city is also known for its relaxed atmosphere and is a popular stop for backpackers. 

Also read: Places to visit in ooty or Munnar

Hampi, Karnataka

Best travel time: October to March Things to do: Visit the Virupaksha temples, climb the rocks for the view and view the various ruins.

Gandikota: The Grand Canyon of India

Gandikota in Andhra Pradesh shows strong similarities with the Grand Canyon in American Arizona. The rocky gorge was carved out by a river for millions of years and the result is impressive. This beautiful place in the Kadapa district is therefore definitely worth a visit. 

The best way to view the spectacular gorge is during a walk. And not only the view is beautiful, in the village, you can also view the old Gandikota fortress that lies at the top of the gorge. Gandikota itself is known for its beautiful views and good atmosphere and is one of the finest destinations in the whole of South India.

Gandikota, Andhra Pradesh

Best travel time: September to February Things to do: Hiking, visit the impressive Belum Caves and watch the sunset from the shores of Rayalacheruvu Lake.

Mysore: The largest palace in India

Located at an altitude of 763 meters and surrounded by the hills of Chamundi in Karnataka, you will find the town of Mysore. A place is known for the beautiful palace that is still in use today by the royal family. Mysore has an impressive history and is a feast for the eyes, especially when the many thousands of lights illuminate the palace at night. 

What else can you do in the area? You should definitely visit the well-kept botanical garden Brindavan and the spectacular Jagmohan palace for the impressive art collection. The town itself still has the charm of yesteryear and you can see a number of well-known buildings, temples, and palaces.

Mysore, Karnataka

Best travel time: September to May Things to do: Visit the Mysore Palace and the Chamundi Hill Temple, explore the Mysore Zoo.

Also Read: Top 10 winter sun destinations

Gokarna: Palm trees, sea, and golden sandy beaches

Gokarna has been a Hindu pilgrimage site for centuries, but nowadays there are also many beach lovers and backpackers. Gokarna is located on the banks of the Karwar and is popular for its pristine beaches and beautiful temples. 

The beaches are the ideal destination for a wonderful relaxing holiday. There are rows of palm trees along the coast, the water of the sea is azure blue and the beach is white. Please note: because Gokarna is a place of pilgrimage, you will only find vegetarian dishes here in the restaurants.

Gokarna, Karnataka

Best travel time: October to March Things to do: Laze on the beach, visit the age-old Mahableshwar and Maha Ganpati temples and enjoy water sports such as snorkeling and parasailing.