The Southern half of India (comprised of historical cities like Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, etc.) is on the ‘to-visit’ list of almost every individual in India and across the world as this part of India really has a distinct culture that makes it a great place one must visit before dying. With a distinctive essence and doused in a riot of rich cultures and colors, this part of India boasts of its well-preserved cultural heritage, making it one of the top-visited places by global tourists. So if you are also planning for your South India tour, here is a guide to help you with things you must not miss and craft your travel itinerary to make the most of your visit to South India.
Visit Heritage Havens
One of the best parts about South India is that this is a place known as the land of heritage monuments such as Mysore Palace which is dazzlingly lit up every Sunday evening. Over centuries, history has seen various dynasties rising and falling, but each of them has left its mark on the land through exquisitely crafted temples, each of them used as places of worship even today. So, when you plan for South India tour with your loved ones, make sure to not skip visiting some famous temples like the Meenakshi Temple of Madurai, Tanjore Temple in Thanjavur, etc. Some of them have also been marked as UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the 8th-century temples of Mahabalipuram, having spectacular rock-cut art on their walls and pillars. Apart from this, you must also visit the regal palaces and forts galore, such as the Mysore Palace.
Stay at Houseboats
Let me make it clear, being at the houseboats is no more like spending time on those traditional boats that would often stink. As you start your trip to Kerala holidays or other places of South India, you’ll be greeted by amazingly tranquil lake resorts that are set on the fringes of various lakes like Vembanad, offering an unmatched experience like the fresh breeze, eyegasmic views and a lot more. You might also book a package that has a stay at houseboats so that you don’t have to take the hassle of booking the boat on your own.
So, you can experience the reserves of freshwater lakes and lagoons stretch on a modern and giant houseboat. Make sure to try your hands at fishing and even ask the chef on board to cook for a delicious supper. Also, you can rejuvenate yourself with an authentic Ayurveda treatment in the comfort of your boat.
Experience Lush Green Munnar
There is no doubt that global tourists visit Munnar frequently on South India tours as it is a lush green paradise with spice plantations, sprawling tea gardens, and many other attractions. Yes, you can call it a place right out of the fairytales. So when you are planning for a visit to South India, make sure to not avoid a chance to spend a night at a hill cottage facing the mist-laden hills so you can experience waking up to the chirping birds and walking through the clouds on your Kerala holidays. In Munnar, you should try visiting famous places like Attukal Waterfalls, Anamudi, Pothamedu View Point and also spend some riveting moments at the Elephant Park. Whether you are planning a solo trip or a family vacation, Munnar should be on your list.
Pondicherry’s Colonial Flair
Do you have a hidden desire to experience the past and would like to spend a day scrolling through the Colonial city? If yes, then here’s your chance to live your dream life at Pondicherry where you can enjoy the French flair of the coastal town during your tour of India. Here, you can try your hands on the unique regional cuisine, a fusion of Indian and French cookery. Not many people know, but Pondicherry was a French colony for several hundred years.
Now that India has become a free country and moving towards an advanced country, the French influence remains strong even today in the architecture and cuisines of Pondicherry. There’s a never-ending list of things you can do when you are in Pondicherry like enjoying a walk down the streets along the beautiful Promenade, dining at many quaint restaurants and a lot more. Auroville is a very important place that you must visit as this is based on the premise of establishing and forging human unity.
Explore Hampi’s Temples & Palaces
If you are visiting South India, you cannot miss the opportunity to explore the beautiful Hampi, which attracts global tourists with its amazing temples and palaces that still exude charm.. There are various temples located at the former capital of the Vijayanagar kings, each of them having amazing barren rock landscapes. The mystical beauty of these ruins is still a puzzle for archaeologists. When at Hampi, make sure to explore the famous temples like Virupaksha Temple, the VijayaVithala Temple, the Krishna Temple and some temples located on the hills.
Go on a Plantation Tour
One of the amazing things you must try when visiting on Kerala holidays is trying your hands at the plantation. But before that, make sure to visit the famous Tea Museum of Munnar, which tells you everything about the history of tea cultivation in South India. You should rent a bicycle to explore the lush, green plantation in its real form. Wayanad is another popular hill station destination, located in the Western Ghats. This is known for its rolling coffee and spice plantations.
So when you are planning for South India tour, make sure to enjoy the above-mentioned things, which are just a few of the endless things you can enjoy. Make sure to hire a local guide who can help you with everything related to the places you are visiting so you can feel everything as a historian.