30 Best Places to Visit in South India 2024 with key Attractions

South India has a lot more to offer than mere beaches and spice plantations. It’s a melting pot of cultures, cuisines, traditions, and languages. From honeymooning couples to families, the southern states of Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu welcome tourists with warmth and love. There’s something to do for everyone here – water sports for the adventurous, backwaters for the romantics, trekking trails for hikers, and panoramic vistas for nature lovers. Read ahead to know about the top places to visit in South India:

Places to Visit in South India

1. Coorg, Karnataka

Coorg | #1 of 30 Places to Visit in South India

Surrounded by imposing mountains and covered by mist, Coorg is a nature lover’s paradise. This small town in Karnataka is best known for its diverse flora and fauna and aromatic spices and coffee plantations. From waterfalls and trekking routes to forts and temples, there’s plenty to explore in Coorg. It is also home to one of the few Tibetan settlements in Southern India. Apart from sightseeing, there’s plenty of culture, retail therapy, and delicious food to be indulged in.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Key Attractions: Abbey Falls, Iruppu Falls, Tadiandamol Peak, Raja’s Seat, Talacauvery, Namdroling Monastery, Nagarhole National Park, Barapole River, Madikeri Fort, Omkareshwara Temple, and Gaddige Raja’s Tomb. See more places to visit in Coorg
• Nearest Airport: Mysore Airport, Mangalore Airport, and Kempegowda International Airport, Bangalore
• Nearest Railway Station: Mysore
• Places to Stay: Hotels in Coorg, Budget Hotels in Coorg, Couple Friendly Hotels in Coorg

2. Wayanad, Kerala

Wayanad | #2 of 30 Places to Visit in South India

Wayanad, one of the most visited hill stations in Kerala, beckons trekking enthusiasts and nature lovers. Its rolling hills and lush green forests are home to a number of animals and birds. After the monsoons, the waterfalls too come alive with a renewed spirit. The dams and lakes in Wayanad are ideal for an afternoon picnic. And then there are the temples and caves waiting to be explored.

• Best Time to Visit: October to May
• Key Attractions: Banasura Dam, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Edakkal Caves, Chembra Peak, Soochipara Waterfalls, Kuruvadweep, Thirunelli Temple, Kanthanpara Waterfalls, Wayanad Heritage Museum, and Neelimala Viewpoint see more places to visit in Wayanad
• Nearest Airport: Calicut International Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: Kozhikode

3. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

Kodaikanal | #3 of 30 Places to Visit in South India

The cool breeze of Kodaikanal, a hill town in Tamil Nadu, is a welcome respite from the humidity typically associated with southern India. Nestled amidst the misty clouds, this hill station is rightly called the Princess of Hill Stations. There are rambling paths for trekkers, lakes to spend an afternoon by, waterfalls to bathe in and plenty more. Even the trees and plants here are unique. If you time your visit right, you may be able to see the Kurunji shrubs in bloom. At night, a trip to the observatory takes you to a whole new world.

• Best Time to Visit: October to June
• Key Attractions: Kodaikanal Lake, Bryant Park, Silver Cascade Falls, Pillar Rocks, Bear Shola Falls, Guna Cave or Devil’s Kitchen, Moir Point, Thalaiyar Falls, Kurinji Andavar Temple, and Kodaikanal Solar Observatory. Learn more about lakes in Kodaikanal
• Nearest Airport: Madurai International Airport and Coimbatore International Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: Kodai Road
• Places to Stay: Hotels in Kodaikanal, Budget Hotels in Kodaikanal, Couple Friendly Hotels in Kodaikanal
• Recommended Read: Places to visit in Kodaikanal

Also Read: Best Places to Visit in April in India

4. Ooty and Coonoor, Tamil Nadu

Ooty and Coonoor | #4 of 30 Places to Visit in South India

Ooty, the Queen of Hill Stations, balances the hustle and bustle of city life with expansive tea gardens. The charming bungalows from the British-Raj era add a romantic flavor to Ooty, making it one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in South India. Its famous miniature toy train is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a delight for people of all ages. One can take a toy train ride to Coonoor from Ooty another nearby hill station. Covering a distance of 19 km, the rail route offers a revitalizing travel experience. There are also museums, churches and a tea factory in Ooty that should find a place in your itinerary.

• Best Time to Visit: October to June
• Key Attractions: Government Botanical Garden, Government Rose Garden, The Tea Factory and Tea Museum, St. Stephen’s Church, Thread Garden, Nilgiri Mountain Railway Line, Government Museum, Doddabetta, Ooty Lake, Kamaraj Sagar Dam, Catherine Falls. Dolphin’s Nose, and Deer Park. Learn more about historical places in Ooty
• Nearest Airport: Coimbatore International Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: Mettupalayam Railway Station
• Places to Stay: Hotels in Ooty, Budget Hotels in Ooty, Couple Friendly Hotels in Ooty

5. Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Chennai | #5 of 30 Places to Visit in South India

Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, is a blend of the old and the new. It is often described as the keeper of South Indian traditions. While on one hand, it flaunts spectacular architecture from the city’s past, on the other, it is known for its cosmopolitan lifestyle, quirky cafes and boutique stores. The city also boasts of the second-longest urban beach in the world. If you’re an adventure enthusiast, there’s plenty to do here. With something to offer to everyone, Chennai is one of the most visited family destinations in South India.

• Best Time to Visit: October to February
• Key Attractions: Marina Beach, Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Government Museum, Edward Elliot’s Beach, Santhome Cathedral, Fort St. George, Guindy National Park, Parthasarathi Temple, Valluvar Kottam, Arignar Anna Zoological Park, DakshinaChitra, and B.M. Birla Planetarium. Learn more about historical places in Chennai
• Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: Chennai Central
• Places to Stay: Hotels in Chennai, Budget Hotels in Chennai, Couple Friendly Hotels in Chennai
• Recommended Read: Places to Visit in Chennai

6. Gokarna, Karnataka

Gokarna | #6 of 30 Places to Visit in South India

Gokarna, a Hindu pilgrimage site in Karnataka, is best known for its beautiful beaches with white sand and swaying coconut palms. Apart from the beaches, Gokarna has a number of old and new temples. It is considered one of the popular tourist places for solo travelers in South India. Since the town has religious significance, there are a number of vegetarian-only restaurants but seafood places and a bar to relax in are not very hard to find.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Key Attractions: Om Beach, Mahabaleshwar Temple, Half Moon Beach, Kudle Beach, Paradise Beach, Maha Ganapathi Temple, Shiva Cave, Koti Teertha, and Sri Bhadrakali Temple
• Nearest Airport: Dabolim Airport, Goa
• Nearest Railway Station: Ankola and Gokarna Road
• Recommended Read: Places to Visit in Gokarana

Also check: North Goa vs. South Goa

7. Hampi, Karnataka

Hampi | #7 of 30 Places to Visit in South India

Hampi is one of the top places to visit in South India. The world heritage site takes visitors back in time to the 15^th and 16^th century with its magnificent ruins. It makes everyone’s imagination come alive with remnants of temples, monuments, and havelis. Quaint cafes set up on rooftops offer a variety of cuisines and are the ideal places to spend the evening.

• Best Time to Visit: October to February
• Key Attractions: Virupaksha Temple, Matanga Hill, Hemakuta Hill Temple, Vijaya Vitthala Temple, Hampi Architectural Ruins, Achyutaraya Temple, Kadalekalu Ganesha, Saasivekaalu Ganesha, Lotus Mahal, Hazara Rama Temple, and Stone Chariot
• Nearest Airport: Kempegowda International Airport, Bangalore
• Nearest Railway Station: Hospet Junction
• Recommended Read: Places to Visit in Hampi

8. Varkala, Kerala

Varkala | #8 of 30 Places to Visit in South India

Varkala, a small town in Kerala, also boasts of one of the top beaches in South India. The pristine white sandy Varkala beach is offset by majestic cliffs that make it a popular site with photographers. The town caters to backpackers as well as families. It’s an ideal place to escape city life. Apart from the beach, there are shacks with their fresh catch of the day and flea markets that make this place special. At its essence though, Varkala is a temple town with religious significance for Hindus.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Key Attractions: Varkala Beach, Sivagiri Mutt, Varkala Cliff, Janardanaswamy Temple, Kappil Beach, Golden Island, Anchuthengu Fort, Varkala Cultural Center, and Sreenarayanapuram Temple
• Nearest Airport: Trivandrum International Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: Varkala Sivagiri

9. Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu

Mahabalipuram | #9 of 30 Places to Visit in South India

Mahabalipuram, once a major seaport, is now a must-visit World Heritage Site on every history buff’s bucket list. From carved relief work on stone to cave temples, Mahabalipuram overflows with architectural wonders. Sunsets are extra special here as the soft glow of the setting sun adds to the allure of these monuments. And then there’s the mystery of Krishna’s Butterball. The city’s proximity to Chennai makes it one of the popular long weekend destinations in South India.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Key Attractions: Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas, Descent of the Ganges, Group of Monuments, Krishna’s Butterball, Thirukadalmallai, Mahabalipuram Beach, Ganesha Ratha, India Seashell Museum, Arjuna’s Presence, Mahishasuramardini Mandapa, and Tiger Cave.
• Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: Chennai and Chengalpattu

10. Tanjore, Tamil Nadu

Tanjore | #10 of 30 Places to Visit in South India

The first thing to come to mind when you hear about Tanjore is the beautiful gold relief paintings that take their name from this town. Tanjore has a history that dates back to many centuries and it once served as the bedrock for art in South India. Today, its cosmopolitan vibes blend easily with the palaces and temples bearing witness to erstwhile kingdoms. Tanjore is also a great place to find antiques and reproduction pieces to take back home with you.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Key Attractions: Brihadeeswara Temple, Great Living Chola Temples, Saraswathi Mahal Library, Thanjavur Maratha Palace, Sivaganga Park, Aiyarappar Temple, Thanjai Mamani Koil, Royal Palace Museum, and Manimandapam
• Nearest Airport: Tiruchirappalli International Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: Thanjavur Junction and Trichy Junction

11. Madurai, Tamil Nadu

Madurai | #11 of 30 Places to Visit in South India

Madurai is often described as the soul of Tamil Nadu. As one of India’s oldest cities, Madurai is a celebration of Tamil culture and heritage. The temples here have religious significance as well as architectural beauty. However, this is not the only reason Madurai is listed amongst the top tourist attractions in South India. It is a vibrant city that offers a variety of South Indian foods as well. From roadside dhabas to fine dining restaurants, there’s a world of food waiting for you here.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Key Attractions: Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal, Koodal Azhagar Temple, Gandhi Memorial Museum, Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam, Alagar Koyil, Thirupparamkunram Murugan Temple, Meenakshi Amman Temple, Samanar Hills, Kazimar Big Mosque, Thirumohoor Kalamegaperumal Temple, and Pandi Kovil Temple. See More Places to visit in Madhurai
• Nearest Airport: Madurai International Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: Madurai Junction

12. Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu

Kanchipuram | #12 of 30 Places to Visit in South India

Best known for the glamorous Kanchipuram sarees, Kanchipuram is also a magnificent temple town. These temples are equally beautiful in the day and at night owing to which Kanchipuram is a popular weekend destination in South India. Apart from the weather, many people also time their visit to coincide with festivals. What not many tourists know is that apart from the saree, the city also has idli named after it!

• Best Time to Visit: March to October
• Key Attractions: Kailasanathar Temple, Kamakshi Amman Temple, Varadharaja Perumal Temple, Ekambareswarar Temple, Ulagalantha Perumal Temple, Chitragupta Temple, Shri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham, Tiru Parameswara Vinnagaram, Thiru Ekambaranathar Temple, and Kanchi Kudil
• Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: Kanchipuram

13. Pondicherry, Puducherry

Pondicherry | #13 of 30 Places to Visit in South India

Pondicherry is one of the few places in India that reflects the contribution French culture made to our heritage. On one hand, Pondicherry boasts of villas with teak columned courtyards and vibrant yellow walls and on the other is the peaceful aura of Auroville. Its respectful and safe culture and bohemian vibe have made this city one of the top tourist places for solo travelers in South India. There are also a number of beaches here where you can easily watch the day go by.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Key Attractions: Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple, Promenade Beach, Rock Beach, Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, French War Memorial, Bharathi Park, Aayi Mandapam, and Varadharaja Perumal Temple. Learn more about temples in Pondicherry.
• Nearest Airport: Pondicherry Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: Pondicherry Railway Station
• Places to Stay: Hotels in Pondicherry, Budget Hotels in Pondicherry,

14. Munnar, Kerala

Munnar | #14 of 30 Places to Visit in South India

With misty clouds and rolling green hills, Munnar has often been named one of the most picturesque hill stations of South India. It almost seems as though the place is carpeted with tea plantations. A visit here is all the encouragement one needs to sample the different aromas and flavors of tea. For nature lovers, there are elephants to watch, waterfalls to bathe in and trekking trails to walk along. This is also a popular weekend destination in South India. 

• Best Time to Visit: October to May
• Key Attractions: Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, Anamudi, Tea Museum, Pothamedu View Point, Attukal Waterfall, Nayamakad Waterfall, Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, Chokramudi Peak, and Carmelagiri Elephant Park. Learn more about things to do in Munnar
• Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: Aluva and Ernakulam

15. Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh

Tirupati | #15 of 30 Places to Visit in South India

Tirupati is one of the most significant religious places in South India. This temple town is visited by thousands of pilgrims every day and yet manages to maintain an air of tranquility and serenity. Even the prasad served here is special as the Tirupati laddu has been awarded a Geographical Indication (GI) tag. Apart from the temples, there are forts, beautiful hillsides, and museums that welcome tourists. Tirupati is also a great place to sample flavors in a South Indian thali.

• Best Time to Visit: September to February
• Key Attractions: Sri Venkateswara Swamy Vaari Temple, Sri Venkateswara National Park, Chandragiri Fort, Kapila Theertham, Natural Arch- Tirumala Hills, Sri Padmavathi Ammavari Temple, Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park, Sri Venkateswara Museum, Srivari Mettu, and Varahaswamy Temple
• Nearest Airport: Tirupati Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: Tirupati

16. Alleppey, Kerala

Alleppey | #16 of 30 Places to Visit in South India

There’s nothing like the backwaters of Alleppey. This popular honeymoon destination in South India, also known as Alappuzha, offers an idyllic setting for couples to fall deeper in love with each other. Floating along the backwaters in a houseboat is the best way to experience this city. If you time your visit right, you could even catch a glimpse of the famous Kerala boat races. But, that’s not all; Alleppey also has a bustling industry of coir.

• Best Time to Visit: November to February. August for boat races
• Key Attractions: Alappuzha Beach, Vembanad, Marari Beach, Pathiramanal, Sree Krishna Swamy Temple, Punnamada Lake, Krishnapuram Palace, Basilica of St. Mary, Mullakkal Temple, International Coir Museum, and Revi Karunakaran Memorial Museum. Learn more about places to see Alleppey
• Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: Alappuzha Railway Station

17. Kumarakom, Kerala

Kumarakom | #17 of 30 Places to Visit in South India

With its beautiful blue lake, picturesque villages and bird sanctuary, Kumarakom is a nature lover’s delight and one of the top weekend destinations in South India. Whether you’re here for the weekend or the whole week, there’s plenty to do here such as an overnight stay on a houseboat, night fishing, cruising down the backwaters in a shikara, and birdwatching. If you’re craving a simple life, Kumarakom the place you need to be.

• Best Time to Visit: November to February
• Key Attractions: Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Pathiramanal, Bay Island Driftwood Museum, Thanneermukkom Bund, Village Life Experience, Backwaters, Karthyayani Devi Temple, St. Thomas Church, and Sree Kumaramangalam Subramanyaswamy Temple.
• Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: Kottayam

18. Kochi, Kerala

Kochi | #18 of 30 Places to Visit in South India

Kochi is an amalgam of centuries-old synagogues, palaces, Chinese fishing nets that dip in and out of the water, majestic bungalows dating back to the Dutch era and quirky cafes. The city is listed amongst tourist places for solo travelers in South India as well as a popular family destination in South India. Apart from historic places, Kochi also has a large antique and reproduction market where you can indulge in retail therapy. And then, there’s the lip-smacking appams and other Kerala delicacies waiting to be relished.

• Best Time to Visit: October to February
• Key Attractions: Fort Kochi, Cherai Beach, Mattancherry Palace, St. Francis CSI Church, Paradesi Synagogue, Hill Palace Museum, Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica, Willingdon Island, Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary, and Princess Street. Read more about churches in Kochi.
• Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: Ernakulam Junction and Ernakulam

19. Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu

Kanyakumari | #19 of 30 Places to Visit in South India

The southernmost tip of the Indian mainland, Kanyakumari is famed for its spectacular sunrises and sunsets over the Bay of Bengal, the Arabian Sea, and the Indian Ocean. Kanyakumari is a small town that makes a big impact. During the day between these glorious moments, there are forts, churches, and temples to be visited and paddy fields to be photographed. A few minutes at the Vivekananda Rock Memorial can transport you to a whole new world.

• Best Time to Visit: October to February
• Key Attractions: Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Thiruvalluvar Statue, Kanyakumari Beach, Sarvani Shaktipeeth Shri Bhagavathy Temple, Our Lady of Ransom Church, Trisea Sangamam, and Vattakottai Fort.
• Nearest Airport: Trivandrum International Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: Kanyakumari

Also Read about Skydiving in India

20. Thekkady, Kerala

Thekkady | #20 of 30 Places to Visit in South India

The rustic lifestyle of Thekkady is a great break from city life. This hill station in South India has everything from lush green rolling hills with elephants walking by to spice plantations, ashram and paddy fields. The Periyar National Park is home to tigers, wild bison, and many other wildlife species. When you’re done trekking through the hills and taking in the aromas of the spice plantations, you can attend cooking classes and tours of the bazaars.

• Best Time to Visit: November to March
• Key Attractions: Periyar National Park, Tiger Trail, Thekkady Lake, Green Park Ayurvedic & Spices Plantation, Anakkara, Kadathanadan Kalari Centre, Chellarkovil Viewpoint, and Pandikuzhi.
• Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport and Madurai International Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: Kottayam Railway Station

21. Trivandrum, Kerala

Trivandrum | #21 of 30 Places to Visit in South India

Kerala’s capital city, Trivandrum is a small city with a glorious heritage. Spread across low hills, this is the gateway to the beaches of Kovalam and Varkala. The temples here are visited by pilgrims and tourists alike. Trivandrum also boasts of a number of palaces and museums that pay tribute to its history through beautifully preserved architecture. The Trivandrum Zoo is another popular tourist spot. And, while you’re here, don’t forget to taste the meal served on plantain leaves.

• • Best Time to Visit: October to February

• Key Attractions: Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Napier Museum, Shankumugham Beach, Kuthira Malika, Trivandrum Zoo, Attukal Temple, Kanakakkunnu Palace, Kowdiar Palace, Koyikkal Palace, Kovalam, and Karikkakom Devi Temple
• Nearest Airport: Trivandrum International Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: Thiruvananthapuram

22. Hyderabad, Telangana

Hyderabad | #22 of 30 Places to Visit in South India

Hyderabad, the capital city of Telangana, balances the rich history and regality of Nizams with a vibrant cityscape. On one hand, the city boasts of palaces, forts, and museums on the other it has a string of cafes by the beautiful Hussain Sagar Lake. Hyderabad is also home to the fascinating Ramoji Film City. It’s a city that’s simultaneously young and old, traditional and cosmopolitan.  

• Best Time to Visit: October to February
• Key Attractions: Charminar, Golkonda Fort, Salar Jung Museum, Hussain Sagar Lake, Chowmahalla Palace, Ramoji Film City, Birla Mandir, Qutb Shahi Tombs, Lumbini Park, Shilparamam, NTR Gardens, Osman Sagar, Necklace Road, and Paigah Tombs. Read more about picnic spots in Hyderabad
• Nearest Airport: Rajiv Gandhi Hyderabad International Airport, Hyderabad
• Nearest Railway Station: Nampally and Hyderabad

23. Warangal, Telangana

Warangal | #23 of 30 Places to Visit in South India

A city dotted with temples, forts and ancient monuments, Warangal is one of the most popular places to visit in South India. Its temples are not only visited by pilgrims but admired by tourists for their architectural magnificence. There are also a number of lakes and gardens ideal for an afternoon picnic and sparkling emerald fields that make a beautiful backdrop for photography enthusiasts.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Key Attractions: Thousand Pillar Temple, Warangal Fort, Bhadrakali Temple, Padmakshi Temple, Waddepally Lake, Kakatiya Musical Garden, Kakatiya Zoological Park, Kush Mahal, and Bhadrakali Lake
• Nearest Airport: Rajiv Gandhi Hyderabad International Airport, Hyderabad
• Nearest Railway Station: Warangal

24. Araku Valley, Andhra Pradesh

Araku Valley | #24 of 30 Places to Visit in South India

A few hours’ drive from Vishakhapatnam, Araku Valley is a popular weekend destination in South India. You could also take the Vistadome train for a panoramic view of the route. The valley is known for its spectacular natural beauty, isolated tribes, and organic coffee plantations. For adventure seekers, Araku Valley offers a number of trekking routes that wrap themselves around the hills.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Key Attractions: Padmapuram Gardens, Borra Caves, Coffee Museum, Ananthagiri Water Falls, Rana Jilleda Water Falls, and Katika Water Falls
• Nearest Airport: Visakhapatnam International Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: Araku Railway Station

25. Chikmagalur, Karnataka

Chikmagalur | #25 of 30 Places to Visit in South India

Associated with adventure tales of smuggling from the olden days, Chikmagalur is now best known for its scenic beauty and historic places. There’s also the coffee to look forward to. Amidst the lush green plantations, are a number of picnic spots designed to make you forget the city you came from. The mountain circuits of Sheethalagiri-Baba Budan Giri-Mullayanagiri is something adventure seekers look forward to.  The Hebbe and Kalhatti Falls are also close by.

• Best Time to Visit: September to March
• Key Attractions: Sharadamba Temple, Kemmangundi, Coffee Museum, Z Point, Hirekolale lake, Mullayanagiri, Kudurekuha, Hirekolale Lake, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, Baba Budangiri, Kallathigiri Falls, and Hebbe Falls
• Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: Chikkamagaluru Railway Station, Kadur and Hassan
• Suggested Read: Places to Visit in Chikmagalur

26. Mysore, Karnataka

Mysore | #26 of 30 Places to Visit in South India

Known for its royal lifestyle, Mysore is an enchanting city. It is dotted with architecturally spectacular monuments and heritage buildings. The Mysore Palace, the seat of the erstwhile Wodeyar Maharajas, is believed to be the second most popular tourist site in India. Mysore’s rich traditions and spice bazaars attract tourists from across India and the world. Another popular reason to visit this city is to practice and learn the art of Ashtanga yoga. Mysore Dasara is a grand celebration and a great time to plan your trip.

• Best Time to Visit: July to February
• Key Attractions: Mysore Palace, Mysore Zoo, Kishkindha Moolika Bonsai Garden, Venugopala Swamy Temple, Jaganmohan Palace, Philomena’s Church, Somanathapura Temple, Brindavan Gardens, Chamundeshwari Temple, and Karanji Lake. Learn more about places to visit in Mysore
• Nearest Airport: Mysore Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Junction
• Places to Stay: Hotels in Mysore, Budget Hotels in Mysore, Business Hotels in Mysore

27. Bangalore, Karnataka

Bangalore | #27 of 30 Places to Visit in South India

Bangalore, the city of lakes, gardens, IT giants, and startups offers plenty to explore and discover. During the day, there are palaces to visit, gardens to take a stroll, and street markets to shop at. Mansions from the Victorian era stand beside mega-malls with glass facades. By night, the city has craft-beer pubs and quirky cafes that call out to weary souls. Known for its safety, this is often featured in lists of tourist places for solo travelers in South India.

• Best Time to Visit: October to February
• Key Attractions: Bangalore Palace, Cubbon Park, Lalbagh Botanical Gardens, Bannerghatta Biological Park, Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace, Nandi Temple, Dodda Alada Mara, Lumbini Gardens, Bangalore Fort, and Vidhana Soudha. Learn more about places to visit in Bangalore
• Nearest Airport: Kempegowda International Airport, Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: Bengaluru City Junction, Krishnarajapuram, Bangalore Cantonment, and Yeshwanthpur
• Places to Stay: Hotels in Bangalore, Budget Hotels in Bangalore, Couple Friendly Hotels in Bangalore, Business Hotels in Bangalore

28. Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu

Rameswaram | #28 of 30 Places to Visit in South India

Rameswaram is one of the best-known religious places in South India. According to mythology, this is where Lord Rama led his army to Lanka and rescued Sita from the demon king Ravana. Apart from its religious significance, Rameswaram is a quiet fishing town with scenic beauty and beaches to enjoy water sports.

• Best Time to Visit: October to April
• Key Attractions: Ramanathaswamy Temple, Agni Tirtham, Sri Panchmukhi Hanuman Mandir & Floating Stones, Rameswaram TV Tower, Adam’s Bridge, Pamban Road Bridge or Annai Indira Gandhi Bridge, and Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Memorial
• Nearest Airport: Madurai International Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: Rameswaram
• Recommended Read: Places to visit in Rameswaram

29. Thrissur, Kerala

Thrissur | #29 of 30 Places to Visit in South India

Thrissur is the cultural capital of Kerala. The city goes from celebrating one festival to another so much so that no matter when you visit, you’ll probably be able to see the city in full festive gear. It was once home to the Cochin royal family and today boasts of a number of buildings from that time. There’s also a Nestorian Christian community that dates back to the 3^rd century. While you’re here, don’t forget to enjoy a classic Kerala meal at one of the city’s many restaurants.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Key Attractions: Vadakkunnathan Temple, Sakthan Thampuran Palace, Basilica of Our Lady of Dolours, Paramekkavu Bagavathi Temple, Thiruvambadi Sri Krishna Temple, Archaeological Museum, Bible Tower, Vilangan Hills, St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Church and Arattupuzha Sree Sastha Temple. Find more places to visit in Thrissur
• Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: Thrissur

30. Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu

Coimbatore | #30 of 30 Places to Visit in South India

Fondly called the Manchester of South India, Coimbatore is best-known for its textile industry. This cool hill station in South India is also a pit stop on the way to Ooty and Kerala. Coimbatore is where people come to relax, put their feet up, and live the slow life. While you’re here, visit temples and museums that take you back in time and enjoy a picnic by the waterfalls.

• Best Time to Visit: July to March
• Key Attractions: Marudhamalai, Dhyanalinga, Siruvani Waterfalls, Black Thunder, Perur Pateeswarar Temple, Arulmigu Eachanari Vinayagar Temple, GD Naidu Museum, Anamalai Tiger Reserve, Monkey Falls, Koniamman Temple, and Gass Forest Museum. Find more places to visit in Coimbatore
• Nearest Airport: Coimbatore International Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: Coimbatore North, Podanur Junction, and Singanallur
• Places to Stay: Hotels in Coimbatore, Budget Hotels in Coimbatore, Couple Friendly Hotels in Coimbatore, Business Hotels in Coimbatore