Top 8 Places to Visit in Southern India Post COVID

The very distinct culture of south India sets it apart from the rest of the country. From stunning temples to breathtaking beaches and quaint hill stations, India’s south Indian states perhaps receive much less attention than they deserve. And so, as the year draws to a close, we list out 15 best places to visit in south India.

Kovalam in Kerala has come a long way from being a sleepy fishing village to being one of the best surfing destinations in India. Best known for its three crescent-shaped beaches, Kovalam still retains some of its laid-back cultures with the days beginning rather late and activities continuing into the night. Kovalam seems to have something for everyone. A leisurely swim or a surfing lesson, a herbal body massage or a cultural program take your pick and it is all there. Take a break from beach-hopping and head to the numerous shopping complexes and ayurvedic health resorts that abound in the beach town or head out into the sea in a kayak or on a surfing board, the choice is yours!

If you are a nature lover and looking for a place filled with stunning scenic beauty then Coorg is where you need to plan your trip. Nestled amidst the imposing mountains the place is a popular coffee production hill station in the western ghats with the view of beautiful green hills and streams cutting through them. Ever tried waterfall rappelling? If not, now is the time where you can relish an exciting challenge by rappelling through the waterfalls and cascading from a height to get a lifetime experience at Chelavara. Also if you happen to visit Coorg with family then visit the Golden Temple, Talakaveri Temple and watch sunrise and sunset at the Raja’s Seat. The ideal time to visit Coorg is right after the monsoon season i.e., between October and March which is the best time for adventurous activities, especially waterfall rappelling.

You don’t necessarily have to be religious to visit Madurai. It is, of course, a center of pilgrimage but even the atheist in you would stop to admire the very impressive Meenakshi temple that lies at the heart of the town’s economy. Madurai itself is some 4,000 years old and has several temples and buildings whose architecture reminds you that it has always been an important town for several millennia. Take a walk through the old city that offers a glimpse into life in another era or time your visit to coincide with the Chithirai Festival (in April) that re-enacts the wedding between Meenakshi and Shiva.

If you are a history buff then I am sure you are going to love your trip to Mysore which is one of the most enchanting cities of South India. Famed for its glittering royal heritage and magnificent monuments, the place is also rich in tradition with a deep atmospheric bazaar of spices and sandalwood. I would say it is one of the perfect places to visit if you are planning for a family vacation. Also, don’t leave Mysore without trying delicious ghee based sweet ‘Mysore Pak’ (something that I can’t just get enough of) and a visit to the splendid Mysore Palace which is India’s most spectacular royal buildings.

Not too far away from Hyderabad, Kurnool has several sites of historical importance. From the caves to the rivers, the town literally has something for everyone. The longest cave system, Belur caves is one of the biggest attractions in the town. With three well-like cavities, a huge Buddha statue and a natural waterfall, the cave is a beautiful sight. The Oravakallu Rock Garden, known to be a picnic spot is famous for its rock formations and its location between two water bodies. Who wouldn’t want to travel to this beautiful town?

Yet another coastal town to visit that offers carefully carved temples, splendid buildings, less explored forests and pristine beaches, Udupi is a well-known travel destination amongst the Indians as the city of best South Indian Restaurants. Other than this, the city is also known as the pilgrim centre in Karnataka, featuring beautifully styled temples showcasing different types of architecture. The beauty of the city has made it a tourist hotspot. Also, it is the allure of the serene and laid back beaches that holds the attention of the tourist and instigate them to capture a number of beautiful pictures.

Madikeri is a quaint hill station in Karnataka that is often covered by people when travelling to Coorg. The place offers a breathtaking view of lush greenery, gigantic hills and a vast land of coffee plantation. So if you are looking for a perfect weekend getaway then a trip to Madikeri would give you a picturesque and relaxing holiday with awe-inspiring sceneries, splendid views of the verdant vegetation all across the town. While visiting the place, make sure you go and check out the most famous Raja’s Seat from where one could easily sight the beauty of Madikeri in just one go. Also, a visit to the Madikeri fort and various waterfalls will give you a great experience.

Known for its beautiful beaches, its handloom industry and the ritualistic performing art Theyyam, Kannur should definitely be on your list of places to visit. The St. Angelo Fort built by the Portuguese, the Payyambalam Beach where the coastline is unbroken for a few kilometers, the Arakkal Museum, home of the only Muslim royal family of Kerala and the Kannur Lighthouse near Sea-view park are all sights to take in at this beautiful town. But how often will you find a ferry ride that offers a view of the setting sun? So get to Kannur and take a ride on the Azhikkal Ferry boat as soon as you possibly can.

Now that you know where to explore the beauty of south, start panning your next big southern adventure in advance. You can book your travel in advance on EMI, including your flights tickets and hotels rooms, through Mihuru Splitfare. Pay just 25% upfront and rest in customizable EMI completing just before your travel. CLICK HERE to Register now!