South India is where the lush landscape and pristine beaches interact to create a magical experience. Here, natural wonders capture the imagination, and cultural as well as historical sites showcase the rich heritage of India. It is the melting pot of several tongues, ethnicities, and practices – where languages that originated thousands of years ago, like Tamil, are still spoken in households, and the modern superstructures tower above local markets. There are numerous best places to visit in South India that offer idyllic charm, city life, and natural marvels but this list brings you the best.
From beach towns and capitals to hill stations, nature reserves, and historical places – each place hides a unique experience that will make your visit unforgettable.
14 Best Places to Visit in South India
| S.No. | Cities | Best Time To Visit |
| 1. | Hyderabad | Between November to February |
| 2. | Chennai | November to February |
| 3. | Mahabalipuram | November to February |
| 4. | Pondicherry | October to February |
| 5. | Ooty & Coonoor | April to June and September to November |
| 6. | Visakhapatnam | October to March |
| 7. | Gandikota | October to February |
| 8. | Bangalore | October to February |
| 9. | Mysore | October to March |
| 10. | Hampi | October to February |
| 11. | Coorg | September to June |
| 12. | Kochi | October to February |
| 13. | Alleppey (Alappuzha) | October to February |
| 14. | Munnar | October to February & March to June |
1. Hyderabad, Telangana
This buzzing city is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the country, like the Charminar and Falaknuma Palace among many others.
Once the seat of the Nizams, today Hyderabad has some of the best modern marvels of the country in the form of skyscrapers, upbeat boutique stores, and commercial market lanes that overshadow the relics of the past. But hidden between the crumbling alleyways is the Old City of Hyderabad with some of Islamic India’s most impressive architecture such as the Chowmahalla Palace and Makkah Masjid.
From its ever-present chai shops to spice stores brimming with rich flavors, Hyderabad is one of the best places to visit in South India.
Must-Try Foods of Hyderabad: Hyderabad is a foodies’ paradise. If you are planning to visit Hyderabad, you must try its famous haleem and Hyderabadi biryani.
Famous Attractions: Charminar, Golconda Fort, Makkah Masjid, Salarjung Museum, Ramoji Film City, Birla Mandir, Hussain Sagar Lake, Qutub Shahi Tombs, Birla Science Museum, Nehru Zoological Park, Chowmahalla Palace, Falaknuma Palace and more.
2. Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Like many of the capital cities in South India, Chennai blends the old with the new. Cosmopolitan lifestyles and quirky little cafes coexist with ancient temples and historical monuments.
What makes Chennai different is its laid-back atmosphere. In many of its breathtaking beaches, you’ll find couples leisurely walking while holding hands and religious worshippers silently chanting their morning prayers. These beaches, like Marina Beach, Kovalam Beach, and Besant Nagar Beach, are the perfect get-together places for the outdoorsy. It is where the sunset crowds gather and picnics take place after the daylong heat.
Chennai is also a treat for history buffs and cultural travelers who flock to see its monuments like Fort St George and Chettinad Palace. These places not only offer a look into the colonial architecture but also the rich heritage of India.
Do you know?: Chennai has some of the oldest buildings and institutions in India, including the oldest Municipal Corporation, the oldest jail (the Chennai Central Prison), the oldest cricket stadium (Chepauk M.A. Chidambaram Stadium), and the shopping plaza (Spencer Plaza).
Famous Attractions: Marina Beach, Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Edward Elliot’s Beach, Santhome Cathedral, Fort St. George, Guindy National Park, Parthasarathi Temple, Valluvar Kottam, Arignar Anna Zoological Park, DakshinaChitra, B.M. Birla Planetarium, and more.
3. Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a treasure trove of archaeological wonders that date back to the 7th and 8th centuries. Mahabalipuram’s (or Mamallapuram) main attractions invite travelers from all across the country to marvel at its intricate architecture and artwork.
Its iconic shore temples along with other monuments provide a great insight into the talents of those artisans who chiseled these rocks piece by piece. You can also see the Pancha Rathas (Five Rathas), a collection of monolithic rock-cut temples and rock relief that give a better understanding of Dravidian architecture.
Do You Know?: There are also spectacular spiritual sights in Mahabalipuram like Krishna’s Butterball, a giant boulder comfortably perched at the edge of a slope – seemingly defying gravity and making this site one of the best places to visit in South India.
Famous Attractions: Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas, Descent of the Ganges (or Arjuna’s Penance), Krishna’s Butterball, Thirukadalmallai, Mahabalipuram Beach, Ganesha Ratha, India Seashell Museum, Mahishasuramardini Mandapa, and Tiger Cave.
4. Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu
Pondicherry, also written as Puducherry, has a mix of influences. The nations who colonized the region left their art, architecture, and languages. This is why Pondicherry has cathedrals constructed in the Dutch style, museums that showcase British paintings, and the French language that is still spoken by a large number of locals.
Today, the city evokes a bohemian culture that invites people from all across the globe. You can find a diverse mix of crowds lounging on the touristy Pondicherry Beach or walking on the serene Beach Promenade. You will meet many yoga enthusiasts who come here to learn this art in Sri Aurobindo Ashram.
Pondicherry’s cobbled streets flanked by colorful cottages, frozen-in-time French Quarters, and exceptional cuisine, among other things, make it a must-see attraction in South India.
Do You Know?: The name “Pondicherry” is a Tamil name with a French twist. Its original name, “Putucceri”, means “new village” in Tamil, which was later modified by the French to “Pondichéry”.
Famous 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, Varadharaja Perumal Temple, and more.
5. Ooty & Coonoor, Tamil Nadu
Nestled in the magical hills of Nilgiri, Ooty is one of the best hill stations in South India. It is filled with places that one must see once in a lifetime. There are scenic lakes, like the Ooty Lake, where families peddle in duck-shaped boats and enjoy the magnificent views. The tea plantations that sprawl over the hills fill the surrounding area with an enchanting aroma. And the colonial structures, like the 19th-century St. Stephen’s Church, make you stop and marvel at their beauty. It is a place for everyone whether nature lovers, history buffs, or architects-at-heart.
A few kilometers away from the “queen of the hills” is Coonoor, a beautiful and charming hill station with mesmerizing waterfalls, jungle treks, and tea plantations. The famous miniature toy train, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, runs from Ooty to Coonoor, offering unmatched views of lush and misty mountains.
Do You Know?: Ooty is the birthplace of the game of Snooker which was invented at the Ootacamund Club. You can still visit the club and learn the story behind the game’s origin.
Famous Attractions: Government Botanical Garden, Government Rose Garden, The Tea Factory and Tea Museum, St. Stephen’s Church, Thread Garden, Nilgiri Mountain Railway Line, Doddabetta, Ooty Lake, Kamaraj Sagar Dam, Catherine Falls. Dolphin’s Nose, Deer Park, and more.
6. Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh
The city of Visakhapatnam, locally known as Vizag, is a vibrant coastal town with picturesque beaches, busy ports, and historical temples. Its quaint location – surrounded by the Bay of Bengal and the hills of Eastern Ghats – makes it a popular place for nature hikes and water sports. Nearby attractions such as Araku Valley and Kailasagiri Hill, offer daylong hikes, and coastal villages, like Chintapalli host scuba dives into the crystal clear water abundant with marine life. The consistent waves here also make surfing a popular water sport among locals and visitors.
Within the city, the beaches, parks, and museums keep one occupied. Its popular beaches as well as offbeat places provide a chance to enjoy both the happening atmosphere as well as secluded spots. Here, submarine museums narrate the life of naval officers, and historic temples, like the Simhachalam Temple, mark important spiritual places for devotees.
Interesting Legend: At Simhachalam, one of the most famous pilgrimage sites in Vizag, it rains mostly when the lord Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy has his Chandanotsavam. It is believed that the rains happen to cool down the anger of the lord since the chandon paste is removed briefly.
Famous Attractions: RK Beach (Rama Krishna Beach), Rushikonda Beach, Yarada Beach, Simhachalam Temple, Borra Caves, Araku Valley, INS Kursura Submarine Museum, Kailasagiri, VUDA Park (Visakhapatnam Urban Development Authority Park), Dolphin’s Nose, and more.
7. Gandikota, Andhra Pradesh
Labeled as ‘India’s hidden Grand Canyon’, Gandikota is a breathtaking place that has a mix of nature and culture. Its highlights are the towering canyons, carved by the Penna River over thousands of years. A sand fort constructed by Chalukya Rulers sits atop one of these canyons. A moderately difficult hike takes you to a vantage point where you can appreciate unbeatable views and scenery, created over a million years for you to see.
You can also explore the nearby Belum Caves and enjoy water activities at the Owk Reservoir. It is one of the most peaceful places to visit in South India.
Bonus Tip: For adventurers, camping on the river bed is also an option.
Famous Attractions: Belum Caves, Owk Reservoir, Yaganti Temples, Oravakallu Rock Garden, Kurnool Fort, Jamia Masjid, and more.
8. Bangalore, Karnataka
Lovingly nicknamed, the Silicon Valley of India, Bangalore is the city where lakes, gardens, and IT giants intermingle to create a place full of energy. The day offers hundreds of activities to indulge in. Gardens, amusement parks, quirky cafes, high-end boutiques, and museums keep one busy during the day. By night, the clubs and craft beer bars invite the weary traveler for a pint.
The city has the best tourist places in South India, featuring colonial structures that stand side-by-side with supermalls and skyscrapers.
You can shop around Church Street and MG Road or enjoy a long walk to the UB City Mall, from where Cubbon Park is only a few minutes away. You can also go on a cafe-hopping tour of the city or sample the street food at V.V. Puram Street. The list of things to do in Bangalore is endless.
Must Try Food of Bangalore: The Rava Idli, one of the most famous dishes in India, was said to have been invented in Banglore. So, on your trip to this supercity, make sure to taste it.
Famous 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, Vidhana Soudha, and more.
9. Mysore, Karnataka
Soaked in history, the city of Mysore is dotted with grand palaces and regal structures that make it one of the best places to visit in South India. Its main attractions are its majestic palaces like the famous Mysore Palace which unveils the city’s grand history. This palace uses a mix of Gothic, Islamic, and Rajput architectural styles to bring a feast for the eyes. At night, the Palace hosts a light and sound show with nearly 100,000 illuminated lamps.
Do you know?: The city of Mysore has one of the oldest zoological parks in India, the Mysore Zoo, which was opened in 1892.
Famous Attractions: Mysore Palace, Mysore Zoo, Kishkindha Moolika Bonsai Garden, Venugopala Swamy Temple, Jaganmohan Palace, Philomena’s Church, Somanathapura Temple, Brindavan Gardens, Chamundeshwari Temple, Karanji Lake and more.
10. Hampi, Karnataka
This famous UNESCO Heritage Site was once a magnificent city that came under the Vijayanagara Empire. The ancient temples and ruined forts situated here create a unique impression on the travelers who visit to see the temples, monuments, and Havelis and stay for the quirky rooftop cafes and the free-spirited atmosphere this place provides.
Do you know?: The image on the back side of a Rs 50 note is actually the chariot from Hampi.
Famous Attractions: Virupaksha Temple, Matanga Hill, Hemakuta Hill Temple, Vijaya Vittala Temple, Achyutaraya Temple, Kadalekalu Ganesha, Saasivekaalu Ganesha, Lotus Mahal, Hazara Rama Temple, Stone Chariot, and more.
11. Coorg, Karnataka
With acres of spice plantations, scenic mountains, and picturesque lakes, this hill station in South India offers an unforgettable experience. Here, the coffee estates drape the hills in a green carpet, creating a stunning sight and the exotic wildlife roam freely in the dense forest. Coorg has many things to do, the most famous of which involve trekking, camping, jeep safari, hiking, quad biking, and the like.
Visitors can explore the town’s many tourist magnets including the captivating Abbey Falls that cascade beautifully into a natural pool, the Madikeri Fort which offers a captivating history of the town’s origin, and the Dubare Elephant Camp, where you can interact with some of the gentle giants.
Do You Know?: Coorg is the largest producer of coffee in India.
Famous Attractions: Raja’s Seat, Abbey and Iruppu Falls, Nagarhole National Park, Dubare Elephant Camp, Cauvery River Rafting, Bylakuppe, Madikeri Fort, and more.
12. Kochi, Kerala
Amid the crashing waves and palm trees, the city of Kochi (or Cochin) emerges as a center of commerce and culture in the state of Kerala. With its centuries-old mosques, colonial-era houses, and artsy cafes – this capital city has much to offer which makes it the best place to see in South India.
Its large antique and replica market invites locals and tourists alike to shop and explore. As the sun sets, a bustling nightlife turns the crowd towards Kaloor Stadium and Panampilly Nagar, where sizzling street foods like uppum mulaku thattukada (chicken fry and mandi rice) and biryani invite everyone to test their taste buds. You can also enjoy cultural performances of Kathakali and Kalaripayattu in selected venues.
Beyond the hustle and bustle, the city’s many art galleries and the museums, show centuries of history and culture, framed in time for you to appreciate. Furthermore, its beaches and nearby islands welcome crowds looking to relax and escape from a sensory overload.
Must Try Foods Of Kochi: While in Kochi, don’t forget to try the Puttu Kadala with Appam and stew.
Famous 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, Princess Street, and more.
13. Alleppey (Alappuzha), Kerala
This attraction in South India is a tropical paradise and a popular place for tourists and locals alike. Filled with idyllic sights, Alleppey is the backwater hub of Kerala where, even on a lazy afternoon, you can see a line of busy houseboats and rowboats gently wafting through the canals. Drifting along these waterways, you’ll find the soul of the city – a rural world filled with paddy fields and rice farms, lined with toddy shops and crowded jetties.
The overwhelming city center, while filled with chaotic traffic and flyovers, has its own attractions like temples, churches, and museums. You can also relax on the many beaches that stretch through this beautiful city.
Do You Know?: Alleppey hosts the annual snake boat race in Oman. It is an adrenaline-filled sport where many rowers compete in a narrow boat towards the finish line.
Famous Attractions: Alappuzha Beach, Vembanad, Marari Beach, Pathiramanal, Sree Krishna Swamy Temple, Punnamada Lake, Krishnapuram Palace, Basilica of St. Mary, Mullakkal Temple, International Coir Museum, Revi Karunakaran Memorial Museum, and more.
14. Munnar, Kerala
Most of the hill stations in South India are a famous destination in summer and Munnar is no different. It is one of the most famous choices for a summer vacation in Kerala, making it a busy place during the season. But just on the outskirts of the main town, the hills of Munnar become less crowded, allowing you to enjoy the lush green landscape that will hypnotize anyone.
Its scenic treks that lead through lush green pathways to the Anamudi Peak and wildlife safaris at Eravikulam National Park where you can spot the Nilgiri Tahr, make it one of the best places to visit in South India.
Do you know?: Munnar has the world’s highest tea estate, the Kolukkumalai Tea Estate.
Famous Attractions: Mattupetty Dam and Lake, Eravikulam National Park, Tea Gardens, Top Station, and more.
Also Read: 8 Best Places to Visit in December in India
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. Which is the best hill station in South India?
A. South India has plenty of hill stations that offer lush green spaces and views of misty mountains. The most famous of them include, Ooty, Munnar, Coorg, and Kodaikanal and some of the lesser-known ones are Yercaud, Vagamon, and Agumbe. It is very difficult to determine which one stands out as the best hill station as all of them offer a different experience.
Q. Which is the best tourist place in South India?
A. South India has plenty of tourist places which are all very different from each other. It has beach towns (Gokarna, Alleppey, Puducherry, etc.), capital cities (Chennai, Kochi, Hyderabad, etc.), and hill stations (Munnar, Ooty, Coorg, etc.) and a unique mix of all of these. It would be hard to choose a single one over all of these as the best place in South India.
Q. Which are the best places to visit in summer in South India?
A. South India’s hill stations offer a chance to escape from the scorching heat of Summer. Places like Munnar, Coorg, Ooty, and Coonoor offer a much-needed respite in the summer season.
Q. Which is the largest lake in South India?
A. The Shanthi Sagar in Channagiri is the largest lake in South India.
Q. Which South Indian city has the best food?
A. There is a rich culinary scene in South India with unique food that captivates the taste buds. Pondicherry has a mix of French-styled cuisine with an Indian twist, Madurai has iconic idlis and dosas, and Udupi caters to the non-vegetarians with its Kori Roti (made with rice) dissolved in a fiery chicken curry and Moode (cylindrical idlis) served with signature etty (prawn) chutney. But Hyderbad deserves a special mention due to its famous haleem and Hyderabadi Biryani.
