Many of us have a preconceived notion of what lies beyond Vindhyas towards the southern part of India. We all have restricted ourselves of the beautiful wonders that lay beyond the Vindhyas. Come join us in this fascinating ride of information and hope to explore what lies in the South of India.
Did you know? South India consists of five states Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. Five different states, with diversified languages, traditions, culture, terrain and naturally the climate, south India is blessed with nature and it’s wonders of Eastern and the Western Ghats, spectacular valleys and dense forests with rich flora and fauna. From architectural marvels displayed through their temples, forts and palaces, to handicrafts and handlooms, variety of cuisine from each state to coffee and spice plantations that will leave you wanting for more.
To help you understand better, we have curated Top 50 places to visit in South India.
Here is the list of 50 places to visit in South India:
Kerala
1. Alleppey
Locally known as Alappuzha and popularly called as Alleppey is a city in Kerala will beautiful backwaters leading to the Arabian Sea. This beautiful little city was once described as ‘Venice in the east’, by Lord Curzon. Best known for houseboats cruising through the backwaters where one can witness the serene waters pass through green paddy fields and coconut trees. Try out local toddy at the shops to get an authentic experience. During the months of August and September, a traditional snake boat race takes place. Be sure to witness this beautiful race if you are visiting during this time.
Best time to visit: October to February is a great time to visit Alleppey. Summers are not advisable as it gets too hot here. Visit in August and September for a snake boat race.
Nearest Airport: Kochi International Airport is the closest.
2. Wayanad
Wayanad is a beautiful destination nestled in the Western Ghats in Kerala. It is one of the enthralling places to witness cascading falls and mesmerising views of hills and valleys. You will experience rich wildlife presences in Muthanga wildlife sanctuary and witness spice plantations decorated on the rolling hills. Trekking to edakkal caves and Chembra peak is a popular activity that has been alluring nature lovers from all over.
Best time to visit: October to May is a great time to visit Wayanad for Trekking, Wildlife and other activities.
Nearest Airport: Calicut International Airport (Kozhikode airport) is the closest
3. Munnar
This beautiful hill town in the Western Ghats of Kerala is surrounded by beautiful lofty hills decorated with tea plantation. The evergreen hill station serves the commercial centre for tea estates. This popular hill station has the biggest tea plantation in South India. Blessed with natural surroundings such as lakes and spectacular viewpoints, Munnar is home to rare and endangers flora and fauna. Neelkurinji – shrubs that blossom once in every twelve years, is found here.
Best time to visit: December to February is a great time to visit.
Nearest Airport: Kochi International Airport is the closest.
4. Kovalam
Kovalam is the most pristine beach destinations in Kerala. This beach town is known for Lighthouse beach, Samudra beach and Hawah beach. With shallow waters and low tidal waves, Kovalam shot to be the best beach destination with the influx of hippie crowd. Beach and Ayurveda apparently go hand in hand in Kerala. You have one of the best ayurvedic specialities and meditation centres here in Kovalam.
Best time to visit: November to February is a great time to visit
Nearest Airport: Trivandrum Airport is the closest
5. Kumarakom
Kumarakom is one of the blessed destinations with lush green surrounding and vastly spread freshwater lake. It has magical emerald green backwaters where dense vegetation with paddy field and coconut trees fringed. If you are looking to experience solitude and peace, Kumarakom is the place for you. It is where you experience tranquillity as you cruise on to the backwaters. This scenic destination is popular for backwater cruises and luxury resorts with a fantastic view. You will also come across a mystical Lake called Vembanad- largest lake in Kerala and one of the largest freshwater lakes in Asia. There is something for everyone here at Kumarakom.
Best time to visit: November to February is a great time to visit
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport is the closest
6. Varkala
This small hamlet is one of the lesser-known places in Kerala. Located at a distance of 50 km from Thiruvananthapuram, Varkala offers untouched pristine beaches, hills, lakes, fort and Lighthouse. This ideal tourist destination offers activities like paragliding and parasailing. Popular beaches one must visit here are papanasam beach and Varkala beach where adventure activities take place. Other tourist attractions are 2000-year-old shrine Janardhanaswamy Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu overlooking a beach, Anjengo fort and Sivagiri mutt.
Best time to visit: November to February is a great time to visit
Nearest Airport: Trivandrum Airport
7. Thiruvananthapuram
Commonly known as Trivandrum, this city is one of the largest and a populous city in Kerala. Built on the hills overlooking the sea, Trivandrum is sandwiched between the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea. Trivandrum has an interesting charm of old culture and the quaint urban scene. Offering popular temples and monuments such as Padmanabhaswamy temple, Kuthiramalika Palace and Napier museum, pristine beach destinations like Kovalam which is just 20 km from the city, Trivandrum is truly a tourist destination in Kerala.
Best time to visit: November to February is a great time to visit.
Nearest Airport: Trivandrum Airport
8. Thekkady
Thekkady has one of the finest wildlife reserves in the country. Periyar national park in Thekkady is a protected area and it is considered to be the largest tiger reserve in the country. This beautiful national park consists of rolling hills covered in thick vegetation, surrounded by Periyar River and a serene lake formed on Mullaperiyar dam. It is one of the richest parks with evergreen forest with rare flora. It is surrounded by spice plantations and coffee and tea gardens. This national park is one of the best parks for night treks and morning walks and boat ride to spot wildlife. Thekkady is the place to witness the enchanting jungle with mystical wildlife such as Asiatic elephants, tigers and few white tigers. Other mammals such as deers, Nilgiri Tahr, flying squirrel, jungle cats, Nilgiri langur and various species of birds are found here.
Best time to visit: October to February is a great time to visit
Nearest Airport: Madurai Airport or Cochin Airport is the closest.
Tamil Nadu
9. Kanyakumari
This southern tip of India is one of the beautiful places in the entire country. It is here that one can witness the confluence of three great seas – Bay of Bengal, Indian Ocean and the Arabian Sea. It is also one of the rarest places to witness sunrise and sunset at the same beach. Kanyakumari is considered to be one of the surviving cities that can be traced back to as old as Sangam period belonging to 5th – 3rd BCE. Since the age-old times, Kanyakumari is considered to be one of the significant centres of religion and tourist purpose. From being a unique geographical location to offering pristine beaches, temples and churches, there are tourists flocking in almost throughout the year.
Best time to visit: October to February is a great time to visit
Nearest Airport: Trivandrum Airport is the closest
10. Ooty
Often referred to as Queen of Nilgiris, Ooty is a popular hill station of all time. Known to be the summer capital of East India Company in the South, the beautiful hills have been alluring tourists and honeymooners for quite some time now. The rolling blue hills covered in dense pine trees and rare flora, one is ought to find a spectacular landscape here. Walking through tea and coffee estates, trek to kotagiri hills, take a train ride on the steepest the railway line in Asia, experiencing vastly spread lakes and beautiful gardens; Ooty definitely leaves an everlasting impression.
Best time to visit: October to June is a great time to visit
Nearest Airport: Coimbatore Airport is the closest
11. Madurai
Madurai is considered as one of the Ancient cities in the East. Did you know that there was a trading history between Madurai and Rome? Yes, Madurai city is traced back to 3rd century BCE. Situated on the banks of river Vaigai, Madurai is considered to be the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu. Many tourists from all over make a stop at this beautiful city that is included in all the south India tour. Known to be home for many historical monuments and medieval temples, the most important ones amongst them are Meenakshi Amman Temple and Tirumalai Nayak Palace. Madurai is truly one of the best cities in south India to experience the traditions and culture of India.
Best time to visit: October to February is a great time to visit.
Nearest Airport: Madurai Airport is the closest
12. Kodaikanal
Kodaikanal is one of the most charming hill stations in south India. This beautiful hill station is home to beautiful guest houses and colonial bungalows, Luxury resorts facing the spectacular lake, it is definitely one of the favourite destinations for honeymooners. Nestled beautifully on the Palani ranges, this beautiful hill station is surrounded by dense forest, mesmerising valleys, wonderful climate, clouded mountains with beautiful slopes and clear lakes. Popularly referred as Princess of Hill stations, Kodaikanal as the name suggests, it is truly a gift of the forests.
Best time to visit: October to March is a great time to visit
Nearest Airport: Madurai Airport is the closest
13. Rameshwaram
Rameshwaram is a quaint little place located in Pamban Island of Tamil Nadu. It is also one of the holiest places for Hindus in India. It is one of the four places in Char Dham yatra. And legend has it that Lord Rama has built a bridge to Srilanka to rescue his wife Sita. It is also believed that it was in Rameshwaram that Lord Rama has atoned for his sins and Hindus from all over come to Rameshwaram to wash off their sins. The famous Ramanathaswamy temple is visited by lakhs of people throughout the year. Other than this there are 24 holy water bodies around Rameshwaram that are visited by the devotees.
Best time to visit: October to March is a great time to visit
Nearest Airport: Madurai Airport is the closest
14. Chennai
Chennai is one of the vibrant cities in India. This southern jewel, capital of Tamil Nadu is known for its conservative traditions. It is the people and the air they breathe that makes this city a vibrant one. Formerly known as Madras, Chennai keeps a perfect balance between traditional culture and thriving urban culture. Home to the second largest beach in the world, the Marina beach is one of the popular places in the city. The beach is lined with street food stalls, make a stop there and try out some hot bajjis. Chennai has some beautiful temples that are century old and some beautiful churches and St. George Fort that belongs to the colonial era. It also houses state assembly and secretariat and government museums from British establishments.
Best time to visit: October to February is a great time to visit
Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport is the closest
15. Thanjavur
Thanjavur or Tanjore was one of the thriving cities between 10th – 14th centuries. It was a capital during the glorious days of the Chola Empire. It was during this period that Thanjavur had become a centre for art, culture and architecture. It was during the time of Raja Raja Chola 1, Brihadeeshwara temple dedicated to Lord Shiva was built. This marvellous temple now is considered as UNESCO world heritage site. The whole temple and the entire complex is truly a sight to behold. It has a massive corridor, gopuras and largest Shiva linga. This beautiful temple in Thanjavur is one of the most visited temples in South India.
Best time to visit: October to March is a great time to visit
Nearest Airport: Tiruchirapalli International Airport is the closest
16. Chidambaram
Chidambaram is a small hamlet with pure Dravidian architecture. This beautiful town belonged to the Chola Empire and is a great place to witness cultural tourism. It was also called Thillai which means forest of mangroves. Pichvaram mangroves backwaters are just a few km away from Chidambaram is a great place for nature lovers to witness the wonders of nature. There are boat rides available that take you through the forest. The most famous temple in Chidambaram is Natarajaswamy temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is a beautiful complex to appreciate some peace.
Best time to visit: October to March is a great time to visit.
Nearest Airport: Tiruchirapalli International airport is the closest
17. Mahabalipuram
This historical city interestingly can be traced back to 5th – 3rd BCE. Archaeological excavations have revealed several coins that show the existence of trade with Romans. This historical site, however, is popular for its group of monuments that were built during the time of Pallava dynasty belonging to 7th – 8th century CE. This group of monuments has over 400 ancient monuments and temples. Mahabalipuram or Mamallapuram is now recognised as a UNESCO world heritage site. Some of the must-visit sites are Shore Temple, the Five rathas and Arjunas penance.
Best time to visit: October to March is a great time to visit
Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport is the closest
18. Kanchipuram
Kanchipuram today is one of the popular cities in India for its handloom. The famous Kanjeevaram silk is woven here. Today it is known to be the weaving centre of silk sarees where people from all overcome here to buy sarees in wholesale rates. This small and yet ancient city was once the capital for Pallava dynasty from 4th to 10th century. It was one of the great centres of learning for Hindus. Some of the ancient temples still exist and are still visited by devotees. Kanchi as often referred is one of the most important places that are considered holy for Hindus. It has ancient temples with stunning architecture and archaeological remains of Jainism. But something that is very unfortunate is there are no traces of Buddhism in Kanchi. Kanchipuram was a centre for Buddhism in South India and there are Chinese scholars who had visited them. However, there is no presence of Buddhism left in this city.
Best time to visit: November to March is a great time to visit
Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport is the closest
19. Pondicherry
Popularly known as Pondy, this little French town of India is one of the fascinating places to visit. People from all over come here to this beautiful little city to find serenity in a chaotic world. This fairy tale city has some beautiful French quarters with yellow buildings leading you to promenade beach. There are some cosy cafes and bakeries serving French cuisine. Make a stop at Auroville and experience the true meaning of serenity here. The beaches are truly wonderful.
Best time to visit: October to March is a great time to visit
Nearest Airport: Pondicherry Airport
20. Mudumalai National Park
Connecting Eastern and the Western Ghats at a point, Mudumalai is one of the unique national parks in India with diversified nature in one place. It is one of the parks that has borders of Kerala and Karnataka to it. Located in Nilgiri district of Tamil Nadu, and known for being one of the picturesque national parks in India due to the beautiful background, Mudumalai national park is home to rare flora and endangers fauna.
Best time to visit: December to June is a great time to visit and an ideal time to spot animals
Nearest Airport: Coimbatore Airport is the closest
Karnataka
21. Nagarhole national park
Known to be the premier parks for Tiger reserve the program along with Bandipur national park, this beautiful national park is one of the richest places to find rare flora and endangered species of fauna. One will be astonished by the beauty that this national park can offer. From beautiful valleys and hills, to cascading falls taking a plunge, beautiful Kabini reservoir passing through the dense forest, Nagarhole national park is truly natures wonder. This beautiful national park is a great place to spot elephants and tigers.
Best time to visit: April to May to spot the Wildlife. November to March are very pleasant to visit the national park.
Nearest Airport: Mysore Airport is the closest
22. Bandipur national park
Blessed with natural beauty, this place is home to numerous rare species and wide range of teak and sandalwood. Popular habitat for elephants, tigers, pythons and panthers, this popular national parks has been attracting tourists and nature lovers to one of the popular treks in the national parks. It Is called Gopalaswamy betta. This lofty hill is one of the greatest attractions for trekkers and nature lovers to spot wildlife and witness spectacular sunrise and sunset. Situated in Nilgiris and happens to be one of four national parks in Nilgiris biosphere reserve, this biosphere is considered as UNESCO world heritage site.
Best time to visit: October to March is a great time to visit
Nearest Airport: Mysore Airport is the closest
23. Kabini wildlife sanctuary
Being a part of Nagarhole National Park, Kabini is a popular wildlife sanctuary blessed with immense beauty? It was once a private ground for hunting purpose. It is now considered to be one of the best wildlife sanctuaries in India, which has been an alluring tourist from all over. Surrounded by thick vegetation and beautiful reservoir, this mesmerising place is a great place to experience wildlife in true sense.
Best time to visit: November to March is a great time to visit
Nearest Airport: Coimbatore Airport is the closest
24. Hampi
Did you know? Hampi is considered a UNESCO world heritage site. The city of ruins what we know now has been once a flourishing city with busy commerce and trade. This ancient city was once a capital for the glorious Vijayanagara Empire. It was during this time that the art, language and architectures was flourishing along with the trade of precious stones and jewellery. A walk through the beautiful ruins will take you back to the times make you wonder about its glorious days. The ancients ruins of temples and its complexes are so beautifully planned and constructed, that it aches to see the city in ruins. As you walk through the temples and complexes you will be surprised to witness the intricate detailing in their art and architecture. Some of the popular monuments to look for are Vittala temple, Lotus temple, Virupaksha temple, Elephant stables and so on... Hampi also emerged as a hub for hippies from all over.
Best time to visit: October to February is a great time to visit
Nearest Airport: Hubli Airport is the closest
25. Aihole and Pattadakal
Aihole and Pattadakal are considered to be the school of architecture during the times of Chalukyas. The art and architecture during this time played a greater role and are living examples of the lives of our ancestors. The temples and complexes built here are traced back to the 4th century – 8th century AD, dedicated to Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism. Each detailing on these temples and in the complexes is so intricate you will be surprised at their skills and methods in doing them. It is definitely a fascinating experience for history and culture buffs.
Best time to visit: October to March is a great time to visit
Nearest Airport: Belgaum Airport is the closest
26. Belur Halebidu
Belur and Halebidu are one of the finest examples of architectural marvels during the time of the Hoysala Empire. During their 300 years of ruling experience and art and architectural examples, they left their best works in Belur and Halebidu. Located in Hassan district of Karnataka, Belur and Halebidu, both separately played an important role in being the seat of empire for a long time. Chennakeshava temple in Belur and Hoyaleshwara and Shantaleshwara temples in Halebidu are must-visit temples to experiences the marvels of Hoysalas.
Best time to visit: October to February is a great time to visit
Nearest Airport: Mangalore Airport
27. Chikmagalur
Land of coffee is what Chikmagalur is. This tiny little town in Karnataka is a beautiful hill station surrounded with highest peaks and perineal forest, Chikmagalur is definitely an ideal destination for nature lovers. With coffee estates and spice plantations beautifully nestled on the slopes, don’t be surprised to wake up to the aroma of coffee and spectacular views of misty mountains. Located in the foothills of Mullayangiri ranges, this quaint town offered a picturesque landscape, mesmerising cascades and spectacular views of valleys. Trekking to Mullayangiri is one of the popular things to do here.
Best time to visit: October to May is a great time to visit
Nearest Airport: Mangalore airport is the closest
28. Gokarna
Gokarna is one of the best beach destinations in Karnataka. After Goa, Gokarna is one beautiful beach destination that has become a huge hippie hub in India. With clear waters and clean beaches on one side and beautiful hills on the other, Gokarna is truly a great beach destination to relax on the shacks while sipping a beer. Gokarna is also a popular temple town. Famous for Mahabaleshwara temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is a popular pilgrimage catering to the needs of two different tourists.
Best time to visit: October to February is a great time to visit.
Nearest Airport: Dabolim – Goa Airport is the closest.
29. Udupi
This beautiful town popular for its cuisine and its temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, Udupi is truly a temple town with a beautiful beach. Known to be the fastest-growing city due to the emerging educational institutes, this town has been seeing tourist and pilgrims flocking to the city for its beaches and temples. One of the noteworthy temples here is Sri Krishna temple for its architecture.
Best time to visit: October to March is a great time to visit
Nearest Airport: Mangalore Airport is the closest.
30. Bangalore
Bangalore is considered as one of the favourite destinations. This cosmopolitan and metropolitan city has been seeing people from all over flock to this city for various reasons; some for educations, some for work and some for tourist purposes. To cater all, Bangalore is one of the few cities in India where you have everything that can make a city interesting. From breweries to clubbing scenes, fantastic weather, weekend hang-out spots, great eateries and cuisines from all over, you have it all. With so many hills and natural surroundings in a couple of hours from the city, one cannot get bored living here.
Best time to visit: September to March is a great time to visit
Nearest Airport: Bangalore International Airport is the closest
31. Coorg
Coorg is a popular hill station surrounded by rolling hills with coffee plantations and spice gardens. Coorg is considered to be a great weekend destination in the mountains. There are some fascinating treks and exciting rides on coracles, luxury resorts and homestays to wake up to breath-taking views. It is indeed a fantastic place to explore the natural surrounding by walking through the plantations and exciting waterfalls.
Best time to visit: October to March is a great time to visit
Nearest Airport: Mysore Airport is the closest
32. Mysore
Mysore was a princely state ruled by Mysore maharajas till 1947. Located at a spitting distance from Bangalore, this beautiful city is considered to be the cultural hub of Karnataka. Known for its beautiful palace, food and silk, Mysore truly retains it royalty every time you set afoot here. Surrounded by beautiful hills and scenic beauty, the weather in Mysore is always pleasant.
Best time to visit: July to February is a great time to visit
Nearest Airport: Mysore Airport is the closest
33. Bijapur
Bijapur, now officially known as Vijayapura is home to the most famous Gol Gumbaj. It is considered to be the largest dome in the world. Bijapur is one of the oldest cities belonging to the times of Kalyani Chalukyas of 10th – 11th centuries. It was during this time that it was called Vijayapura. When Bahamani sultanates took over this city they changed its name to Bijapur. It was during Bahamani Sultanates that Gol Gumbaj was constructed. Along with Gol Gumbaz, popular monuments like Bijapur fort, Bara Kaman and Jama masjid were constructed.
Best time to visit: October to February is a great time to visit
Nearest Airport: Belgaum Airport is the closest
34. Dandeli
Located on the banks of River Kali, Dandeli is a beautiful little town nestled in dense forest and in abundance of nature. It is a beautiful combination of rich biodiversity and adventure sports together. It is a great place to experience White water rafting, Kayaking and canoeing. Hiking to Kavala caves and safari in the jungle are other fascinating opportunity Dandeli offers.
Best time to visit: October to January is a great time to visit
Nearest Airport: Hubli Airport is the closest
35. Badami
This quaint little town is nestled in the valleys of red sandstone. This ancient town which was once called as Vatapi can be traced back to 500 – 700 AD during the times of Badami Chalukyas. Badami is a popular archaeological site consisting of four cave temples that are cut out of red sandstone. These caves are dedicated to Hinduism and Jainism. These caves are with a backdrop of a lake that is surrounding them.
Best time to visit: October to February is a great time to visit
Nearest Airport: Belgaum Airport is the closest
36. Kudremukh
Kudremukh is one of the mountain peaks in Karnataka. Nestled in the mountain ranges in Chikmagalur, Kudremukh is the second highest peak after Mullayangiri. Kudremukh literal meaning is ‘horse face’ is describing the shape of the mountains, is considered to be a popular trekking trail to witness spectacular landscape. Blessed with enchanting meadows and rich flora and fauna, it is a perfect trek for nature lovers.
Best time to visit: October to May is a great time to visit
Nearest Airport: Mangalore Airport is the closest
37. Mangalore
Mangalore is one of the port cities in Karnataka. This port city is very popular for beaches, churches and Mangalorean cuisine. It is a perfect place to enjoy clean beaches and try out lip-smacking seafood at the shacks. Tannirbhavi Beach and Panambur Beach are popular beaches that are great to relax on. Some of the beautiful attractions that should not be missed here are Someshwara Temple, St. Aloysius Chapel, Mangaladevi Temple, Kadri Manjunath Temple, and Sammilan Shetty’s Butterfly Park.
Best time to visit: September to February is a great time to visit
Nearest Airport: Mangalore Airport
Telangana
38. Hyderabad
Hyderabad popularly referred to as the City if Nawabs flourished under Nizams. This beautiful city played a significant role in the cultural heritage of India. Known for impressive architecture through their palaces, mighty fort, fun Hyderabadi language and heavenly food gives us a hint of Nizami culture. Who hasn’t heard of heart-warming Hyderabadi Biryani and tasty Haleem? Its diverse ethnicity and rich history make you fall in love with the city and once you live here, you become a Hyderabadi for life. Some of the iconic places that are must-visit in Hyderabad are Charminar, Shopping in Chudi Bazaar, sip Irani chai with Osmania biscuit, spend an evening in heart-shaped Hussain Sagar lake, check out stunning Nizam collections in Salar Jung Museum, explore the mighty Golconda Fort and Qutub Shahi tombs. You will not be disappointed by the number of things to do in Hyderabad.
Best time to visit: September to March is a great time to visit
Nearest Airport: Hyderabad International Airport is the closest.
39. Anantagiri
Anantagiri in Vikarabad district of Hyderabad is one of the popular hill stations in a spitting distance from Hyderabad. Located at a distance of 80 km from Hyderabad, Anantagiri hills is one of the ideal destinations for a weekend getaway near Hyderabad. Driving through this region, you are welcomed with sun-flower fields and grasslands, urging you to take a hike. As you hike you will witness the mesmerising view of the beautiful Deccan plateau. There are many night treks and camping happens here. It can be an exhilarating experience. You can combine this with Hyderabad.
Best time to visit: November to February is a great time to visit
Nearest Airport: Hyderabad International Airport is the closest
40. Warangal
Warangal served as a capital of the Kakatiya Dynasty. It will for sure take you back to the bygone eras. This beautiful little city has remains and ruins of monuments that were built during the time of Kakatiyas. Visit Kakatiya fortress and two important architectural marvels in Warangal are thousand pillar temple and Rammappa temples with intricate detailing in architecture. Beautiful lakes are worth stopping by. One more important monument here is Kakatiya Kala thoranam which is a stone gateway, now declared as an emblem of Telangana by the state government.
Best time to visit: October to February is a great time to visit
Nearest Airport: Hyderabad International Airport is the closest
41. Medak
Medak played an important role in both Kakatiya dynasty and during Nizam. It is a popular town where local festivals Bathukamma is celebrated with great enthusiasm. It is also a popular tourist destination with beautiful temple and lakes. Pocharam forest and wildlife sanctuary often attract tourists to spot rare birds and wild animals. Some of the must-visit places here are Medak fort traced back to 12th century belongs to Kakatiya dynasty and Medak Cathedral – a spectacular church in gothic style architecture.
Best time to visit: October to January is a great time to visit
Nearest Airport: Hyderabad International Airport is the closest
42. Bhadrachalam
Bhadrachalam is a quaint town located on the banks of River Godavari. It is considered to be a pilgrimage spot for Hindus. Bharachalam is a famous town for a Temple dedicated to Sri Rama. Constructed in 17thcentury during Nizam Empire, this beautiful temple has been visited by thousands from all over. Parnasala and Abhaya Anjaneya temple are some of the must-visit places here.
Best time to visit: October – February is a great time to visit
Nearest Airport: Rajahmundry Airport is the closest is the closest
Andhra Pradesh
43. Visakhapatnam
Popularly known as Vizag, it is home to one of the oldest ports and the only natural harbour in the country. This port city is a one of a kind. With beautiful beaches of Bay of Bengal on one side, Vizag is surrounded by picturesque hills on the other. It has perfect beaches a lot cleaner and less crowded in comparison with other beaches on Indian coastline. Get a spectacular view of sunrise and check out the Submarine Museum. Araku valley and Borra caves are at spitting distance from Vizag.
Best time to visit: September – February is a great time to visit
Nearest airport: Visakhapatnam airport is the closest
44. Araku valley
Located in lofty hills of Eastern Ghats, Araku is a beautiful valley that is untouched by commercialization. Home to a number of tribes, exotic coffee estates, and dense forest makes it an ideal destination for a quick weekend or a long weekend holiday. There are some stunning views and landscapes that one has to watch out for. Trekking and hiking through the nature trails, exploring Katiki waterfalls and fascinating borra caves are some interesting places to experience nature at its best.
Best time to visit: November to February is a great time to visit
Nearest airport: Visakhapatnam Airport is the closest
45. Tirupati
Tirupati is one of the holiest places in India visited by lakh of people from all over. Located in Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, Tirupati is situated on the foothills of Tirumala which is the holy ground of Sri Venkateshwara Swamy Temple. Tirumala Hills has 7 peaks also known as Saptagiri and the temple is on the seventh peak called Venkatachalam. This temple is considered as the wealthiest temple in the entire Indian sub-continent due to a number of donations each day. Surrounded by natural beauty, there are a number of waterfalls and natural rock formations around this region. It is definitely worth visiting once in a lifetime.
Best time to visit: June – February is a great time to visit
Nearest Airport: Tirupati airport
46. Gandikota
Located on the banks of River Penna in Andhra Pradesh, Gandikota is popularly known as Grand Canyon of India. As the River Penna cuts through erramalla hills, it leaves an impression for a lifetime with a view of beautiful gorges following the path created by the river. These narrow valleys and streams truly will remind you of the famous Grand Canyon in Arizona. Come here to witness the ruins of Gandikota Fort built in red sandstone. The view from the fort offers mesmerising view valleys and hills.
Best time to visit: October to February is a great time to visit
Nearest Airport: Tirupati and Bangalore airport are the closest
47. Lepakshi
Lepakshi is a small hamlet in Andhra Pradesh with the historical significance that is reflected through its architecture and rich culture. The temples here are a true reflection of culture and architectural importance is given during the time of the Vijayanagar Empire. Popular attractions to look out for in Lepakshi is Nandi at Basavanna Temple, Veerabhadra temple, hanging pillars, Shiva linga and temple complexes at Lepakshi temple.
Best time to visit: September to February is a great time to visit
Nearest Airport: Bangalore International Airport is the closest
48. Srisailam
Srisailam situated on the banks of River Krishna is one of the popular places and is often flocked with pilgrims. It is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas situated in Srisailam. Srisailam is famous for its Dam and Mallikarjuna temple – jyotirlinga dedicated to Lord Shiva. This age the old temple is built in the Dravidian style of architecture and truly holds a special place. Witness the beautiful Srisailam dam; which is considered to be one of the largest dams in South India. Trekking camping is quite popular in this region. It is surrounded by Nallamala forest with rich bio-diversity. A drive to Srisailam is one of the pleasurable experiences as you will pass through dense forest with excellent Ghat road.
Best time to visit: June to February is a great time to visit
Nearest Airport: Hyderabad International Airport
49. Belum caves
Located in Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh, Belum caves are the second-largest cave in the entire Indian sub-continent. These naturally formed caves are truly a wonder of nature. With a million years of cave formation due to limestone erosion, unlike the usual caves that are formed inside a mountain, Belum caves exist below plains. This untouched place is a must-visit place in Andhra Pradesh. This kilometre and a half long caves are one of the fascinating experiences.
Best time to visit: December to February is the right time to visit these caves.
Nearest Airport: Tirupati is the closest Airport
50. Papikondalu
Papikondalu is beautiful hill ranges that are surrounded by Godavari River, is a scenic place in Andhra Pradesh. Papi hills form a beautiful gorge on the river spreading to east and west Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh. These beautiful hills are covered in a dense rainforest where trekking and camping by the river is a popular activity. One can enjoy a boat ride from Rajamundry to Bhadrachalam that passes through Papi hills. It is advisable to not to visit in summers as it can be very hot and sultry.
Best time to visit: November to January is a great time to visit
Nearest Airport: Rajahmundry Airport is the closest
These are some of the best places to witness and understand the heritage, culture and diversity of each state in South India. Do let us know how many places you have visited in this list and how many you haven’t.