Each visit to best places to visit in South India, promises an unforgettable experience. Southern states of Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu offer a warm embrace to visitors. South India is not only just about houseboats, picturesque beaches and aromatic spice plantations; but also embodies a rich tapestry of diverse cultures, flavors, traditions, and languages.
South India caters to every type of traveler. Adventure seekers can indulge in thrilling water sports, while honeymoon couples can explore beaches serene backwaters. Hikers have a myriad of trekking trails to conquer, and nature enthusiasts can bask in stunning panoramic views. You can immerse in the gorgeous waterfalls, lush green tea estates, majestic hills, and scenic landscapes. Beyond nature, there are several tourist spots renowned for age-old history associated with them – the historical architectural buildings, caves, and many more buildings of the yesteryears.
If you are planning a trip to South India, bet you will never be disappointed as there are multiple destinations in South India . Let us check out the prominent places to visit in South India with family that will help you plan for a perfect itinerary.
1. Munnar, Kerala
Munnar in Kerala is considered one of the best places to visit in South India with family. Nestled in the spectacular Western Ghats, the hill station is a paradise on earth. You will love to indulge in its scintillating beauty – wrapped with misty mountains, breathtaking valleys, pristine hamlets, and tea and spice plantations. Nature walks, mountain trails, trekking, camping, and safaris are the most common adventurous activities enjoyed by tourists visiting Munnar.
The top sightseeing spots in Munnar are:
Mattupetty Dam
Eravikulam National Park
Anamudi Peak
Echo Point
Tata Tea Museum
Pothamedu View Point
Kolukkumalai Tea Estate
Lakkom waterfalls
Chinnar wildlife sanctuary
Attukad waterfalls
Carmelagiri Elephant park
The best time to visit Munnar
You can visit Munnar any time of the year. Yet it is best to see between September and March when the weather is very pleasant.
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How to reach Munnar
The nearest airport is at Kochi, 125 km away from Munnar. The nearest railway station is at Aluva, 110 km distance away. But to enjoy the enigmatic beauty of Munnar, the best is to travel by road.
2. Ooty, Tamil Nadu
A picturesque hill station in the heart of the majestic and charming Western Ghats. Ooty in Tamil Nadu is a traveler’s paradise with its greenery and scenic beauty. The walking trails across the mountain tracks, the green gorgeous valleys, and the quaint hamlets are enticing and enchanting. The lakes at Ooty are perfect for boating and spending leisure time at the banks. Do not forget to visit the tea gardens and buy some homemade chocolates. It is a perfect weekend getaway for people staying in the nearby cities. A relaxation from the everyday busy life.
The top sightseeing spots in Ooty are:
Rose garden
Ooty boathouse
Botanical garden
St. Stephen’s Church
Mudumalai tiger reserve
Doddabetta peak
Pykara waterfalls
Murugan temple
The Tea factory and the Tea museum
Avalance lake
Emerald lake
The best time to visit Ooty
You can visit Ooty throughout the year. The peak season is between March and June. If you want to avoid the crowds, then you can try for the other months.
How to reach Ooty
The nearest airport is at Coimbatore, 100 km from Ooty. The nearest railway station is at Mettupalayam, a 47 km traveling distance to Ooty. You can also drive or book a cab from other nearby cities.
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3. Araku Valley, Andhra Pradesh
Filled with the ecstatic beauty of the gushing waterfalls, greenery, and tranquil atmosphere, Araku Valley in the state of Andhra Pradesh has been attracting visitors from all around the world and most importantly throughout the year. The valley is specifically prominent because of its coffee plantations. Said to be the Mecca for coffee admirers, it assumes great pride in housing the premium “Araku Emerald” coffee brand. It is considered to be the first tribal-grown coffee in India. You must not miss out on sipping the coffee brand while in the valley. Besides there are trekking options for adventure lovers within the valley premises.
The top sightseeing spots in Araku Valley are:
Tribal museum
Borra caves
Padmapuram Gardens
Katiki waterfalls
Coffee museum
Chaparai water cascade
Galikonda viewpoint
The valley view
VMRDA park
Dolphin’s Nose Lighthouse
TU 140 Aircraft Museum
The best time to visit Araku Valley
The best time to visit Araku Valley is between September and February. It is usually the peak season, however, to avoid crowds you may visit in the other months too as the climate remains more or less moderate.
How to reach Araku Valley
You cannot reach the valley directly. You have to first reach Vizag either by air or rail. Then book a cab, take the train or the bus.
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4. Thekkady, Kerala
If you are a wildlife lover, then the best place for you to add to your itinerary for South India is Periyar National Park. There are plenty of animal and bird species for you to observe and enlighten yourselves with their habitat. You can wander around the sanctuary on safaris and night walks. It is truly a bliss to be in between the exotic flora and fauna. Various types of wild trees, flowers, and plants are also in the park. The popular animals and birds around are Bengal tiger, leopards, sambar deer, Indian bison, and lion-tailed macaques.
Things to do in Periyar National Park:
Guided cloud walk for 3 to 4 hours
Camping inside the jungle
Bamboo rafting and hiking
Tiger trail trekking and camping
Jungle patrol
Boating on Periyar Lake
Touring around Abraham’s spice garden
Walking along the Connemara tea factory and witnessing the tea plantations and production
The best time to visit Thekkady
Sheriyar National Park is good to visit throughout the year. But the best time is during the monsoons between September and October when the greenery is at its peak.
How to reach Thekkady
The nearest airport is at Kochi, 150 km away from the park. The nearest railway station is at Kottayam, 97 km distance away. You can also try for private and public buses, cabs, and autorickshaws.
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5. Wayanad, Kerala
Wayanad in Kerala is one of the most scenic places to visit in South India with family. Nature is at its best with its spectacular display of greenery and magnificent foliage. You can engage in plenty of activities like hiking, trekking, nature walks, bird watching, and safaris. Besides, staying in a treehouse at Wayanad is an adventurous and thrilling experience. It’s a truly eco-friendly way to engage in the heart of nature and immerse in its splendid beauty. You can even witness the tribal culture.
The top sightseeing spots in Wayanad are:
Edakkal caves
Lakkidi view point
Soocipara waterfalls
Kanthanpara waterfalls
Chembra peak
Pookode lake
Wayanad wildlife sanctuary
Banasura Sagar dam
Meenmutty waterfalls
Bansura hill
Karapuzha dam
The best time to visit Wayanad
The best time to visit Wayanad is between the months of November and February when the weather is pleasant and the nights are cold. You will enjoy the place at this time of the year.
How to reach Wayanad
The nearest airport is at Calicut, 54 km away from Wayanad. The nearest railway station is at Kozhikode, 110 km distance away. You can also try for private and public buses, cabs, and autorickshaws.
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6. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu is one of the breathtaking places to visit in South India with family. The lush greenery around, the dense forests, and the mountain ranges entice tourists from different parts of India. A scenic hill station, adorned with nature’s beauty. You can enjoy boat rides, go for nature walks, trek across the mountain trails, and immerse yourself in the scintillating beauty of nature. There are also many museums and temples in Kodaikanal for tourists to visit.
The top sightseeing spots in Kodaikanal are:
Bryant park
Kurinji Andavar temple
Coaker’s Walk
Kodaikanal Lake
Solar observatory museum
Guna cave
Silver cascade falls
Vattakanal waterfalls
Mannavanur lake
Berijam lake
Chettiar park
The best time to visit Kodaikanal
The best time to visit Kodaikanal is between October and June. The weather may become very chilly during December and January yet it is comfortable.
How to reach Kodaikanal
The nearest airport is at Madurai, 120 km from Kodaikanal. There are three railway stations near Kodaikanal – Kodai Road, Palani, and Dindigul. You can also travel by road from the nearby cities.
7. Alleppey, Kerala
Alleppey is famous for its backwaters and that’s the primary attraction for tourists to flock to this place throughout the year and from various locations around the world. One of the most popular enrapturing places to visit in South India with family. It is a euphoric experience to cruise along the backwaters in a houseboat and soak into the enigmatic beauty around. The sparkling waters, the greenery around, and the tiny houses of the fishermen along the banks rejuvenate the heart and mind. You can go for birdwatching and then visit some of the hamlets to acquaint yourself with the life of the locals
The top sightseeing spots in Alleppey are:
Alappuzha lighthouse
Alappuzha beach
Marari beach
Krishnapuram palace
Kumarakom bird sanctuary
Punnamada lake
St. Andrew’s Basilica
Thumpoly beach
Sree Krishna Swamy temple
Pathiramanal island
Chakkulathukuva Sree Bhagavathi temple
The best time to visit Alleppey
The best time to visit Alleppey is during the winter between October and February. The temperature is pleasant and moderate, a soothing experience for the tourists.
How to reach Alleppey
The nearest airport is at Kochi, 75 km away from Alleppey. The nearest railway station is at Alleppey, cabs and buses are available to reach the place. There are regular buses and cabs available to Alleppey.
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8. Coorg, Karnataka
Another mesmerizing hill station, adorned with nature’s affluent charm. Nestled in the majestic Western Ghats, the quaint hamlet is a perfect destination to spend a blissful vacation. The melodious chirping of the birds, the soothing breeze, and the pristine environment welcome the tourists. Coorg is considered to be one of the best places to visit in South India with family. A walk around coffee plantations, exploring the dense forests, and trudging along the mountain trails are some of the most popular activities in Coorg.
The top sightseeing spots in Coorg are:
The Dubare elephant camp
Iruppu waterfalls
Brahmagiri peak
Abbey waterfalls
Nagarhole national park
Raja’s Seat
Mallalli waterfalls
Mandalpatti peak
Namdroling Monastery Golden Temple
Talakaveri temple
Puspagiri wildlife sanctuary
The best time to visit Coorg
The best time to visit Coorg is between September and June. However, if you want to go for trekking, the best time is between October and March.
How to reach Coorg
The nearest airport is at Mangalore, 152 km away from Coorg. The nearest railway station is at Mysore, about a distance of 120 km apart. Cabs and buses are available to reach the place. Besides if you want to travel by road, then regular buses and cabs are available from various cities of Karnataka to Coorg.
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9. Nandi Hills, Karnataka
If you are looking for a weekend getaway with family near the hills, the best place is to visit Nandi Hills in Karnataka in South India. The place is not only famous for its natural grandeur but also because of its historical significance. There are temples, historical sites, mythological images, and many more. The weather is so soothing and pleasant, enticing tourists throughout the year. Rich in pepper and coffee plantations, it is an enchanting experience to walk along the trails. Besides adventure lovers will enjoy the place as there are innumerable options for paragliding and cycling. Even bird watchers will love the place observing numerous bird species both local and migratory.
The top sightseeing spots in Nandi Hills are:
Tipu’s Drop, an historical landmark
Sri Bhoga Nandishwara Gudi temple
Nandibetta sunrise point
The hill view
Sri Yoganandeeswara temple
Satya Sports village
Channagiri Betta trek point
Tipu Fort
Tipu Sultan’s summer palace
Skandagiri Hills
Canterbury Castles
The best time to visit Nandi Hills
The best time to visit Nandi Hills is between June and August. The weather is at its best, calm, and soothing, and nature is full of blushing greenery.
How to reach Nandi Hills
The nearest airport and railway station is at Bengaluru, a 60 km traveling distance to Nandi Hills. You can also drive or book a cab from Bengaluru.
10. Kumarakom, Kerala
Kerala has a plethora of sightseeing places enchanting tourists from all over the world. Kumarakom is one such place, enticing as well as fascinating. It’s worth spending a vacation with family in this marvelous tourist spot. Located at the banks of Lake Vembanad, and wrapped with abundant flourishing vegetation and rich greenery, Kumarakom is a place to visit. If you love bird watching, then do not miss visiting the place where you can observe various species of birds both local and migratory. Another attraction at this place is the Ayurvedic treatments, spa therapy, and meditation practices offered within the premises of the pristine Kumarakom. You must also not miss the idyllic hamlets nestled among the plains and valleys of the place. Cruising along the lake waters in a houseboat is another attraction of Kumarakom.
The top sightseeing spots in Kumarakom are:
Kumarakom bird sanctuary
Vembanad lake
Aruvikuzhy waterfalls
Kumarakom craft museum
Pathiramanal island
Kumarakom backwaters
Kottayam locality
Vagamon locality
Vaikom Mahadeva temple
Thanneermukkom Bund bridge
Ettumanoor Shri Mahadeva temple
The best time to visit Kumarakom
The best time to visit Kumarakom is between September and March when the weather is pleasant and moderate and the humidity is less.
How to reach Kumarakom
The nearest airport is at Kochi, 80 km away from Kumarakom. The nearest railway station is at Kottayam, 16 km distance away. Boat rides are available from Muhamma to Kumarakom. You can also try for private and public buses, cabs, and autorickshaws.
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11. Idukki, Kerala
If you want to spend moments of solitude in the vicinity of nature, Idukki in Kerala is an ideal place for you. The weather is pleasant and soothing, an appeal to visit the place again and again. There are plenty of things to do in Idukki like trekking, hiking, picnicking, camping, boating, walking, and many more. Besides there are several interesting and attractive places to visit in Idukki. Dams, waterfalls, parks, lakes, and forests, adorn the enchanting hill station, much to the awe of the tourists. The majestic Western Ghats mountain ranges are a special attraction in Idukki. A place to rejuvenate one’s tired and stressed mind.
The top sightseeing spots in Idukki are:
Idukki dam
Kalvari Mount
Ramakkalmedu
Meesapulimala
Cheeyappara waterfalls
Anayirankal dam reservoir
Panchalimedu
Valara waterfalls
Sita Devi lake
Hill View park
Chathurangapara view point
The best time to visit Idukki
Idukki is a place where one can visit throughout the year due to its tranquil weather. Yet it is best to visit during the winter season between November and February.
How to reach Idukki
The nearest airport is at Kochi, 132 km away from Idukki. The nearest railway station is at Theni, 60 km distance away. You can also try for buses, cabs, and autorickshaws.
12. Coonoor, Tamil Nadu
Coonoor is another charming hill station in Tamil Nadu. It is indeed one of the most popular and beautiful places to visit in South India with family. There are trekking trails, walking paths, and adventure sports at Coonoor. There are golf courses too if you love to play golf. Besides there are many parks and churches for the tourists to visit with their families. You will love the greenery around, and the soothing feeling of the weather around.
The top sightseeing spots in Coonoor are:
Nilgiris tea estate
Highfield tea factory
Lamb’s Rock
Droog Fort
Monkey Trails
Laws Falls
Brooklands Tea estate
Ketti valley
Catherine waterfalls
Dolphin’s Nose
St George’s Church
The best time to visit Coonoor
Just like Ooty, you can visit Coonoor throughout the year. The peak season is between October and March since people from hot climate zones travel to hill stations. If you want to avoid the crowds, then you can try for the other months.
How to reach Coonoor
The nearest airport is at Coimbatore, 70 km from Coonoor. You can avail of the toy train from Ooty to reach Coonoor. You can also drive or book a cab from other nearby cities. If you are traveling via train then you can reach Coimbatore junction and then avail buses or cabs to reach Coonoor.
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13. Ponmudi, Kerala
Located amid the Western Ghats is another captivating and enthralling place, Ponmudi in Kerala. Waterfalls, streams, springs, tea and spice plantations, mountains, and wild forests – all together define the uniqueness of Ponmudi. The place is loved by adventure lovers since there are thrilling options for trekking and hiking along the mountain and forest trails. Besides the flora and fauna are something to be noted. If you want to relax your brain then it’s better to undergo Ayurvedic treatments and spa therapies. Interestingly, you can witness the Agadthyakoodam peak from Ponmudi.
The top sightseeing spots in Ponmudi are:
Kallar Meenmutty falls
Ponmudi Upper Sanatorium
Peppara wildlife sanctuary
Neyyar dam
Ponmudi hilltop
Agasthyamalai
Veli Lake Tourist village
Shendurney wildlife sanctuary
Mankayam waterfalls
Koyikkal palace
Varkala beach
The best time to visit Ponmudi
The best time to visit Ponmudi is between October and March. The hill station flourishes in its beauty when the weather is misty and mind-blowing. It’s truly a treat to the eyes.
How to reach Ponmudi
The nearest airport is at Thiruvananthapuram, 60 km away from Kumarakom. The nearest railway station is at Thiruvananthapuram, 61 km distance away. There are regular buses available to Ponmudi.
South India has many exclusive tourist destinations in its store. You need to pick among them the best to suit your preferences. Indeed a perfect way to spend a vacation with your family and loved ones.
South India is a fantastic choice for a holiday spot in India, especially for anyone who wants to explore stunning nature, traditional architecture, vibrant cultures, historical places, hill stations , beautiful temples, impressive forts, peaceful churches, and several UNESCO World Heritage Sites that tell stories of the past, green hills, sunny beaches, calm backwaters, and fields full of tea, spices, and coffee. If you’re into relaxing, there are places for Ayurveda treatments. For the thrill-seekers, there are adventure sports, wildlife safaris, and lots of other fun activities to make your trip unforgettable.
