south india road trip

• Sustainability

• December 9, 2021
• Blog , Experiences , Travel
• 3 Mins Read

If you’re someone who despises the winter season and only wants to retreat under the blanket, you aren’t alone! To battle the blues of this season, why not gather around your gang and explore the beautiful South Indian route! Here’s a list of the 12 most exciting and adventurous road trips to explore South India:

1. Hyderabad to Araku Valley

This road trip from South India is considered a comprehensive trip because it takes you across valleys, beaches, and hill stations. A road trip from Hyderabad to Araku covers the scenic route between Hyderabad and Vishakhapatnam, as well as the pristine route between Vizag and Araku.

Distance: 732 Km / Time Taken: 12-15 Hours

Road Trips on a Budget

2. Chennai to Munnar

Make your way from Chennai to Munnar via stunning highland roads and alternative coastal beaches on one of the best road trips in South India. This is a road trip to remember, with magnificent roads, stunning beaches, and acres of tea plantations.

Distance: 591 Km / Time Taken: 11-13 Hours

3. Pamban Bridge

Pamban Bridge is one of the best road adventures from Bangalore or any other area of South India. In South India, a drive down the Pamnban is a must-do. This bridge connects Pamban on Rameshwaram’s island to Tamil Nadu.

Distance: 592 Km / Time Taken: 10 -12 Hours

 4. Bangalore to Ooty

This road trip is a popular route amongst the majority of college students. One of the most popular road trips in South India, this 265-kilometer journey includes a stop in Mysore, where you can learn about the city’s historic history and architecture.

Distance: 265 Km / Time Taken: 6 Hours

Road Trip Playlist for every mood!

5. Mangalore to Goa

Every road trip planner in South India seeks to include the Mangalore to Goa trip, which is great for those who love the beach. Spend some time on beautiful beaches while admiring the breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea!

Distance: 364 Km / Time Taken: 7.30 Hours

6. Kochi to Kanyakumari

Covered across 300 km, Kochi to Kanyakumari is a sea lover’s road trip. On the trip from Kochi to Kanyakumari, stop by beautiful beaches, fishing villages, and backwaters.

Distance: 300 Km / Time Taken: 6.30 Hours 

7. Bandipur to Periyar

This trip from Bandipur and Periyar, both prominent tiger hotspots, is a major tourist attraction for wildlife enthusiasts. Elephants thrive in the area, and acres of coffee plantations may also be seen!

Distance: 368 Km / Time Taken from Bandipur: 10 Hours 

8. Bangalore to Goa

On this road journey, take in the peaceful highways and the hypnotic beauty of nature. This road trip allows you to sample everything from traditional South Indian cuisine to delectable Dhaba food while travelling on one of the best roads in India!

Distance: 587 Km / Time Taken: 11.30 Hours

9. Bangalore to Coorg

The magnificence of the Brahmagiri Peak may be seen on the road to Coorg from Bangalore. You might stop for a brief trek in the Talacauvery Hills. Coorg offers a variety of sightseeing and trekking opportunities. It boasts opulent homestays where you may relax and unwind while enjoying mouthwatering Kodava cuisine.

Distance: 248.5 km / Time Taken: 5 Hours

10. Vizag to Araku

It takes 4 hours to drive from Vizag to Araku Valley , with views of the Eastern Ghats’ meandering valleys and rolling hills along the way.

Distance: 114 km / Time Taken from Vizag: 4 Hours 

11. Chikmagalur to Kudremukh

On this road trip to explore South India, you can spot the gorgeous scenery along the way and that makes for a beautiful drive because of the sprawling green hills and misty surroundings!

Distance: 110 km / Time Taken: 3 Hours 

12. Chennai to Yelagiri

To get to the lovely hill station of Yelagiri, take a road trip from Chennai through Sriperumbudur, Vellore, and Vaniyambadi. The roads are in excellent shape, and you may enjoy the splendour of the eastern Ghats while travelling.

Distance: 228.5 km / Time Taken: 4.30 Hours 

When you go on one of these road trips to explore South India, you get to see everything—beautiful scenery, azure skies, the best roads and fascinating sunsets! Sometimes, you may even discover some hidden gems along the route. Time to hit the road and take these exciting road trips to explore South India with your close ones!

Also follow India Chalk on Instagram for more amazing travel content. You can share your travel story with us. Reach out to us on email at contact[at]ndiachalk[dot]com. This blog is curated by India Chalk and written by Aryaki M.

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Drive Down These Stunning Routes In South India For The Perfect Getaway

South india is home to some stunning routes that are the epitome of beauty. so, make the most of your days off and plan a journey here..

By: Anushka Goel Published: Apr 01, 2022 05:00 PM IST

Road trips are among the best ways to spend quality time with loved ones. What makes them special is the journey, which takes one through varied landscapes. India is home to stunning hills, huge deserts and beautiful green covers. What’s more, entire South India is home to some routes that are the epitome of beauty. So, plan a journey down these amazing  routes ,  and be prepared to be blown away! By Anushka Goel

Stunning routes in South India for those who love road trips

Chennai to yercaud.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by shuttersoftamilnadu|© (@shuttersoftamilnadu)

The journey takes one from the coastal city of Chennai to the Shevaroy Hills in Tamil Nadu, where the stunning, quaint town is. A budget road trip, this journey takes one through landscapes and weather changes, as one leaves the humidity behind for some sweet, pleasant air. The journey also takes one through the Ghat road, which has 20 hairpin bends to appease the adventure lovers!

Distance: 347 kilometres

Kochi to Alleppey

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by m a n i r p a r i k h / / (@mellotron.scratch)

The stunning route takes about an hour or hour and a half and connects Kochi to Alleppey, or Allapuzha. Alleppey is known for its beautiful backwaters and a calm, serene vibe with lush greenery, and the roads connecting Kochi to the place are also full of green cover, making this short journey a stunning one.

Distance: 53 kilometres

Kochi-Ponmudi Hills

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by TRIVIAN WYBE (@triv.ianwybe)

One of the most stunning routes in South India, the Kochi-Ponmudi Hills  road  takes one through stunning forests and beautiful hills. Ponmudi Hills themselves are known for their deer park, waterfalls, wildlife sanctuary and more such sites, and make for a great road trip from Kochi.

Distance: 230 kilometres

Pamban Bridge

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Ajay Vlogs🇮🇳 (@mr.white_cheetah)

The short stretch that connects Mandapam on mainland India to Rameswaram is built atop the sea. The scenic drive takes one on a journey that’s covered by water on both sides, making for some breathtaking views. What’s more, the train journey on Pamban Bridge is among the most dangerous but makes up for it with its stunning visuals!

Distance: 13.5 kilometres

Bengaluru to Ooty

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by LUCKY PHOTOGRAPHY(4K) (@indian._.cultures)

This road trip from Bengaluru to the Queen of Hills, Ooty, is popular among college students and youngsters living in the city. This stunning South India route takes one through winding roads, beautiful forests, and the beautiful Mysore (Mysuru), which is a great place to stop and explore some local sites. Ooty awaits the visitors with rolling hills, lush greenery, forests, resorts, and more.

Distance: 265 kilometres

Mangalore to Goa

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Elvira & Beniz (@takeoff.to.travel)

The journey from Mangalore to Goa should be on your bucket list, especially if you love the beaches. The trip lets you soak in the beautiful waters of the Arabian Sea, where you can stop en route and spend some time before you head to the vacation destination of Goa. Take a short detour to Gokarna for its quieter beaches, explore local cuisine as you drive through before you hit the sands of Goa and spend some time there.

Distance: 345 kilometres

Kochi to Kanyakumari

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by R O O P E S H S G (@roopeshsg)

Yet another journey for the sea lovers, this stretch is a delight as you get to explore some beautiful beaches, fishing villages and backwaters. What’s more, both Kochi and Kanyakumari have sites of importance that are historical and/or political in nature. Explore the yummy coastal cuisine, visit the ports and the old Jewish settlements, and make the most of your road journey down this stunning route in South India.

Distance: 297 kilometres

Vizag to Araku Valley

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by ✨sʜᴀʜᴀʙ✨ (@_just_clicks_z)

Zip across the stunning rolling hills of the Eastern Ghats and drive down winding valleys on this road journey. You’ll pass through several small villages on this route and drive through roads that are surrounded by greenery, making it the trip of a lifetime.

Distance: 114 kilometres

Chikmagalur to Kudremukh

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Namma Chikmagaluru (@namma.chikmagaluru)

The stretch between Chikmagalur and Kudremukh is a beautiful road filled with lush greenery, well-maintained roads and misty hills. Play your favourite music, open up the windows and soak in the sweet-smelling air as you drive down this road, which is among the most stunning routes in South India.

Distance: 107 kilometres

Bengaluru to Pondicherry

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Travel❤️Books•Nikita & Shwetha (@winding.roads.and.pages)

The journey from Bengaluru to Puducherry takes one through the state of Karnataka, exploring its scenic beauty. Puducherry is home to some scenic beaches, Auroville, and gorgeous French colonial structures that will keep you engaged throughout.

Distance: 359 kilometres

Bengaluru to Coorg

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by 𝐁𝐞𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐊𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐚 (@beautyof_karnataka)

Engulf your senses in the fragrant coffee and cardamom plantations in Coorg when you reach, but before that, be sure to enjoy the stunning sites that you witness along the route – winding roads , misty skies, clean, pristine hills and more! This is sure to be a journey of a lifetime, as you transition from the advanced city life into a getaway that promises comfort in the lap of nature.

Bengaluru to Kolli Hills

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by ashil_ashiii (@ashil_ashiii)

One of the most stunning road trips in South India is the one from Bengaluru to Kolli Hills. The hills have over 70 hairpin bends, making it a dangerous yet scenic route to drive on. The entire journey is filled with greenery, scenic plantations and more and will be sure to delight you throughout as much as it enthralls you.

Distance: 288 kilometres

Related: Solo Trips For Women To Take In 2022 Based On The Chinese Zodiac

• South India
• South Indian
• south indian travel plans
• stunning routes

Anushka Goel

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Exciting road trips to explore the best of South India

Panchali Dey , TIMESOFINDIA.COM , DRIVING HOLIDAY , INDIA Updated : Jan 10, 2022, 17:55 IST

South India is dotted with beautiful places that make for some amazing road trips. Since these are pandemic times, self-drive road trips are also one of the safest ways to travel. If you love road trips, here are some of the exciting options that you can take to explore the best of South India.

Bengaluru to Ooty

Covering a distance of around 268 km from Bengaluru to Ooty will be an exciting one; it is dotted with scenic landscapes and mountains. Perfect for nature and photograph lovers, this is where you can't miss capturing some of the best clicks as you pass through the yet the soul-refreshing forests of Bandipur.

Chennai to Munnar

As you zip through the sea beaches and hilly roads, you will thank your stars for heading to this road trip. The very experience of passing through acres of tea plantations will make this a road trip to remember. You can even opt to travel to Munnar via Pondicherry, where you can make a halt or stay overnight there to experience its beautiful beaches and culture.

Pamban Bridge

One of the best road trips from any part of South India will be a trip to Pamban Bridge. As you drive through the 13.5 km stretch in Rameshwaram, with the ocean all around you, the experience will be like no other.

Hyderabad to Araku Valley

It’s one of the best road trips that you can take in South India, in which you get to witness beaches, plains, and even hill stations. A drive from Hyderabad to Araku will take you from Hyderabad to Vishakhapatnam and then from Vizag to Araku, and will cover a total distance of 732 kms, which will take around 12-15 hours to complete the entire trip.

Kochi to Kanyakumari

If you are a sea lover and desperately need vitamin sea, set off on this road trip from Koch to Kanyakumari. You would love the stretch spread across 300 km, as you will get multiple opportunities to explore fishing villages, gorgeous beaches, fishing villages, and backwaters enroute. Also, both the destinations have some prominent political and historical destinations that you can explore.

Most people cover this distance of 566 km between Bengaluru to Goa not only for sheer excitement, but also for the mesmerising beauty of the route. While on the road, don’t miss to try out some South Indian food and local Punjabi Dhaba cuisine.

Bandipur to Periyar

This road trip is a must for all wildlife lovers, both being the prime locations for spotting tigers. This is also one of the reasons that makes it a major tourist attraction. And, as you pass through the lush green forests en route and acres of coffee plantations, you also get the chance to explore the rich wildlife of this region.

Vizag to Aarku

It takes around four hours to go from Vizag to Araku, where you can zoom across rolling hills of Eastern Ghats and winding valleys on the route. This route is spanned across a distance of 114 km from NAD Kotha, which then passes through Pendurthi junction, Kothavalasa, S- Kota, and other small villages.

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South India is dotted with beautiful places that make for some amazing road trips. Since these are pandemic times, self-drive road trips are also one of the safest ways to travel. If you love road tri...

15 Days in South India: The Ultimate Itinerary (2024)

Southern India is packed with beautiful and interesting places to visit. From the backwaters of Kerala to the colourful temples of Tamil Nadu , this part of the country offers a lot of variation, and that’s exactly what this South India itinerary is – varied!

This itinerary will take you to some of the most beautiful places the South of India has to offer, and it includes some pretty unique ones too! It will bring you to temples , tea plantations , colonial buildings , waterfalls , palaces and more.

>> Read: South India VS North India: 9 Differences

Itinerary to Visit the South of India in 15 Days

So, let’s dive right into it!

You will find a day-by-day itinerary including the highlights of each place in the first part of this post. I’ve also included a map and other useful information (how to get around, the best time to visit, etc.) in the second part.

Day 1: Chennai

Chennai is the capital of Tamil Nadu, and as it has an international airport, it’s the perfect introduction to this culture-rich state.

There are many things to do in Chennai , but some of the most popular ones are going temple hopping , spending time at the city’s beaches and seeing the colonial architecture .

🛕 Highlights of Chennai

• San Thome Cathedral Basilica: This beautiful church was built by the Portuguese in 1523. It’s one of the three churches in the world that have been built on the tombs of one of the apostles (this one was built on Thomas the Apostle’s tomb).
• Kapaleeshwarar Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this Hindu temple was built in the 7th century and later extended. It boasts some impressive architecture with many colourful details (that’s my favourite thing about Hindu temples).
• Ripon Building: The beautiful Ripon Building was built in Indo-Saracenic architecture in 1913, and it’s the official seat of the Chennai Corporation. It’s good to know that you can’t visit this building on the inside, but it’s most famous for its chiming clock, which is wound every day.
• Elliot’s Beach or Marina Beach: If you feel like relaxing, then heading to one of Chennai’s beaches is the perfect thing to do. While Marina Beach is the city’s most popular beach, Elliot’s Beach is a more quiet alternative.

Where to stay in Chennai: The Raintree

🚍 Mahabalipuram , the next destination on this South India itinerary, is just 1 hour from Chennai, so you can either head here on day 1 or day 2 of this itinerary.

Day 2: Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram was one of my favourite places to visit in the South of India! This place is home to a group of royal monuments dating back to the 7th and 8th centuries. You will find plenty of beautifully carved temples and rock-cut caves here.

There are three different sites to see in Mahabalipuram but make sure to start your visit at the famous Shore Temple as this is where you can buy entry tickets.

A unique sight at Mahabalipuram is Krishna’s Butterball (as pictured above). According to the story, they tried moving this gigantic boulder numerous times for safety reasons, but it didn’t work.

Where to stay in Mahabalipuram: Bodhiwoods Resorts

🚍 The next stop on this itinerary is Pondichery (Puducherry), which is a 2-hour drive from Mahabalipuram. You can head here on day 2 or day 3 .

Day 3, 4 & 5: Pondicherry and Auroville

The charming town of Pondicherry is famous for its mustard-yellow colonial buildings, beautiful beaches and cosy restaurants.

From the 16th century onward, this city was ruled by Dutch, British and French colonists. Pondicherry was repeatedly fought over during the Anglo-French Wars. In 1815, however, when the British gained control over India, they allowed France to keep their settlements in this city.

Some of the best things to do in Pondicherry are to explore the city’s different quarters, head to the beach and visit the nearby township of Auroville .

🛕 Highlights of Pondicherry

• French Quarter: Pondicherry’s French Quarter is also called “White Town” and it’s here that you will find the mustard-yellow colonial buildings Pondicherry is so famous for.
• Tamil Quarter: This quarter is often called “Black Town”, and it’s located on the West side of the French Quarter, across the canal. You will find three parts here – the Hindu, the Muslim and the Christian part. This area is completely different from the French Quarter and it’s nice to soak up the atmosphere in this part of the city too.
• Beaches: If you want to relax a little, it’s good to know that the French Quarter of Pondicherry is located right at the beach. This is the perfect place for a stroll on the beach promenade or to swim in the sea.
• Auroville: This experimental township was founded in 1968 by Mira Alfassa, who is also called “The Mother”. It was based on the vision of the Indian philosopher Sri Aurobindo and its purpose is to realise human unity. I would suggest reading my post about Auroville if you want to know more about the place, though, as I will keep it short in this one.

Where to stay in Pondicherry: Executive Inn

🚍 On day 5 , it’s time to head to Thanjavur , which is about 5 hours from Pondicherry.

Day 6: Thanjavur

With over a hundred Hindu temples, the small city of Thanjavur is often called “the temple city of India”, and you will indeed find a temple on every street corner here.

This city is also home to one of the most important UNESCO World Heritage sites in India, the famous Brihadisvara Temple , which is also called the “big temple”. But more about that below!

🛕 Highlights of Thanjavur:

• Brihadisvara Temple: This is Thanjavur’s most famous tourist attraction and it’s easy to understand why. The magnificent Brihadisvara Temple was built in the 11th century by Chola emperor Rajaraja I and it’s one of the three Great Living Chola Temples . Its granite tower is one of the tallest in India.
• Maratha Palace : This palace was built at the demand of the Thanjavur Nayak kings in the 15th century. It’s not as spectacular as the Brihadisvara Temple but it is worth visiting if you have more time in Thanjavur. You will find a beautiful Durbar Hall here among other things.

Another thing I loved doing in Thanjavur was simply wandering around the streets . There’s an incredible amount of Hindu temples here, more than in any other city I’ve been to in India (or any other country actually).

Where to stay in Thanjavur: Hotel Victoriyah

Day 7 & 8: Madurai

🚍 The next destination on this itinerary for South India is Madurai , which is about 4 hours from Thanjavur. If you head here in the morning of day 7, you will still have some time left to explore Madurai (or rest) in the afternoon.

Madurai is the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu and this is one of the best cultural destinations in India . Among other things, you will find one of the most famous Indian landmarks in this city – the Meenakshi Temple .

One of the things I love the most about Madurai is how friendly and welcoming the people are in this city. They don’t (or hardly) speak English, but they still manage to welcome you with open arms.

🛕 Highlights of Madurai

• Meenakshi Temple : This is one of India’s oldest and most important Hindu temples. It’s estimated that the first temple that stood on these grounds was built in the 1st century. The temple that you can see today, however, was rebuilt in the 16th century after the previous one was destroyed by Muslim invaders. The Meenakshi Temple is a very impressive structure with enormous gopurams (towers) containing stunning details.
• Saint Mary’s Cathedral: Saint Mary’s Cathedral is a beautiful, gothic-style church that was initially built in 1841 but rebuilt in 1916. It’s also called The Church of Our Lady of Dolours, and it’s one of Tamil Nadu’s oldest churches.
• Thirumalai Nayak Palace : Built by Tirumala Nayak in the 17th century, this palace was considered one of the wonders of the South during its heyday. Today, only the main palace is left, which is just a quarter of the original complex. It makes you wonder how huge the place must have been during the olden days.
• Banana Market: Madurai’s banana market is another place I loved walking through. The merchants here sell over 16 varieties of bananas (I didn’t even know there were so many), including red ones (which I also didn’t know existed)!
• Gandhi Memorial Museum: The Gandhi Memorial Museum is one of the seven Gandhi museums in India. This is the perfect place to head to if you would like to learn more about India’s most famous freedom fighter.

Where to stay in Madurai: Avenue 11 Premium Stays

Day 9, 10 & 11: Munnar

🚍 On day 9, it’s time to head to Munnar, which is the tea capital of Kerala . Munnar is a 4 to 5-hour drive from Madurai and this hill town is famous for its lush green tea plantations and beautiful greenery.

Many locals flock to this hill station during the boiling-hot Indian Summer and it’s also one of India’s most popular honeymoon destinations.

But apart from spending your honeymoon here, Munnar is also the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature for a while.

🛕 Highlights of Munnar

• Tea plantations and tea factories: One of the most popular things to do in Munnar is to pay a visit to one of its many tea factories and tea plantations. Here, you can learn more about how tea is harvested, see tea plantation workers at work and taste some fine tea.
• Echo Point & Top Station: Echo Point (a lake where you can make echoing sounds) is a nice stop on the way to Top Station, the highest point in Munnar. The latter is a 40 km (24 mi) drive from Munnar and you will be rewarded with magnificent views if you head here!
• Eravikulam National Park : Apart from its beautiful landscapes, this national park is also famous for being the natural habitat of the Nilgiri Tahr, an endangered mountain goat. It’s also home to the Lakkom Waterfalls, which is easily accessible.

I have to admit that the downside of Munnar is that foreigners are not allowed to rent scooters here anymore, which makes it pretty difficult to visit things by yourself. However, there are plenty of tours or auto-rickshaws that can bring you around.

Where to stay in Munnar: Elephant Passage

>> Read next: What to Pack for India as a Woman

Day 12, 13 & 14: Backwaters of Alleppey

The backwaters of Alleppey are full of lush greenery, beautiful palm trees and sparkling rivers. This place is on many traveller’s Indian travel bucket lists . As you cruise these waters, you will witness the everyday life of the farmers and fishermen along the canals.

Alleppey is also the perfect destination to go canoeing, drink coconut water and simply relax. It’s a peaceful destination that’s perfect for nature lovers.

If you have the budget, you can also rent your own private houseboat for the night. This will allow you to cruise the backwaters by yourself and spend the night there too. I didn’t do this myself, as it’s quite expensive and I was backpacking in India alone .

Where to stay in Alleppey: Malayalam Lake Resort

🚍 Head to Fort Kochi on day 14. This city is a 1.5-hour drive from Alleppey.

Day 15: Fort Kochi

On the last day of this South India itinerary, it’s time to explore Fort Kochi (or Cochin). This was the first European township in India .

Fort Kochi is an area in the city of Kochi and, before India’s independence, it was first controlled by the Portuguese, then the Dutch and eventually the English.

This town is steeped in history and you will find plenty of colonial buildings, interesting museums and charming alleys here.

🛕 Highlights of Fort Kochi

• Chinese fishing nets: The Chinese fishing nets (or Cheena vala) are one of Fort Kochi’s most famous tourist attractions. It’s said that Chinese explorer Zhang He introduced these nets to Kochi in the 14th or 15th century. Because of this, the nets stand as a symbol for the exchange of ideas that happened in the Indian subcontinent at that time.
• St. Francis Church: This church was built in 1503 and it was the first Portuguese church in India. It’s inside this church that Portuguese explorer Vasco Di Gama (who died in Kochi) was originally buried, but his remains were later moved to Lisbon , Portugal.
• Vasco da Gama Square: Its little restaurants make the Vasco da Gama Square a great place to spend the evening. Make sure to look up when you’re there, as this square is covered with beautiful rain trees.
• Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica : This magnificent, Roman Catholic church was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century. Don’t forget to visit it inside too while you’re there, as it’s very nice!
• Dutch Palace: The Dutch Palace (or Mattancherry Palace) was actually built by the Portuguese as a gift to the Kingdom of Cochin. However, when the Dutch took over, they renovated the palace, which is why it’s nicknamed “the Dutch Palace”. If you’re a history buff, then you will love this place! It exhibits many paintings, furniture, weapons, palanquins, Dutch maps and more.

And that was it! This was the last day of this itinerary for the South of India. Kochi is a nice place to end your journey in the South of India and it has an international airport.

Where to stay in Fort Kochi: Rossitta Wood Castle

Map and Itinerary

Day 1: Chennai Day 2: Mahabalipuram Day 3, 4 & 5: Pondicherry & Auroville Day 6: Thanjavur Day 7 & 8: Madurai Day 9, 10 & 11: Munnar Day 12, 13 & 14: Backwaters of Alleppey Day 15: Fort Kochi

Best Time to Visit the South of India

The best time to visit southern India is during the Winter season, from October to March . This is when the weather is at its best.

I was in Kerala and Tamil Nadu in April and May (the Summer months) and I’ve honestly never been so hot in my life. I seriously underestimated the humidity in this part of the country and would not recommend heading there at this time of the year.

June to September is the monsoon season and it can rain quite a bit at this time of the year. When I was in Kochi (in April), there were floods each time it rained and I found myself walking with water up to my knees more than once.

How to Get Around the South of India

You will find the best ways to get around below. This includes how to get from one city to another and how to get around in the cities.

How to get from one city to another

• Bus: All of the places mentioned in this list can be reached by local bus. This is not the most comfortable way to travel but it’s absolutely doable if you’re on a budget!
• Train: Not all of these destinations can be reached by train, but some can. You can take the train from Thanjavur to Madurai, for example.
• Private car: The most comfortable (and fastest) way to get from one city to another is by taking a private car. This will be more expensive too, though.

I did everything by local bus and never booked anything in advance (which is necessary when you travel in the north of India). I just showed up at the bus station and asked around to find the right bus, and it worked fine.

How to get around cities

• Auto-rickshaw: You will find these everywhere. I would recommend using the Ola app , though. It works just like Uber and will save you some money. Rickshaw drivers charge foreigners 10 times the local price, but if you use Ola, you will get a fair price immediately and won’t need to haggle.
• Bus : There are plenty of local buses in the cities. This is the cheapest way to get around, but it requires a bit more planning than the rickshaw.
• Private car: Another way to get around the cities is by private car, but this will be more expensive.

South India Itinerary: Final Thoughts

I hope that this itinerary will help you plan your trip to the beautiful South of India. I really loved exploring this part of the county. The South is less touristy than the Golden Triangle and Rajasthan in the North, and there are so many beautiful things to see here!

Of course, this part of the country has got more to offer, it’s HUGE, after all! However, this itinerary offers a nice mix of culture, history and nature, which is a varied introduction if you have 15 days to spend here.

Are you heading to the north of India too? Check out my Rajasthan itinerary next!

India Travel Planning Guide

🛫 Find the cheapest flights to India on  Skyscanner . 🏨 Find the best accommodation via  Booking  or  Hostelworld . 🛺 Download the  Ola app  to order a rickshaw or a taxi. 🚃 Use  12GoAsia  to book trains and buses in India. 🚗 Rent a car with  Discover Cars  to get the best rates. 💰 Get travel insurance via  VisitorsCoverage , one of the best-reviewed travel insurance companies. 👘 Check out my  complete India packing list for females . 📋 Don’t forget to  check if you need a visa   to visit India.

Pin it for later: Did you find this post helpful? Save it on Pinterest and follow me on Instagram and Facebook for more travel tips and inspiration.

Laura Meyers

Laura Meyers is the founder of Laure Wanders. She was born in Belgium and has travelled to over 40 countries, many of them solo. She currently spends most of her time between Belgium and South Asia and loves helping other travellers plan their adventures abroad.

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Nice. Do you know how to UK alone. My husband & I were planning to go in Sept 2024. Any help will be greatly appreciated.

Hi Vijaya! I’m not sure what you mean with how to UK alone?

Your articles are good enough to understand the importance

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Top 20 : Best Road Trips in South India by car

Adventure , Camping , Explore , How to , National parks , Road trip , Tips , Travel guide / June 26, 2021 by admin admin / Leave a Comment

Best Road Trips in South India by car: What’s the use of living in Bangalore if you don’t go out and see the sights?

1.ranganathittu :, 2.lepakshi :, 3.sakleshpur:, 4.wayanad :, 8.kudremukh:, 9.pondicherry :, 12.calicut :, 14.kodaikanal :, 16.karwar :, 18.gandikota:, 19.karighatta:, 20.gokarna:, best road trips in south india by car.

A road trip during the forthcoming monsoons isn’t a bad idea, with so much to offer from hills, lakes, forts, waterfalls, animals, and so much more. It is critical to take a vacation from the monotony of everyday life and replenish your batteries. You should never feel bad about taking a well-deserved mental health vacation.

Here are a few road excursions you may take from Bangalore to get a different perspective on things. Road trips are a great opportunity to spend time with friends and family while traveling along the road, stopping at scenic spots, and sampling local food on your own time. South India has a variety of exciting road trip tours where you can discover uncharted regions while listening to music and having a one-of-a-kind experience.

Ranganathittu is one of the best destinations to see on a road trip from Bangalore. The Cauvery river meanders over a succession of little waterfowl nesting places just outside of Srirangapatna.

Enjoy the thrill of a boat trip that puts you up up and personal with the birds as marsh crocodiles relax in the sun. One of the best short road journeys from Bangalore is to this location. Isn’t it true that boat rides combined with car trips are the best thing ever? This would be one of the best adventurous road trip you could take over.

Distance from Bangalore to Ranganathittu : 140km

Time: 3.5 hours

Lepakshi is a modest temple dedicated to Papanasheshvara that is a wonder in and of itself. The villagers still cherish this location, which is distinguished by a natural rock shelter atop a hill.

The temple’s exquisite architecture is well-known. In this stunning location, you will enjoy the time of your life. Make a point of taking a lot of photos. These temples have a long and illustrious history. Before going on a tour of this location, you must first schedule a guide. This tour would be the best road trip from Bangalore.

Distance from  Bangalore to Lepakshi: 150km

On the journey from Bangalore to Mangalore, you’ll pass through Sakleshpur , a hill station in Hassan district.

It is an ideal destination for a road trip from Bangalore because of its scenic splendor, lush green coffee farms, attractive mountains, streams, and comfortable, chilling, and romantic weather conditions. When you’re in the mood for a long trip from Bangalore, what more could you ask for? Here, you’ll have the time of your life. Take this vacation; you will not be disappointed.

Distance from Bangalore to Sakleshpur: 260km

Time: 5 hours

Wayanad is a beautiful plateau nestled within the Western Ghats mountains. Driving through Bandipur will provide you with the ideal experience of traveling through forests, waterfalls, and observing wildlife while relaxing on South India’s most gorgeous route.

In the wildlife area, be cautious. Off-roading is not recommended in this area. At night, drive cautiously. Keep your car’s blinkers on at all times. This trip marks an adventurous road trip from Bangalore in South India.

Distance from  Bangalore to Wayanad:  270km

Time: 5-6 hours

Ooty, often known as the Queen of Hill Stations, is the most visited hill station in the South. Drive down the Mysore state route from Bangalore to capture sights of wildlife as you pass through the thickets of Bandipur and Masinagudi.

This trail features approximately 32 hairpin curves that are fantastic for capturing the best moments of your experience. The rest of your day, week, month, and year will be shaped by this excursion. Allow yourself to be taken on a ride of a lifetime and the best south Indian road trip itinerary.

Distance from  Bangalore to Ooty: 280km

Do you want to take a road trip from Bangalore? At an elevation of 1839 meters, Coonoor is the second largest hill station in the Nilgiris, surrounded by tea plantations.

Coonoor is mainly a little tea garden town where the weather is good all year, making it one of the greatest places for car road excursions near Bangalore. This inner surely serves as the best Indian road trip in South India.

Distance from  Bangalore to Coonoor: 300km

Plan a road journey from Bangalore to Southern India’s “Scotland.” This charming village is surrounded by coffee, cardamom, colonels, and the Cauvery River. It is regarded to be India’s most popular tourist attraction.

Throughout the year, the region sees a lot of tourists. For a more leisurely journey, opt for unusual sites rather than famous ones. This tour is going to be your best road trip in South India from Bangalore.

Distance from Bangalore to Coorg: 280km

Time:  5-6hours

Kudremukh is noted for its scenic splendor, as it is situated in the midst of mountains and is home to a diverse range of flora and wildlife. This is one of India’s most well-known grassy hill stations.

The eponymous mountain, which is formed like a horse face, inspired the name of this location. We don’t know what will make you reconsider your relationship with nature if this tour from Bangalore doesn’t.

Distance from  Bangalore to Kudremukh: 350km

Time: 7 hours

Pondicherry was India’s greatest French colony, despite its tiny size. A 32-kilometer coastline, palm-fringed beaches, backwaters, fishing villages, beach resorts, the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, the international metropolis of Auroville, the French boulevard town with its French heritage, and other attractions are among its many attractions.

Here you will find delicious food, superb wine, and a thrilling adventure. This will be the most adventurous tour from Bangalore in South India.

Distance from Bangalore to Pondicherry: 350km

Time: 6-7 hours

The abandoned remains of Hampi dot an otherworldly landscape that will take your breath away from the instant you see it. Huge stones are strewn across kilometers of undulating countryside, their rusty hues contrasting with palm palms, banana plantations, and rice fields.

The beauty and magnificence of this location will take your breath away. Get your friends together and come here to experience the best tour in South India from Bangalore.

Distance from Bangalore to Hampi: 350km

Visit Agumbe, a fantasy resort described in R.K. Narayan’s novel Malgudi Days. It is appropriately referred to as the Cherrapunji of South India. Aside from the lush green scenery all around, the spectacular sunset and wide options for trekkers are the main draws for visitors. This is a trekker’s dream come true.

The residents’ kindness and hospitality will re-energize your spirits. If you’re seeking a spiritual retreat, you’ve come to the right place. Experience this best grandeur Tour from Bangalore in South India.

Distance from Bangalore to Agumbe: 380km

Time: 7-8 hours

Calicut, the most populous and largest city in north Kerala, was once a rich commercial town and the seat of the powerful Zamorin family. Beautiful beaches and spacious highways abound in the city, making it ideal for a long road trip.

Who doesn’t enjoy a beach vacation? If the beach is your antidote to the city’s pollution, dust, and grime, pack your bags and fly to this lovely location. You will not be disappointed and will have a great time in this south Indian itinerary from Bangalore.

Distance from Bangalore to Calicut: 365km

Badami is known for its stunning rock-cut cave temples and wild west-style red sandstone cliffs. While the dusty main road is an eyesore that will make you want to flee, the backstreets are a charming location to wander around, with historic cottages, carved wooden entrances, and the occasional Chalukyan ruin.

If you’re a history geek, rent a car, assemble your buddies, and spend the weekend in Badami. It will be a thrilling adventurous trip from Bangalore in South India.

Distance from  Bangalore to Badami: 400km

Kodaikanal is dubbed the “Princess of Hill Stations” by locals. Throughout the year, the chilly and foggy air, as well as the picturesque grandeur of the undulating hills and wooded forest of Kodaikanal and its environs, will enchant any tourist.

Walking through the dense trees, rowing in the lake, bathing in one of the gushing waterfalls, horseback riding and cycling around the lake, or simply admiring the scenery are all options

Distance from Bangalore to Kodaikanal: 450km

Time: 8 hours

Giant Chinese fishing nets, a 400-year-old synagogue, ancient mosques, Portuguese mansions, and the crumbling ruins of the British Raj can be found nowhere else in India. It’s a lovely spot to spend time with your significant other, friends, or simply by yourself.

Solo vacations are vastly underappreciated. When you travel solo, you get a different kind of viewpoint. Nothing can compare to the sensation you’re experiencing.

Distance from  Bangalore to Kochi: 500km

Time: 8-9 hours

Looking for a unique place to visit on a road trip from Bangalore? Make your way to Karwar. On the banks of the Kali River, it is a coastal village.

The town is situated between the sea and the Western Ghats on one side, and its abundant flora and fauna make for a scenic journey. Your mental health will appreciate it.

Distance from  Bangalore to Karwar: 520 km

Last but not least, Goa must be on your list of Bangalore road trips. The three fundamental factors that draw 2 million people to Goa’s warm coasts each year are abundant in this tiny, lovely piece of India abutting the country’s western coastline surrounded by the Arabian Sea.

One of the best one-day road journeys from Bangalore is to this location.

Distance from  Bangalore to Goa: 650km

Time: 10 hours

Gandikota, a little hamlet on the right bank of the Pennar, is one of the best offbeat day trip destinations near Bangalore. It’s a fantastic site to feel the “Indian Grand Canyon” sensation, with a fort composed of red stones and a deep and steep gorge on one side.

This spiritual retreat will benefit your mental health in the long run. Remember to bring your friends!

Distance from  Bangalore to Gandikota: 280km

Time: 5.5 hours

Karighatta is a historic hill in the Srirangapatna area. It encompasses an ancient Vishnu temple as well as the Lokapavani River, a tributary of the Cauvery.

Here, you’ll have the time of your life. Make sure to ask your friends to join you on this fantastic adventure. Experience this beautiful road trip from Bangalore,  take your keys and turn around the wheels.

Distance from  Bangalore to Karighatta: 125kms

Time: 2.5 hours

If you and your buddies have had enough of Goa, you might instead take a road trip to Gokarna. Gokarna is a great site for hippies because it is a less commercialized beach destination than Goa.

Enjoy a relaxing weekend at the beach with your buddies. You can go swimming on Kudle Beach or drink beers while watching the sunset on Om Beach. This tour from Bangalore in South India is going to be your best tour for sure.

Distance from  Bangalore to Gokarna: 485km

Time: 9hours

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The 9 most spectacular road trips in India

Dec 12, 2023 • 12 min read

From self-drive motorbike adventures to tips on hiring a car and driver, here are the best road trips in India © Solovyova / Getty Images

In India, every journey is an experience, whether you rumble across the subcontinent on a classic Enfield motorcycle or rattle through the hills in a chartered 4WD.

The simple act of traveling from A to B will immerse you in the sights , sounds and sensations of the world’s most colorful country. Plenty of people get around  by bus and train, but taking a road trip will give you extra control over your itinerary, letting you choose where to stop and which route to follow.

The good news is that you don’t need to drive yourself – it’s easy to hire a car or 4WD with a driver almost everywhere in India , meaning you can concentrate on the scenery while your driver deals with the sometimes challenging road conditions. 

If you prefer to take the driving seat, renting a motorcycle is a wonderful way to explore the subcontinent, particularly if you stick to the backroads. Self-drive car rental is harder to arrange, but some adventurous souls travel around India with their own vehicles – a few hardy travelers have even navigated India in a modified autorickshaw!

Grab your sense of adventure and get ready to hit the road with this guide to the best road trips in India. 

1. India’s Golden Triangle 

Best road trip for Mughal monuments Delhi–Delhi; 1120km (696 miles); allow five days

Short and sweet, the loop from  Delhi to  Agra and  Jaipur packs a lot of wonders into a few days of driving. Your adventure begins in Delhi, where the ruins of eight cities tell the story of India’s great Islamic empires. Hit  the city's highlights , including Red Fort, Humayun’s Tomb, the Jama Masjid and the bazaars of Chandni Chowk, which have changed only superficially since Mughal emperor Shah Jahan’s time.

With a chartered vehicle or rented motorcycle, it’s easy to swing by the sacred cities of Mathura and Vrindavan, where Krishna frolicked with milkmaids in the Hindu epics. After these peaceful stops, steel yourself for a mix of the stressful and sublime in Agra, where the glorious  Taj Mahal more than lives up to its reputation.

Find more Mughal magnificence at nearby  Fatehpur Sikri , the red sandstone city founded and later abandoned by emperor Akbar the Great. Once you follow the NH21 to Jaipur, you’ll share every fort, palace and mystical observatory with a crowd, so consider making the odd detour before you hit the Pink City’s palaces and bazaars. 

Detour: Before zooming west from Fatehpur Sikri to Jaipur, consider a detour south to  Gwalior , whose beautiful fort is less mobbed than other stops on this circuit. Before you complete the third side of the triangle, tack on one more detour to spot tigers stalking ruined battlements in  Ranthambhore National Park before diving back into urban life.

2. Manali to Ladakh across the Himalaya

Best road trip for silence and serenity Manali–Srinagar; 800km (497 miles); allow ten days

Many people follow the mountain circuit from  Manali to  Ladakh and on to  Kashmir in a chartered 4WD, but we strongly recommend traveling by rented Enfield Bullet motorcycle. This allows you the life-affirming thrill of pulling over by the roadside to find yourself alone in the silence of these high-altitude deserts in the rain shadow of the Himalayas.

From the hippie hill resort of Manali, it’s a two-day slog over the 3978m (13,051ft)  Rohtang La to  Leh , through a landscape plucked straight from the heyday of the Silk Road. There’s little vegetation and even less shade, and the cold and altitude will hit you like a sledgehammer. Recuperate with trips to Buddhist monasteries and yoga classes in Leh, then hit the road again for a different take on the Himalayas in Kashmir.

The highway west to  Srinagar weaves between ancient villages, but as the hills turn from dust-yellow to lush green, the culture shifts from Buddhism to Islam before the minarets of Srinagar loom into view. The Kashmir valley is sometimes troubled, but when it’s calm, the experience of watching  Dal Lake appearing slowly through the morning mist from the deck of a houseboat is simply sublime. 

Planning tip: Whether you drive yourself or let someone else take the wheel, it's imperative to respect the mountain climate. Snow closes the high passes into Ladakh in winter, and road travel is usually only possible from June to late September or early October.

3. Rajasthan’s colored cities 

Best road trip for desert colors Jaipur–Jaipur; 1630km (1012 miles); allow ten days

Desert driving in  Rajasthan is an incredible experience. Mighty fortresses loom dramatically out of the landscape, and you’ll share the dusty highways with camel carts and old-timers, some with vividly colored turbans and handsome mustaches. Kick-off in  Jaipur – the pink city – touring pink-sandstone palaces, bustling bazaars and the awe-inspiring fortress at  Amber .

Follow NH48 to the Jain and Muslim pilgrimage center of  Ajmer , and duck west to reach the famous  Pushkar , with its temple-circled lake and  legendary camel fair in October or November. Return to NH48 for the rumbling ride to  Udaipur , the white city – draped like a silk scarf on the shores of tranquil Lake Pichola. Dose up on ice-white palaces, then deviate west to the temple-strewn hill station of  Mt Abu . 

Veering north to  Jodhpur , you’ll immediately spot the lapis-colored buildings that earned the Blue City its name. Get another blast of military might at  Mehrangarh Fort , then drive west through serious desert country to the sand-yellow city of  Jaisalmer , whose fortified walls look almost carved from the desert itself. Close off the loop via  Bikaner , where you’ll leave the tourist crowds behind before diving back into the thick of things in Jaipur.

Detour: Having your own transport opens up the opportunity to get off the tourist track in this heavily visited state. Consider tacking on a side-trip north from Jaipur to Shekhawati, famed for its mural-filled haveli mansions. 

4. Hampi and the Hoysalas

Best road trip for temples Mysuru–Gokarna; 1060km (659 miles); allow ten days

For many travelers, visiting the time-tumbled ruins of the Vijayanagar kingdom at  Hampi is the  most memorable experience  during a trip to India. Start off in  Mysuru (formerly Mysore), with its mesmerizing markets, fiery vegetarian cuisine and famously extravagant  palace . Rumble north on the backroads to fascinating Sravanabelagola with its naked 17m (56ft) statue of  Gomateshvara , the first tirthankara  (spiritual teacher) of the Jain religion.

The temples just keep on coming in Karnataka. Slingshot through Hassan to Belur and Halebid, where the  temples of the Hoysala Empire represent perhaps the zenith of the Hindu temple-building art. A three-hour drive east will drop you in Karnataka’s capital,  Bengaluru , known for its cosmopolitan dining, shopping and nightlife. Enjoy its comforts; it’s a long drive to reach Hosapete, the leaping-off point for the ruins at Hampi.

Once you roll into Hampi’s centuries-old bazaar, allow at least two days to explore toppled temples and time travel across centuries in a landscape of stacked granite boulders. For more timeless temple architecture, duck onto the backroads to reach Badami, where blood-colored cliffs are pock-marked with  cave temples .

Detour: To mix things up, consider taking a side trip to Aihole, dotted with dusty ruins from the ancient Chalukya kingdom, then finish on the beach with some well-earned R&R in  Gokarna  – part pilgrim-town, part beach retreat. 

5. Kolkata to Darjeeling

Best road trip for Himalayan views and side treks Kolkata–Yuksom; 808km (502 miles); allow eight days

The east of India is often overlooked by the crowds who surge north from Delhi, but the journey through West Bengal to the foothills of 8586m (28,169ft) Mt Khangchendzonga has an epic sense of mission. Start in crowded but cultured  Kolkata , visiting ashrams, temples and striking civic buildings reclaimed from British rule. Fit in a tour of the tiger-stalked swamps of the  Sunderbans before you head for the hills. 

The journey north takes you past little-visited country towns to intriguing  Shantiniketan , a university town with a long history of dance, theater and poetry. From here, you’ll break north to reach the emerald-green tea plantations and delightfully dated grand hotels of  Darjeeling , where you’ll likely catch your first up-close views of the Himalayas.

To get intimate with the snow peaks, walk the Singalila Ridge trekking route or edge even closer to Mt Khangchendzonga by picking up a permit to enter lofty  Sikkim . A route through  Kalimpong ,  Gangtok and Pelling will reveal views that would make mountaineers itch for their ice axes. To cap it all off, you can get within touching distance of the snow on the trek to the Goecha La from Yuksom.

Planning tip: You’ll need a Restricted Areas Permit to enter Sikkim, but this is easily obtained in Kolkata, Siliguri or Darjeeling, or when crossing into Sikkim at Melli or Rangpo.

6. Mumbai to Goa 

Best road trip for beaches Mumbai–Palolem; 650km (404 miles); allow one week

Short journeys don’t mean scrimping on excitement in India. From brash and brilliant  Mumbai , pick up NH66 and head south, detouring down to the coast to explore fascinating forts such as  Murud-Janjira , a legacy of centuries of coastal conquest. Pull into the low-key seaside resorts at Ganpatipule and Malvan before you hit the busy beaches of  Goa . 

As you roll into northern Goa, swing by the famous market in  Anjuna and the fun-filled beach hubs at  Baga and Calangute . Head onward to  Panaji , Goa’s charming Portuguese-colonial capital, and the timeworn basilicas of  Old Goa .

The mood changes as you roll south to laid-back  Agonda , the center of Goa’s nascent surfing scene. It changes again as you head inland through green hills dotted with spice farms for a peek at thundering  Dudhsagar Falls , India’s second-highest cascade. Finish up on the sand-sprinkled shore at lovely  Palolem (making time for a bird-spotting  hike at the nearby  Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary ).  

7. A drive through the northeast

Best road trip for tribal encounters Guwahati–Guwahati; 1700km (1056 miles); allow two weeks

With a hired 4WD and a driver who can speak local languages, a fascinating journey through the varied cultures of the northeast states awaits. Start in  Guwahati , the under-explored capital of Assam, and follow the mighty Brahmaputra River northeast to  Kaziranga National Park for close encounters with one-horned Indian rhinos.

Next, aim your sights north towards  Arunachal Pradesh and the awesome  Buddhist monasteries of the Tawang Valley (local travel agencies can arrange a permit).

Add on a wander through the tribal communities of Ziro and Daporijo, and loop back through Upper Assam, continuing east to the fascinating Konyak Naga villages around Mon in northern  Nagaland . Slip back to the plains via Kohima (ideally in December to catch the  Hornbill Festival ), then climb up onto the high plateau of  Meghalaya , where trees are woven into living bridges and markets sell bows and arrows as day-to-day essentials, before barrelling downhill from  Shillong to Guwahati.

Planning tip: A Protected Area Permit is required to enter Arunachal Pradesh, and you may need to be in a group of two or more to visit some areas; contact travel agencies in Guwahati in advance to get the paperwork in place.

8. Around the tip of India

Best road trip in the south Kochi–Kochi; 807km (501 miles); allow 7 days

The bottom end of India feels like a different country. Start the journey through India’s steamy south in historic  Kochi , whose ancient streets tell a timeless tale of seafaring, trade and Keralan spices. As you roam south to  Alappuzha , park up for a day or two to explore the fascinating, waterlogged backwaters by boat.

As you pass through Amrithapuri, you can pause for a hug from a living guru before soaking up some rays on  Kerala ’s loveliest beaches at  Varkala . Next, whoosh through  Thiruvananthapuram (pause just long enough for some incendiary Keralan curries) to the southern tip of India. From here, you’ll head inland, through drier, rockier Tamil Nadu, to reach  Madurai , whose temple towers are encrusted with brightly colored deities and demons.

The trip back to Kochi will take you through the Palani Hills, a side spur of the Western Ghats, where the landscape surges upwards to  Kodaikanal , perhaps the most charming of India’s southern hill stations. Grab a cuppa amidst swirling tea plantations in  Munnar , South India’s top tea-growing center, before you return to the coast. 

Planning tip: The monsoon obscures the views from the Western Ghats from June to September, but waterfalls run at full force, so this is still a rewarding time to come.

9. Chennai to Puducherry (Pondicherry)

Best road trip for cultural variety Chennai–Puducherry; 232km (144 miles); allow 3 to 4 days

For a short, sweet and spicy trip along India’s southeast coast, consider the three-day trip from  Chennai south to  Puducherry (Pondicherry) . Start in Chennai, with its vast beach, famous-name ashrams and  delicious vegetarian cuisine , then track south along the coast, wedged between the sea and the salt lake.

Stop one is the surprising surf resort at Kovalam (Covelong), a worthy stop en route to  Mamallapuram , where you can view a riot of carvings and temples created by the Pallava dynasty. Duck inland to see the ancient Pallava capital at  Kanchipuram , then return to the coast to close out the trip at charming Puducherry, formerly Pondicherry.

A Gallic air pervades this seaside town – best experienced in heritage hotels in the old French Quarter. Just be warned: some spiritually-minded travelers pull into the famous ashram at  Auroville just north of "Pondy" and never leave! 

Top tips for hiring a car and driver in India

You’ll find drivers-for-hire offering their services at taxi and 4WD stands all over India, or you can make arrangements through hotels and travel agencies. Check that the driver speaks enough English to understand where you want to go and where you want to stop, and confirm that the driver is able to cross state lines – some vehicles are only licensed to operate in certain areas. 

You’ll need to agree on a price for the trip before you start, and the cost should include fuel, accommodation and food for the driver for multi-day trips. Prices start at around US$40 per day, rising for 4WD vehicles. Be clear with your driver about what you want from your journey; if you want to avoid stops at tourist shops and commission-paying venues, make this clear from the outset.

Exploring India by motorcycle or bike is for experienced riders

India’s roads are not for fair-weather motorcyclists, but if you have a few miles under your belt and fancy a challenge, it’s a fabulous way to explore this enormous country. Veteran hire companies such as  Lalli Singh Tours in  Delhi have sent hundreds of travelers off on journeys across India, from the steamy southern jungles to the high passes of the Himalayas.  

The best advice we can give is to ride slowly and defensively, always give way to larger vehicles, and carry a full repair kit and spares – and know how to use them! The nostalgic British-designed Enfield Bullet is the vehicle of choice for many travelers, but it’s a heavy brute; newer machines from the likes of Bajaj are lighter and easier to handle.

If you plan to pedal your way around India by bicycle, carry plenty of puncture repair kits and bring lights and high visibility gear. If you don’t want to transport your own bike into the country, consider flying into Delhi and buying a bike at the Jhandewalan Cycle Market.

This article was first published April 2022 and updated December 2023

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Best Road Trips in South India

How many car routes do you know in India that will command you to drive through again? You may know the top scenic roads in your own state but that too is only a probability because, we all ways ignore our own state and are attracted road routes abroad. Lovely road trips in South India you should undertake.

I have travelled extensively in India by car. Some of the road routes are etched in my memory while several took through ‘no man’s’ land that too I vividly remember but would not re-visit.

In this blog post, I share a few road routes in South India that will steal your heart. You will invariably stop your car at numerous places to drink the spectacular views and capture them in your camera.

Shimoga to Augumbe

This road route is in Karnataka . Augumbe is the highest peak here and also receives copious rain. You can imagine how greenish the hill slopes would be.

The mild drizzle enhanced our pleasure.

We walked through the forest a few hundred meters to hug some trees.

When we resumed our trip , we went through some beautiful hill villages. We repeatedly stopped to buy fresh and cool fruits.

The climb to Augumbe was steep. The hairpin bends churned our intestine. There were several viewing platforms that showed deep gorges filled with mist.

Monkeys were everywhere. Birds of forests flew swiftly to hide amidst canopy.

The journey to Augumbe took three and a half of hours because we stopped frequently to admire the views. The distance is only 95 km.

Bombay to Goa

This is one of the most traveled road route by the people of Mumbai (Bombay).  The distance is close to 600 km but it will take nearly 11 hours to reach the destination because of lush Western Ghats .

Forests on either side of the road, sea view at a few places, waterfalls that are silent and roaring, tunnels and fantastic observation platforms are the features of the road route between Mumbai and Goa.

Bombay to Goa road trip is one of the best in India. These two destinations are accessible through air, rail, and sea also.

Roadside attractions during your car journey from Mumbai to Goa:

• Tamini Chat Waterfalls
• Ghoshala Fort
• Kansai waterfalls
• Dhood Sagar waterfalls

• Panhala Fort
• Panhalaji Cave complex (30 caves)
• Pawana Lake, Lonavala
• Rankala Lake
• Mahalakshmi Temple

Mumbai to Goa route should be in your wishlist if you are an avid road tripper.

Since this highway is extremely beautiful, I added it in this list in spite of its location in North India.

Chennai to Viazg

It’s an eight hundred kilometre road route on the east coast of India. The lovely Bay of Bengal is on one side of the road.

On the way, you can see several lakes, marshlands, bird sanctuaries, and the lush green Eastern Ghat mountain range.

Arakku Valley is the top most beautiful place that you will fall in love at the first sight.

• Godhavari Estuary
• Coringa Woldlife Sanctuary
• Lambasingi village, 3300 feet high
• Pushkar Ghat
• Godhavari Arch Bridge

Bangalore to Ooty

The road route to Ooty , the queen of hill stations in South India is also a highly travelled highway. From Bangalore, you will go to Ooty via Mysore, Bandipur wildlife sanctuary, Mudumalai and Masinagudi forests. The distance is 280 km only but the journey time will be around 8 hours because you will climbing the Nilgiri mountains.

I once rode through this scenic highway. On the way, there were some water holes where I saw elephants drinking water and bathing.

In addition , I saw numerous dotted deer, Nilgiri Langur, and some antelopes.

The forests on either side of the highway starts after some distance from Mysore city.

Prominent Highway Attractions between Bangalore to Ooty:

Remember, the best restaurants and clean rest rooms are not found after Mysore.

• Shivasamudra Falls
• Barachuki waterfalls
• Gaganachukki Falls

These waterfalls are fed either by the sacred Kaveri River or her tributaries.

• Bandipure bird sanctuary
• Mudumalai wildlife park
• Masinagudi Forest
• Pykara Lake

Bangalore to Ooty road route is the best in South India.

Kochi to Alleppey

If you love to see backwater canals, river estuaries, boathouse holidays, and beaches, you must consider this road route in South India. Kochi (Cochin) to Alleppey road journey is in the state of Kerala fondly named as “God’s own country’ for the state’s stunning green fields, rows and rows of coconut groves, enchanting canals, and tall mountains (though not found on this road route).

The distance to be covered during this road trip is just 55 km, along the Arabian Sea. You can imagine how picturesque it will be.

It is interesting to know that you can reach Alleppey by a car ferry from Kochi in just 40 minutes.

You will drive along such backwater canals during your journey to Alleppey. On the way, there will be temples that might not lure you. However, the highway journey will be scenic and memorable.

Coimbatore to Munnar

155 km is the distance for this spectacular road route in South India. You will be traveling from the state of Tamilnadu to the state of Kerala through attractive paddy fields and coconut trees of Pollachi, Azhiyar dam, Walparai hill station (a bit of diversion), tea gardens of Munnar, and mist-covered western ghats of Munnar, one of the most visited hill stations in India.

Udumalaipttai is one of the Tamilnadu towns on your way. It is located near Kerala borer. You can see giant windmills. A couple of waterfalls on your way will make stop your car enjoy a refreshing bath.

The famous Parambikulamam tiger reserve will beckon you. The choice yours to either go inside to spot the majestic Bengal tigers or quickly reach the cool hills of Munnar.

The other places to spot wildlife in their natural habitat include:

• Chinnar Wildlife sanctuary
• Anaimalai Tiger Reserve

Bookmark this blog post or add these 6 rood routes in South India to your wish-list of things to do at least once in your lifetime.

Jane Sophia

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5 Most Scenic Routes In South India You Should Add To Your Road Trip Bucket List

The South Indian routes are dotted with forests and lakes. Driving on the roads of South India is an exhilarating experience. Road trips down these roads offer scenic spots, off-the-beaten-track detours, hair in the wind, and the most glorious weather. All in all, going for a long drive in South India is a journey worth experiencing once in a lifetime. So, for you, we’ve put together five of the most scenic routes in South India. Check them out and plan for a road trip with your favorite companions.

1. Vishakhapatnam to Araku Valley

The road trip from Vishakhapatnam to Araku Valley is full of lush valleys, plains, scenic stretches, and mountain ranges. Witnessing the scenic confluence of the Bay of Bengal and the Isan Ghats, the drive along winding hilly roads is truly breathtaking.

IRCTC launches a 7-night South India tour package at just ₹45,260 including flights, meals, and stay

2. Chennai to Munnar

A road trip from Chennai to Munnar is one of the most gorgeous road trips in South India. Meander along beautiful hill roads, stunning beaches, and wide tea plantations will make this road trip a memorable one. Traveling from Chennai to Munnar via road will take around 11-12 hours.

3. Bangalore to Goa

How about a road trip full of cascading falls, rain-washed roads, beautiful valleys, tranquil lakes, scenic beaches, and water coming from hydroelectric dams? Magical, isn’t it? Well, you can experience all of this in just an hour. So do plan a road trip from Bangalore to Goa and witness the western ghats in different shades.

Also read:  5 Stunning mountain road trips you can take in Uttarakhand

4. Kochi to Kanyakumari

With a total length of 300 km, Kochi to Kanyakumari is a road trip for sea lovers. You can witness beaches, backwaters, historic and political locations fishing villages, lush valleys, and a lot more on your road trip from Kochi to Kanyakumari.

5. Bangalore to Koli Hills

Explore the wonders of Bangalore’s countryside on this road trip to Koli Hills. This road trip features lush forests, giant turns, hairpin turns, and freezing waterfalls.

Also read:  Delhi-Chandigarh road trip: 5 highway dhabas to make a pit-stop

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Best Road Trips in South India

The most special part of your holiday trip is your travel! Yes, the time and fun you have today when traveling to and from the tourist destination will become a memory for life. And this is the reason why travel freaks prefer road trips over other means of commutation.

Especially when it comes to road trips in South India, you can cherish your life’s best moments. Why? South India is known for its paradise beauty. It has the Eastern and Western Ghats; amazing hill roads bordered by greeneries; waterfalls, lakes, and dams in and around; mouth-watering cuisines; and a lot more.

The Best Road Trips In South India You Cannot Miss

Listed below are hand-picked road trip adventures that everyone must experience in their lifetime when visiting India. Important: Don’t forget to check out the gem of all: the Pamban road trip (briefed at the end).

• Chennai–Yercaud Trip
• Coimbatore–Kodaikanal
• Kochi–Alleppey
• Hyderabad–Araku
• Bangalore–Gokarna
• Bangalore–Ooty
• Kochi-Kanyakumari

Chennai–Yercaud Trip People born and brought up in South India knew how fantastic this road trip would be. You cover a distance of over 360 km on this road trip. Halfway through, you travel along the seashore. In the remaining time, you travel through the Jawadhu hills. Indeed, it is one of the best road trips in South India by car. Travel with your best buddies to make it the best of the best trip!

Coimbatore–Kodaikanal This Coimbatore road trip connects you to Kodaikanal via Pollachi and Pazhani. If you have time, you can add the “Valparai” tourist attraction between Pollachi and Pazhi. All these places are serene and pleasant, with coconut trees all over the plains. On the other hand, your destination, i.e., Kodaikanal, is abundant with hilly tourist attractions, including sightseeing, caves, and cloud-kissing peaks.

Kochi–Alleppey As soon as you hear Kerala, your mind will flash backwaters, palms, coconut trees, and fishes. Undoubtedly, these are the things that will impress you when you take a road trip from Kochi to Alappuzha (Alleppey). Though the distance (around 50 km) and travel time are shorter, you will feel the trip is worth it. Places to visit in Kochi >>>

Hyderabad–Araku This stands at the top of the list of the best road trips in South India. It entails traveling through plains, hilly regions, valleys, and beaches. It is a longer road trip, covering more than 700 km. If you want to admire the beauty of the Bay of Bengal, take this trip from Hyderabad to Vishakhapatnam to Araku Valley.

Bangalore–Gokarna Well, it is your choice whether to stop at Gokarna or extend your trip up to Goa. The Bangalore-Gokarna trip is a must for every student in South India. You can enjoy extraordinary beaches (the Arabian Sea delights), the majesty of the Western Ghats, and the South Indian native special cuisines.

Bangalore–Ooty Traveling from Bangalore to Ooty will encompass a lot of adventurous tourist places. The notable tourist spot is the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve. Other forest regions include Bandhipur and Mysore. Animal lovers can choose this road trip when visiting South India. ​​ Kochi-Kanyakumari This ~300 km-long route has numerous attractions like magnificent mountains, sunny beaches, little backwaters, a lot of fishing areas, etc. If you’re traveling with your family, do stop at Kollam, Thiruvananthapuram, and Nagercoil. These stops have beautiful sights and highly spiritual temples.

The Gem of Best Road Trips In South India: The Pamban Bridge You might have taken a speed boat to travel through waters in the middle of the sea, but have you taken a road trip instead? Believe it or not, it’s a breathtaking experience when you ride on a long road with two sides of water sparkling and splashing your face. The Annai Indira Gandhi Road Bridge runs parallel to the phenomenal Pamban rail bridge erected in 1914. Never miss this incredible opportunity!

Planning a road trip to South India? Get travel tips from the experts!

Fabulous Five Road Trips in South India

South India also is known as Peninsular India or Deccan India covers most of the part of peninsular India. The word “Deccan” is an anglicized form of the word “ Prakrit ” derived from the Sanskrit word “ Dakshina ” meaning south. The states of Andhra Pradesh , Telangana, Kerala , Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka collectively form South India .

These states are bordered by the colossal Eastern and Western Ghats; Western Ghats is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The fresh and crisp air that caresses your face the moment you enter the boundaries of South India is the greatest discerning factor than the rest of the country and fills your heart with a childlike glee on eyeing the paddy fields. The quaint countryside while taking a road trip down South is a feeling that for sure cannot be put into words.

The infrastructure in the Southern part of India is better than the rest of India with well-built roads and great inter and intrastate connectivity. This road trip down South is hence the best gift for your soul and mind and this trip is a combination of panoramas, adventure, scenery, and incredibly delicious local food. So folks, if you are looking to recharge your batteries, rejuvenate your soul, then get your cameras out and put on some music to go with your mood while we curate this list of top five road trips to take down South.

Here’s a list of places you must visit down South

1. chennai to pondicherry.

https://pixabay.com/en/matrimandir-meditation-auroville-3647243/

This stretch of 160 kms is pure bliss and will top your list, best experienced on a cruiser bike. This stretch passes through Mahabalipuram (known for its exquisite natural beauty), Kalpakkam (the famous nuclear site of India), Idaikkazhinadu (the site of the majestic Alambara Fort ), Mudaliarkuppam (one of the few water sports sites in India) and Marakkanam (boy!!! those uber large salt pans stretching as far as your eyes can see). This road trip stretch down South from Chennai to Pondicherry is a natural marvel and nature does not cease to impress at every turn, making you snap your cameras every few minutes. The icing on the cake is the sea that runs on one side of the road and is a sight to behold in itself. The changing color of the sun and the changing moods of the sea leave an impression like none other. This road trip is surely going to leave each one of you feeling like a butterfly fresh out of its cocoon.

2. Visakhapatnam to Araku Valley

@Tourism_AP #SantaInAP Santa should visit AP because he will enjoy the beauty Vishakapatnam has to offer as Vizag is enriched with architectural grandeur, besides the scenic beauty pic.twitter.com/8YeCsdfjvW — Emaremm (@Emaremm) December 21, 2018

Well, none in the entire human race has never witnessed what Heaven must feel like. Whilst you set out on this heavenly stretch of 166 kms and for the very first time and lay your eyes on the spot where the Bay of Bengal merges with the Eastern Ghats, you will most likely heave a sigh and marvel, “this is what heaven must exactly look like!”. The pristine beauty of this place is unlike any other and surreal to the point where you actually have to pinch yourself to make your brains process all that your eyes are seeing. This stretch takes you through Borra caves and Tatipudi Reserviour while gently leading the way to the mystic Araku Valley . The serpentine roads ( a common sight whilst you take a road trip down South), gentle elevation and lush green forests in the hills all along the way will leave you yearning for more. The ideal time to visit this region is between October and March

3. Bengaluru to Bandipur Forest

https://pixabay.com/en/bandipur-reserve-sunset-park-1643634/

A road trip in India is always incomplete until it passes through an expanse in the wild. What can compete with the picturesque Bandipur Forest route of 235 kms. Good company and tasteful music are all that one needs to make the most of the trip. Try and keep your eyes open for the deer and other animals while you are on the road. They are always ready to hop on and happily bounce off to the other side. This stretch while taking a road trip down South is sure to beckon the adventure junkie within you.

4. Pamban Bridge (Rameshwaram)

https://pixabay.com/en/india-rameshwaram-railway-bridge-1785978/

“Pamban” the word is enough to strike a chord with all those SRK and Deepika Padukone fans out there. Yes you guessed it right, this is the same Pamban from the laughter riot we remember as “Chennai Express”. Have you ever wondered what it would feel like to fly with an expanse of endless blue beneath you? This bridge, 13.5 kms in length makes you feel like a bird. Imagine the feeling of being able to glide effortlessly while eyeing the expanse of blue and green. This bridge is like a pilgrimage in South India for every bike lover. Only a biker alone knows the ultimate bliss of feeling the wind in their hair.

5. Chennai to Munnar

https://pixabay.com/en/munnar-tea-plantation-kerala-india-2259072/

Is the sickly heat and humidity of Chennai weighing you down? Wait no more and gear up to take this ride to Munnar. This 10-hour journey of approximately 600 kms is worth every ounce of effort. Almost the whole expanse is lined and dotted with tea gardens. Situated at a height of around 1,600 meters you can feel the instant drop in temperatures around you. This for sure is a welcome change from the sweltering coastal heat in Chennai. In addition, Munnar is a perfect hiking destination in South India . If the Goddess of Luck decides to shine on you, then you can also spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr . While in Munnar, chase the Lakkam Waterfalls and chase the surreal sunset from the Anamudi Peak.

Hope this carefully curated list of the top five road trips to take down South will entice you enough to abandon the couch and hit the roads. If you want to know of more places or need help with planning a trip to any of these places, feel free to reach out to us on Twitter/Facebook/Instagram. We will surely help you with all we can and take you #AageSeRight.

Shalini Mimani

Shalini is a Chartered Accountant by profession but her love for photography and writing is what gives her immense pleasure. She is a travel addict and an adventure junkie. Scuba diving to bungy jumping to trekking a live volcano, she has done it all. She strongly lives by the motto, "Fear is stupid. So are regrets".

Plan a Road trip in these 3 Simple Steps

7 splendid trips in 2019.

[…] 3. Vishakapatnam to Araku Valley […]

[…] the name literally translates to ‘five hills’ and is surrounded by five hills of the Western Ghats. These five majestic mountains create a beautiful backdrop for the coastal plains on the other […]

Looks like it is really fun to drive along the India country side. Heard a few about Pamban Bridge, never thought it is a very cool bridge. Hope to drive to these wonderful places someday.

[…] is the sheer challenge of exploring new places. It gives me the time and space to reflect within myself and grow in all spheres of […]

[…] Where: Tamil Nadu […]

[…] of the abundance of nature as well as for being the primary fishing harbor of the state. Other primary attractions at the Malpe beach include the temples of Balarama and […]

[…] package of beauty and mystery, dotted with some amazing destinations. Some of the offbeat spots in South India are among the best destinations in […]

[…] group activities during a company vacation will help accelerate team bonding and will help employees create […]

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Must Visit Places in South India for a Refreshing Vacay

Must visit places in south india, here is the list of 30 must visit places in south india for a refreshing vacay, 1. coorg - elephants, waterfall rappelling, ultralight flying.

Known For : Abbey Falls Raja's Seat Mandalpatti

Widely known for being the “Scotland of the South”, Coorg is an enchanting hill station located not so far from Bangalore. The view of the grey clouds subtly blending with the greenery of the hills is a sight worth seeing. Ever tried waterfall rappelling? If not, now is the time! An exciting challenge to overcome, with the water flowing down with force, in a moist climate, hear your heartbeat in your ears. Over the sound of the waterfall. There is no better place for this than Coorg, which easily makes it to the list of best places to visit in South India.

Best Time: October to March

37 Coorg Attractions

2. Kodaikanal - The Princess of Hill Stations

Lose yourself in the mesmerising beauty of the rolling hills shrouded in the alluring mist and dense forest of Kodaikanal. Dubbed the Princess of Hill stations, Kodaikanal ranks high on the list of hill stations in the country thanks to the abundance of natural beauty, be it the waterfalls, the lakes, the lush greenery or the magnificent view of the Palani hills. Enjoy the eternally pleasant weather of the area as you trek to Green Valley View or Dolphin’s nose, where you can admire the scenic panoramas of this natural wonderland, or immerse yourself in the serenity of Kodai Lake or Berjarim Lake.

3. Thekkady - Largest Tiger Reserve in India

Home to the massive Periyar National Park, the quaint village of Thekkady is sure to capture your heart with its innocent charm and abundance of natural beauty. Spot tigers, as well as other wild animals frolic at the country’s largest tiger reserve, engage in the adventurous sport of Bamboo rafting or marvel at the wondrous ecology of the Periyar lake and its surrounding greenery.

4. Wayanad - Nature's Abode

A picturesque plateau nestled in the hills of the Western Ghats, Wayanad is one of the prettiest areas of the attractive state of Kerala. Part of the massive Nilgiris Biosphere Reserve, this charming town is loaded with enchanting waterfalls, historical caves, vast spice plantations and exotic wildlife, making it a must visit for anyone looking to explore the untouched beauty of the enchanted Western Ghats.

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Best India Tour Package - Shimla, Kullu and Manali

Kashmir tour package 9 days with gondola ride, leh ladakh summer holiday package with nubra & pangong stay, bestseller andaman and nicobar tour package, sikkim tour package for 7 days - excursion to tsomgo lake, shimla manali dharamshala dalhousie tour package - day trip to khajjiar, 5. ooty - experience the natural bliss.

The name says it all, you know what’s coming. Take the toy train from Mettupalayam, go boating, and breathe in the Nilgiri hills after climbing up the Dodabetta peak. No matter how many times you go to Ooty, it never fails to amaze you. This charming place in South India is a complete package to delight your senses. Also, having a romantic ambience, it’s one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in South India. Honeymooners from all over the country visit this lovely place throughout the year. There are several things to do here as well, such as trekking and angling. Oh, and don’t forget to visit the tea gardens.

6. Andaman and Nicobar Islands - Scuba diving and Snorkelling

At the shoestring budget of a student, get the best snorkelling and scuba diving experience on these groups of islands that house large varieties of marine life that will brush by your ears while you stay amazed at how blue the water is. Experience the wonders of the aquatic world in their pristine form. If you thought the best beaches in India were in Goa, check Andaman and Nicobar out! You will be simply amazed to see the clear azure waters and the white sandy shores of the Andaman beaches. Snorkelling and scuba diving in this place would be an experience of a lifetime.

7. Gokarna - Land of palm trees, blue seas and golden sands

A small holy town situated on the Western Coast of India, Gokarna is known for it’s untouched beaches and is great for a relaxing holiday. A day or two of sunbathing on the beaches, flat on your stomach, sipping a cooler. If that is your idea of a vacation, or if what you simply need is a break from your hectic schedule of planned visits to sights in and around Karnataka, Gokarna is the place for you. A toned-down version of Goa, we suggest you take your beach hat, some sunscreen and a volleyball for a great time!

8. Alappuzha - Experience Backwaters

Known as the “Venice of the East”, Alleppey with its backwaters and floating houseboats, is one of the most beautiful places to visit in South India. The backwaters of Kerala are a breathtaking sight, particularly at the break of dawn. Surf on its gentle waters, or live in one of the houseboats. Or maybe just let the hammocks tied to the coconut trees cradle you to sleep. This is one of the most soothing places to visit in South India and a perfect way to round up your trip.

9. Hampi - Get lost in the majestic ruins!

Hampi is one of those laid-back places with grandiose historical beauty that transports you back in time. A must visit place in South India, this places offer a wide range of activities as well. Once a part of the ancient south Indian kingdom of Vijayanagar, it’s a UNESCO World heritage site and also a very important historical and religious centre. The Virupaksha temple is an important temple which is visited by Hindus from all over the country.  So jump over the ruins, take crazy pictures, read up on them or just feel the magnitude of the kingdom that once existed here. It’s truly magical. Hampi is great for solo travel in South India.

10. Pondicherry. - Enjoy French Architecture

A world away from where you are, Pondicherry welcomes you to a totally different atmosphere, with its colourfully painted houses in French architecture and relaxed attitude. Something that you breathe in and absorb. Also known as Puducherry, it makes for a great backpacking haunt. It is a popular tourist destination in South India owing to its colonial-era buildings, churches and temples, and of course, the famous beaches. It is also one of the few places to visit in South India which is preferred by mainstream and offbeat travellers alike.

11. Varkala - The Hidden Treasure of Kerala

A beautiful experience in itself, you taste the food even better when all your other senses are treated to the fresh sea wind and the sight of the never-ending ocean.  A complete and ideal tourist destination for solo travel in South India Varkala is Famous for its springs, fisheries, lighthouses, beaches, lake and much more. An important Vishnu temple known as the Janardhanaswamy Temple is present here which is said to be more than 2000 years old. An ashram known as the Shivagiri Mutt, founded by the well known Hindu reformer  Sree Narayana Guru, is also located close by.

12. Munnar - Roam Amidst the Tea Gardens!

Located in God’s own country – Kerala, Munnar is undoubtedly the most romantic hill station in South India. A great place to drive to, you know you’ve reached Munnar when you smell tea in the air. It’s literally everywhere, and you will go back smelling like a teabag. The entire area is a collection of small hillocks that are trek friendly, with lakes, and water falls and large expanses of dense, green forests maintained by the forest department. The green countryside is bound to take your breath away. Have a look at the sandalwood forest as well while you are touring this place in South India.

13. Goa - For A Great Quad Biking Experience

Goa is synonymous with Indian tourism thanks to its famous party scene and stunning architecture. If you’re tired of the beaches and the churches, Goa is also the site of some intense quad biking expeditions that explore the rugged terrain of the forest or the intense trek to the magical Dudhsagar falls for the offbeat traveller.

14. Mahabalipuram - Soak up the Deep Culture of Pallavas

Known For : Shore Temple Mahabalipuram Beach Five Rathas

The coastal town of Mahabalipuram, home to a large number of intricately patterned rock-cut monuments and temples. This resort town lies on a strip of land between the Great Salt Lake and the Bay of Bengal and is designated as world heritage site by UNESCO due to the multitude of the timeless wonders left behind by the past civilisations that once inhabited this spot.

Best Time: November to February

23 Mahabalipuram Attractions

15. Kudremukh - Close to the Nature's Face

The second highest peak of Karnataka, Kudremukh literally means ‘horse-face’, named after the picturesque view of the side of the magnificent mountain that looks like the face of a horse. The mountainous paths decked with vast grasslands and dense forests make this serene hill station very popular amongst the inhabitants of Bangalore and Mangalore for a nature retreat, away from the din of the city.

16. Bandipur National Park - Tiger Reserve in the Nilgiris

Part of the enormous Nilgiris Biosphere Reserve, the Bandipur National Park is a plethora of varied fauna and flora, serving as a large habitat for tigers and the Asian elephant. Rich in its ecological biodiversity, opt to either visit this massive bio-park or drive by NH 181 or NH 766 which pass through this lush nirvana, promising you scores of soothing forests and the chance to see some really cool indigenous animals.

17. Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh - Andhra's temple town

Known For : Sri Venkateswara Temple Akasaganga Teertham Silathoranam

Situated in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, Tirupati is known for Lord Venkateshwara Temple. This is one of the holiest and the wealthiest temples in the world and millions of devotees flock here to pay their reverence. Tirumala is one of the seven hills in Tirupati, where the main temple is located. The temple is believed to be placed where Lord Venkateshwara took the form of an idol and is hence home to the diety Govinda.

Best Time: September to March

40 Tirupati Attractions

18. Dandeli - Camping and white water river rafting!

Dandeli wildlife sanctuary is a great tourist place in South India for you wild, dirt-loving travellers. It is blessed with dense deciduous forests, wide variety of wild animals and the Dandeli river to boot. A popular weekend holiday destination in Karnataka, this places is a preferred destination for coracle boating, trekking and rafting. The scenic beauty of the place coupled with the adventure sports activities makes it an ideal holiday spot. Go white water river rafting with friends, and relax in the lush rain-forest to make your trip to south India memorable.

19. Yercaud - Gawk at the magnificent peaks!

Yeracud, located in Tamil Nadu, is a popular hill station in South India. Soak in the beauty of the Eastern Ghats with the delightful little hill station of Yercaud. Famous for the beautiful forests that surround its marvellous lakes, this charming destination is sure to satisfy your naturaphilic tendencies. The divinity of the Emerald lake is worth the trip, the glory of the Kiliyur Falls, and the magnificent view from Pagoda point amplify the scenic serenity of this lovely region. The land of seven forests, the peaks at Yercaud will leave you clicking away. You can never have enough. Also known as the poor man’s Ooty, this is one of the places to visit in South India that is comparatively less known, but with no compromise on the scenic beauty. It’s dotted with waterfalls and greenery all over. The remnants of the Colonial Era is visible in the colonial buildings still standing here.

20. Jog Waterfalls - Enjoy the light sprays of water at!

Located in the Shimoga district of Karnataka, are the Shimoga falls which are popularly known as the Jog falls and one of the best places to visit in South India. A favourite of people travelling to South India, the Jog waterfalls are the second highest plunge waterfalls of India. Majestic in appearance and a treat for the eye, there is a wide range of activities in and around the place that tourists can indulge in. During the monsoon season, the already bustling waterfall becomes even more alive, and the surrounding greenery only adds to the beauty and magnificence of these waterfalls. Rainbows are also a very common sight here during the monsoons.

21. Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu - The Bridge on the Indian Ocean

Known For : Rameshwaram Temple Dhanushkodi Temple and Beach Jatayu Tirtham

Rameshwaram is located on a beautiful island in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is separated by a small Pamban channel from Sri Lanka. According to Hindu mythology, this is the place where Lord Rama created a bridge across the sea to Sri Lanka. Rameshwaram is mainly visited for the renowned Ramanathaswamy Temple, which houses the longest corridor in the world.

Best Time: Throughout the year

22 Rameswaram Attractions

22. Kerala - Mingle with the elephants in Gavi

Kerala’s favourite elephants greet you into this forest thickly populated by tropical flora and fauna. Many types of plants and animals can be found over here. Some of the rarest animal species include the great pied hornbill, Nilgiri Tahr and the Lion-tailed macaque. A little unknown and offbeat, Gavi offers a wide range of activities like trekking, camping, boating, safaris etc. One can also visit the spice gardens and factories nearby. It’s slowly emerging as a popular destination in South India for Ecotourism, owing to the untouched natural surroundings of this place.

23. Karnataka - The Caves at Siddara Betta

A nice place to trek to, Siddara betta is a perfect Tourist place in South India go if you want to spend time with your friends and not have other people around. It is said that a lot of holy men regularly come here to meditate for long spans of time. I’d like to call it an introvert’s trekking choice. It’s also a popular religious site as well, and so many pilgrims pay a visit to this place every now and then. Natur lovers will love this place as the forests nearby are a great place to do some birdwatching. If you’re lucky, you might get a glimpse of the very rare Yellow Throated Bulbul.

24. Nagarhole Wildlife Sanctuary -South India's Most Exciting Wildlife

Blessed with rich wildlife, attractive jungle and a scenic lake, Nagarhole is one of Karnataka’s best wildlife getaways and an important place to visit in South India. Despite sharing the same wildlife with the neighbouring Bandipur national park, it receives fewer visitors due to it being lesser known, making it all the more appealing. It is home to a large number of flora and fauna species, such as the tiger, leopard, wild elephant, dhole (Indian wild dog), and gaur (Indian bison). Other species present are chital, spotted deer, muntjac (barking deer), mouse deer, four-horned antelope, wild boar, sloth bear, hyena, mongoose, civet, otter, and more

25. Cycling Through the Nilgiris

Fitness junkies will get a real kick out of cycling through the mystical and vast Nilgiris mountains. Literally meaning blue mountains, the Nilgiris is a hotbed for remarkable vegetation, exotic wildlife, and indigenous tribes of South India. Cycling tours are organised through the massive Nilgiris Biosphere Reserve, allowing you to cover incredible locations like the Bandipur, Wayanad, and Mudumalai.

26. Party in Bangalore

Head to Bangalore for the coolest parties in the south! It is the hub of the Indian IT revolution and is popularly known as the Silicon Valley of India. Thus, Bangalore draws a very young and hip demography to its limits. This place has one of the best pub cultures in the country although most of the pubs and bars are known to shut down by 12. There are numerous places dotting the entire town where people can let their hair down. But the best thing about Bangalore is hands down its weather, which is what all the other metro cities in the country lack. One of the best places to visit in South India for all the youngsters!

27. Food in Mysore

It’s the time you can eat what you want, and the best place in South India for our favourite idlis and dosas is none other than Mysore! Head to this beautiful city for delicious ghee based sweets like the Mysore Pak (Something I can’t get enough of). Spend the evening walking by the lit up Mysore palace and eating at the roadside stalls. Mysore is also one of South India’s most popular tourist destinations. It has a rich historical and cultural significance which can be seen in the splendid Mysore palace and other places.

28. Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh - The City of Nizams

Known For : Ramoji Film City Hussain Sagar Lake Golconda Fort

A city of contrasts, Hyderabad exudes an old-world charm of its own with the Old City (Charminar side), Hitech City (Cyberabad) and the other areas lying between the old and the new. The capital and the largest city of Telangana, Hyderabad is home to one of the most iconic landmarks - the Charminar.

102 Hyderabad Attractions

29. Visit the Annual Thrissur Pooram in Kerala

Something most travel guides wouldn’t guide you to, the Thrissur pooram (held in the month of April every year) is a sight to behold in itself. the Thrissur pooram is a competition between the two most famous temples in the city, that are situated in the same circle, opposite to each other. This is a unique place to visit in South India and promises to be a lot of fun. The festival sees a larger than life turns out of people, who all gather to watch the competition. The most fun to watch is the headgear changing competition on the elephants, and it is amazing to watch how fast they change, and with such innovation. Thrissur is the cultural hub for a lot of other festivals and you can catch great gigs around the place like Electronic dance music shows at Fort Kochi.

30. Fishing at Bheemeshwari

Bheemeshwari is a popular destination in the south, known for its fishing camps and wildlife sanctuary. A host of adventure activities that include Kayaking, river rafting, trekking and rope walking await you at Bheemeshwari Adventure camp, Karnataka, which also allows night stays at the jungle lodges, where you can wake up to sounds of over 200 species of exotic birds and an amazing variety of animals. The camp is most well known for Mahseer fishing, the largest game fish known to man. Enough of watching people fish, how about giving it a shot yourself?

So, how did you feel about these amazing must visit places in South India? Please share your opinions and experiences in the comments section below.

This post was published by Pooja Nair

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Road Trip across South India: 3 States in 10 Days!

I started my trip from Udupi in Karnataka and ended it in Udupi again. Trip was special because we took 02 differents routes on our way out and back to Udupi.

The jungles and the elephants were the highlight of the entire trip.

Tip for all: Please carry mosquito repellents and hiking shoes and a small bag of salt (which is help in getting rid of leeches)

The Krishna Temple is worth seeing along with the nearby beaches and then drive to Coorg. To go to Coorg from Udupi you can hire a car and it take 5 hours by road

This place is sooo green and fresh. Its also a land of coffee and pepper plantations. There are number of water falls to see and also a must visit is the Dubare Elephant Training Camp. The Buddhist Monastery is worth a visit. Please carry mosquito repellents

The Mysore Palace is breathtaking and is en route to Madumalai National Park. Hence a stopover to see the palace is must. If anyone is interested...its the best place to buy silk saris.

Masinagudi or Madumalai National Park is the home to the Asiatic elephants, the tigers and the bisons. There are tours operated by the forest officials who take us for a ride in the jungle to view these mighty beasts. Please carry mosquito repellents. The best place to stay at Masinagudi is at the Bamboo Banks Farm & Guest House.

Coonoor Road

Coonor and Ooty are 02 towns some 20 kms apart. Coonoor is the land of beautiful Tea Gardens and spices and natural oils. Ooty is a town of lakes and also a must visit is the Chocolate Museum. Travellers should also take a ride on the Toy Train running between Coonoor & Ooty, the journey is very scenic.

This town is also know as Calicut. The beaches and temples are the highlight of this town. This town is also the first place where Vasco Da Gama had landed for trade from Europe. There is a direct train which will take you back to Mangalore(40 kms from Udupi). There is a direct train which takes us back to Udupi

Back to Udupi for a night from Mangalore

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The 12 best road trips in India

From the rugged north to the lush, green hills of the south, India has an epic road trip for everyone

For me, off-roading in the Himalayas has to be my favourite road trip in India . I remember tucking in a shawl in the back seat of the car at 4am, heading from Chandrataal towards Delhi in -7C temperatures. The shivering cold, missing out on sleep, and every other compromise was all worth it for the experience of road-tripping through the narrow serpentine roads that make their way through the world’s highest mountains.

But that’s not the only unforgettable road trip that India has in store. From the rugged northern terrain of Ladakh to the lush hills of Kerala in the south, this vast country has something for every kind of traveller. Trust me: there is no better way to explore this land of vibrant culture, delicious food, rich culture and welcoming people than by hitting the road. Fasten your seat belts and start planning for these unmissable Indian road trips.

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The best road trips in India

1.  Golden Triangle Circuit

Starting from Delhi – the national capital and home to some of India’s most mouthwatering food – the first leg of the trip takes you to a bona fide icon: the Taj Mahal at Agra. Then turn and drive west towards  Jaipur to witness the golden deserts and unique culture of Rajasthan. The final side of the triangle is the road back to Delhi: leave time for a luxurious stop-off amid the royal surroundings of Neemrana Fort Palace .

Distance:   447 miles

2.  Rajasthan Circuit

From a desert safari under the moonlight to a puppet show performed to Rajasthani folk music, there’s a tonne to experience on this road trip circuit touching the four major cities of the state: Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, and Udaipur. You can also call it a gastronomical road trip for the variety of food you can consume across the state: ghewar, kachori, dal baati choorma and more.

Distance : 1,087 miles

3.  Shimla to Spiti Valley

If you are a mountain child or a fan of off-roading, you cannot miss out on the drive from   Shimla   to Spiti. The trip takes you along the bumpy-yet-beautiful dirt roads of Himachal Pradesh, surrounded with apple-laden trees. Keep your camera app open to capture the snow-capped peaks, blue skies and crystal-clear rivers.

Distance:  263 miles

4.  Guwahati to Tawang

Surrounded by the mighty Himalayas, the north-eastern part of India is still an underrated gem. From lush green valleys to the serenity of Buddhist monasteries, this road trip is the perfect choice to unwind and escape the crowd. It’s also a chance to witness the Indigenous cultures of tribes such as the Monpa, Takpa, Karbi and Miri, including traditional local festivals and dance forms like bihu.

Distance :  318 miles

5.  Mumbai to Goa

Famous for being featured in one of the best Bollywood movies , ’Dil Chahta Hai’, this road trip takes you along India’s beautiful west coast. The roads from Mumbai to Goa are super- smooth and surrounded by tall, lush palm trees. There are frequent beaches to stop for sunbathing, and plenty of incredible local food in the small villages and towns along the Konkan coast.

Distance : 365 miles

6.  Chennai to Pondicherry

India has its very own French town: Pondicherry . If you are in the southern part of the country, do not miss out on the road trip there from Chennai . You’ll travel through not just French-inspired architecture but also many quaint fishing villages and pristine beaches, feasting on delicious seafood and fresh coconut water along the way.

Distance: 93 miles

7.  Ahmedabad to Kutch

This road trip is all about meeting people: the friendly locals of Ahmedabad, the skilled artisans in the villages of Kutch and the nomadic tribes roaming the desert. Time your journey between October and February to experience the lively Rann Utsav festival in the white-sand Kutch desert – the kite-flying event in February is particularly spectacular.

Distance : 248m

8.  Mysore to Hampi

Drive through the heart of   Karnataka  state  and soak up the rich culture and history along your way. The road runs by a plethora of ancient heritage and architectural marvels: Chitradurga Fort,  Ranganathaswamy Temple in Srirangapatna, Dariya Daulat Palace… Give in to the cliché of posing for selfies: your future self will thank you for the memories.

Distance :  265 miles

9.  Bengaluru to Ooty

If you fancy a cup of tea and a blast of fresh air, then hop in the driver’s seat and get set on a Bengaluru to Ooty road trip. The route will take you through the lush green Western Ghats, where you can slurp some tea fresh out of the plantation. Leave time to admire the enormous and beautiful waterfalls of Chunchi and Shivanasamudra.

Distance:  168 miles

10.  Chennai to Munnar

Sprawling across a wide area, the tea plantations on the route out of Chennai will leave you awestruck. The route takes you through wildlife sanctuaries and serene backwaters: you might be caught off-guard by the diverse range of flora and fauna in this region. From scenic surroundings to cultural diversity, this drive has something in store no matter what you’re looking for in a road trip.

Distance:   395 miles

11.  Chilpi to Kanha

Bypassing through lush and dense Sal forest of Madhya Pradesh, this road trip is one of the best to explore the centre of India. The starting point, Chilpi, is located right at the border of Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh, while Kanha is home to one of India’s biggest national parks. Along the road there are high chances of coming across a herd of deer or bison, a troop of monkeys or other wild animals strolling around.

Distance: 59 miles

12.  Bagdogra to Darjeeling

This exhilarating journey takes you along winding roads that ascend towards lush green hills. Along the way you can stop by small villages or pop inside the tea plantations. The occasional hairpin turns might leave you gasping, so don’t let the stunning views of the mighty Himalayas and Victorian architecture distract you from fastening your seat belt.

Distance:  43 miles

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15 Top Tourist Places to Visit in South India

Must-See Destinations in South India

South India (comprised of Kerala , Karnataka , Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu ) really has a distinct culture that sets it apart from the rest of the country. Not only that, each state has managed to retain its own distinct identity. Intricate temple architecture, historical ruins, palm-fringed canals, spirituality, and beach will provide you with a varied and interesting trip. This article highlights the top tourist places to visit in South India. There are so many great destinations that it's difficult to select only a few!

Hampi, Karnataka

TripSavvy / Faye Strassle

One of India's top historical destinations , the laid-back village of Hampi was once the last capital of Vijayanagar, one of the greatest Hindu empires in India's history. It has some extremely captivating ruins, intriguingly intermingled with large boulders that rear up all over the landscape. The ruins, which date back to the 14th century, stretch for just over 4187 hectares (16 square miles) and comprise more than 1600 monumental remains. An incredible energy can be felt at this ancient place. Hampi is commonly visited from Goa, as there are a number of transport options from there.

Badami, Aihole and Pattadakal, Karnataka

The heritage sites of Badami (formerly Vatapi), Aihole and Pattadakal are a worthwhile side trip from Hampi. They're rich in monuments, temples and ruins from the Chalukya empire, which ruled there between the 6th to 12th centuries. The renowned Chalukya style of architecture originated in Aihole and the village is filled with around 125 stone temples, which unfortunately don't get the attention they deserve. Badami is one of the top places to see caves in India, with four sets of magnificent ancient rock-cut cave temples. Pattadakal is smaller but has one impressive temple complex that's also a UNESCO Heritage Site.

Kerala Backwaters

Cruising along the palm-fringed canals, known as the backwaters, is one of the best things to do in Kerala. Time truly seems to stand still. Indian food cooked by a chef and chilled beer on-board the boat make it even more enjoyable. You can spend the night on the boat, out in the middle of the water, surrounded by serenity. Bliss! And while you're in the area, why not stay a night or two at a resort or homestay on the backwaters? You'll be able to feast on freshly caught and prepared seafood, according to traditional recipes. Plan your trip with this guide to the Kerala Backwaters and how to best visit them . Or check out these top homestays in and around Alleppey (Alappuzha) and top Kumarakom hotels and resorts for all budgets.

Varkala, Kerala

The fairy-tale setting of Varkala Beach is enough to take your breath away, with a long winding stretch of cliff and views that extend over the Arabian Sea. A paved footpath runs along the length of the cliff, bordered by coconut palms, quaint shops, beach shacks, hotels, and guest houses. Nestled at the bottom of the cliff is a sparkling beach, reached by steps leading down from the cliff top. It's not surprising that Varkala is one of India's best beaches . It sure is picturesque!

Fort Kochi, Kerala

Known as the "Gateway to Kerala", Kochi is an enchanting city that's had an eclectic influence. The Arabs, British, Dutch, Chinese, and Portuguese have all left their mark on the city. Most people recognize Kochi from pictures of the famous Chinese fishing nets that line the waterfront. Fort Kochi is full of architecture and historical sites, and is a marvelous place to stroll around and explore on foot.

Madurai, Tamil Nadu

Keren Su/Getty Images

Ancient Madurai is home to the most impressive and important temple in South India, the Meenakshi Temple . If you only see one south Indian temple, this temple should be it! The city of Madurai is more than 4,000 years old, and has remained a major center for Tamil culture and learning. The old traditional part of the city is fascinating to explore on foot. These days, Madurai attracts pilgrims and tourists in equal numbers. The two-week long Chithirai Festival, featuring a re-enacted celestial wedding of God and Goddess, is also held in Madurai during April and May each year. It's worth visiting some of the magnificent temples in South India too.

Pondicherry

Pondicherry (also known as Puducherry) was a former 18th century French colony and remains a separate union territory on the east cost of Tamil Nadu. It retains a distinctly French flavor and provides a delightful break. Wander around the atmospheric French Quarter and along the Promenade, soak up the peaceful atmosphere, dine in delicious restaurants, and browse the boutiques.

Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram), Tamil Nadu

Mahabalipuram (also known as Mamallapuram) is a beach town with a thriving backpacker and surfing scene , an hour or so south of Chennai. It's also renowned for its stone sculpture industry, so set some money aside to shop! Other attractions are the Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas (temples sculptured in the shape of chariots), and Arjuna's Penance (a huge carving on the face of a rock depicting scenes from the Mahabharata). A classical dance festival happens there every year from late December to late January. The many beach resorts in the area make Mahabalipuram a popular getaway from Chennai.

Rameshwaram and Dhanushkodi, Tamil Nadu

Rameshwaram is a peaceful little pilgrim town in southern Tamil Nadu, brought to life by the constant stream of pious devotees that come to bathe in its holy water, get a puja done to purify their karma, and visit Ramanathaswamy Temple. The town and temple are tied to the great Hindu epic The Ramayana. This is where Lord Ram got Lord Hanuman to build a bridge across the ocean to rescue Sita from her abductor, Ravana. Adam's Bridge (also referred to as Ram Setu), a chain of reefs and sandbanks, is said to be the place where the bridge was located. In this area, not far from Rameshwaram, are the eerily crumbled and windswept remnants of Dhanuskodi , a town destroyed by cyclone in 1964. The approach to Rameshwaram is dramatic, with two long bridges (one for trains and one for other vehicles) linking it to the mainland.

Mysore, Karnataka

Mysore has an impressive royal heritage, with the city's main tourist attraction being the imposing Mysore Palace. There are many other interesting buildings, palaces, and temples to see. The zoo is notably one of the best in India. Mysore is also an excellent place to shop for sandalwood, and study Ashtanga yoga. The annual 10-day Mysore Dasara festival is another attraction.

Coorg, Karnataka

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For fresh aromatics of south Indian coffee and stunning scenic beauty, head to Karnataka's Kodagu region (often referred to as Coorg , the English version of its name). This alluring mountainous area in southern Karnataka, not far from Bangalore and Mysore, is renowned for its plentiful coffee estates. And, yes, you can stay on one! There are accommodations for all budgets including some lovely homestays and luxury resorts in Coorg. The magnificent Golden Temple, one of the top Buddhist monasteries in India , is not to be missed as well.

Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Tamil Nadu

The Nilgiri Mountain Railway toy train chugs its way up to the popular hill station of Ooty in Tamil Nadu. The historic railway line was completed in 1899 and it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2005. The 46 kilometer (28.5 mile) journey is an enthralling one. It passes through rocky terrain, ravings, forested hills, tea plantations, 16 tunnels, and over 250 bridges (including 32 major ones). Ooty is a great place to escape the heat, although it has become quite commercialized and crowded. Nearby Coonoor is quieter and is world famous for its tea. It's one of the top destinations for tea tourism in India.

Gokarna, Karnataka

Think Goa is too touristy these days? Across the border, Gokarna still provides a feel for what Goa used to be like. Time is limited through, as development is already taking place. This small and remote holy town has four of India's most secluded and pristine beaches (Kudle Beach, Om Beach, Half Moon Beach, and Paradise Beach) nestled nearby. Each has its own appeal.

Periyar National Park, Kerala

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One of the few national parks in India to remain open during the monsoon season , Periyar is known for its herds of wild elephants. They can sometimes be seen by the side of the lake on a boat safari. Many other activities are possible in and around the park including guided nature walks, border hikes, bamboo rafting trips, and night jungle patrols.

Hyderabad, Telangana

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Hyderabad may not top too many itineraries but you may be surprised by what it has to offer. In contrast to other places in South India, it stands out for its remarkable Islamic heritage and is known as the City of Nizams. The Nizam dynasty's rule ended when Hyderabad was merged with the rest of India after Independence in 1947. The legacy lives on though, with many architectural treasures remaining, particularly in the area around the iconic Charminar . Here are 8 essential things to do in Hyderabad to get immersed in the city's culture.

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Family-friendly itineraries across South India

Last Updated on November 21, 2023

As long-time explorers across India, we can vouch for the fact that there are a few things better than a family vacation in South India! We’ve got excellent memories of going on epic road trips in the South. Inspired by those childhood holidays, we’ve put together some great family-friendly itineraries across South India for you!

Table of Contents

Mumbai – Goa – Mysore – Kerala

Start in Mumbai, with its British-era architecture, energetic buzz and amazing food. This city offers you a wealth of historic heritage to explore. It is a great jump-off point to destinations across West and South India. But hold your horses, there is much more to come as we move to Goa to enjoy its relaxed atmosphere.

Enjoy Goa’s various water adventure sports, lounge on the beach and visit its churches and colourful old Portuguese district. Then, head southward, with a quick stop at Mysore to enjoy its rich history. It also has a great zoo! If you can handle spice, you should try the famous Mysore masala dosa, filled with potatoes and spicy chutney. Continue to Hampi, a town of ancient ruins and plenty of outdoor activities, all wrapped up in a happy, hippie vibe. This is especially fun with slightly older children who might enjoy the treks, or even give bouldering a shot!

Wrap your family vacation in South India up by relaxing amid the backwaters in Alleppey, Kerala. You can try a bit of yoga, get an ayurvedic massage (or three!) and dine on the freshest seafood as you live on a houseboat, and we can help you find activities that’ll keep your little ones engaged too, from learning traditional fishing methods to climbing a coconut tree, or spice plantation walks if that’s more their speed.

See Also: Know the Perfect Time to Visit Kerala

Want to plan a family holiday in South India? Get in touch , we’ll do all the work for you!

Chennai – Pondicherry – Munnar 

Start your holiday off in Chennai, exploring the capital of Tamil Nadu. Growing upon its deep-set cultural identity is a buzzing tech hub. It makes for an easy entrance into the route, with its hustle and bustle. And then, move on to a uniquely blended culture in the erstwhile French territory of Pondicherry. It’s become a haven for peace-seekers that set up artsy cafes and organic goods stores amid its colourful bylanes, and is close to the Auroville commune! You can also go on mini temple tours in South India if you want, by visiting Thanjavur and Madurai, two incredible temple towns in Tamil Nadu.

Your family trip to South India will get more laidback as you move ahead to Munnar in Kerala, where you can visit the famous tea farms and enjoy the traditional delicacies of Kerala in this beautiful hill station. It’s a great place to kick back and relax, soaking in the foggy evenings and taking in the rolling hills. Then, cut across to the coast and the sun again, and ride a houseboat down the backwaters from Alleppey. Kochi is the perfect last stop for this trip, quaint, colourful and with just enough chaos to make it interesting, but not overwhelming.

We can plan your next family holiday in South India for you – get in touch !

Bangalore – Mysore – Bandipur – Wayanad

This is our pick if you’re looking for an active outdoorsy family holiday in South India. This trail has wildlife parks and lush green forests, mixed in with a bit of culture and history – perfect with slightly older children!

Start off in Bangalore, and head South to explore the amazing, vast gardens and palace in Mysore. If you’ve got younger kids, don’t miss the zoo here! From there you can take a road trip to South India and visit the Bandipur National Tiger Reserve. The forestland spreads over into the Wayanad Wildlife Reserve in Kerala. You will find plenty of chances to encounter the wild in this dense and shadowy forest area. Spot elephants playing near the Kabini River, birds soaring overhead, and, if you’re lucky, tigers out on the prowl amid the undergrowth.

This region has some amazing local homes to stay in, too, so you get a taste of the local culture and cuisine while you immerse yourself in nature all day.

Read on: Exploring the Cost of Travel in India

Go on an outdoorsy family holiday in South India – we’ll help you figure out the details! Get in touch!

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Road Trips from Kochi: Exploring the Scenic Beauty of South India

Introduction: embracing the wanderlust.

Kochi, also known as Cochin, is a coastal city nestled in the southwestern part of India. It is well-known for its natural beauty, historic charm, and vibrant culture. While Kochi itself offers numerous attractions, the surrounding areas are a treasure trove of scenic wonders waiting to be explored. Road trips from Kochi provide an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes, serene backwaters, lush tea plantations, and misty hills of South India.

Table of Contents

Also Read : Kochi travel guide

Road Trip from Kochi to Munnar: A Journey to Paradise

Unveiling the enchanting landscapes.

The road trip from Kochi to Munnar is a magical journey that will leave you spellbound. As you embark on this adventure, you will witness nature’s awe-inspiring creations at every turn. The route is adorned with cascading waterfalls, verdant valleys, and sprawling tea estates, offering a feast for the eyes.

Visiting Munnar’s Tea Gardens

Munnar, It is situated in the Western Ghats mountain range, is widely known for its tea plantations. The lush green carpets of tea gardens stretch as far as the eye can see, creating a mesmerizing panorama. Go for a stroll leisurely through the tea estates, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and learn about the art of tea-making. Don’t forget to savor a cup of locally brewed tea, known for its exquisite flavor and aroma.

A Glimpse into the Wildlife at Eravikulam National Park

Located near Munnar, this National Park is a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. The park is the habitat of the rare Nilgiri Tahr, a mountain goat species found only in the Western Ghats. Start a guided walk through the park and witness the captivating biodiversity, including exotic birds, vibrant butterflies, and rare orchids.

Top Attractions in Munnar

Munnar offers a plethora of attractions that will leave you awe-inspired. Some of the must-visit places include:

• Mattupetty Dam: Take joy in the scenic Mattupetty Dam’s calm waters are perfect for a boat ride while soaking in the surrounding beauty.
• Echo Point: Test the acoustics of nature where your voice is, at Echo Point echoes back to you.
• Top Station:   Stop by the Munnar region’s highest point, popular for its panoramic perspectives of the Western Ghats. 
• Tea Museum: Dive into the history and heritage of tea production in the region at the Tea Museum.
• Attukal Waterfalls: Witness the cascading beauty of Attukal Waterfalls, surrounded by lush greenery.

Also Read : Tourist Places to Visit in Kochi

Day Trips from Kochi: Exploring Nearby Gems

Cherai beach: where sun, sand, and serenity converge.

Located just a stone’s throw away from Kochi, Cherai Beach is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With its golden sands, gentle waves, and serene ambiance, it is the perfect getaway for beach lovers. Spend a day basking in the sun, indulging in water sports, or simply strolling along the shore, collecting seashells as souvenirs of your memorable day.

Athirapally Falls: A Cascade of Tranquility

Situated on the Chalakudy River, Athirapally Falls is a magnificent waterfall that descends from a height of 80 feet. In the midst of lush, verdant woodlands and rocky terrain, the falls create a picturesque setting that will leave you awestruck. Take a refreshing dip in the natural pools or capture the breathtaking beauty of the falls through your lens.

Fort Kochi: Stepping into History

Fort Kochi is a historic neighborhood that offers a glimpse into a wealth of cultural legacy, of the region. The streets are adorned with colonial-era buildings, quaint cafes, and vibrant art galleries. Explore the famous Chinese fishing nets, visit St. Francis Church (the oldest European church in India), and go extensively into the vibrant spice markets. Don’t miss the enchanting Kathakali performances, a traditional dance-drama unique to Kerala.

Also Read : Things to do in Kochi

Weekend Road Trips from Kochi: Escaping the Daily Grind

Wayanad: nature’s abode.

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and retreat to the serene landscapes of Wayanad. Located amidst the Western Ghats, this hill station is blessed with picturesque beauty and a tranquil atmosphere. Explore the lush forests, majestic waterfalls, and spice plantations that dot the region. Embark on a wildlife safari in the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary or trek to the breathtaking viewpoints for panoramic vistas by planning Kochi to Wayanad road trip .

Kodaikanal: The Princess of Hill Stations

Located in Kodaikanal, a town in Tamil Nadu’s Palani Hills.  A charming hill station that beckons travelers with its mist-covered valleys and clean lakes. The cool climate, lush greenery, and scenic beauty make it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway. Take a boat ride on the serene Kodaikanal Lake, visit the enchanting Bear Shola Falls, or simply indulge in a leisurely stroll through the Coaker’s Walk, picturesque promenade vistas from the Kochi to Kodaikanal road trip .

Conclusion: Embark on the Journey of a Lifetime

Road trips from Kochi offer an unparalleled opportunity to explore the breathtaking landscapes of South India. From the captivating road trip from Kochi to Munnar to the delightful day trips to nearby destinations, each journey promises an unforgettable experience. Book your flights from USA to India with Indian Eagle, the best agency for affordable travel, and unlock a world of adventure. So pack your bags, hit the road, and let the journey begin!

Planning a road trip requires meticulous planning, but before you hit the road, you need to book your flights. Indian Eagle books cheap flight tickets to India , offering a seamless booking experience and unbeatable prices. With their user-friendly interface and 24/7 customer support, you can easily find the perfect flights that suit your travel needs. Indian Eagle is the best agency to book flights , offering a seamless booking experience and unbeatable prices. They also offer last-minute travel deals and cheap flight tickets to India, making it easier to explore the world without breaking the bank.

Q1: What is the best time to plan a road trip from Kochi to Munnar?

A1: The best time to embark on a road trip from Kochi to Munnar is during the months of September to May when the weather is pleasant, and the landscapes are at their lush best.

Q2: Can I rent a car in Kochi for my road trip?

A2: Yes, several car rental agencies in Kochi offer a wide range of vehicles for your road trip. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best deals.

Q3: Are there any guided tours available for day trips from Kochi?

A3: Yes, you can find several guided tour operators in Kochi that offer day trips to nearby attractions. These tours provide convenient transportation, expert guides, and a hassle-free experience.

Q4: How long does it take to reach Wayanad from Kochi by road?

A4: The journey from Kochi to Wayanad takes approximately 4 to 5 hours by road, depending on the traffic conditions and the route you choose.

Q5: Are there any direct flights from the USA to Kochi?

A5: Yes, there are direct flights from the USA to Kochi. Indian Eagle’s best agency to book flights offers a convenient platform to book your flights from the USA to India, including Kochi.

Q6: What are Indian Eagle reward points?

A6: Indian Eagle reward points are loyalty points that you earn every time you book a flight through their platform. These reward points can be redeemed for future bookings, helping you save even more on your travel expenses.

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5 Tips to Plan a Week-long South India Road Trip

Pristine beaches, dense woods, ancient temples, awe-inspiring churches, historical ruins, and mouth-watering cuisines, you can get all of these in South India. The region has some of the best tourist attractions; thus, it witnesses many tourists all through the year. However, the best time to travel to South India is between October and March as these are the months when the weather is at its best and you can explore the region while avoiding the intense heat and heavy rainfall. As you plan your road trips in South India, you can actually plan various things to do. If you are a history aficionado, you can visit several ancient ruins, forts, and palaces in different states in the region. If you are fond of water bodies, you will be able to visit several beaches, where along with enjoying the view of the sea and ocean; you can also indulge in various water-sports. And if you are a spiritual person who wants to explore spirituality even more to reach a higher level, you will come across several ashrams where you can get in touch with many spiritual gurus. So, you see, there are plenty of reasons why a South India road trip can be an amazing idea.

Well, if you want to reach almost every nook and enjoy every stay in every city or town thoroughly, you should go for a long weekend road trip to South India. From Andhra Pradesh to Karnataka, from Tamil Nadu to Kerala, you have several states and cities to choose from to include in your list of places that you want to visit.  However, before you make your list, let us give you some tips that can be helpful for your South India road trip.

• Choose the month you are visiting the region very carefully. South Indian states are mostly hot with a tropical climate, and summer months should never be the time you should go on a road trip to this region. You can choose any month during the winter season to explore the South Indian region.
• You must book a car if you do not own one. You can take a car on rent in South India, no matter which state are you starting from. Choose a trustworthy company that can offer you the best deals on car rental service, and even with a self-driving option. This will give you enough flexibility of starting your journey whenever you want and taking as many breaks in between as you need.
• Making it a week-long trip will give you the scope to take a rest when you do not feel like driving anymore. It will also give you enough time to explore the cities as much as you want.
• Book a hotel before you start your journey. There are some of the best hotels in South Indian cities. Therefore, you must book your stay before you reach your destination to avoid any last-minute surprise. 
• Many of the routes may cover jungle areas; therefore it is highly advisable that while you travel from one city to the other, you should start your journey in the early morning. This will save you from any kind of accident. Also, if your car gets any kind of problem, you can find a mechanic, which is not possible always if you travel at night.

Now that we have some idea about the dos and don’ts of traveling in South India, let us discuss the routes that we can take.

• Mumbai – Goa – Hampi – Mysore – Kerala
• Mumbai – Aurangabad – Pune – Hampi – Aihole – Pattadakal – Badami – Goa
• Bangalore – Mysore – Bandipur – Wayanad – Thekkady – Alleppey
• Chennai – Mahabalipuram – Trichy – Tanjore – Chettinadu – Madurai – Kanyakumari

1. Mumbai – Goa – Hampi – Mysore – Kerala

Start from Mumbai and reach Goa to enjoy the great times that all of us desire in our lives. With the vibrant vibes, the beaches, highly affordable beers; Goa has got everything. Now that you move ahead, you will reach Hampi, which is a peaceful place and a heaven for history lovers. The ruins in Hampi are something that will keep you glued to the place. The next place to move to is Mysore. There are many things to see in Mysore which include Mysore Palace, Brindavan Gardens, Sri Chamundeswari Temple, etc. Do not forget to try those sumptuous Mysore Dosa and packing some Mysore Pak. Your next destination is Kerela. Reach Alleppey to see a different world altogether, where you can spend some nice time or even a day in a houseboat. You can try taking a tour of all the nooks of every place that you are going to visit.

2. Mumbai – Aurangabad – Pune – Hampi – Aihole – Pattadakal – Badami – Goa

Not fond of a huge crowd? This route is the best for you. This is an off-beat route that will include places of different states. All the places on this route are famous for some of the other reasons. Aurangabad is known as a paradise for the meat lovers, while Pune is known as the cultural capital of Maharashtra; places to visit in Karnataka like Hampi, Aihole, Pattadakal, and Badami are famous for their historical significance, and the final stop Goa is famous for being a party destination.

3. Bangalore – Mysore – Bandipur – Wayanad – Thekkady – Alleppey

This is the ideal route for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. As you take this route, you will find lush greenery on both sides of the roads, mostly. The national parks and wildlife sanctuaries that you can visit in this route include Bandipur National Tiger Reserve, Wayanad Wildlife Reserve, and Periyar National Park. You can also witness some of the places in Kerala that are famous for coffee plantations.

4. Chennai – Mahabalipuram – Trichy – Tanjore – Chettinadu – Madurai – Kanyakumari

If you want to devote one week to the religious trip, you can choose this route. These are the best places to visit in Tamil Nadu that is famous for the religious importance. Well, the other attraction you can enjoy at these places is the beautiful beaches. You must try the mouthwatering authentic cuisines that you will find in many of these cities. 

There are several weekend destinations in South India where you can plan your trip. All that you need to do is to find out what you want to see in the place that you are going to visit. And about the idea of renting a car, you can go for car rental from Revv, available in most major cities in India. Install the Revv app on your smartphone from Google Play Store or iOS App Store and book your car today. You can also visit their website for the same.

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The official blog of Revv Self Drive Car Rental, was started in November of 2019 with the aim to make leisure travel easy & accessible. The blog covers places to visit in India, new trends in the car rental industry & most importantly how to make your travel/roadtrip easy & memorable.

India’s fastest growing self-drive car rental company with different options to meet all your self-drive needs – Hourly Rental, Annual car subscriptions, Monthly car subscriptions, Hyundai Subscription (annual and monthly subscriptions for Hyundai cars) and Mahindra Subscription (annual and monthly subscriptions for Mahindra cars). Enjoy unique features – Prices with or without fuel, Flexibility to choose different delivery & return locations within same city and Unlimited KMs option. Book online and drive it like your own car!

Spread across 22 cities – Delhi-NCR, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Mumbai, Pune, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Mangalore, Chandigarh, Jaipur, Vizag, Kochi, Coimbatore, Mysore, Tirupati, Vijayawada, Trivandrum, Surat, Vadodara, Bhubaneswar & Nagpur.