With its vibrant culture, tranquil backwaters and delicious cuisine, Southern India is a dreamy destination that promises to delight the senses and leave you with memories to last a lifetime. Whether you're a history buff, beach lover or foodie fanatic, there's something for everyone in this diverse and fascinating region. From ancient temples and ruins to pristine beaches and lush hill stations, get ready to be mesmerised by this magical land. Grab your camera and join us as we explore the best things to do in Southern India.
- Visit the Meenakshi Temple in Madurai
- Cruise Along the Backwaters of Kerala
- Go on a Spice Plantation Tour in Thekkady
- Unwind with a Yoga and Meditation Retreat
- Explore the Ancient Ruins of Hampi
- Explore the Hill Station of Ooty
- Visit the Beaches of Goa
Visit the Meenakshi Temple in Madurai
First up on our list of the top things to do in Southern India is the Meenakshi Temple in Madurai, a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture which combines intricate carvings and colourful gopurams to stunning effect. This ancient temple is dedicated to the goddess Meenakshi and is one of India's most important active temples. Explore the ‘Hall of a Thousand Pillars’, which is exactly what it sounds like: a hall filled with a thousand intricately carved pillars, each one unique and designed to share stories through sculptures and carvings. In addition to its architectural beauty, the temple also holds religious significance for Hindus and is an active place of worship. Take part in the daily rituals and ceremonies such as a puja, during which the bronze statue of Shiva is taken to the chamber of his wife Meenakshi's temple accompanied by hypnotic music and a devoted crowd.
Cruise Along the Backwaters of Kerala
When it comes to relaxing activities, nothing beats a serene cruise along the backwaters of Kerala. This network of canals, lagoons and lakes that lie parallel to the Arabian Sea coast is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and soak in the natural beauty of Southern India. Cruising along the backwaters, you'll be able to see traditional villages and get a glimpse into the rural way of life in India. You'll pass by lush green paddy fields, swaying coconut palms and colourful local markets. It's an experience that's both peaceful and enlightening and one that you won't soon forget. The best way to enjoy the backwaters is to spend the night on a houseboat. Experience the peacefulness of the waterways and witness the stunning sunset turn into a starry night sky.
Go on a Spice Plantation Tour in Thekkady
On a spice plantation tour in Thekkady, discover the rich and diverse flora of Southern India while also learning about the history and culture of the region. Visit a local village where you can see the role that spices play in traditional Indian cuisine and join a guided tour of a garden to learn about how the spices are grown and a traditional processing unit, where you'll see how the spices are cleaned, sorted and processed before they are packaged and exported. It's also a great opportunity to bring back some of the finest spices as a souvenir, to remind you of your journey and spice up your cooking once you’re back home.
Unwind with a Yoga and Meditation Retreat
Taking part in a yoga class is a must when it comes to the top things to do in Southern India and an excellent way to immerse yourself in the spiritual and physical practice of yoga while surrounded by Southern India’s enchanting natural surroundings. While staying in one of the region’s serene retreats, you’ll have the chance to detox and reconnect with mother nature and yourself. Enjoy daily sessions of meditation, Nidra yoga and Pranayama—a form of breathing exercises used for relaxation and stress reduction—and return home relaxed and replenished.
Explore the Ancient Ruins of Hampi
Exploring the ancient ruins of Hampi is like stepping back in time to a bygone era. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was home to the capital of the last great Hindu kingdom of Vijayanagar, which ruled from the 14th to 16th centuries. As you wander around the ruins, marvel at the sheer scale and grandeur of the structures. Once a bustling medieval-era hub overflowing with commercial, spiritual and political activity, the ruins are now a haunting reminder of the impermanence of all things. After a private walking tour with an expert local guide, head to the sunset point for mesmerising views of the entire city and its surroundings.
Explore the Hill Station of Ooty
Escape the heat of the Indian plains and experience the cool and refreshing climate of the mystic Nilgiri Hills. Ooty, located in the state of Tamil Nadu, is one of the most popular hill stations in Southern India, known for its picturesque landscapes, colonial architecture and pleasant climate. One of the must-see things to do in Southern India is visit the Ooty Lake, a man-made lake set in serene natural surroundings. Take a leisurely stroll around the lake, hire a paddleboat or a rowboat or simply relax on the banks and enjoy the scenery. The charming hill station is also famous for its tea plantations, and visitors can take a tour of one of the tea estates to learn about the process behind the locally adored chai tea.
Visit the Beaches of Goa
Ready to experience the laid-back, tropical vibe of India's smallest state? Goa is renowned for its pristine beaches, delicious seafood and vibrant nightlife. Buzzing with a lively atmosphere and beautiful sunset views, Anjuna beach is a popular hangout spot thanks to its Wednesday Flea Market, where you can find a wide variety of boho-chic goods, including clothes, jewellery and souvenirs. The beaches of Goa are not just about sun, sand and sea, it's also a place to indulge in delicious seafood, party all night (if that should take your fancy) and immerse yourself in Goa's laid-back, tropical vibe. So pack your sunscreen, grab a cocktail and bask in the beauty of Goa's white-sand beaches.