5 Must See South India Tourist Places

5 Must See South India Tourist Places
It is the distinct culture which truly sets South India apart from the rest of the country as every state in South India has managed to have
its own identity. Be it the historical ruins, excellent temple architecture, palm fringed canals, beautiful hills and the beaches, South India has it all. When in South India do not miss a chance to visit the five places which are listed below.

1.       Hampi:  Hampi which is very popular in being the side trip from Goa is actually one of the laid back villages in the state of Karnataka. It was once a capital of the greatest Hindu empires in the Indian history, namely the Vijayanagar Empire. Most of the ruins and monuments belong to the 14th century and thereby comprises of more than 500 monuments in total. You will be amazed to know that Hampi was voted number 4 in a survey of 2007 in relation to “7 Wonders of India” by the Times of India. Hampi will surely open your eyes to show you entirely a different India as it has got the beautiful Lotus temple which is a combination of Jain, Hindu and Muslim architecture, buildings carved from the scenes of Karma Sutra and much more.

2.       Fort Kochi: The city of eclectic influence, Kochi also known as the “Gateway of Kerala” was visited by Arabs, Portuguese, Chinese, Dutch and the British who thereby left their own impressions on the city. Kochi is often recognized for its waterfronts and Chinese fishing nets. However, Fort Kochi is a place to be explored on foot as it has got many historical sites. Over here you can also watch the famous Kathakali dance form and go for the world famous Ayurvedic treatment as well. Some of the renowned attractions to visit in this well known city are Mattancherry Palace, Santa Cruz Basilica, Indo-Portuguese Museum, Paradesi Synagogue, Marine Drive, Willongdon Island and Museum of Kerala History.

3.       Kerala Backwaters: The Boat-trips along the beautiful canals of Kerala is considered to be one of the most relaxing things of the state. It is these canals which constitute the backwaters of the state of Kerala. If you want to experience the time standing still then Kerala is the place to be. When you shall be on the boat having Indian food made by chef and a bottle of beer then you shall truly experience heaven on earth and thereby enjoy to every extent. You can also have a total different experience at night on the boat. However, you can also stay at the country’s best home-stays known as the Vembanad House which is present on the banks of Vembanad Lake and it is here that you shall get fresh sea food as well. 

4.       Varkala: The Varkala beach is one of the most visited sites in Kerala as the sun rises and the sun sets are breath taking in every sense. It has got cliffs which are long and winding thereby extending over the Arabian Sea. Varkala Beach is one amongst the best beaches of India as it has got footpaths which run along the cliff, a sparkling beach having coconut palms, quaint shops, hotels, guest houses and beach shacks etc. When at Varkala do not miss the temple festival which is held in March- April.


5.       MADURAI:  Home to some of the most impressive temples of the country, Madurai in Tamil Nadu should be on every traveler’s visiting list. The most popular temple being the Menakshi Temple which is about 4000 years old thereby being a symbolic representation of the Tamil culture. However along the years many dynasties have added on their imprints to Madurai and made it a place even more likely to be.  Some of the intersting places to vist here are Sree Krishna Amman Temple, Sree Meenakshi Amman Temple, Thirupparankundram Murugan Temple, Gandhi Museum, Samanar Hills, Koodal Azhagar Temple and Pazhamudhir Solai.