If you want to land in a place that is home to ancient rock cut temples, rich in history, culture, spirituality and breathtaking natural beauty, then head to South India for a soulful escape. The different states of South India comprising of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and the union territory of Puducherry, contributes to ensure that your journey is filled with enriching experiences.
Whether it is exploring the ancient temples, immersed in spirituality, or knowing about the age-old traditions or witnessing the raw beauty of nature, the Southern part of India offers a mesmerizing blend of everything that you could have never expected in your trip to India.
With India Tours, we can assure you a well-curated journey to South India, it will not only let you discover a different side of India, but will transform your journey that will help to nurture your mind, body and soul.
The Spiritual Heartbeat of India
South India is often referred to as the spiritual heart of India because it is home to many ancient rock cut temples, representing the spirituality of the region and the age-old traditions followed till date. Choosing South India Tours will let you have a customized tour.
1. Tamil Nadu: The Temple State
The temples in South India are surreal; each temple will mesmerize you, letting you wonder how they could have possibly made by cutting a rock and carving intricate designs. The temples in South India are made following Dravidian architectural design; hence South India is often called the cradle of Dravidian culture.
The finest example of Dravidian culture is more evident in some of the oldest temples in Tamil Nadu. In cities like Madurai, Thanjavur, Kanchipuram, and Rameswaram, there are many ancient Dravidian architectural marvels.
The Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai is a Dravidian temple with temple towers (known as gopurams) with colorful intricate carvings of structures of Gods and Godesses. This spiritual structure is not only a visual site, but till date thousands of pilgrims visit on a daily basis to offer their prayers and seek blessings.
Mahabalipuram’s shore temples are another spectacular spiritual site, known for its impressive architectural work and ancient rock carvings.
The Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur is another architectural masterpiece, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, built by the rulers of the Chola dynasty and is an important religious center.
Traveling with India Tours is an amazing experience, as you will not only be able to see the temples, but be enlightened with the history, myths, legends and the rich heritage and traditions it holds.
2. Kerala: God’s Own Country
Kerala, with its backwaters, coconut groves, and slow-paced lifestyle, offers a different kind of spirituality — one deeply rooted in nature. The Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram and Guruvayur Temple are significant pilgrimage sites. But Kerala’s spiritual essence is also found in its Ayurvedic practices, yoga retreats, and the tranquil environment of its backwaters.
For a spiritual experience in Kerala, visit Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram and Guruvayur Temple to offer your prayers and seek blessings. Both these temples are known for its astonishing architectural design.
Kerala’s spiritual essence is also found in its Ayurvedic practices, an ancient technique used for physical healing. In fact you will be delighted to know that Kerala is the birthplace of Ayurveda.
If you want to include wellness retreat in your tour package, India Tours offers thoughtfully designed South India Tours wherein you can combine your sightseeing with invigorating experiences like Ayurvedic massages, yoga sessions, and meditation. The best places to engage in wellness retreat in Kerala are Kovalam, Varkala, and Thekkady.
3. Karnataka: Of Palaces and Pilgrimage
Karnataka is effortlessly blended with royalty and religion. Here you can visit a lot of spiritual sites and historical sites. The ruins of Hampi are an ancient city built in the 7th century by the rulers of the Vijayanagar Empire and is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Within the ruins of the complex is the Virupaksha Temple which is offers a deep spiritual experience, till date this temple is functional. Other important pilgrimage sites are Sringeri Sharada Peetham, Dharmasthala, Udupi Krishna Temple and Chamundi Hill Temple.
After visiting the temples of Karnataka, head to Mysore Palace, the royal grandeur of Mysore. Take a tour of this palace know about its history and the royal heritage it holds.
Breathtaking Landscapes and Natural Wonders
South India is equally captivating for its breathtaking natural beauty, and India Tours crafts itineraries that take travelers to some of the awe-inspiring natural wonders.
1. Kerala Backwaters and Hill Stations
Take a journey through the backwaters of Alleppey or Kumarakom in Kerala in a traditional houseboat. As you navigate through the paddy fields, the remote village and the palm groves, you will simply get swayed away with all the surreal views.
And for those seeking for spending some time in a hill station, you can head to Kerala’s most iconic hill stations Munnar and Wayanad. Both are blessed with cool climates, misty hills, tea estates and spice plantations.
2. Tamil Nadu’s Hills and Coastlines
Tamil Nadu is not only world famous for its ancient temples, but is home to enchanting hill stations. If you want to relax in the serene and tranquil hill-stations then head to Ooty and Coonoor, located in Nilgiri Hills. Both are blessed with cool climates, rolling tea estates, botanical gardens, colonial era mansions, and lush green landscape.
3. Karnataka’s Western Ghats
Karnataka’s Western Ghats are UNESCO World Heritage site because it is rich in biodiversity. Here you must definitely visit places like Coorg, Chikmagalur, and Agumbe are famous for coffee plantations and estate, lush greenery and scenic landscape.
Cultural Experiences That Enrich
India Tours offers South India Tours wherein you can include cultural experiences as well. In this way you will be able to know about the local culture in a more meaningful way.
1. Classical Arts and Dance
Watch the classical dance forms of different states of South India like Tamil Nadu (Bharatanatyam), Kerala (Kathakali and Mohiniyattam), Karnataka (Yakshagana), and Andhra Pradesh (Kuchipudi).
2. Culinary Trails
Try the authentic South Indian cuisines like Idli, Sambar, and Dosa which are the staple dishes across most South Indian states. Other popular local cuisines include spicy Chettinad of Tamil Nadu, coconut-infused curries of Kerala, Udupi cuisine of Karnataka and so on.
3. Local Festivals and Traditions
If you want to be a part of the festival then let your tour operators know, so that they can plan accordingly. Some of the vibrant festivals of South India which you will love to be a part of it include Onam in Kerala, Dasara in Mysore and Karnataka, Pongal in Tamil Nadu and Ugadi in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
Whether you are traveling with your family to India, or are a solo traveler or traveling with your partner, you can engage in different activities like visiting historical places, spiritual quest, wellness and relaxation, and adventure with India Tours.
