While traveling to North India is essential for discovering iconic Indian monuments like the Taj Mahal or the Palace of Winds in Jaipur, and stepping back in time through the cultural triangle, South India is better suited for unwinding and enjoying stunning landscapes. South India is an ideal destination for nature lovers: you can enjoy safaris, cruises, or relax on pristine paradise beaches, interspersed with visits to ancient ruins. Here is our guide to the most beautiful sites to visit during a trip to South India:

For the city atmosphere

Mumbai

A must-see in India, Mumbai, formerly Bombay, is a city that never sleeps. A major commercial port and now the most populous metropolis in the country, it offers an immersive experience of Indian atmosphere as you wander through streets where colonial buildings stand alongside skyscrapers and historic temples. Mumbai boasts two monuments on UNESCO's World Heritage List: the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus railway station and the Elephanta Caves.

Goa

India's smallest state, Goa is a genuine haven of peace along the coast. Here you can discover port cities, paradise beaches, flea markets, historic temples... This state is an ideal place to experience local life and enjoy vibrant evenings. With its beautiful beaches, colorful houses, and luxury hotels, Goa also attracts many Indian vacationers.

Mysore

A charming historic and typical city, Mysore is an ideal place to immerse yourself in commercial India. Its colorful markets, incense and essential oil factories promise a true journey for all five senses. It's also home to the impressive and sublime Mysore Palace, the second most visited site in India. So don't worry if you don't have time to visit the Taj Mahal, as this incredible structure is equally impressive!

Kochi

A charming port, Kochi, formerly known as Cochin, is a wonderful place to discover coastal India. Featuring beautiful colonial architecture, Kochi also houses a massive fort, which is one of the most remarkable buildings in South India.

For historical richness

Mahabalipuram

The state of Tamil Nadu is home to incredible temples and historic ruins. Among them are those of the capital, Chennai, and further on, the seven pagodas of Mahabalipuram. Recognized by UNESCO World Heritage, these magnificent temples dating from the 7^th and 8^th centuries form an incredible archaeological complex in South India.

Kanchipuram

Still in Tamil Nadu, Kanchipuram, also called the city of golden temples, is one of the seven sacred cities of India. This incredible site is filled with temples, most of which were built between the 6^th and 8^th centuries. Perfect for discovering Hindu architecture!

Hampi

The former capital of the Vijayanagara kingdom, Hampi boasts a fine collection of ancient ruins. The city is particularly renowned for its Hanuman temple, dedicated to the monkey god, which overlooks the valley in all its beauty. It is a very important pilgrimage site in India.

Coonoor

A major hill station in the Nilgiri Mountains, in South India, Coonoor thrives on its tea plantations. It's an ideal town for discovering this culture, and for taking a train ride on India's oldest railway, also inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage list: the Nilgiri Mountain Railway.

For natural beauty

Bandipur National Park

A former hunting reserve, Bandipur National Park is now one of India's most beautiful natural reserves, and the country's largest protected natural area. Testament to the government's significant conservation efforts, this park is home to Bengal tigers, elephants, sloth bears, and four-horned antelopes. The park is open to the public but permits are required to go on a safari.

Ootacamund

Ootacamund, also called Ooty, is a charming hill station perched at 7,382 feet in the Nilgiri Mountains. This town provides access to several national parks and lakes, perfect for short hikes, and you can also visit the botanical garden which houses over 650 species of trees and flowers.

Alappuzha

Alappuzha, formerly Allepey, is a magnificent port city on the Arabian Sea. Built on canals and around a lagoon, it is also nicknamed the "Venice of the East." It's an ideal starting point for a cruise on the backwaters of Kerala.

Jog Falls

The magnificent Jog Falls form an essential natural site in South India. The country's second-highest waterfalls at 830 feet, they are situated in sublime green surroundings and stand out as one of India's most beautiful places.

Marion Biremon