9 Best Places to Visit in South India in Summer
South India, with its distinctive geological features, beckons travellers seeking respite from the summer heat. What makes this region an ideal summer getaway? Lush green landscapes, serene hill stations, and tranquil backwaters present a compelling contrast to the often sweltering Indian summers. Here’s a quick lowdown of the best places to visit in summer in South India, from April through May and June.
Hill Stations of South India
South India’s hill stations are sanctuaries of serenity, perched amidst the verdant Western Ghats and the Nilgiri biosphere. Ooty, the ‘Queen of Hill Stations’, remains an enduring summer escape, where colonial charm intertwines with botanical splendours. Regarding Kodaikanal, it is there that the shroud of mist embroidery drapes the ‘Princess of Hill Stations’, inviting leisurely strolls around its star-shaped lake. Coorg, known as the ‘Scotland of India’, offers a mosaic of sprawling coffee plantations and a refreshing climate, while the envious temperature of Munnar presents an amazing opportunity to enjoy the kaleidoscope of tea gardens and endogenous flora, celebrated for their picturesque panorama and a haven for flora and fauna enthusiasts. These hilltop havens command the convergence of cool breezes and a quieter pace of life, providing a salubrious retreat from the sultry lowlands.
Ooty & Coonoor: The Queen of Hills
Nestled amidst the Nilgiris, Ooty in May is synonymous with undulating hills cloaked in a verdant embrace. Its colonial architecture and lush botanical gardens provide a picturesque backdrop that entices travellers from across the globe.
Coonoor from Ooty is only a short drive away, offering a more tranquil experience. It is renowned for its tea plantations and the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that promises an enchanting journey through the mountainside.
In these sister towns of Nilgiris, the weather remains pleasantly cool even in peak summer, offering a respite from the heat. Activities such as boating in Ooty Lake, visiting Doddabetta Peak, and strolling through Sim’s Park in Coonoor unveil the enchanting flora and colonial history woven into the fabric of these highland retreats.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Ooty and Coonoor is from April to June and September to November.
Key Attractions:
1. Ooty Lake: Enjoy boating and scenic views.
2. Doddabetta Peak: Witness panoramic views of the Nilgiri Hills.
3. Sim’s Park: Explore the beautiful botanical garden in Coonoor.
Nearest Airport: Coimbatore International Airport (approximately 88 km from Ooty).
Nearest Railway Station: Udhagamandalam Railway Station (Ooty) and Coonoor Railway Station.
Wayanad
Among the best places to visit in April in India, Wayanad stands as a testament to the enduring allure of verdant landscapes in South India. Wayanad in summer with its rustic charm and cool climate, provides an ideal family getaway in April and May.
In the heart of the Western Ghats, Wayanad’s terrain is embellished with rugged mountains, dense forests, and sprawling spice plantations. The region’s profound cultural heritage, distinguished by ancient petroglyphs at Edakkal Caves and the enigmatic Chain Tree, adds layers of intrigue to a visitor’s experience. These attractions not only reveal the rich narratives of the past but also offer splendid nature vistas that invigorate the soul.
Boasting a myriad of natural attractions, Wayanad’s Chembra Peak beckons adventurers with its challenging treks and the renowned heart-shaped lake – a natural marvel amidst the emerald expanse. The Meenmutty and Soochipara waterfalls cascade with grace, each testament to the spectacular Wayanad weather in May.
The district’s commitment to ecotourism ensures that visitors have enriching engagements with local wildlife at sanctuaries like the Muthanga and Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuaries. Wayanad’s pristine environment, coupled with opportunities for bamboo rafting in Kuruva Island and bird watching, exemplifies the harmonious coexistence of man and nature. These experiences not only satiate the wanderlust of travellers but also foster a profound appreciation for the intricate balance of ecological systems.
Best Time to Visit Wayanad: The best time to visit Wayanad is from October to May.
Key Attractions:
1. Edakkal Caves: Explore ancient petroglyphs and rock formations.
2. Chembra Peak: Trek to the heart-shaped lake and enjoy panoramic views.
3. Meenmutty and Soochipara Waterfalls: Witness the cascading beauty of these waterfalls.
Nearest Airport to Wayanad: Calicut International Airport (approximately 100 km from Wayanad).
Nearest Railway Station: Kozhikode Railway Station.
Coorg: Coffee Plantation Paradise
Coorg is among the best places to visit in summer in India with family. Perfect for a 3 days trip in South India, Coorg is known colloquially as the ‘Scotland of India’, captivating its undulating landscape. This hilly district in Karnataka is famous for its vast coffee plantations, which seem to stretch into eternity. Blanketed in dense mist, these plantations hold the secret to some of the world’s most exquisite coffee blends.
Nestled within this verdant haven are homestays – places you must stay to truly imbibe the essence of Coorgian hospitality and enjoy the most of the weather in Coorg in May and June. Not only do these stays offer a unique peek into the local culture, they also serve as vantage points to revel in the serene plantation views.
While here, it’s not just about sipping on coffee; climate in Coorg in May is an experience worth a lifetime. Coorg in summer offers an escape from the bustling cityscape. The region’s multitude of attractions, from the sacred Talacauvery to the mesmerising Abbey Falls, provides an unparalleled journey into the heart of Southern India.
Best Time to Visit Coorg: The best time to visit Coorg is from October to March and summers in India.
Key Attractions:
- Abbey Falls: Admire the picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.
- Talacauvery: Visit the birthplace of the River Cauvery and a sacred pilgrimage site.
- Dubare Elephant Camp: Interact with elephants and enjoy activities like elephant bathing and feeding.
Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport (approximately 160 km from Coorg).
Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Railway Station.
Munnar: Tea Gardens Galore
Fringed by an expanse of tea gardens, Munnar in summer offers a breathtaking canvas of verdant greenery. It emerges amidst the Western Ghats, a domain where nature flourishes in its raw, unfiltered form. The terraced plantations sculpt the hills into a geometric marvel, while the cool, misty climate provides a refreshing retreat from the summer heat. Here, the aroma of fresh tea leaves intermingles with the crisp mountain air.
One must indulge in the guided tours that acquaint visitors with the delicate art of tea production. Such excursions of Munnar in April and May offer insights into the intricate processes from leaf plucking to the final brew, often culminating in a tasting session of diverse tea varieties. The burgeoning tea tourism is a testament to Munnar’s appeal as a preeminent destination for those who treasure the blend of culture with nature.
In the heart of Munnar is the Tata Tea Museum, a locus that chronicles the fascinating chronicles of Munnar’s tea industry. Interactive exhibits and historical artifacts piece together the narrative of this town’s lifeblood, the industry that shaped its development and sustains its charm.
Best Time to Visit Munnar: The best time to visit Munnar is from September to March.
Key Attractions:
1. Eravikulam National Park: Spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and enjoy the blooming of Neelakurinji flowers.
2. Tea Gardens: Take a walk through the tea estates and learn about tea production.
3. Tata Tea Museum: Explore the history and process of tea-making.
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (approximately 110 km from Munnar).
Nearest Railway Station: Aluva Railway Station.
Coastal Destinations of South India
Set across a stunning labyrinth of glistening waterways, the hill stations of Kerala and its backwaters offer an idyllic retreat from the summer heat. Houseboats, locally known as ‘Kettuvallams’, glide through these tranquil canals, presenting a unique vantage point to appreciate the region’s verdant beauty and vibrant aquatic life.
Goa’s coastline serves up a scenic platter of golden sand and azure waters, with beaches such as Palolem and Agonda renowned for their laid-back atmosphere and picturesque sunsets. Infused with a multicultural tapestry, the region’s Portuguese heritage complements its coastal charm, making it an exceptional choice for the discerning traveler.
Promenading on the beaches of Mahabalipuram and Pondicherry, one can imbibe the subtle blend of Indian tradition with French colonial sophistication. These coastal towns are synonymous with artistic enclaves and architectural marvels, offering more than just a beachside escape while posing as the best opportunity to enjoy respite in these summer visiting places of South India.
Gokarna: Pristine Beaches
Gokarna, a serene hamlet in Karnataka and among the most exciting summer visiting places in South India, is celebrated for its unspoiled, sapphire-hued beaches that offer a quieter alternative to the more bustling Goa. With a laid-back vibe and crystalline waters, it’s an idyllic sanctuary for beach lovers seeking solace.
The town’s namesake beach, Gokarna Beach, is the starting point for most travelers visiting this coastal gem. From there, a constellation of pristine beaches like Kudle and Om unfurls along the coastline.
Accessible only via trek or boat, these remote beaches, especially Half Moon and Paradise, provide an almost private beach experience. Om Beach, distinguished by its Om-shaped confluence made by the joining of two semi-crescent shapes, invites visitors to bask in its serene ambiance. Nearby, the less frequented Kudle Beach offers a perfect sunset panorama.
Best Time to Visit Gokarna: The best time to visit Gokarna is from October to March.
Key Attractions:
1. Gokarna Beach: Start your beach exploration from this popular beach.
2. Om Beach: Relax and enjoy the serene ambiance of this beach.
3. Mahabaleshwar Temple: Visit the ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Nearest Airport: Dabolim Airport, Goa (approximately 140 km from Gokarna).
Nearest Railway Station: Gokarna Road Railway Station.
Pondicherry: French Riviera of the East
Pondicherry, often hailed as the ‘French Riviera of the East’, holds a unique Francophile charm amidst Indian tradition. Its French quarter, or Ville Blanche, presents well-preserved colonial villas and chic boutiques, resonating with a distinctly European flair.
The promenade offers a resplendent seafront stretch for leisurely evening walks. Here, the iconic statue of Mahatma Gandhi surveying the Bay of Bengal is a sight to behold.
In Auroville, a township dedicated to human unity and peace, the Matrimandir stands as a symbol of spiritual significance—its golden dome shining under the sun—and invites people from all walks of life to meditate and reflect.
Best Time to Visit Pondicherry: The best time to visit Pondicherry is from October to March.
Key Attractions:
1. Promenade Beach: Take a leisurely walk along the seafront promenade.
2. Auroville: Visit the Matrimandir and explore the spiritual community.
3. French Quarter: Discover the colonial architecture and boutique shops.
Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport (approximately 150 km from Pondicherry).
Nearest Railway Station: Puducherry Railway Station.
Kodaikanal
Nestled in the towering Palani Hills, Kodaikanal is a serene haven of mist-covered valleys and cool, refreshing climes.
– Coaker’s Walk for panoramic views of the plains.
– Kodaikanal Lake, an iconic man-made lake perfect for boating.
– Bryant Park, known for its exotic flora and annual horticultural shows.
– Pillar Rocks, giant rock pillars offering breath-taking vistas.
– Bear Shola Falls, a seasonal waterfall ideal to enjoy Kodaikanal’s weather.
Frequented by honeymooners, this ‘Princess of Hill Stations’ encapsulates nature’s pristine beauty. Its myriad of trails and waterfalls make Kodaikanal a hiker’s delight, replete with scenic tranquility.
Best Time to Visit: Kodaikanal The best time to visit Kodaikanal is from October to June.
Nearest Airport to Kodaikanal: Madurai International Airport (approximately 120 km from Kodaikanal).
Nearest Railway Station: Kodai Road Railway Station.
Alleppey: Backwater Cruises
Alleppey, often hailed as the Venice of the East, presents an invigorating experience with its network of serene backwaters. Palm-lined canals, quaint villages, and verdant rice paddies depict a picturesque tapestry that is quintessentially Kerala. The backwaters of Alleppey offer a unique opportunity to cruise through the tranquil waterways, immersing yourself in the scenic beauty of the region. Palm-lined canals wind their way through lush green landscapes, with quaint villages and verdant rice paddies dotting the banks.
During your backwater cruise, you’ll have the chance to witness the daily life of the locals who call these waterways their home. Watch as fishermen cast their nets, farmers tend to their crops, and children play by the banks. The slow-paced rhythm of life here is truly captivating. Alleppey’s backwaters are not just a visual feast but also a gateway to rejuvenation. The calm and peaceful ambiance, away from the hustle and bustle of city life, offers a perfect retreat for those seeking solace and tranquility. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply someone in search of a unique experience, a backwater cruise in Alleppey is a must-do activity in Kerala.
Best Time to Visit Alleppey: The best time to visit Alleppey is from November to February.
Key Attractions:
– Backwater Cruises: Experience a houseboat cruise through the serene backwaters.
– Alappuzha Beach: Relax on the sandy shores and witness beautiful sunsets.
– Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: Explore the bird sanctuary and spot various bird species.
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (approximately 75 km from Alleppey).
Nearest Railway Station: Alappuzha Railway Station.
