Hampi, Karnataka
The laid-back village of Hampi, one of India’s finest historical locations, was once the last capital of Vijayanagar, one of India’s greatest Hindu empires. It contains some fascinating ruins that are intriguingly intertwined with
enormous stones that rise up all over the area. The ruins, which date back to the 14th century, cover over 4187 hectares (16 square miles) and contain around 1600 massive remains. This ancient site has a tremendous spirit. Hampi is frequently visited from Goa due to the variety of transportation choices available from there.
Badami, Aihole and Pattadakal, Karnataka
Badami (previously Vatapi), Aihole, and Pattadakal are all great day trips from Hampi. They are rich in monuments, temples, and remains from the Chalukya empire, which ruled there from the sixth to the twelfth century. Aihole is the birthplace of the famed Chalukya architectural style, and the hamlet is home to over 125 stone temples that, sadly, do not receive the respect they deserve. Badami is one of the best destinations in India to see caves, including four sets of stunning old rock-cut cave temples. Pattadakal is a tiny temple complex that is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Varkala, Kerala
Varkala Beach’s fairy-tale setting is enough to take your breath away, with a lengthy twisting stretch of cliff and views of the Arabian Sea. A paved path spans the length of the cliff, surrounded by coconut palms, small stores, beach shacks, hotels, and guest houses. A dazzling beach lies nestled at the bottom of the cliff, accessible through steps leading down from the cliff top. It’s no surprise that Varkala has one of the nicest beaches in India. It’s certainly picturesque!
Fort Kochi, Kerala
Kochi, also known as the “Gateway to Kerala,” is an exquisite city with a diverse cultural impact. Arabs, British, Dutch, Chinese, and Portuguese all put their imprints on the city. Most people are familiar with Kochi because of images of the famed Chinese fishing nets that border the shoreline. Fort Kochi is brimming with architectural and historical attractions, and it’s a fantastic spot to walk about and explore on foot.
Pondicherry
Pondicherry (also known as Puducherry) was a former French colony in the 18th century that is now a separate union territory on the east coast of Tamil Nadu. It has a distinct French flavour and is a refreshing change of pace. Wander around the picturesque French Quarter and along the Promenade, soaking in the serene environment, dining in delicious restaurants, and shopping in boutiques.
Rameshwaram and Dhanushkodi, Tamil Nadu
Rameshwaram is a tranquil little pilgrim town in southern Tamil Nadu that is brought to life by a steady stream of pious devotees who come to bathe in its holy water, perform puja to purify their karma, and visit Ramanathaswamy Temple. The town and temple have a connection to the classic Hindu epic The Ramayana. This is where Lord Ram persuaded Lord Hanuman to construct a bridge over the ocean in order to rescue Sita from her kidnapper, Ravana.
Adam’s Bridge (also known as Ram Setu), a sequence of reefs and sandbanks, is claimed to be the location of the bridge. The eerie crumbled and windswept relics of Dhanuskodi, a town destroyed by a cyclone in 1964, can be found in this area, not far from Rameshwaram. The
Mysore, Karnataka
Mysore has a remarkable royal legacy, with the magnificent Mysore Palace serving as the city’s principal tourist attraction. There are numerous additional noteworthy structures, palaces, and temples to see. The zoo is widely regarded as one of the greatest in India. Mysore is also a great spot to buy sandalwood and learn Ashtanga yoga. Another draw is the yearly 10-day Mysore Dasara festival.
Coorg, Karnataka
Head to Karnataka’s Kodagu region for the fresh aromas of south Indian coffee and magnificent scenic scenery (often referred to as Coorg, the English version of its name). This enticing hilly region in southern Karnataka, close to Bangalore and Mysore, is well-known for its numerous coffee estates. You can, of course, stay on one! In Coorg, there are lodgings to suit all budgets, including some wonderful homestays and premium resorts. The majestic Golden Temple, one of India’s premier Buddhist monasteries, is also not to be missed.
