Many choose not to take a holiday and instead spend their winters at home, curled up in front of the TV with a coffee mug in one hand and their smartphone in the other. I'm sure you're losing out on a lot if this is also true for you. You're not enjoying winter; instead, you're fleeing it, so why should a change in the weather prevent you from travelling? Is that not the case? Pack your baggage, grab a few woollen garments, and get ready for your trip. Here is a selection of South Indian locations that might be ideal for your winter vacation this year.
Top 8 South Indian Winter Vacation Spots
1. Kodaikanal
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Kodaikanal, often known as the Princess of Hill station, is a popular winter tourism destination. It's a country of enormous boulders, picturesque waterfalls, and enchanted lakes. Nestled in the hills of Tamilnadu's Dindigul district, this location is a must-visit for couples. Every time you come to this hill station, you discover something new.
Places to Visit
- Green Valley View
- Coakers Walk
- Bryant Park
- Pine Forest
- Kodai Lake, Berijam Lake
- Bear Shola Falls, Talaiyar Falls
- Kodai-Palani Trek
- Kukkal Caves
How to Reach?
By air: The closest airport is in Madurai. Next in line are Coimbatore and Trichy.
By road: There are TNSTC buses available from all major South Indian cities, with the most frequent routes being Bangalore, Chennai, Madurai, and so on. The roads are also in excellent shape.
By train: The closest train station is Kodai Road Station, from which you must take a bus or hail a cab to your destination.
Famous Food: You have to try the dosas, idli, sambhar, chicken thukpa, and chocolate brownies.
2. Ooty
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It is understandable why Ooty is the most visited place in South India: its nice climate, coffee and tea plantations, picturesque scenery, refreshing air, and toy train trip among the natural surroundings. Located in Tamilnadu, this location will provide you with a captivating experience after your visit is over.
Places to Visit
- Doddabetta Peak
- Pykara Waterfalls
- Rose Garden
- Ooty Lake
- Wax House
- The toy train ride takes you amidst nature and offers a spectacular view of the scenery
How to Reach?
By road: There are several hairpin turns on this densely wooded route. Thus, use caution when driving, and consider using the bus as well.
By air travel: Coimbatore is the closest airport, offering flights to all Indian cities.
By rail: The closest train stations are in Tiruppur and Coimbatore.
Famous Food: Ooty chocolates
3. Kochi
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The greatest time to visit Kochi is in the winter, and December is highly recommended as you may take part in the city's famous carnival. It is lavishly and grandiosely commemorated. The carnival is unparalleled in its splendour, and the bike races, swimming and volleyball sports, fancy dress contests, and adorned elephants are all entertaining to witness. This Keralan industrial hub has a plethora of other attractions as well.
Places to Visit
- Lulu Mall
- Kuzhuppilly Beach and Cherai Beach
- Folklore Museum
- Princess Street Kochi
- Jew Town and Jewish Synagogue
- Sunset Cruise
- Vasco Da Gama Square
- Marine Drive
- Willingdon Island
- Kochi – Muziris Biennale – International Exhibition of Contemporary Art
How to Reach?
By road: Kochi has good road conditions and is connected to all major cities in South India.
By rail: Kochi has a railway junction and a harbour terminus, making it possible to get there by train.
By air: Kochi International Airport connects it to all of India's main cities as well as a few neighbouring nations.
Famous Food: You really must try the appam and stew, parotta and beef curry, and fish molly, among other specialities.
4. Allepey
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Situated in the divine realm, Allepey, also known as Alappuzha, is a well-known tourist destination in Kerala. Often referred to as the "Venice of the East," this location is home to gorgeous beaches, lush surroundings, and backwaters. Allepey is a really romantic location that is a must-see for couples. The other new feature of this quaint location is the houseboats. These homes have all the contemporary conveniences, and the greatest part is that, at dusk, guests may enjoy a breathtaking sunset view of the backwaters from the houseboats.
Places to Visit
- Marari Beach, Alappuzha Beach
- Alappuzha Lighthouse
- Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
- Houseboating on Punnamada Lake
- Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple
- Relaxing in Spa
How to Reach?
By air: There are flights from all cities to the closest airport, which is located in Kochi.
By road: Some buses travel from Kerala to Allepey, and the roads are in decent condition.
By rail: All Indian railway stations are connected to Alappuzha Railway Station.
Famous Food: Some of the delectable meals you have to taste include Thalassery Biryani, Puttu and Kadala, Grilled Shrimp, and Kerala Sadya.
5. Pondicherry (Puducherry)
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Because of its beautiful beaches, historic buildings, and vibrant nightlife, this "once upon a time French Colony" is a popular travel destination for both local and foreign travellers. The majority of the area features depictions of the blend of French and Indian cultures. Known for being the "French capital of India," Pondicherry boasts a distinct architectural style evident in its buildings, cafés, and stores. Over the years, Pondicherry has genuinely developed into an outstanding resort because of its winter climate.
Places to Visit
- Auroville town
- Aurobindo Ashram
- Pondicherry Lighthouse
- Pondicherry Museum
- Gokilambal Tirukameshwar Temple
- Immaculate Conception Cathedral
- Paradise, Promenade, and Auroville beaches are widely famous
- Scuba Diving
- Arikamedu
How to Reach?
By road: Hyderabad, Bangalore, Chennai, and other cities have buses.
By air: Chennai is the closest airport, from which you may take a bus or hail a cab.
By rail: From the other railway lines to the Villupuram railway station in Pondicherry, there are direct trains that go to the city.
Famous Food: French food products such as baguettes and croissants, mutton samosas, masala puri, etc., as well as inexpensive alcohol, may be found in Pondicherry. Thus, remember to share these delectable dishes.
6. Coorg
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Known as the Scotland of India, Coorg is regarded as one of South India's greatest hill stations. Rich cultural diversity, breathtaking scenery, waterfalls, adventures, and stunning coffee farms may all be found in this region. People of various stripes, including peace seekers, adventure seekers, foodies, and so on, travel to Coorg. It is a must-see location on every person's wish list.
Places to Visit
- Madikeri Fort
- Talacauvery
- Abbey and Iruppu Falls
- Trekking in Tadiandamol Peak
- Namdroling Monastery
- White River rafting in the Barapole River
- Honnamana Kere Lake
- Tamara Carnival
How to Reach?
By rail: From there, take the route to Coorg and arrive at Mysore Junction.
By bus: Mysore and Bangalore have bus services.
By road: From Bangalore, Mangalore, and Mysore, there are excellent and easily accessible roads.
Famous Food: The most popular foods in this area are dried fish, akki oti, and pork curry, among other things.
7. Araku Valley
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Araku Valley, one of Andhra Pradesh's most renowned and picturesque locations close to Vizag, has a lot to offer visitors as it offers a respite from the busy life of the cities. This valley is one of the must-see locations in the winter due to its gorgeous scenery, thrilling activities like trekking and hiking, lush green slopes, and cottages surrounded by nature.
Places to Visit
- Borra Caves
- Tyda Nature Camp
- Tribal Museum
- Padmapuram Botanical Garden
- Katika and Chaparai Waterfalls
How to Reach?
By bus: Major cities like Hyderabad, Bangalore, and others have direct buses that travel to Vizag. Vizag Bus Station offers direct bus service to Araku.
By air: There are flights to Vizag that are well-connected to Andhra Pradesh's port city.
By rail: You may take a direct train from various locations in the nation to Vizag, and from there you can take another train to Araku.
Famous Food: One of the most well-known meals offered in Araku is bamboo chicken.
8. Horsley Hills
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Horsley Hills, another popular winter resort in Andhra Pradesh, is located in the district of Chittoor. Horsley Hills is home to some very breathtaking mountains, and the lovely winter weather keeps you warm. This little hill village boasts a route lined with beautiful green foliage and is a fun spot to explore.
Places to Visit
- Chennakeshava Temple
- Kaigal Falls
- Kaundinya Wildlife Sanctuary
- Horsley Hills Zoo
- Gangotri Lake
How to Reach?
By road: Bangalore and Chennai are connected by excellent road conditions.
By Air: The closest airport is Bangalore International Airport, which is 144 kilometres away by vehicle.
By train: The closest train stations are Madanapalle and Tirupati, and direct trains are available to Tirupati.
Famous Food: Pulihora Rice with Tamarind
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About the Author:
Akanksha Sinha
I'm Akanksha Sinha, an expert in writing sports blogs, news, and various articles for entertainment and more. I bring a unique flair to my work, providing insightful perspectives on the world of sports.
My articles aim to inform and entertain, making me a go-to source for sports enthusiasts seeking a blend of information and enjoyment. With a passion for storytelling and a keen eye for detail, I consistently deliver compelling narratives that resonate with a diverse audience.