South India

Indian Subcontinent

Oct 4

Written By Naya Traveler

A separate country in and of itself, India’s south is the land of sacred myths and towering temples; of gentle people and awe inspiring landscapes carpeted with green valleys and ancient civilizations.

South India’s two main states, Tamil Nadu and Kerala, remain true to their heritage and ***recall a distant past*** of ancient customs and authentic traditions. Bound by the Bay of Bengal, Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean, this tropical region boasts a unique diversity of natural scenery, with two mountain ranges and meandering rivers. From serene rice paddies and rolling hills of tea lands, to winding backwaters and tropical valleys, South India’s landscape is a ***true wonderland of natural beauty.***
For millennia, the southern tip of the subcontinent was ruled by different kingdoms and western empires that have contributed to the cultural diversity and wealth of its heritage. This can be especially appreciated in the different regions within Tamil Nadu and Kerala where language, music, art, cuisine, and architecture vary from one state to the other. As the ***heartland of Hinduism,*** South India’s cities are filled with temples and sacred spaces that remain rooted at the center of people’s daily lives.

Chennai

The sprawling city of Chennai introduces the compelling culture of South India, and boasts ancient Hindu territory.

Alleppey

Cruise along Kerala’s calm backwaters, lined with palm trees and dotted with agricultural islands, quiet villages and ancient temples.

Munnar

Explore Kerala's lavish tea lands and green hills, with British established plantations and centuries-old estates.

Madurai

One of the oldest cities in India, Madurai is a culturally-vibrant city often visited by Hindu Pilgrims for the intricate and colourful temples of Meenakshi.

Hampi

An ancient realm of myths and Gods, Hampi's other-worldly landscape is dotted with the evocative ruins of the last great Hindu kingdom of South India.

Mysore

Discover the royal palaces and flower markets of the capital of Karnataka's Kingdom of Mysore for over 600 years.

Periyar

This wildlife sanctuary is home to some of India's most majestic creatures. Explore the national park with the guidance of a tribal villager to reach the depths of its diversity.