Top 10 cities to discover the rich Culture and History of South India

Uncover the heritage of South India with us. Explore the top 10 cities, where culture and history intertwine in a captivating journey.
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Top 10 cities to discover the rich Culture and History of South India
South India is a land of rich culture, history, and traditions. The region is famous for its picturesque landscapes, historical monuments and diverse cuisine. The southern states of India are renowned for their unique cultural heritage and historical significance.
From the stunning beaches of Kerala to the beautiful temples of Tamil Nadu, South India has something to offer to every traveller. It is one of the most culturally and historically rich regions in India. There are many amazing cities in South India that are worth exploring for their rich culture and history

Best time to visit in South India:
October to February is the best time to visit the Southern region of India. 

In this article, we take a look at the top 10 cities that you must visit to discover the rich culture and history of South India.
  1. Chennai
  2. Bangalore
  3. Hyderabad
  4. Goa
  5. Hampi
  6. Mysore
  7. Mahabalipuram
  8. Trivandrum
  9. Cochin
  10. Madurai

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Per Person
17,500
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( 297 Reviews )
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51,000
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1. Chennai

1. ChennaiView Gallery - 11
Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, is one of the largest cities in South India. The city is known for its rich cultural heritage, colonial architecture, and historical significance. The Fort St. George, Kapaleeswarar Temple, and San Thome Basilica are some of the most famous historical landmarks in Chennai. The city is also famous for its vibrant street food scene and bustling markets.

Known for its rich history and cultural heritage, this bustling city is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring the rich traditions and cultural heritage of the region. In addition to its cultural and historical attractions, Chennai is also known for its delicious local cuisine. Some of the most popular dishes in the city include idli, dosa, and sambar, which are made from fermented rice and lentils and are typically served for breakfast.

Chennai is a great place to experience the culture and history of South India. There are plenty of things to see and do in this vibrant city. Whether you are interested in history, art, or adventure, Chennai has something for you.

Places to visit in Chennai

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2. Bangalore

2. BangaloreView Gallery - 11
Consider a trip to Bangalore to discover the rich culture and history of South India. This vibrant city is home to some of the most impressive historical sites in the country, as well as a lively arts and nightlife scene.
Bangalore is situated in the southern state of Karnataka, which is known for its lush green landscapes and stunning temples. The city is a major IT hub and is well connected to other parts of India.

There's no shortage of things to see and do in Bangalore. Start your visit at the Bangalore Palace, a magnificent palace dating back to the 19th century. The palace is home to beautiful gardens and an impressive collection of art and furniture.

For a glimpse of India's rich history and culture, visit the Bangalore Fort, which was originally built in the 16th century. The fort is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to a number of temples and museums.

Another must-see attraction in Bangalore is the Vidhana Soudha, a massive granite building that serves as the state legislature of Karnataka. The building is an impressive sight and is well worth a visit.
In addition to its historical attractions, Bangalore is also home to a lively arts and nightlife scene. There are numerous theaters and art galleries in the city, as well as a thriving club and restaurant.

So if you're looking for an interesting and exotic destination to explore, consider Bangalore, the vibrant and cultural capital of South India.

Places to visit in Bangalore

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3. Hyderabad

3. HyderabadView Gallery - 11
Hyderabad is a city in the southern Indian state of Telangana. It was the capital of the Nizam of Hyderabad, an independent princely state, for centuries. The city is noted for its palaces, mosques, temples, and bazaars. With its historical sites and natural beauty, it has become a popular tourist destination.

The city of Hyderabad was founded in 1591 by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah. He named it after a shrine of the Sufi saint, Hazrat Ali, whom he had visited in Afghanistan.
The Nizam of Hyderabad, a Muslim ruler, ruled the state as an independent princely state. The Nizam's palace, the Chowmahalla Palace, is a noted tourist attraction. The city is also home to the Charminar, a medieval mosque with four minarets. The Qutb Shahi tombs, located in the city, are also popular tourist attractions.
Hyderabad is also known for its bazaars, where a variety of goods are sold.
The Laad Bazaar is noted for its silver jewelry, while the Charka Bazaar is known for its pearls. The old city of Hyderabad is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Hyderabad is a popular tourist destination in India. The city's rich culture and history, along with its natural beauty, attract tourists from all over the world. Hyderabadi biryani and shawarma are some of the world-famous delicacies of this place.

Places to visit in Hyderabad

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20,103
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4. Goa

4. GoaView Gallery - 11
A trip to Goa is the perfect way to discover the rich culture and history of South India. Goa is located on the western coast of India and is known for its beautiful beaches, Portuguese-influenced architecture and tasty food.

When you visit Goa, be sure to explore the city's many fascinating historical sites. The Basilica of Bom Jesus is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to the remains of Saint Francis Xavier. The Church of Our Lady of the Mount is another popular historical site, and is known for its intricate Portuguese-style architecture.

In addition to its historical sites, Goa is also home to some of the best beaches in India. Anjuna Beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing, while Calangute Beach is great for people watching and relaxing in the sand.

No trip to Goa is complete without sampling the region's delicious cuisine. Be sure to try some of Goa's famous dishes, such as vindaloo, a spicy curry dish, and xacuti, a dish made with coconut milk and spices.

So, if you're looking for a vacation that will offer you a chance to explore South India's rich culture and history, be sure to add Goa to your list!

Places to visit in Goa

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5. Hampi

5. HampiView Gallery - 11
Hampi is a village in the southern Indian state of Karnataka. It is located on the banks of theTungabhadra River, northeast of the city of Hospet and is home to the ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire. The empire was founded by two brothers, Harihara and Bukka Raya I, who served in the court of the Delhi Sultanate. After years of war and instability, the empire reached its zenith under the rule of Krishnadevaraya in the 16th century.
 
The city of Vijayanagara was sacked in 1565 by the Deccan sultanates, and the empire fell into decline.The ruins of the city are spread over an area of 26 km2 (10 sq mi) and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Hampi is a popular tourist destination and is home to several historical monuments, including the Virupaksha Temple, the Vittala Temple, and the Hazara Rama Temple. The ruins are also a major pilgrimage center for the Lingayat sect of Hinduism. The village is also known for its natural surroundings and the boulders that dot the landscape.

The Hampi ruins are a major tourist attraction in South India. The area is well-maintained and well-signposted, making it easy for visitors to explore the various sites. There are several restaurants and shops in the area, and a number of accommodation options are available. The ruins are open from sunrise to sunset, and entry is free.

Hampi is a great place to visit for those interested in the history and culture of South India. The ruins are well-preserved and provide a glimpse into the life and times of the Vijayanagara Empire. The village is also surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, and the boulders that dot the landscape are a major attraction.

Places to visit in Hampi

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6. Mysore

6. MysoreView Gallery - 11
Mysore is a city located in the state of Karnataka, in southern India. It is the second most populous city in the state and the cultural and historical center of the region. Mysore is known for its palaces, temples, and gardens, as well as for its silk and sandalwood industries.
The city was the capital of the Kingdom of Mysore from 1399 to 1947. During the period of the kingdom's sovereignty, Mysore was a center of art and culture. The city still retains some of its traditional architecture and culture.

Mysore is home to some of the most important Hindu temples in India, including the Chamundeshwari Temple, the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, and the Karanji Temple. The city is also home to the Mysore Palace, which is one of the largest and most opulent palaces in India. The palace is now a museum and is open to the public.

Mysore is a popular tourist destination, and there are many things to see and do in the city. Some of the most popular attractions include the Mysore Palace, the Chamundeshwari Temple, the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, the Karanji Temple, the Brindavan Gardens, the Lalitha Mahal Palace, the St. Philomena's Church, and the Rail Museum.
Mysore is also a great place to experience Indian culture. There are many traditional dance performances and music concerts that take place in the city, and there are also many festivals that are celebrated throughout the year. 

If you're looking for a great place to experience Indian culture and history, Mysore is a great choice. There are many things to see and do in the city, and it's a great place to learn about the traditional culture of South India.

Places to visit in Mysore

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7. Mahabalipuram

7. MahabalipuramView Gallery - 11
When you think of South India, the first thing that comes to mind is its rich culture and history. Mahabalipuram is one of the best places to experience this firsthand. Located just an hour south of Chennai, Mahabalipuram is home to a wealth of ancient temples and carvings that date back to the 7th and 8th centuries.

The most famous attraction in Mahabalipuram is the Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the oldest temples in South India. The intricate carvings on the temple walls are a sight to behold, and the views of the ocean from the temple are simply stunning.

Other popular attractions in Mahabalipuram include the Pancha Rathas (five chariots), the Arjuna's Penance bas-relief, and the Mahishasuramardini Cave Temple. These temples are all rich in history and culture, and offer a unique glimpse into the ancient world of South India.

If you're looking to experience the best of South Indian culture and history, Mahabalipuram is definitely the place to go. With its ancient temples and carvings, Mahabalipuram is a true gem of South India.

Places to visit in Mahabalipuram

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8.Trivandrum

8.TrivandrumView Gallery - 11
A trip to Trivandrum is a must for anyone who wants to discover the rich culture and history of South India. The city is the capital of the southern Indian state of Kerala and is home to a wealth of historical attractions, including the imposing Padmanabhaswamy Temple. This temple is dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu and is one of the most important temples in Kerala. It is also one of the richest temples in the world, with vast amounts of gold and silver jewelry and other treasures stored in its vaults.

Other historical attractions in Trivandrum include the Kuthiramalika Palace Museum, which is home to an impressive collection of traditional Kerala art and architecture, and the Napier Museum, which contains a wealth of artifacts from the region’s past. There are also a number of beautiful parks and gardens in Trivandrum, including the sprawling Varkala Beach. This long, sandy beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing and relaxing in the shade of the palm trees.

Trivandrum is also a great place to experience the vibrant culture of South India. The city is home to a wide variety of traditional performing arts, including Kathakali dance, Theyyam dance and Ottamthullal. There are also a number of lively markets where you can buy souvenirs or sample the local cuisine. The best way to experience all that Trivandrum has to offer is to stay in the city for a few days and explore at your leisure.

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9. Kochi

9. KochiView Gallery - 11
The port city of Kochi in the southern Indian state of Kerala is a popular tourist destination known for its Arabian Sea Coastline, backwaters, Chinese fishing nets and historic and cultural attractions. A trip to Kochi is the perfect opportunity to discover the rich culture and history of South India.

Kochi was a major center of the spice trade for many centuries, and the city's architecture and culture reflect the influence of many different cultures, including Portuguese, Dutch, and British. The city's best-known landmark is the 16th-century Dutch Fort Cochin, which is now a popular tourist attraction.
 
Other historic sites include the Mattancherry Palace, which was built by the Portuguese in 1555, and the Jewish Synagogue, which is the oldest synagogue in India.
The city is also home to a number of interesting cultural attractions, including the Kerala Folklore Museum, the Kerala History Museum, and the Indo-Portuguese Museum. The city's vibrant markets are a great place to buy souvenirs, and the local cuisine is famous for its spicy dishes.

A trip to Kochi is a great way to experience the rich culture and history of South India. The city is home to a variety of interesting historical and cultural attractions, and the locals are warm and friendly.

Places to visit in Kochi

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10. Madurai

10. MaduraiView Gallery - 11
A visit to Madurai will take you back in time to discover the rich culture and history of South India. The city is home to a number of beautiful temples, including the world-famous Sri Meenakshi Temple. This architectural masterpiece is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Meenakshi, and features a number of intricate carvings and colorful murals.

Other must-see temples in Madurai include the Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple, the Alagar Koil and the Koodal Alagar Temple. These temples are all situated in the city's main temple district, which is also home to the Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple - one of the most important pilgrimage sites in South India.

In addition to its temples, Madurai is also known for its lively bazaars. Here you can find everything from colorful souvenirs to delicious local cuisine. Be sure to try some of the city's famous spicy dishes, such as the Vadai Fry and the Sambar Vada.

Madurai is a wonderful place to experience the best of South Indian culture and history. With its beautiful temples and lively bazaars, the city is sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors.

Places to visit in Madurai

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94,500
*EXCLUDING APPLICABLE TAXES
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( 45 Reviews )
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Tripclap Story Author

Debalina Deb Roy

A seasoned travel writer with a passion for exploring off beat destinations and uncovering the hidden gems. My ultimate goal is to inspire people to step out of their comfort zones and explore the world.
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