Exploring South India: Three Must-Visit Destinations

For centuries dating as far back as 3000 BC, India would’ve been regarded as not so much a country, but more a collection of evolving kingdoms and sprawling empires, each with their own ruling dynasties, customs, culture, cuisine and fashion. The nation may be unified as one these days, but the remnants of this land’s rich and diverse heritage still lives on.

This is why travelling from state to state can often feel like entering a whole new country, with everything feeling and looking worlds away from wherever you might have just been – though you may have just ventured mere miles in reality. South India is a testament to all of the above, with each diverse state proudly displaying its vivid uniqueness like a badge of honour for all to see.

If you’re planning on exploring this vibrant region, don’t miss these three must-visit destinations in South India while travelling around this gorgeous part of the world.

Hampi, Karnataka

Get lost in the medieval ruins of the ancient city of Hampi, a major landmark on the hippy backpacker trail. Spread over 26 square kilometres, this stunning region was the former grand capital for three generations of Hindu rule during the 15th century.

Spend a day (by tuk tuk or scooter) or two (by foot) exploring the stunning stone carved temples and palatial grounds at the Sacred and Royal Centres, left over from these fascinating ruling dynasties.

It is also advisable to stay across the river from the ruins itself, as there’s an amazing selection of guest houses, restaurants, shops and other activities (including yoga classes, live music and film screenings) all located here. From this side there are also beautiful views of the ruins, rice fields and the rolling mountain terrain. It’s a truly breath-taking place! Also head for a bite at the Mango Tree to view the Hampi’s striking scenery in its full panoramic glory! If you’re lucky you might even be able to see one of the temple elephants bathing in the ghat.

Also worth a look are the shops and restaurants located in nearby Hampi Bazaar; which is additionally a great place to pick up souvenirs with the colourful trademark Karnataka designs.

Please also note that Hampi is a holy city, so alcohol is not for sale nor to be consumed.

Mamallapuram, Tamil Nadu

Mamallapuram is a traveller’s heaven with its perfect balance of historical sites, souvenir shopping and beachside dining. Hands down, this quaint little beach town is a true South Indian highlight. It’s just a charming little place with a laidback pace.

Spend a few days wandering the town’s exquisite 7th century temples and rock caves. Highlights include the intricately detailed Shore Temple, Five Rathas, Arjuna’s Penance and Ganesha Ratha. Look out for the area’s legion of goats too, who comically defy gravity while trotting along the area’s steep rock faces.

While making your way around, look out for the beautiful stone deities that fill the local sculptors’ workshops too. You can support their talents by bartering for wonderful hand-carved pendants, miniature statues, crockery and more.

Also, as the town is close to Kanchipuram – a famous centre for silk production – you can also pick up some stunning pieces at amazing prices. Ponn Readymade Tailoring, whose shop and restaurant are located on the town’s main strip is one of the best; it has most unique and vibrantly coloured designs, which they will customise to your size for free. Ponn, the owner, may also offer you a great deal if you’ve dined at his place too. Do have food there if you get a chance and are looking for a bargain. The waiter is a delight who performs magic tricks in between each course. He will also give you board games to play with while you wait for the food!

On a general side note, the further south you travel, the better the food will probably taste, particularly in Tamil Nadu. There is a fabulous range of veg and non-veg options, with family run eateries and roadside food stalls lining the streets. The paneer tikka and vegetable biriyanis, served on the trademark banana leaves, are particularly good. Mamallapuram is famed for its seafood too. Its giant crabs, lobsters and seafood spaghettis are delicious, along with the vegetable biriyanis from the Rose Garden restaurant – the cheapest and tastiest in town!

Finally, take a short tuk tuk journey to the Madras Crocodile Bank. This conservation site for reptiles is a must for any croc fan! It’s also one of the best animal sanctuaries in the region.

Fort Kochi, Kerala

Bohemian Kochi is a melting pot of intertwined cultures, quirky cafes and expressive art forms. This place is all about dining in amazing places, getting pampered at one of the many auyurvedic retreats and taking in the rich culture that combines colonial Portuguese, Dutch and British influences.

Spend a day exploring the narrow lanes bursting with old world charm and the warmest of welcomes. Here relaxing spas rub shoulders with enticing merchants selling everything from spices and fabrics to antiques and art; while vivacious street art decorates the walls.

Stop for a bite at the partially open-air art gallery, come restaurant, the Kashi Art Café. Their cakes and sandwiches are literally the best. And if you fancy a cuppa in the afternoon, head to the teapot obsessed tea room, funnily enough named Teapot. For dinner check out the family run Dal Roti, a specialist in North Indian cuisine. Their Kati Rolls are a firm favourite among locals and visitors alike, packing out the small venue every night.

For a night of entertainment head to the Kerala Kathakali Centre for its traditional Kathakali dance performances. Unique to the state, the style combines dramatic movements, colourful costumes and outrageous make up. It’s a full house every week, so book your tickets earlier in the day. The centre also hosts musical performances featuring tabla and sitar, as well as meditation and yoga sessions. For a bite beforehand, try the delicious Tibean restaurant next door, its noodle soups and dumplings are fabulous.

Once you’ve sussed all the best eateries, soak up the city’s rich history with a visit to the crumbling Mattancherry Palace, a museum housing Dutch, Portuguese and Indian artefacts as well as many colourful murals and paintings. Along the way you’ll spot the striking Santa Cruz Basilica, which also houses relics from the varying eras of Kochi. The more humble St Francis Church, believed to be the oldest European-built church in India, is the place where adventurer Vasco de Gama was originally buried in 1524. Here you can visit his tomb and see the original site where he was buried. For a further glimpse into the area’s Portuguese roots, head to the Indo-Portuguese Museum, as well as the colourful Maritime Museum. Packed with artefacts including giant missiles and rocket launchers, this fascinating place vividly showcases Kochi’s proud naval presence.

If time permits, head to the impressive Hill Top Palace in nearby Tripunithura. Its extravagant 49-building palace complex was originally home to the Kochi royal family; though nowadays houses a vast collection of animals including deer, birds and a large dinosaur (statue).

Back in town, head to the vibrant Jew Town district, a bustling area of antique stores, fashion and jewellery outlets; as well as the hub of Kochi’s spice trade. Here you will also find the Pardesi Synagogue and clock tower, the focal point of Kochi’s thriving Jewish community. Dress modestly and head inside for the decadent crystal chandeliers and elaborate décor made from gold, silver and hand painted tiles. If you’ve worked up an appetite, head to the nearby Ginger Café, an Aladdin’s Cave-like antique emporium and restaurant that overlooks the water and serves up the most amazing local cuisine.

Finally a trip to Kochi would not be complete without checking out two things; firstly the enormous 13th century Chinese Fishing Nets. These giant contraptions stand tall along the city’s coastline, while teams of men work them every day, endeavouring to pull in the big one! If you want a have a go for yourself, the fishermen will be more than happy to oblige, though a tip is expected.

The second thing you must check out is one of the famous Kerala backwater cruises. You can book one with your hotel or with an agent in town. Spend a day or two on one of the traditional houseboats, and just sit back and relax as you cruise down the palm-fringed scenic waterways. You will also be treated to a traditional meal served on a banana leaf as well as drop in on some locals who are busy making fabric, rope and spices, wooden tools such as back scratchers and massagers, and harvesting fruit and vegetables. Watching them at work is fascinating stuff, and you’ll probably be tempted to make a purchase at the end too.

Words and images by Sandy Dhaliwal

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