Winter means holidays and family time. We all look forward to enjoying the various festivals which come by, for this is how we get a break from our daily lives and make lasting memories. Winter is also the perfect time to enjoy waterfalls, beaches, and mountains. South India, in particular, has a number of places which are breathtaking and fun holiday destinations during the winter season. Here we bring to you the ten best winter destinations in South India.
Check out some of the popular Winter destinations in south india
Skandagiri Hills
Also known as Kalavara Durga, Skandagiri is a mountain fortress located just 70 km from Bengaluru. Although much hasn’t been written about the place, the gorgeous photographs are more than evident of Skandagiri being a perfect weekend trip for people living in Karnataka. Overlooking Nandi Hills and Muddenahalli, this place guarantees a stunningly breathtaking view at an altitude of about 1350 m.
Anthargange
Anthargange is definitely a treat for the adventurers at heart. The name Anthargange refers to a perennial spring that lies in the hills to the east of Kolar district. The spring gushes through massive rock formations which come together to form a chain of large and small caves. This is where the charm of Anthargange lies, in its rock formations and in its caves. For the ones looking adventure, rock climbing and trekking up the hill are nothing short of unforgettable. Rappelling and high rope traversing also add to the treat for the adrenaline rush you might be craving for, this winter.
Kudremukh
The second highest peak of Karnataka, Kudremukh means ‘horse-face’ and is named after the picture perfect view of the side of the mountain which looks exactly like the face of a horse. The mountainous paths are decked with vast grasslands and dense forests, which add to the serenity of this hill station. This is one of the reasons why it is very popular amongst the inhabitants of Bangalore and Mangalore, as a getaway from the chaos and the rush of the city.
Coorg
For the stunning scenic beauty along with the aroma of coffee, you must head to Karnataka’s Kodagu region (often referred to as Coorg). This alluring mountainous area in southern Karnataka is not far from Bangalore and Mysore and is renowned for its plentiful coffee estates. What’s more, you even can stay on one! You must not miss out the Tibetan Golden Temple, which is one of the best Buddhist monasteries in India.
Varkala
Located in the Thiruvananthapuram district, Varkala is possibly the only place in southern-Kerala which hosts a perfect mix of the hills and the sea. Legend has it that Lord Brahma instructed a Pandyan King to build a temple at this very place, in order to redeem him of his sins.
Another legend says that when a group of pilgrims approached Narada and confessed that they had sinned, Narada threw his valkalam (loincloth made from the bark of a tree), which landed in this scenic village and since then, the place came to be known as Varkala. Interesting, isn’t it?
Gokarna
Prefer beaches but hate the crowd? Love trekking and discovering secluded places? Gokarna is the perfect place for you! Situated on the Western Coast of India, Gokarna is known for its not-so-crowded beaches and is perfect for a relaxing holiday. If a day or two of sunbathing on the beaches, flat on your stomach, and sipping a cooler is your idea of a vacation, Gokarna is the place for you.
Dandeli
Dandeli wildlife sanctuary is a great tourist place in South India for all adventure freaks. It is blessed with dense deciduous forests and a wide variety of wild animals. A popular weekend holiday destination in Karnataka, this places is a preferred destination for coracle boating, trekking, and rafting. Coupled with thrilling adventure sports, the scenic spots make Dandeli a great holiday destination. You must also go white water river rafting with friends, and relax in the lush rainforest to make this trip memorable.
Pondicherry
Also known as the French town of India, Pondicherry welcomes you to a whole new world, with its colorfully painted houses in French architecture and the chilled out vibes. Also known as Puducherry, it makes for a great backpacking destination. You will definitely be left awestruck by the colonial-era buildings, churches, and temples, and of course, the famous beaches. This makes it one of the few places to visit in South India which is preferred by mainstream and offbeat travelers alike.
Wayanad
A stunningly beautiful plateau nestled in the hills of the Western Ghats, Wayanad. It is one of the most picturesque areas of God’s own country Kerala. A part of the Nilgiris Biosphere Reserve, this charmingly rustic town is loaded with breathtaking waterfalls, fascinating caves, vast spice plantations, and exotic wildlife. This enchanted beauty of the Western Ghats is definitely a must visit.
Goa
Love beaches and volleyball?Looking to end this year with a lot partying? If yes, Goa is your ultimate winter holiday destination because of various reasons. This place comes alive especially during the winter months because of all-night parties and the insanely enthusiastic crowd. With a countless number of restaurants serving the freshest and the best of seafood, there’s no way you can resist. The hippest and happening place in India! With live gigs at the local pubs, food festivals, and the most awaited. The Sunburn music festival, there’s so much to do in Goa this winter!
Recommended: Top 15 Off Beat and Must Do Things in Goa you should note for your next trip
And, the list goes on and on. With so much happening this winter, there’s no reason why you must sit back and laze around. Have a great December, Bengaluru!
If You don’t want to miss our next Post then Like and Follow MetroSaga on Facebook and Instagram or simply download our Android App
You can also Subscribe to MetroSaga for newsletters.
