UK
Southern India Holidays
The south, more exotic than the north, is the crossroads of many cultures and predominately comprises of the states of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Telangana. One of the best places to visit in southern India, Tamil Nadu is the better known of the three and offers the chance to discover some of India's greatest temple treasures. The religious complexes in Madurai, Kumbakonam, Chidambaram and Tanjore are exceptional whilst the exquisite mansions of Karaikudi and the picturesque former French colony of Pondicherry are fascinating places to explore and can form the basis of an excellent cultural and heritage tour. To the north, visit the regal city of Mysore, then enter underexplored Karnataka. Highlights here include the deserted Hindu city of Hampi, the temples of Belur and Halebid, the stunning Islamic architecture of Bijapur and the excellent nature reserves of Nagarhole and Bandipur where wildlife safaris can be arranged. Hyderabad, capital of neighbouring Telangana, is a grand city and home to a number of impressive monuments including the 17th century Char Minar, Chowmahalla Palace and 700 year old Golconda Fort, and provides a fascinating contrast to the wider region.
