Do you love the cold but cannot bear the freezing temperatures? Are you too willing to go on that one winter trip but refrain from entering snow-clad hills and valleys? South India’s winters are then just perfect for you. Winter in South India is quite different from that in the North. While some northern regions experience near-freezing temperatures, the south remains comparatively warmer.
South India boasts picturesque valleys, lush green mountains, and winding roads that weave through some of the most beautiful landscapes you’ll ever encounter. With its many hill stations, charming temple towns, and offbeat destinations, the region attracts tourists year-round. However, during winters, these places offer something that’s best experienced rather than penned down. Keep reading to find out what these places have in store for you this winter.
Also Read: North India Vs South India: Which Is The Better Tourist Destination & How To Pick
Destinations In South India For A Winter Weekend Getaway
1. Coorg, Karnataka
Located in the Western Ghats of southwestern Karnataka, Coorg is one of the best winter destinations in South India to visit. What makes Coorg a tourist favourite is its quaint hilltop location, lush green coffee plantations, and plenty of tourist attractions to visit – both natural and manmade. Also, if you’re here, do not miss out on authentic Kodava cuisine. Kodava Mudi Chekke Barthad (jackfruit along with black chana dish), Kumbala curry, steamed rice dumplings with pork, as well as the iconic bamboo shoot curry are some of the must-try delicacies here. Overall, it is a really calming and rewarding experience when visiting Coorg, thanks to its weather, nature and people.
Places To Visit In And Around Coorg:
Abbi Falls: This cascading waterfall is a popular tourist attraction here. There are steps leading to this place, and it is easily accessible from Coorg.
Raja’s Seat: Inarguably Coorg’s most famous landmark, Raja’s Seat offers panoramic views of the hill station and its surroundings. It’s guaranteed to give you the namesake king-like experience you didn’t know you needed!
Namdroling Monastery Golden Temple: An hour away is the calming Namdroling Monastery, also known as the Golden Temple. When you’re visiting it, make sure you avoid clicking pictures and absorb the calm, positive energy instead. The Tibetan settlement here is the second largest in India.
How To Reach Coorg
Coorg doesn’t have its own airport, but flying is the quickest way to reach the hill station. The closest international airport is Mangalore, 140 km away, while Mysore Airport is 120 km for domestic flights. After arriving at either Mangalore or Bangalore, you can hire a cab or take state-owned or private buses to Coorg.
2. Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Decked in the verdant green hills of the Nilgiris lies Ooty, or Udhagamandalam. This popular hill station was once crowned as the summer capital of the Madras presidency. Over time, the destination has evolved from being a famous honeymoon choice in the 90s to being a popular choice for family vacations as well as filmmakers. The local Toda people value the natural beauty of Ooty more than anything else, and that is reflected in their local customs and traditions. When in Ooty, make sure you try out local tea and savor some authentic Chicken Chettinad, piping hot vadas and other local delicacies. If you’re looking for a winter vacation in South India, Ooty is one of the best places to consider.
Places To Visit In And Around Ooty:
Botanical Gardens: The garden has several sections where you can have a glimpse of a variety of flowers and plants. Also, the famous movie Maine Pyaar Kiya was shot here!
Tea Museum: Located near the Doddabetta Tea Factory, the Tea Museum offers valuable information about the cultivation of tea, as well as the evolution of the beverage. Also, don’t forget to spot Doddabetta Peak – Tamil Nadu’s highest peak here!
St. Stephen’s Church: Said to be Nilgiri’s oldest church, it is an architectural marvel that dates back to the 19th century. Legend says the church’s timber and main beams were taken from Tipu Sultan’s Palace in Srirangapatna.
Also, a special mention to the UNESCO World Heritage Nilgiri Mountain Railway. This was the train atop which the iconic Shahrukh Khan song ‘Chhaiya Chhaiya’ was shot, so we totally recommend riding this train!
How To Reach Ooty
To reach Ooty by air, the most effective option is to fly. Coimbatore Airport, just 85 km from Ooty, is the nearest airport, handling both domestic and international flights and ranking as one of India’s busiest airports. After landing, you can take taxis or rent a car; the drive typically takes 2-2.5 hours and costs between INR 2,000-3,000.
3. Munnar, Kerala
Not mentioning Munnar in a list of best winter destinations in South India would be an oversight on our end. After all, if you want to experience winter in South India, Munnar would be at the top of your list. Sprawling tea gardens, rustic houses, and a laid-back life that makes city dwellers envious, this hill station has got it all. It also has plenty of places for a nature lover to explore, including the famous Eravikulam National Park and plenty of waterfalls and nature trails. If you’re visiting Munnar, make sure you visit the tea estates and bike your way through the hill station on your own.
Places To Visit In And Around Munnar:
Eravikulam National Park: This national park is home to majestic tigers, leopards, Nilgiri Tahr, wild jackals, as well as elusive flora and fauna. When in Munnar, don’t miss out on visiting this place.
Mattupetty Dam: With family-friendly activities like boating and nature walks, this tourist attraction is a favorite spot for having day picnics and other leisure activities.
Top Station: If you’d like to experience what being in cloud nine is, this place will make it happen, literally! This is the best place to get panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Munnar below.
How To Reach Munnar
You can reach Munnar via flights, trains, buses, or even your own vehicle. The nearest airport to Munnar is Cochin International Airport. From there, you have the option to take a bus or hire a private cab; however, a private cab to Munnar will cost you around INR 4,000 for a one-way trip.
If you prefer traveling by train, the closest railway stations are Aluva and Ernakulam Junction. Additionally, there are direct bus services available from cities like Kochi, Kottayam, Bangalore, Coimbatore, and Madurai, making it quite convenient to reach Munnar.
Also Read: 10 Hidden Places Near Munnar That Most Tourists Miss (Including 5 Beautiful Villages)
4. Varkala, Kerala
Moving away from the sky-high hill stations, it’s time to visit the pristine beaches of South India. Varkala is renowned for its beautiful beaches, temples, and churches, drawing tourists from across the country. Today, it is also famous for its meditation and yoga schools, attracting practitioners from around the world. When in Varkala, head to the beach on a misty morning to practice yoga and have your own Moana moment when you try surfing. And when the sun goes down, explore the lively markets of Varkala to get a glimpse of local handicrafts, souvenirs, and some rare finds. End your day with a hearty dinner as you enjoy authentic Kerala-style seafood and have a few drinks.
Places To Visit In And Around Varkala:
Papanasam Beach: This beach holds spiritual importance for many Hindus as it is believed to be the place where Lord Vishnu cleansed his sins.
Varkala Beach: This beach is arguably the most popular tourist attraction here. You can sunbathe, swim, and even try adrenaline-pumping water sports at this beach.
Janardhana Swamy Temple: This ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu offers stunning views from its steps, so make sure you don’t miss out on that.
How To Reach Varkala
To reach Varkala, the nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport, which is approximately 40 km away. The closest railway station is Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station, located about 3 km from the cliff area. Varkala is also well connected by road, making it easily accessible from Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, and Kochi.
Also Read: Complete Varkala Travel Guide: Cliffside Beaches, Itinerary, And Tips
5. Gokarna
Imagine you and your friends on an impromptu road trip through the Konkan coastline and stumbling across Gokarna. This quaint beach town has recently become popular, thanks to Instagram, and thousands of tourists are flocking to stay a night at Gokarna. During winters, the place is comparatively better to explore, but don’t expect empty beaches either. Set out to explore the beaches or indulge in some exciting activities. After all, there are plenty of things to do when in Gokarna, and something for every type of traveler. So, when are you visiting Gokarna?
Places To Visit And Experiences To Try In Gokarna:
Yana Rock Caves: This place is home to some of the most unique rock formations in the world that soar up to 390 feet. There is also a dedicated shivlinga at the base of one of the rock formations.
Murudeshwara Temple: Situated just 15 minutes away from Gokarna, stands the second tallest statue dedicated to Shiva in the world. The majestic temple overlooks the expansive sea and an open sky that is nothing short of spectacular.
While in Gokarna, you can also explore a plethora of activities and experiences such as scuba diving, yoga by the beach, meditation workshops, surfing, camping, and even staying at a tree house. Also, while you’re here, do not miss out on trekking to the scenic Om Beach, shaped like a literal ‘Om’ (a symbol in Hinduism)!
How To Reach Gokarna
To reach Gokarna by air, the closest airport is Vasco Da Gama – Dabolim Airport, located 154 kilometers away. If you’re traveling by train, the nearest railway station is Gokarna Road Railway Station, just 9 kilometers from the town, followed by Karwar Railway Station at 58 kilometers. Additionally, Gokarna has a bus station with services available from major cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Bangalore.
Author’s Note
I have visited all these places in South India, and I can assure you that you will fall in love with Munnar. While Munnar can be crowded and touristy, the misty rolling tea plantations and stunning locations like Kolukkumalai Sunrise Point and Lockhart Tea Estate will truly mesmerize you with their beautiful views. The same goes for Ooty and Coorg; both of these hill stations are peaceful, and I loved exploring them for five days. If you visit Ooty, make sure to stay in Coonoor for three days as well, and don’t miss the toy train ride from Coonoor to Ooty.
Summing Up
Here we’ve listed out the top 5 places to visit in winter in South India. Whether it’s the beach towns of Gokarna and Varkala or the picturesque hill stations of Ooty and Munnar, there’s something for everyone. If you’re looking for a winter vacation in South India, make sure you include these in your top 5 as well!
