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The mercury is rising and it is that time of the summer when holidays beckon. South India offers options of every kind to the traveller so you have a variety of places to choose from. Head to quiet retreat of the seashore in Devbagh beach or go to the unspoilt Horsley hills in Andhra. Get away from city life in Tamil Nadu with a visit to the Mudumalai wildlife sanctuary or simply enjoy the bustling port city of Fort Kochi. No matter whatever you want, we have a place for you to visit this summer. If you are spoilt for choices or simply confused about where to head with your family or loved ones to escape the heat, your search ends here as we bring a list of the best summer holiday destinations in South India.
Coorg
When in the midst of nature, there is no other option but to go green. Hit the outdoor trail. Soak in the beauty of the hills from Raja's seat, amble around in Madikeri or simply visit a coffee plantation to see the lifestyle of the locals. Try the local cuisine and pork lovers will gorge on the Pandi curry. Here is more on what to do and see in Coorg
Pic Credit: Thangaraj Kumaravel
Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary
Relax. Breathe easy. Feel the fresh air, hear the birds chirping and listen to the trumpeting of an elephant at night. Get away from the city life in Tamil Nadu. Mudumalai can be easily reached from Bangalore, via Mysore, and also from Ooty.
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Horsley Hills
Named after a British collector who chose this area for his summer residence, this is one of the lesser known summer getaways in Andhra Pradesh. Horsley Hills is approximately 165 km from Bangalore and 274 km from Chennai.Cut through a bright Gulmohar forest to reach this hill station. Simply stroll around to take in the flora. Do visit the Gangotri lake, the Horsley hills museum and the environment park. If you need more adventure sign up for zorbing or go rappelling. Cheap and good Andhra cuisine is available around and the Chenchu tribe in the area is known for their handicrafts.
Pic Credit: Andhra Tourism
Araku Valley
There are hill stations and then there is Araku valley. Unspoilt by the commercialisation, Araku Valley close to border of Odisha, is at a distance of 114km form Vizag and surrounded by the mountains of Raktakonda, Chitamogondi, Galikonda and Sunkarimetta. The valley boasts of the Ananthagiri and Sunkarimetta Reserved Forests which are known for their biodiversity. Also known for its coffee plantations, here is a list of attractions to see here.
Pic Credit: raj
Havelock Island
Feel the easy pace of life as you lose yourself on this tropical paradise in the Andamans. Try your hand at scuba diving or simply laze on the Radhanagar beach, named the best in Asia. Shop for seashell souvenirs, wooden artifacts and Nicobari crafts like bamboo work. Here is more on what to do and see in Havelock Island.
Pic Credit: beontheroad
Devbagh Beach
Far removed from the touristy Gokarna or Goa, Devbagh beach in Karnataka is ideal for spending a lazy day. If you have the mind of an explorer, make a trip to the Sadashivgad Fort whichis located on a 200ft hillock in the midst of forests. There is also a Durga temple nearby known for its design
Pic Credit:solarisgirl
Fort Cochin
Visit this sea port and city to stroll down the memory lanes of the 19th century past. The Hill Palace Museum, the largest archaelogical palace in South India will appeal to museum goers. Also include the spice market and Jew town in your itinerary while Princess town will show you the European architecture. Don't miss out on visiting Kumbalangi island, the eco-tourist village where you can sail in a country boat and mingle with the locals. Kerala parota and beef fry are ubiquitious. Give the roadside thattukadas a shot too. Junk Jewellery and spice shops should be added to your shopping list. Check out where to stay in Kochi.
Pic Credit: Aleksandr Zykov
Coonoor
Boasting the coolest climate in Tamil Nadu, Coonoor offers itself to the nature lover. So, you have solitary trails for the hiker and a bird watcher's paradise. For panaromic views go to Dolphin's nose and Lamb's Rock. Shop for locally made jams and chocolates. Hand embroidered linen is another specialty. Know more here.
Pic Credit: WIki Commons