Unexplored Destinations of South India

South India has a lot to offer to its tourists. Some of the popular tourist destinations of India like the Kanyakumari, Kochi, Goa, Pondicherry, Alleppy, Coorg, Kodaikanal, etc are all situated in the south. But apart from these, there are yet numerous destinations in the southern part of the sub-continent that are yet unexplored and worth a shot for your next trip. Mentioned below are a few places that are yet unheard of.

Araku Valley



Located 120kms away from Vizag is the beautiful Araku Valley. The train journey to this place is an experience worth trying for anyone visiting this place. Passing through tunnels, waterfall streams, hillsides and greenery, is just mesmerizing. The road journey is equally enchanting too. But nothing prepares you for the scenic beauty that Araku has in store for its visitors. Araku has a calling for adventure lovers and nature lovers alike. The valley is blessed with lush forests, streaming waterfalls, challenging trekking points, picturesque landscape, coffee plantation and accommodating cosy weather. It is also home to many tribals who boast the manufacturing of India’s first tribal growers’ organic coffee brand. If you are looking for solitude and a quick getaway, Araku Valley has just the right things to grab your attention. 

Gandikota



On the bank of river Penna, 15km from Jammalamadugu in Kadappa district is the village of Gandikota. If you ever planned on visiting ‘The Grand Canyon’ but couldn’t, don’t get disheartened. You can fulfil that dream of your in Gandikota as the gorge formations in the village have earned it the title of ‘Grand Canyon of India’ or ‘Arizona of India’. This tiny village attracts adventure lovers due to the budding sports activities like kayaking, trekking, camping, zip-lining, etc. The village also allures history-lovers alike due to the Gandikota Fort situated here. One can view the canyon from the fort walls and see the Penna river lazily flowing through it. The fort walls boast intricate carvings on the inside and also offers a panoramic view of the hills and the valleys. Built-in red sandstone the fort stands adjacent to the Gandikota temple and a mosque being an ideal example of ‘Unity in Diversity’.

Pollachi



40 km away from Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu lies nature’s paradise called ‘Pollachi’, a small town village as known as the coconut city because of the coconuts that are sent from here to different cities of India. The name Pollachi is derived from the Tamil word ‘PozhilVaichi’ which means ‘the land of natural wealth and prosperity. Adorned with tea gardens, mighty mountains and tall green trees Pollachi possess an unbridled beauty and tranquillity. With such a mesmerizing beauty, it is no news that this is a popular shooting destination. Almost 1500+ movies have been shot in the serene surroundings of Pollachi. Due to its closeness to the Western Ghats, Pollachi experiences pleasant weather all year round. 

Kalpetta



In the green paradise of Wayanad, on the Kozhikode- Mysore National Highway is the small unexplored town of Kalpetta. This town is still unpopular among tourists and hence, comparatively untouched by the crowds which add to its resplendency. Kalpetta is a refreshing visit if you’re looking to get away for a few days and relax in the company of nature. Kalpetta also has several trekking spots to tickle the adventurer in you. One can enjoy panoramic views of heart-shaped lakes, dense forests and the coffee plantations that surround this town. The constant mild fragrance of coffee and the pleasant climate here will offer you a feeling no less than that of bliss and serenity. Kalapetta also attracts nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts because of the scenic beauty that surrounds this town.