South India is known as the land of great history, culture and architecture that narrate the story of ancient kingdoms, colonialism, and religious culture. South India holidays can be an ideal travel option to people who want to have a combination of culture and history. Since time immemorial, heritage sites constitute a network of gorgeous temples and great palaces that help the region to peep in the brilliant past of India. These are the best heritage sites to visit whether you are planning a cultural tour of South India or a quick holiday to unwind and have a taste of the past.

Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram is situated on the picturesque Coromandel Coast in the state of Tamil Nadu and is renowned by the presence of monuments that belong to the 7 th and 8 th century Pallava dynasty and are listed as the UNESCO World Heritage site. One of the most recognizable constructions of the region is the Shore Temple, which is a beautiful temple, located near the sea. Its stone-cut walls are designed with architectural excellence of ancient India.

Another sight worth seeing in Mahabalipuram is the Pancha Rathas which are a group of five chariot-shaped monolithic, rock-cut temples. Every ratha (chariot) is devoted to another deity, and the carvings are very elaborate, reflecting an excellent craftsmanship. Mahabalipuram is an interesting place to visit so as to have a glimpse of early Dravidian architecture and art.

Hampi

Hampi is a one of the most dramatic heritage sites in South India and is situated in Karnataka. Being once the prosperous capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, Hampi is currently a large archaeological land that is home to the ruins of palaces, ancient markets, temples, and fortifications. One of the representations of the spiritual and architectural history of the region is the Virupaksha Temple that is still functioning nowadays.

Stroll through the large stone buildings of the Vittala Temple complex, which is known to have musical pillars and huge stone chariot. The view of hillocks boulder-laden and the river Tungabhadra contribute to the mystic nature of Hampi. An Indian tour of the South world cannot be complete without a trip to Hampi, which provides a complete experience of the Indian medieval history.

Madurai

Madurai, considered to be one of the most ancient Indian cities in South India is known as the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu. The Meenakshi Amman Temple is the masterpiece of the city of Goddess Meenakshi and god Sundareswarar. The temple itself is a magnificent choice of Dravidian architecture with its towering gopurams (gateway towers) distilled with exquisite sculptures of gods, animals and other mythological figures.

Other than being a marvelous structure, the temple is also a living worship center, with thousands of worshipers coming every day since its construction. Making a visit to Madurai part of your holiday to South India will be a thorough experience to the religious practices, colourful festivals and local food that will be an indication of centuries old heritage.

Mysore Palace

Mysore Palace is the monument of the wealth of the dynasty of the Wodeyars which reigned over the Kingdom of Mysore throughout the centuries. This palace is in Karnataka and is a mixture of Indo-Saracenic, Dravidian and Islamic architectures and is an awe-inspiring structure. Beautiful domes, wide courtyards, fancy arches and a large durbar hall make Mysore Palace a kind of preview into the life of the Indians royalties.

The palace is particularly magnificent at Dasara festival when thousands of lights are lit up in it to provide magic-like atmosphere. Mysore is one of the most visited destinations by heritage lovers in a South India tour which makes it historical.

Fort Kochi

Fort Kochi is another place which should be included in the list of the places visited by the lovers of history and seekers of culture when planning holidays to Kerala. The area represents the colonial history of Kerala, having Portuguese, Dutch and British influences. Chinese traditional fishing nets, centuries old churches, and colonial bungalows are characteristics that create a sense of nostalgia.

One of the oldest European churches in India is the St. Francis Church, in which Vasco da Gama used to be buried. The Fort Kochi quarter with its pavements, art galleries and traditional hotels is a special fusion of Indian and European cultures. Tourists have an opportunity to walk around the town and enjoy its ancient beauty which is a must in South India holidays.

Chettinad

A holiday in South India is not only about sightseeing exotic landscapes and beaches it is also all about the exploration of the rich heritage of the land. South India is the treasure trove of history and culture, not only with the ancient temples and palaces but also with the colonies and the homes of merchants. No matter whether you choose to have a pre-organized holiday based on the South India tour or you design your own tour, these heritage sites will be places that you will never forget as they will make you feel a part of the magnificent Indian past.

To a person who wants to spend their holidays to Kerala, a combination of nature and cultural heritage, particularly in such a place as Fort Kochi, offers a certain touch to the trip. These places are not just tourist attractions but living museums where the architectural resourcefulness, spiritual richness and historical richness of India can be observed.

Conclusion

Chettinad in Tamil Nadu is known as the emblem of architectural designs and the rich culture. The area also housed affluent business people and their big mansions signify affluent living and the artistry. Such heritage houses have large courtyards, beautifully carved wooden doors, old furniture and beautiful tile work.

When one visits Chettinad, the person gets to experience a life that was lived back in the past. Visitors will be able to stay in select of these restored mansions, as well as indulge in the authentic South Indian food, which is an ideal vacation spot to those who want to have a culturally rich experience, a South Indian vacation.