South India, with its entrenched culture, rich history, and awe-inspiring landscapes, offers more than just the popular tourist trails that may spring to mind. Venture beyond the familiar, and you’ll uncover lesser-known, offbeat havens worth a lifetime of memories. Join us as we explore four enchanting escapes and what stands out in each.
Gokarna’s Beaches and Tranquil Aura:
If you are looking for a destination to enjoy uncrowded beaches, then Gorkana is the place to visit. It is a coastal town with beaches that run along the Arabian Sea. With the white, powdery sands of Half Moon Beach through your toes and the breeze through your hair, it will bring out the tranquil air that dominates in this small temple town.
You also have Om Beach and Kudle Beach for memorable evening walks. Gorkana prefers a more laid-back approach to nightlife – you are more likely to enjoy a bonfire than anything else. Tourists who want tranquil nights where you hear the crickets and the waves should definitely pick Gorkana for their stay.
An Eclectic Mix of Tradition and Contemporary Comforts: Goa’s Entertainment:
Goa may not be the typical offbeat destination like the rest of this list, but it offers the perfect mix of countryside pleasures and modern living for the traveller who can’t do without the trappings of modernity. One way to appreciate Goa’s rich heritage is through its vibrant music scene. Interact with the locals, witness the vibrant folk dances (like Fugdi and Dhalo), and move your feet to the traditional beat of the ghumot. The Sao Joao, Shigmo festivals, and Goa Carnival are wonderful opportunities to see different cultures and traditions when everyone from Goa celebrates.
But Goa’s duality (in eclectic entertainment) doesn’t end with tradition; it also offers a taste of contemporary comforts and activities. For example, those seeking a bit of laid-back entertainment can visit the offshore casinos, which offer a variety of table games and slot machines, including cabinets with many of the top winning slots you may be used to from virtual casinos. Conversely, thrill-seekers can enjoy water sports like parasailing, windsurfing, and water-skiing along the coastline—while a hot air balloon ride gets you a breathtaking bird’s eye view of the city as well as the beaches. Goa is perfect if you want to enjoy the rich culture of a new place, but not go completely off the grid.
Araku Valley: The Beauty of the Eastern Ghats:
Switching gears, Araku Valley is the perfect destination for your relaxed holiday. This hill station in Andhra Pradesh boasts lush greenery and the Eastern Ghats mountain range. Araku Valley is the place for “the curious tourist” who likes to take in the cultures they visit. If that is you, then you will surely enjoy the welcoming spirit of the locals as you come across the many indigenous tribes that live in this area. Get traditional handcrafts as souvenirs for your trip and do the traditional Dhimsa dance to take in the rich culture that remains preserved and removed from contemporary influences.
Badami’s Caves and Majestic Red Sandstone Temples:
Badami will take you back in time, with its cave temples etched out of cliffs of red sandstone. The relics here were left behind by the Chalukya dynasty, which was known for its artistic carvings. Besides the marvels that are the ancient temples, there is also the Agastya Tirtha lake and rugged hills that complete a landscape telling stories of a glorious past.
If you are the kind of tourist who enjoys exploring, then a hike to the top of the Badami Fort should be a treat for you. The panoramic view from here lets you take in the picturesque landscape and the countryside in a way that will titillate the historian in you.
Your South Indian Adventure Awaits:
South India’s unchartered paths offer a lot to explore (and you’ll get a mix of everything)—whether it’s the pristine beaches of Gokarna, majestic temples of Badami, or Araku Valley’s hill stations and mountainous ranges, you’re bound to enjoy your time in South India’s hidden gems.
A merger between traditional and modern entertainment, like in Goa, will also pique your interest. So, get ready for the trip of a lifetime when you set off the beaten track in your journey of discovery through South India.
Disclaimer:
CBD:
Qrius does not provide medical advice.
The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 (NDPS Act) outlaws the recreational use of cannabis products in India. CBD oil, manufactured under a license issued by the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, can be legally used in India for medicinal purposes only with a prescription, subject to specific conditions. Kindly refer to the legalities here.
The information on this website is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
Gambling:
As per the Public Gambling Act of 1867, all Indian states, except Goa, Daman, and Sikkim, prohibit gambling. Land-based casinos are legalized in Goa and Daman under the Goa, Daman and Diu Public Gambling Act 1976. In Sikkim, land-based casinos, online gambling, and e-gaming (games of chance) are legalized under the Sikkim Online Gaming (Regulation) Rules 2009. Only some Indian states have legalized online/regular lotteries, subject to state laws. Refer to the legalities here. Horse racing and betting on horse racing, including online betting, is permitted only in licensed premises in select states. Refer to the 1996 Supreme Court judgment for more information.
This article does not endorse or express the views of Qrius and/or its staff.
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