Here is my list of the best places to visit in Tamil Nadu. In general when you are planning a trip to any part of India, prepare to be enthralled with an explosion of colours, music, food, and culture. While most tourism agencies will recommend the same tourist spots, it always helps to experience a personal touch.

My experiences exploring the captivating state of Tamil Nadu in southern India are worth sharing. Having visited this beautiful place multiple times, I have discovered a variety of attractions and activities that cater to different interests and preferences. Without further ado, let us travel through Tamil Nadu together

Why is Tamil Nadu the perfect place to visit for history & ARCHITECTURE buffs?

Tamil Nadu is a haven for historians and cultural enthusiasts, with its rich and diverse historical heritage that spans centuries. The state boasts an incredible array of ancient temples, each with its unique architectural style and cultural significance. From the grandeur of the Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur to the intricate carvings of the Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai, these temples offer a glimpse into the artistic and architectural achievements of the Chola and Pandya dynasties.

Furthermore, Tamil Nadu is home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Mahabalipuram. Its rock-cut monuments, temples, and the iconic Shore Temple are a testament to the architectural brilliance of the Pallava dynasty. Don’t forget to explore the famous Arjuna’s Penance, a massive open-air bas-relief that depicts scenes from Indian mythology.

The state’s historical sites, including Chettinad mansions, colonial-era buildings, and rock fortresses, provide a window into the evolving style of architecture as well as the recorded history of Tamil Nadu, making it an ideal destination for history enthusiasts.

What can nature enthusiasts enjoy in Tamil Nadu?

Tamil Nadu is known for its incredible natural beauty. The state offers a perfect playground for outdoor travelers and nature enthusiasts. For those who appreciate the great outdoors, head to Ooty, also known as the ‘Queen of Hill Stations.’ This picturesque hill station offers lush tea plantations, serene lakes and beautiful gardens. You can take a ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. You can explore the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, where verdant tea plantations, dense forests and cascading waterfalls await.

The tranquil Yercaud and its emerald lake offer opportunities for boating, while the beaches along the Tamil Nadu coast, especially in places like Rameswaram and Kanyakumari, are perfect for water sports. Birdwatchers can flock to the mangroves and wetlands in places like Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary and Point Calimere Wildlife and Bird Sanctuary. The Mudumalai National Park is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. Take a jeep safari to spot elephants, tigers, and various other animals in their natural habitat. It’s an unforgettable experience for all nature and animal lovers.

See also: Best time to visit Tamil Nadu

Are there Beach Holidays in Tamil Nadu?

If sun, sand, and sea are what you seek, Tamil Nadu has got you covered. Marina Beach in Chennai is the second-longest urban beach in the world. And from the bustling Marina Beach in Chennai to the serene shores of Mahabalipuram, there’s a beach for every mood. Engage in beach activities like swimming, beach volleyball, or simply soaking up the sun. Don’t miss the delectable local seafood offered by the beachside stalls.

For a more peaceful experience, catch the spectacular sunrise or sunset views at destinations like Kanyakumari. Engaging in watersports such as surfing, snorkeling, or boating in places like Rameswaram can add excitement to your beach holiday. Also, be mindful of the cultural significance of some coastal areas, like the Ramanathaswamy Temple in Rameswaram. In essence, a Tamil Nadu beach holiday offers a blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration along its beautiful coastal stretches.

LAND OF TEMPLES IN TAMIL NADU

Tamil Nadu is known as the “Land of Temples,” and it’s a great destination for spiritual travelers. Kanchipuram, known for its temples and silk sarees, is a pilgrimage site. The Ekambareswarar Temple and Kailasanathar Temple are remarkable examples of Dravidian architecture.

The state is home to some of India’s most revered temples, each steeped in history and spirituality. From the majestic Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai to the tranquil Arunachaleswarar Temple in Tiruvannamalai, these sacred sites offer a unique opportunity for spiritual introspection and devotion. Tamil Nadu’s numerous pilgrimage destinations cater to a wide spectrum of faiths and beliefs, making it a diverse spiritual landscape.

The meditative ambiance of ashrams like the Isha Yoga Center and the Ramana Ashram in Tiruvannamalai offers seekers a serene escape from everyday life. The annual festivals, like the Chariot Festival in Puri or the Natyanjali Dance Festival in Chidambaram, provide a chance to witness and participate in age-old spiritual traditions.

BEST PLACES TO VISIT TAMIL NADU FOR CULTURE AND ART

Tamil Nadu is a treasure trove of ancient traditions, classical arts, and architectural wonders. Its grand temples, such as the Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur and the Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai, are architectural marvels that stand as testament to the state’s rich history. The vibrant and intricate dance forms like Bharatanatyam and classical music traditions are celebrated through numerous cultural festivals and performances.

The Chettinad region showcases unique heritage mansions, while the colonial-era architecture in places like Chennai and Pondicherry adds a distinct flavor to the state’s cultural tapestry. With its diverse cuisine, silk weaving traditions and colorful festivals, Tamil Nadu offers a burst of culture at every corner.

One of the best cultural experiences I’ve had in Tamil Nadu is when I attended a traditional Bharatanatyam dance performance. Chennai has various cultural centers and theaters where you can witness this classical dance form.

If you’re a fan of arts and crafts, a visit to Dakshina Chitra is a must. This living museum showcases the art, architecture, lifestyles and crafts of South India. It’s an enriching experience for anyone interested in the region’s heritage.

BEST PLACES TO VISIT TAMIL NADU FOR MOUTH WATERING FOOD

Tamil Nadu is a food lover’s paradise. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor authentic South Indian cuisine.Food enthusiasts can savor iconic South Indian dishes like dosa, idli and vada, often accompanied by an array of chutneys and sambar, for breakfast. The exquisite biryanis of Chettinad and the delectable Chettinad chicken curries are a must-try for those seeking an explosion of flavors.

Seafood lovers can relish the freshest catch from the Bay of Bengal, while those with a sweet tooth can indulge in Tamil Nadu’s famous Mysore pak, halwa and filter coffee. If you’re in the mood for street food, you can explore bustling local markets and relish snacks like crispy bondas and spicy bajjis.

When in Chennai, head to a local eatery to relish a traditional South Indian thali. The combination of rice, curries and condiments will give your taste buds a delightful tour of regional flavors.

Where can we find the thrill of adventure in Tamil Nadu?

Tamil Nadu isn’t just about temples and culture; it’s also a hidden gem for adventure seekers.. Trekkers can explore the Western Ghats, where lush forests and towering peaks provide breathtaking trails. Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy thrilling activities like surfing in Mahabalipuram, snorkeling in Rameswaram, or jet skiing in Marina Beach. Try your hand at windsurfing, scuba diving, or even go on a catamaran ride.

The Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a unique and scenic train journey through tea gardens, perfect for train enthusiasts. Yercaud and Yelagiri in the Eastern Ghats are ideal for trekking and adventure activities like ziplining. Wildlife enthusiasts can explore the abundant national parks and sanctuaries, such as Mudumalai and Kalakkad Mundanthurai, home to a diverse range of flora and fauna.

Shopping in TAMIL NADU

When in Tamil Nadu, you can’t miss the opportunity to shop for exquisite silk sarees, with Kanchipuram being the ultimate destination for these finely woven marvels. Each saree tells a story of intricate craftsmanship and vibrant colors. Another must-buy is the iconic Tanjore paintings, known for their detailed work and use of gold foil. For handcrafted bronze statues and traditional jewelry, a visit to Swamimalai is a must.

The bustling markets of Chennai, like T. Nagar and Pondy Bazaar, offer everything from clothing and accessories to electronics and home decor. Explore Chettinad’s antique stores for unique finds, and when it comes to spices, the markets in Madurai are a spice lover’s paradise. Don’t forget to haggle for the best deals!

Tamil Nadu is a diverse and vibrant destination with something to offer every type of traveler. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, spirituality, culture, food, adventure or shopping, Tamil Nadu has it all. I hope my experiences and recommendations help you plan your trip to this incredible part of India. Remember to embrace the local culture and immerse yourself in the warmth and hospitality of the Tamil people.

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If you are somebody who enjoys travelling to faraway places, experiencing new cultures and languages, tasting exotic and delicious food and immersing yourself in the spiritual presence of nature, then read about Best places to visit in Sikkim. This northeastern gem of India is a paradise for nature lovers, adventure seekers and those seeking peace in the lap of the Himalayas. Enjoy this virtual tour of some of the best places I have visited and activities I enjoyed in Sikkim.

1. Gangtok: The Enchanting Capital

Our adventure begins in Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. The moment you step foot in this charming city, you will be greeted by the crisp mountain air and many friendly faces. The colourful markets and delicious street food are a delight for your senses. Don’t forget to visit the Enchey Monastery, a serene place where you can witness the spiritual side of Sikkim.

For panoramic views, head to the Tashi View Point, which offers breathtaking vistas of the Kanchenjunga mountain range. It is especially magical during sunrise. The Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is a must-visit to explore Tibetan culture and heritage. And if you’re up for some adventure, try paragliding in the nearby village of Saramsa.

2. Tsomgo Lake: A Jewel in the Mountains

A short drive from Gangtok takes you to the mesmerising Tsomgo Lake, also known as Changu Lake. This high-altitude lake is a sparkling jewel nestled amidst the mountains, ideal for photography and meditation. The lake is often frozen during the winter, creating an ethereal landscape. You can also visit the nearby Baba Mandir, a shrine dedicated to an Indian soldier.

3. Nathula Pass: A Gateway to Tibet

A little further up, you will be face to face with Nathula Pass, a gateway to Tibet. This is one of the highest motorable roads in the world. The breathtaking drive to Nathula Pass was an adventure in itself. You will need to obtain a permit to visit this area due to its proximity to the international border. The view of snow-clad peaks, clear blue skies and the iconic “You are at the roof of the world” sign is something I will never forget.

4. Lachung and Lachen: The Hidden Gems

Now, let us head north to explore two hidden gems of Sikkim: Lachung and Lachen. These villages offer a true escape from the bustling city life. Surrounded by lush meadows and snow-capped peaks, they are perfect for those seeking tranquillity and solitude.

In Lachung, make sure to visit the Yumthang Valley, often referred to as the Valley of Flowers. During spring, the valley is adorned with a riot of colours, with countless alpine flowers in full bloom. Yumesamdong, also known as Zero Point, is another attraction for those craving a snowy landscape.

Lachen serves as the base camp for the challenging trek to Gurudongmar Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world. The pristine beauty of this lake is a sight to behold, and, therefore, totally worth the tiring trek. Remember to acclimatise first and consult local authorities before attempting this trek, as it involves high altitudes.

5. Pelling: A Glimpse of the Past

Next on the itinerary is Pelling, a small town in West Sikkim. Pelling is famous for its historical ruins and monasteries. The Pemayangtse Monastery is a must-visit for its ancient artefacts and the stunning view of the Kanchenjunga peak. The Rabdentse Ruins, once the capital of Sikkim, offer a glimpse into the region’s history.

But what interested me most was the Khecheopalri Lake, believed to be a wish-fulfilling lake. Surrounded by lush green forests, it’s a peaceful place to take a leisurely walk (and make a wish or two!).

6. Yuksom: The Trailhead to Treks

Yuksom, the historic town, is the starting point for many of Sikkim’s famous treks, including the Goecha La trek. If you are an adventure enthusiast, consider embarking on a multi-day trek, which will reward you with stunning views of the Himalayan peaks and pristine alpine landscapes. What makes this even more fun if you trek in a group, swapping stories and making new friendships.

7. Ravangla: A Birdwatcher’s Paradise

For nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers, Ravangla is a hidden paradise. The Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for wildlife and bird species. The Rayong Sunrise Viewpoint offers panoramic views of the white peaks and the Teesta River meandering through the valley. The Tathagata Tsal, also known as the Buddha Park, is home to a colossal statue of Buddha and is an oasis of peace and serenity. Visiting the Buddha made me feel peaceful and worry-free, and I highly recommend this tourist stop. 

8. Namchi: The Land of Pilgrimage

For those on a spiritual journey, it is best to visit Namchi, the capital of South Sikkim. Namchi is a land of pilgrimage and cultural significance. The Char Dham, a complex with replicas of four revered Indian pilgrimage destinations, is a spiritual site. The Samdruptse Monastery houses a gigantic statue of Guru Padmasambhava, and the Siddheshwar Dham offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills. Whether you are travelling for a religious pilgrimage or simply looking for spiritual upliftment, Namchi offers something soothing for the soul.

Adventure Activities in Sikkim

If you crave recreational activities and adventure, Sikkim has you covered. White-water rafting in the Teesta River, yak safaris in high-altitude meadows, mountain biking through the rugged terrain, and rock climbing in various locations will get your adrenaline pumping. The Teesta River is famous for its challenging rapids and stunning riverbanks, guaranteeing a thrilling ride. Experienced guides will ensure your safety while you navigate the rapids.

Indulge in Sikkimese Cuisine

Beyond the best places to visit in Sikkim, you can not have a  full travel experience is complete without savoring the local cuisine. In Sikkim, you must try momos (steamed dumplings) and thukpa (noodle soup). These Tibetan-influenced dishes are not only delicious but also widely available, not to mention delicious and fulfilling. And if you feel experimental, try Chang, a local millet-based alcoholic beverage. It’s part of the rich Sikkimese culture and adds a unique flavor to your meals.

See more: Best time to visit Northeast India

Practical Tips for Travelling in Sikkim

Travelling to any new destination requires some research about its rules and customs. The same goes for Sikkim. Here are some travel tips to keep in mind when you are planning your visit to Sikkim. 

• Permits: Certain areas in Sikkim require permits for Indian and foreign nationals. Make sure to check and obtain the necessary permits in advance.
• Weather: Sikkim experiences various weather conditions throughout the year. Spring and autumn are generally the best times to visit. Winter can be extremely cold, while monsoon season may bring heavy rains.
• Altitude Sickness: Many places in Sikkim are at high altitudes. Take your time to acclimatize and drink plenty of water.
• Respect the Local Culture: Sikkim has a rich and diverse culture, but some places require conservative clothing and behaviors. Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
• Transport: Roads in Sikkim can be steep and winding. Hire a local driver who is familiar with the terrain.

Sikkim is a land of breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and incredible adventures. I hope my travel guide helps you plan your journey and experience the magic of this Himalayan wonderland, just as I did. So pack your bags, embrace the mountains, and create memories that will last a lifetime in the beautiful state of Sikkim.

In a warming planet, travel is always a moral dilemma for an environmentally conscious traveler. While the decision to travel especially long distances will always be debatable, we at India Someday want to help you travel in the most sustainable way possible.So

We present you with detailed travel suggestions and routes that are extremely sustainable with a low carbon footprint and give you ideas on how you can off-print the CO2 footprint of your flights to India.

Have a conversation with us, we would love to help you plan the most sustainable India Holiday, we promise without any greenwashing.

Five sustainable travel ideas for India

Sustainable travel in India is actually much easier than you think. At a per capita level, India has one of the lowest Carbon footprints in the world, so travel like most locals travel.

1. Pick the right time to travel to India

If you pick the right time to visit India, you can travel across the country staying in non-air-conditioned rooms and traveling by non-air-conditioned trains.

In general you would never require heating in India, unless you are visiting the Himalayas during the winter. Having said that, North India, like Delhi and Rajasthan, can get down to 5-8 degrees celsius in the winter.

We would recommend traveling to India between Mid November to end February, the weather is fine in both North and South India. You could do all your travel, stay and train w/o ever using air conditioning.

Read also: Best time to visit India

2. Travel across India by train

India boasts of one the largest rail networks in the world. Unlike certain western countries, the Indian railway network is primarily built to transport people, not goods.

You can criss-cross the length and breadth of the country using trains. There are trains that take you from the southern tip of India to Kashmir, the northernmost state of India, a journey over 4 days.

There are different classes in each train, and if you choose a non air conditioned class you would be using one of the most sustainable modes of transport possible. Well apart from traveling by foot 🙂

We would love to help you plan a detailed travel route using only trains when possible across your trip in India.

3. Travel by local buses when trains are not possible

There are certain routes in India which are not connected by trains, especially the mountains. However, they are always connected by local buses.

Using a combination of trains, local buses, some advance planning and a little patience you can travel across India without ever using a plane or taxi.

See more: Explore India in four weeks

4. Stay at homestays/B&Bs and farmstays

India offers wonderful homestays and B&Bs across the country. They are small so offer warmth and interactions with the family but most importantly they are run like an Indian Household.

Most Indian households are sustainable, limited use of air conditioning, wise use of water, food is prepared in small quantities, excess packaging when possible is avoided.

Your environment footprint will be significantly smaller if you avoid staying at hotels and opt to stay at Homestays/B&Bs and Farmstays.

At India Someday, we love family run places and can plan your trip by having you stay at sustainable accommodations all through your holiday.

5. Avoid meat completely when in India

It is common knowledge that a low meat, or a vegetarian diet is the most sustainable diet for our planet. India is paradise if you wish to avoid eating meat but still enjoy a wide array of eating options.

You will never be hungry in India or bored when ordering food even if you decide to be strictly vegetarian. From Breakfast, Lunch, dinner and an evening snack you will find non-meat eating options everywhere.

Four sustainable travel routes across India

We can plan multiple travel routes across India avoiding using flights and private taxis completely. Given a choice we would always recommend using train travel as much as possible, it offers more comfort, a great cultural experience and is very economical.

We illustrate three travel routes that can be planned using mainly trains and the occasional bus journey, in addition we would have to stay at sustainable accommodations across your trip.

Delhi – Varanasi – Agra – Ranthambore – Jaipur – Pushkar – Jodhpur – Udaipur – Delhi

If you are looking at exploring the highlights of North India, this travel route will hit all the gems. From Varanasi, the cradle of Hinduism to Agra, home to the Taj Mahal. You would explore the highlights of Rajasthan and also visit the National Park of Ranthambore where you can spot the Bengal Tiger

This route, with the exception of Jodhpur to Udaipur where you would need to take a local bus (or a taxi as that allows you to stop and visit the Kumbhalgarh Fort and the marvelous Ranakpur Temple), can be completely traveled only using trains.
You will have take atleast two overnight train journeys i.e. from Varanasi to Agra and Udaipur to New Delhi. Do not fear overnight trains, they are comfortable and a wonderful experience.

See more: Travel routes for North India

Delhi – Rishikesh – Amritsar – Jaipur – Agra – Delhi

If you are starting your trip in New Delhi but wish to visit more spiritual places and explore the foothills of the Himalayas we recommend the above route.

Rishikesh is by the foothills of the Himalayas on the banks of gorgeous Ganges. It is considered as the Yoga capital of the world, it is both a spiritual and adventurous destination. They have daily hindu rituals on the river and offer hikes, white water rafting and more.

Amritsar is home of the Golden Temple, the most sacred temple for the Sikh community.

The entire route can be stitched together using only trains. Certain connections, for example Amritsar to Jaipur, do not have a daily rain connection so it has to be planned with a little flexibility.

Mumbai – Goa – Hampi – Mysore – Bangalore

Starting your trip in Mumbai, fancy some time on the balmy beaches of Goa and wish to mix it up with ancient temples and ruins? This is a perfect route for you.

Hampi is a magical destination with wonderful ruins and beautiful countryside. Often ignored by tourists as it is a little hard to reach, however we can highly recommend visiting this gem.

This entire route can be achieved just using the wonderful Indian railways. In addition to your trip being sustainable you will also get to travel on a couple of gorgeous train journeys i.e. Mumbai to Goa and Goa to Hampi.

Should you have time to explore India, from Bangalore you can explore Tamil Nadu or Kerala and we would be happy to plan this for you just using trains and local buses.

Goa – Kannur – Kochi – Allepey – Madurai – Pondicherry – Chennai

Planning to explore South India, we can recommend this wonderful travel route that takes you across different beach destinations, the backwaters of Kerala and then into wonderful temple towns of Tamil Nadu.

The above route can be traveled using only trains, but we recommend booking them well in advance as many of them can get sold in advance. The above route can be expanded to add more destinations along the way.

Read more: Travel routes for South India

To conclude, being sustainable is deeply rooted in Indian culture. Most Indians follow a very sustainable lifestyle, even when traveling. Once in idea it is very easy to travel sustainably. We would love to speak to you and plan your sustainable Indian Holiday.

India Someday partners with a NGO that plants trees to offset CO2 footprint and provide livelihoods to people (Grow Trees). We encourage you to explore their website and look at planting trees using their platform. We can fully endorse them.

Have you seen all the shades of green there could possibly be in the world? Think again. Unless you’ve visited Kerala before, prepare to be overwhelmed with lush green beauty like never before. Where you love forests or the beach, coastlines or the hills, tea, coffee or local cuisine, Kerala is a paradise for travellers.

Best time to go

If you’re hoping to tour this beautiful state during pleasant weather, then you want to plan your visit to Kerala between September and March. That’s the best time, climate-wise if you want to experience the romance of lagoons, nippy canals and plantations. While the summer months are hot and humid, it’s still a great time to visit Kerala for Munnar beach and the hilly Wayanad. And if you’re searching for that spa treatment and deep body relaxation treatment, monsoon months June to August is your best bet.

Plan Your Trip: Optimal Time to Explore Kerala

Explore Further: Learn About the Ideal Time for India Travel

Where to Stay

While you have a host of luxurious resorts, colonial estates and hotels to choose from, there are also eco-beach resorts, for the more adventurous. But if you want an authentic slice of Kerala from the point of view of the locals, then try one of the many homestays available here, stay with and get to know the locals, and enjoy a home-cooked meal.

Related: India’s Lavish Hotel Destinations

How to get there

By Air: Kerala has four fully functional airports. Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, Kochi International Airport and Kozhikode International Airport, run both domestic and international flights, while Kollam Airport runs only domestic flights across the country. 

By Rail: Kerala is well-connected to major cities around the country by rail. There are about 200 railway stations that connect travellers throughout the state and to the rest of the country. There are express trains within the state that you can use for local transport. 

By Road: Kerala is easily accessible by road as well. NH 47, 17 and 49 are highways you can use to enter and leave Kerala, via Karnataka, Tamil Nadu or Andhra Pradesh. You use the local buses, taxis or book a private cab to travel at leisure.

By Water: You can also sail your way to Kerala, which is what the backwaters of Kerala are famous for. By coming via the Lakshadweep Island route, One can enter Kerala at Kochi (Cochin).

Places to Visit

Check out some of the less-beaten down tracks in this gorgeous state.

Edakkal Caves, Wayanad

If you’re into hiking, history, and adventure, a trip to Edakkal Caves is a must. It is said that Edakkal is one of the only known places in India to house carvings from the Stone Age. The carving depicts figures of the Neolithic and Mesolithic Age, as old as 6000 BC, if not more. The caves were accidentally discovered in the 1800s by a British Officer, who officially brought this prehistoric site to the world’s attention. The cave itself is a naturally formed, double-chambered cavern, and makes for great exploration.

Kappil Beach and Backwaters, Varkala

Varkala is a well-known travel spot, especially for its pristine backwater beach, with a lush coconut palm grove, golden sand. One of the reasons Kappil Beach is so beautiful is because it’s where the estuary meets the Arabian Sea. You can get away from the crowds at this peaceful beach or take a scenic drive through and around it via the coast road. During the tourist season, there are watersports and boat rides available.

Gavi, Periyar

Part of the Periyar Tiger Reserve, Gavi is a hotspot for wildlife enthusiasts and outdoor photographers. It is also a famous eco-tourism spot for conservationists, zoologists, students and researchers. Situated in the hills of Kerala, you get to soak in nature at its untainted best, and can also spot a host of wildlife including Nilgiri tahr, Kerala elephant, and the lion-tailed macaque. And there are also a lot of vantage points, too, for birdwatchers and ornithology students. There are over 250 species of birds in Gavi, including the great pied hornbill, woodpecker and kingfishers, to name a few.

Vagamon, Idukki 

Situated near Peermadu, in the Idukki district, Vagamon is a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts, picnickers, trekkers and paragliders. This hill station has lush green grass, a quaint town, and friendly and hospitable locals. You can come here for trekking trails, mountaineering, rock climbing and even paragliding! Vagamon is connected to a row of hills, namely Thangal, Murugan and Kurisumala, all of which make for great views of velvet landscapes, exciting trails and fond memories.

Muzhappilangad Beach, Kannur 

Considered the longest beach in Kerala, the Muzhappilangad Beach stretches along the Malabar coastline up to an impressive 5.5kms. Close to Calicut Station, it is Kerala’s only drive-in beach, where you can glide across golden sand and view the sunset along the Malabar Coastline. This is a great place to enjoy local cuisine, too, where you can get snacks along the beach. The black rocks protect the beach from deep currents, making it an ideal spot for swimmers, too. You can book a catamaran ride here, or go parasailing.

Keep in Mind

1. Get the necessary permissions beforehand
2. Don’t litter
3. Get to know the culture
4. Know the specialities
5. Be prepared for adventures
6. Get well-versed with the routes

It is no wonder that Kerala is considered God’s Own Country, with its natural splendour, vast landscapes, warm, golden beaches, and misty hill stations. There is something to be enjoyed for any and every traveller. And no matter how many times you visit Kerala, it may never leave your bucket list.

Whether it’s your first time travelling to India or your first time leaving your hometown to travel within India, what to pack has always been a challenging question. One of the most common doubts is what to wear in India. This subcontinent has various cultural traditions and norms, and it is essential to respect these norms. Besides that, India is a vast, diverse country, with different weather conditions across the region at the same time of the year. Taking culture and weather into account, dressing styles vary across different regions. What you wear in the South, in the month of June. would be entirely different from what you would wear in the Northeast. So, if you’re wondering how to dress for travelling in India, look no further.

WHAT TO WEAR IN INDIA – REGIONAL BREAKDOWN

URBAN INDIA

Every region in India has it’s own distinct cultural norms and traditions. Not to mention, terrain and weather conditions. So when you plan your trip, decide which parts of India you wish to visit. Metropolitan cities like Mumbai are certainly a good place to start, where the clothing can include jeans or loose pants and a light cotton shirt. You’ll find places like Mumbai, New Delhi or Goa to be less conservative. Being metropolitan cities, the locals are open minded and well versed with international trends. So your usual wardrobe won’t attract much attention in these regions.

Must Read: Street shopping in Mumbai – Dress like a local!

TOURIST TOWNS AND TEMPLES

As you travel into the interiors of the country, the attire becomes more traditional and modest. In order to blend in, it would be best to dress in a slightly more conservative manner. Women are expected to abide by several more cultural norms as opposed to men. This would include wearing clothing that is loose, with tops that cover the shoulders and bottoms that are knee length or below. As for men, shorts should be avoided, especially while visiting places of religious significance. One of the most handy tips is to keep a scarf along with you at all times. If you’re travelling up North, it’ll be cooler and less humid, so make sure you layer up with a thermal, jacket, and a scarf.

See Also: Navigating the Best of North India

One of the most comfortable attires to resort to, for women travelling in India, is light cotton pants paired with a long kurti. No matter which part of the country you are in, this is one outfit that will always be an appropriate choice of clothing. It’s comfortable, light and will help you blend in just right, thus avoiding any unwanted attention. At religious sights the dress code is more conservative. Men and women are expected to have their legs and shoulders covered and sometimes even their head, thus the scarf! If you’re uncertain as to what to wear in India, travel light and simply purchase a few outfits from local stores once you arrive in the country. 

Must Read: Tips for solo female travellers in India

TRAVEL TIPS on how to dress in india

SEASONAL CLOTHING REQUIREMENTS

The time of the year you decide to visit is paramount while determining what to wear in India. If you are travelling to India during the winter season, be sure to carry a warm jacket. Don’t be fooled by the sunny brochures. The temperatures drop considerably in December, especially in the Northern region. Fleece jackets are a good bet. However, if it’s summer you’re looking at, you want to carry breathable, lightweight shirts, long dresses and loose pants. Cottons are best for summer heat in India. Beach destinations like Goa, Gokarna, Pondicherry, are fairly relaxed when it comes to attire. Here, you can freely walk around in shorts, and wear swimsuits to the beach. One season to watch out for is the monsoon. It’ll be wet, soggy and humid for the most part. So you’ll need clothes that dry quickly, a pair of sturdy anti-slip shoes, less-maintenance outfits and a raincoat. 

Explore More: Tips for US Travelers Visiting India

PACK FOR THE WEATHER

Being a tropical country, India experiences a mix of  rainy, hot and humid, and cold and dry weather. Since it is such a large country, with weather varies depending on the region. Be sure to check the weather conditions while deciding what to wear in India and pack accordingly. Some monsoons can be exceptionally heavier than others and some hilly regions can turn out to be warm. A quick weather forecast around your travel dates will help you decide which clothes and accessories to pack. In any case, pack a hat, dupatta or scarf, walking shoes, a pair of shades, a light jacket and a good moisturiser, wherever you go.

Must Read: Best Time to Visit India

BLENDING IN CULTURALLY

India is a land of all kinds of festivals, whether they’re religious, food-related, seasonal, musical and even matrimonial! An Indian wedding is a sight to behold. So it’s a good idea to pack for at least one such occasion, should you be invited or inclined to attend! It’s important to wear modest clothing at such events out of respect for the locals, i.e. clothes that cover your body from neck to below the knees. A kurta-churidar set (loose collarless long shirt, with ankle-length leggingS) for men and salwar-kurtis for women should do just fine. But if you really want to dive into it, men can try dhotis (long unstitched piece of cloth wrapped around legs) in West Bengal or mundus (the southern equivalent) in Kerala. And women can try the popular saree (which has different styles of its own depending on the state of visit).

Also Read: Tips for UK Tourists Travelling to India

If you want to really blend in,  buy these at a local shop:

1. Kolhapuri Chappals (slippers)
2. Dupatta (Lightweight Indian scarf)
3. Kurtas/Kurtis
4. Pajama (loose-fitting pants for daily wear)
5. Chudis and jhumkas (traditional bangles and drop earrings)

Plan Your Adventure: Best Time to Explore Kerala

 

It can take more than one trip to truly absorb and experience the vibrant culture of this subcontinent. At least you’ll know how to dress and impress the locals! Don’t hesitate to try on different traditional attire, it’s not only beautiful but also extremely comfortable. The memories you create here will last a lifetime, so don’t forget to carry your camera.