Here are five places in South India to visit over the long weekend
Chennai: If ‘travel more’ is on your New Year’s resolution list, you may have already started thinking about where to go during Pongal this year. In South India, this winter harvest festival is frequently observed on an auspicious day in January. A journey to the South is undoubtedly worthwhile, whether you enjoy food, cultural customs, or simply seeing people work to preserve their rich heritages.
Here’s a list of a few places to visit this Pongal:
Thanjavur:
The focus of Thanjavur is the architectural shrines, reflecting the rich beauty of the Chola empire. The Pongal festival is so inviting that the beautiful green surroundings provide a refreshing atmosphere, and the delectable sugarcane and Sakkarai Pongal tempts you to desire more! Kolams adorn the front of the home, and the elephant in the Shivan kovil is adorned with magnificent beads, flower garlands, and other decorations. In temples, the Jallikattu and katha kalakshepam are specialties.
Nagarhole Wildlife Sanctuary:
Nagarhole is one of Karnataka’s best wildlife getaways and an essential site to visit in South India, with rich wildlife, appealing vegetation, and a gorgeous lake. Despite sharing the same fauna as the neighbouring Bandipur national park, it draws less visitors due to its lesser-known status, adding to its allure. It is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the tiger, leopard, wild elephant, dhole, and gaur.
Dandeli:
Dandeli, known as South India’s adventure capital, is synonymous with calm and adventure and offers a diverse range of activities. If you enjoy adventurous trekking activities, you should visit the Syntheri Rocks in the city. Alternatively, experience the sense of adrenaline while whitewater rafting, boat rides, and kayaking at Kali River. While camping in tents, relax in the therapeutic Natural Jacuzzi and enjoy in the beauty of nature. At Dandeli Nature Sanctuary, you can also go on a wildlife safari to see exotic animals.
Wonderla Parks & Resort Bangalore:
Wonderla Bangalore is the best amusement park attracting thrill lovers who are planning a one-day trip. Wonderla has 3 Amusement parks in Kochi, Bangalore and Hyderabad and it’s known for its high-thrill, land, water and kids rides. There are about 60+ rides that can be enjoyed by people of all age groups. In essence, a trip to Wonderla is the ideal way to spend quality time with friends and family throughout the festive season.
Wonderla Resort, located right at the backyard of Bangalore Wonderla Amusement park . The Resort offers all luxurious rooms, fully equipped recreation areas, with all modern amenities. It serves as a home away from home for the visitors and allows them to enjoy a stress-free staycation. Check out a Wonderla website for more details.
Houseboat in Alleppey:
Imagine a vacation where all you do is float along tranquil, smooth waterways in a luxury, traditional Kerala houseboat, passing by some of the most beautiful sights Kerala has to offer. You sit back and relax as the houseboat navigates the smooth channels, taking in the views of the lush vegetation and beautifully gorgeous birds that call Vembanad Lake home. You might catch glimpses of Keralans going about their regular lives on the beach as you float by. Purchase fresh fish from merchants along the lake’s edge to enhance the value of this once-in-a-lifetime event, which can be prepared in style and served to you directly on the houseboat. Take a day sail or stay the night on one of the majestic Kettuveloms to celebrate Pongal amidst the peace and calm.
