As summer arrives with its sweltering heat, all of us are searching for cool retreats. While Ooty and Munnar, the popular hill stations, become the go-to places, South India has some offbeat places in South India that guarantee relief from the hot sun. These undiscovered places have misty mountains, lush forests, and serene atmosphere—just right for a cool respite. If you’re tired of the usual spots and craving something new, here are five lesser-known destinations in South India to explore this summer. Pack your bags and get ready to beat the heat in style!
Why Choose Lesser-Known Destinations in South India?
South India is famous for beaches and temples, but it also boasts offbeat destinations in South India that are cool even in the summertime. These are not on the tourist radar, i.e., fewer tourists and more peace. From mountain mists to peaceful valleys, these locations offer a blend of nature, adventure, and relaxation. Visit these unusual South India destinations not only keeps you away from the sweltering heat but also gives you a chance to explore the unspoiled beauty of the destination. Ready to explore these secrets? Let’s start!
1.Agumbe, Karnataka: The Rainforest Retreat
Situated within the Western Ghats, Agumbe is one of the lesser-visited places in South India that is like a cool retreat. It has been referred to as the “Cherrapunji of the South” due to its heavy rains, and the village remains pleasantly cool in summers. Nestled in the dense rainforests, Agumbe is nature lover’s paradise. One can trek to Barkana Falls, see dramatic sunsets, or spot wild creatures such as the king cobra. The dense green cover and misty atmosphere make it the ideal hideout from heat.
How to Reach Agumbe
- By Air: fly to Mangalore International Airport (110 km from Agumbe), and taxi or bus from there.
- By Train: Nearest Udupi Railway Station (55 km), followed by a scenic drive.
- By Road: Agumbe is reachable within 350 km from Bangalore via NH75.
2.Lambasingi, Andhra Pradesh: The Kashmir of the South
Heard of a chilly spot in Andhra Pradesh? Lambasingi, a South India off-the-beaten-path site, is a small village referred to as the “Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh.” Although it’s renowned for winter frost, summer in Lambasingi is pleasant and lovely due to its high elevation. Mist-covered hills, coffee estates, and serene paths are just ideal for a serene getaway. Trek to the Kothapalli Waterfalls or walk around the pepper plantations—Lambasingi is a sweet surprise.
How to get to Lambasingi:
- By Air: the nearest is Vishakhapatnam Airport (110 km)
- By train: the nearest is Vishakhapatnam Railway Station (100 km) followed by a taxi or bus journey.
- By road:6 hours from Hyderabad (580 km) on NH65.
3.Yelagiri, Tamil Nadu: The Peaceful Hill Retreat
Mostly forgotten in preference to Ooty or Kodaikanal, Yelagiri is one of South India’s best-kept secrets to include on your summer agenda. Situated at 1,110 meters, Tamil Nadu’s hill station is characterized by balmy winds and breathtaking vistas. With rose gardens, Punganur Lake, and Swamimalai Hills, Yelagiri is ideal for a relaxed getaway. Attempt boating, trekking, or simply soaking in serenity—it’s a heat-beating secret gem.
How to Get to Yelagiri:
- By air: nearest is Chennai International Airport (140 km) and then taxi or bus further.
- By train: nearest is Jolarpettai Junction (21 km) and then a short-distance drive.
- By road: 4-hour drive from Bangalore (160 km) on NH44.
4.Vythiri, Kerala: The Misty Hideaway
Set amidst the rolling hills of Wayanad, Vythiri is one of the off-the-beaten-path destinations in South India that provides a cool, misty retreat. Composed of rolling hills, spice plantations, and waterfalls, this village protects the summer heat. It is a must-visit for Pookode Lake and Chembra Peak, and it has a mystical touch with the Chain Tree. The natural scenery of Vythiri and its soothing climate make it a perfect pick for nature lovers looking to unwind.
How to Reach Vythiri:
- By Air:Calicut International Airport (65 km) is the closest, and cabs or buses can be used.
- By Train: Kozhikode Railway Station (60 km) is the closest, and then there is a ride.
- By Road: 7 hours by car from Bangalore (280 km) via NH766.
5.Araku Valley, Andhra Pradesh: The Scenic Escape
Araku Valley in the Eastern Ghats is one of South India’s offbeat places that experiences a combination of cool climatic conditions and breathtaking scenery. A popular hill station known for coffee plantations, tribal folks, and Borra Caves, Araku is an undervalued destination. Its summers are always mild during the season, offering a great resort to unwind or venture out. Its train journey from Vishakhapatnam to Araku is also an added advantage because it provides great tunnel and hill views.
How to reach Araku Valley:
- By air: the closest is Vishakhapatnam Airport (115 km) and then by bus or taxi.
- By Train: the Araku Railway Station is situated in the center of the valley and is accessible from Vishakhapatnam.
- By road: it’s just a 3-hour drive from Vizag (115 km) on NH16.
What Makes These Places Ideal for Summer?
These offbeat locations in South India stand out because of their amiable climates due to high altitudes and dense forest cover. As opposed to the common tourist destinations, they provide peace of mind and an opportunity to be in touch with nature. From trekking at Agumbe, coffee at Lambasingi, or boating at Yelagiri, each destination has something new to experience. They are pocket-friendly as well, with local food and homestays making it worthwhile. Traveling to these offbeat places in South India involves breaking away from the heat without the inconvenience of completely booked resorts.
Tips for Traveling to Offbeat Places in South India
Planning a trip to these lesser-known destinations in South India? Book accommodations early, as options can be limited. Pack light woolens—mornings and evenings can get chilly. Carry water and snacks, especially for remote areas like Agumbe or Vythiri. Summer (March to June) is ideal, with mild weather perfect for outdoor fun. Respect local cultures, stick to marked trails, and you’ll have a smooth, heat-free getaway.
Why Act Now?
While the mercury rises on summer days, these off-beat places of South India hold the secret to a cooling respite. Far from all that sun-break; they are discovering South India’s off-beat. From hill stations veiled in mist to tribal valleys, these places are rewriting travel script. Not long, though, before word begins to spread and they will be no longer “lesser-known.”. So, schedule your trip to these offbeat South Indian destinations right away, and enjoy a cool summer as fascinating as it’s going to be.
