If you haven’t marked your calendar yet, this is your sign. One of the most travel-friendly weekends of 2024 – a perfect 9-day holiday – is approaching from September 28 to October 6, 2024. With weekends falling on September 28-29 and October 5-6, and Gandhi Jayanti on October 2, all you need to do is take leave on September 30, October 1, 3, and 4 to enjoy an extended vacation. With the refreshing monsoon chill setting in, it’s the ideal time to plan a getaway in south India.
We’ve rounded up five beautiful, offbeat destinations in South India that are perfect for this ultra-long break. Here’s where you can escape for some quiet relaxation amidst nature’s bounty!
1. Valparai, Tamil Nadu
A serene hill station located at an altitude of 1,059m. Enjoy verdant tea plantations, gushing waterfalls, and stunning forest reserves.
What to do: Explore Monkey Falls, Anamalai Tiger Reserve, Karumalai Balaji Temple, Nallamudi Viewpoint, and more.- Key connecting cities Coimbatore, Kochi, Madurai
2. Chikkamagaluru, Karnataka
Tucked in the Western Ghats, this lesser-known city is famous for its coffee plantations, trekking trails, and pristine waterfalls.
What to do: Visit Hebbe Waterfalls, Mullayanagari Peak, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, Ballalarayana Durga Trek.- Key connecting cities: Bangalore
3. Varkala, Kerala
Perched on a cliff overlooking the Arabian Sea, Varkala is a hidden gem offering secluded beaches, vibrant nightlife, and relaxing ayurvedic treatments.
What to do: Unwind at Papanasham Beach, visit Varkala Lighthouse, explore Ponnumthuruttu Island, or enjoy kayaking.- Key connecting cities: Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, Kollam
4. Meghamalai, Tamil Nadu
Nicknamed the ‘hill in the clouds’, Meghamalai is known for its green hilltops, tea estates, and breathtaking viewpoints.
What to do: Discover Meghamalai Wildlife Sanctuary, Megamalai Viewpoint, Manalar Dam, and Maharaja Mettu.- Key connecting cities: Madurai, Theni, Chinnamanur
5. Coonoor, Tamil Nadu
A sister to Ooty, Coonoor offers stunning tea estates, valleys, and picturesque views spread across the Nilgiri Hills
What to do: Explore Dolphin’s Nose View Point, Droog Fort, Law’s Falls, and Ketti Valley.- Key connecting cities: Coimbatore, Kochi, Bangalore
Also Read : 7 Cheapest Destinations for 2024 That Offer the Most Travel Value
Make the most of this rare 9-day long weekend in September-October 2024! These charming destinations in South India await, offering both adventure and tranquility. So, pack your bags and create unforgettable memories.