South India Deluxe Tour Package

an ancient town at the southern end of Andhra Pradesh, is a pilgrim’s paradise. The place is famous for its many Hindu shrines; the most revered being Sri Venkateswara Swamy or Tirupati Balaji temple. Devotees from different parts of India and abroad visit this temple town, to seek the blessings of the Almighty. Other than religious centers, there are plenty of other places to visit in Tirupati for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and historians. A visit to Tirupati is incomplete till you explore the other side of this divine town: calm, unspoiled, and breathtakingly beautiful!

TIRUPATI ATTRACTIONS:

1. Sri Venkateswara Swami Temple – landmark Vaishnavite temple near Tirupati, Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple is one of the most revered Hindu shrines and richest pilgrimage centers in the world. It is also the world’s most-visited place of worship, receiving 50,000 to 100,000 devotees daily and up to 500,000 on special occasions.
2. Sri Govindaraja Swami Temple – was built in 1130 AD by Saint Ramanuja. According to legends, the presiding deity efficiently utilized King Kubera’s wealth to conduct the glorious wedding of his younger brother Lord Venkateswara and Padmavathi Ammavaru.
3. Srivari Padala Mandapam – Situated at the foot of Tirumala Hills, Srivari Padala Mandapam is a must-visit for devotees taking the Alipiri footpath route to the Tirumala temple. En route the trek, pilgrims stop at this ancient temple to offer their prayers to Padala Venkateswara Swamy, i.e. feet of Lord Venkateswara. A unique sight at this temple is the huge padukas (footwear) offered by the pilgrims to the presiding deity.
4. Sri Padmavathi Ammaravro Temple – located in an ages-old pilgrim town near Tirupati and is the abode of Goddess Padmavathi, the consort of Lord Venkateswara. Pilgrims believe that they should seek the blessings of Her Divine before visiting the home of the Lord. 
5. Sri Kapliswaraswamy Temple – one of the 108 sacred Theerthams on the hills of Tirumala. Legends reveal that Kapila Muni meditated in front of an idol of Lord Shiva at this site, and that’s how the place got its name. The Shiva lingam at this temple is considered self-manifested. 
6. Srokalahasti Temple – Carved out of a monolithic hill, this ancient shrine is famous for being one of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams, where His Divine is worshipped as a personification of five nature elements; Air in this case. Its sanctum sanctorum has a Vayu-linga and a lamp which flickers day and night without any presence of wind, indicating the presence of Lord Vayu.
7. Sri Venkateswara National Park – Named after Lord Venkateswara of Tirumala, it was built in 1989 and officially declared a national park in 1998. The park covers an area of around 354 sq. km and is home to exotic and endangered species like Nilgai, Flying Lizard, Treeshrew, Hyena, Deer, and Golden Gecko. 
8. Deer Park – Deer Park in Tirupati is home to a variety of wildlife and beautiful landscapes and a paradise for wildlife lovers. Deer is the most frequently spotted animal here and visitors can feed the deer with their hands.
9. Talakona Waterfalls – With water falling from a height of 82 meters, Talakona Waterfalls is one of the highest falls in the country. It is believed that its water has healing properties because it is enriched with herbs and medicinal plants.
10. Akasaganga Theertham – situated a short distance away from Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple. Every pilgrim who pays a visit to the revered temple comes to take a dip in the holy water of this fall as it is used for Lord’s abhishekam. The captivating views at this site are sure to attract every nature lover!
11. TTD Gardens – Spread over a 460-acre area, TTD Gardens are ornamental, flower, and landscape gardens that supply 500 kg of flowers to temples in and around Tirupati every day. The gardens are home to more than 200 varieties of mutated and hybrid flowers including crotons and hibiscus.
12. Silathoranam – a unique and mysterious attraction near Tirumala, is one of the three natural rock arches in the world. The formation is 3 meters high and 8 meters wide and looks similar to the hood of a serpent, discus, and conch. It is believed to be the source of the idol of Lord Venkateswara at Tirumala Temple as both are of the same height. These rocks date back to the pre-Cambrian era, which means they are almost 1.5 billion years old. 
13. Papavinasanam Dam – Anyone who wishes to have a rejuvenating experience in Tirupati must-visit Papavinasanam Dam. As the name suggests, the waters flowing here are believed to rid the pilgrims of their sins when they take a holy dip in them. Besides its religious significance, the place has made it the list of best places to visit in Tirupati owing to its captivating scenic beauty.
14. Srivari Museum  – or those who want to learn about the history of bygone eras, Srivari Museum is the place to be. The museum displays the history of the temple at Tirumala when it was in the initial phase of development. The scriptures, photographs, artifacts and sculptures, all depict the history of the temple. 
15. Chandragiri – an ancient town that once served as the 4th capital of the Vijayanagar dynasty. The town is famous for the 11th-century Chandragiri Fort, which is built on a massive rock and stands at a height of 183 meters. The fort encompasses eight temples, the Rani Mahal, and other structures that are in ruins. The Raja Mahal is transformed into an archaeological museum.

• MYSORE: Famously known as The City of Palaces, it wouldn’t be wrong to say that Mysore, currently Mysuru, is one of the most important places in the country regarding ancient reigns. It is replete with the history of its dazzling royal heritage, intricate architecture, its famed silk sarees, yoga, and sandalwood, to name just a few. Located in the foothills of the Chamundi Hills, Mysore is the third most populated city in Karnataka, and its rich heritage draws millions of tourists all year round. The highlight is the majestic Mysore Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is a must-visit.

Famously known as The City of Palaces, it wouldn’t be wrong to say that Mysore, currently Mysuru, is one of the most important places in the country regarding ancient reigns. It is replete with the history of its dazzling royal heritage, intricate architecture, its famed silk sarees, yoga, and sandalwood, to name just a few. Located in the foothills of the Chamundi Hills, Mysore is the third most populated city in Karnataka, and its rich heritage draws millions of tourists all year round. The highlight is the majestic Mysore Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is a must-visit.

MYSORE ATTRACTIONS:

1. Mysore Palace – An incredibly breathtaking example of Indo – Saracenic style of architecture, the Mysore Palace is a magnificent edifice located in Mysore in the state of Karnataka. Also known as the Amba Vilas Palace, it is the former palace of the royal family of Mysore and is still their official residence. Mysore Palace was built in the year 1912 for the 24th Ruler of the Wodeyar Dynasty and is counted amongst one of the biggest palaces in the country.
2. Brindavan Gardens – The Brindavan Gardens, spread over 60 acres, is located at a distance of 21 km away from Mysore. Built across the notable river of India, Cauvery, it took around five years to complete the project. The well-synchronized fountain show with music, boating, and well-manicured grass with flowerbeds are some of the top experiences of Brindavan Garden.
3. Somanathapura Temple – On the banks of Holy River Kaveri is a tiny tranquil town of Somanathapura. Here stands the finest and most exemplary monument of Hoysala architecture known as the famous Prasanna Chennakesava Temple or simply the Kesava Temple. Consecrated in the year 1258 CE, it is a Vaishnav Hindu Temple dedicated to the might and beauty of Lord Krishna (Chenna= Beautiful and Kesava= Krishna). Tourists from near and far come to visit the temple to get a view of the beautiful place.
4. Mysore Zoo – Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens, also known as the Mysore Zoo is one of the best zoological gardens in India. Maharaja Chamaraja Wodeyar established this Zoo in the year 1892 for the Royals. Furthermore, after the attainment of freedom, it was handed over to the Department of Parks and Gardens of the State Govt. The Zoo’s meticulous planning is responsible for making it a special zoological garden. It tends to create a natural habitat for the animals in it. From Big to small cats, Aquatic to terrestrial birds, and Primates to reptiles, one Hundred and Sixty-Eight species find their place in this zoo. The world’s first caesarian section delivery performed on an elephant in Mysore zoo gave it global fame and recognition.
5. Chamundeshwari Temple – The Chamundeshwari Temple is a traditional Hindu temple located on the eastern edge of Mysore at the height of 1000ft on the Chamundi hills. Dedicated to and named after goddess Durga, the temple also has statues of Nandi and Mahishasura, the demon. Being one of the oldest temples in the palace city of Mysore, the temple is a must-visit attraction for travelers. The Chamundeshwari Temple is considered as a Shakti Peetha and is one among the 18 Maha Shakti Peethas.
6. Shuka Vana – Home to over 2000 birds, the Shuka Vana in Mysore is a must-visit for ornithophiles and nature lovers. With over 450 varied species, this striking 50m high aviary spanning an area of 1 acre currently holds the record for most bird species in an aviary in the Guinness Book of World Records. This unique park, commonly known as parrot park, is a part of the Avadhoota Datta Peetham in the Sri Ganapathi Sachidananda Ashram, and also serves as a rehabilitation center for abused, injured, and abandoned birds. One can find many rare species of parrots flying around this beautiful enclosure.
7. Karanji Lake – Karanji Lake, also known as the fountain lake, is a popular picnic spot. Visitors are allowed to bring packed food, and there is a coffee shop as well. It is a beautiful place to explore the different species of birds as the lake exhibits as many as 147 species including herons, Asian openbill storks, cormorant, grey pelican, etc.
8. St. Philomena’s Church – Recognized as the second tallest church in Asia, St. Philomena’s Church was constructed to pay tribute to the Catholic Saint and martyr of the Roman Catholic Church, Saint Philomena. It is one of the most important historical sites in Mysore and is frequently visited by tourists from all over the country. Being one of the most distinctive landmarks of the city, it looks even more beautiful in the evening sky and is given religious importance having a Neo-Gothic style of architecture which makes it all the more famous amongst the masses.

 Located amidst imposing mountains in Karnataka with a perpetually misty landscape, Coorg is the place to be for all nature lovers.  This popular coffee-producing hill station is not only popular for its beautiful green hills and the streams cutting right through them. It also stands as a popular destination because of its culture and people. The Kodavas, a local clan specializing in martial arts, are especially notable for their keen hospitality.

Coorg, officially known as Kodagu, is the most affluent hill station in Karnataka. It is well known for its breathtakingly exotic scenery and lush greenery. Forest-covered hills, spice, and coffee plantations only add to the landscape.

COORG ATTRACTIONS:

1. Abbey Falls – Abbey Falls, also known as Abbi Falls, is located around 10 kilometers away from the town of Madikeri and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in and around Coorg. The water cascade coming down from the cliff from a height of 70 feet provides a spectacular scene to behold.
2. Talacauvery – Talakaveri is the source of the river Kaveri, located on the Brahmagiri hill (not to be confused with the Brahmagiri range further south) near Bhagamandala in Kodagu district, Karnataka. Kodavas erected a tank which is now considered as its origin. It is believed that the river originates as a spring feeding a tank or a Kundike and then flows underground to re-emerge as Kaveri some distance away. The place has a temple dedicated to the Goddess Kaveriamma is located next to the tank and bathing in it on special occasions is considered holy.
3. Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary – The Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of 181 square km and has got its name from the Brahmagiri Park which is the highest peak with a height of 1608 m. The primary vegetation of the sanctuary includes evergreen and semi-evergreen forests, shoal forest patches in grasslands, and bamboos.
4. Golden Temple – Namdroling Monastery, situated at a distance of 34 km from the Coorg, is the largest teaching center of the school of Tibetan Buddhism known as Nyingmapa. Popularly known as the ‘Golden Temple’, the Namdroling Monastery holds some excellent examples of Tibetan architecture and artwork, as seen with the elaborately decorated temple tower and ornate outer walls, intricately adorned with beautiful murals.
5. Raja’s Seat – Raja’s Seat, a garden with beautiful flowering plants and skillfully designed artificial fountains, is located in Madikeri in the district of Coorg. The garden was a favorite venue to rejuvenate for the Kings of Kodagu, and they loved watching the sunsets sitting here as they spent some memorable time with their Queens.
6. White River rafting in Barapole River – Barapole River is a famous white river rafting destination in Coorg. The white frothy river with speedy waters and rapids, flowing through beautiful landscapes, makes for an ideal river rafting experience

Vattakanal Falls situated at a distance of 3 km from the town of Kodaikanal is famous for its rich biodiversity. Surrounded by trees, hills, and lush greenery all around, this attraction makes up for a perfect place to observe the wonder that is nature and all its elements closely. There is also a bridge present near the falls which is amazing for clicking pictures. Some food vendors set up their stalls near these falls and serve local delicacies. In short, this beautiful place is perfect for spending a cheerful picnic with your close loved ones.

OOTY ATTRACTIONS:

1. Nilgiri Mountain Railway – Nilgiri Mountain Railway, also known as Toy Train in Ooty, is one of the key attractions of the popular hill station Ooty. Such is the train’s popularity and history that it was declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2005. Started in the year 1899, it has continued to charm its visitors over the past many years winding its way through the best of nature.

The Toy Train covers a distance of a total of 46 km in a span of 5 hours and takes one through a truly spectacular journey filled with picturesque views en route. Another fascinating feature of the train is that its youngest X class locomotive is over 50 years old and the oldest is 80 years old

    2. Ooty Lake – Ooty Lake is one of the most refreshing and beautiful places to visit in Ooty. It lies at a distance of approximately 2 km from Ooty city in the green hills of the Nilgiris district. The stunning lake is spread over an area of 65 acres, and its foundation was laid down by John Sullivan who was the collector of Coimbatore in 1824.

     3. Emerald Lake – Emerald Lake is situated in Emerald Village, around 20-22 kilometers from the main city of Ooty, and is a part of the Silent Valley National Park in the Nilgiris District. Serene and away from the maddening crowd, the lake and its surroundings are much cleaner and offer a perfect place to enjoy a leisurely time in the vicinity of nature and quietude.

     4. Ooty Botanical Gardens – Ooty Botanical Gardens lie on the lower slopes of the Doddabetta peak, the Government Botanical Garden is a splendid garden in Udhagamandalam, near Coimbatore in the state of Tamil Nadu. Sprawled over an area of 22 hectares, the garden is divided into several sections that are trimmed beautifully to present an endearing sight

     5. Ooty Rose Garden – Ooty Rose Garden is a mesmerizing garden in the heart of the town of Ooty, in Tamil Nadu. It is also known as the Jayalalithaa Rose Garden, the Nootrandu Roja Poonga, and the Centenary Rose Park. Nature lovers are drawn to the Rose Garden like bees to honey. The view of the lush green garden with areas dedicated to captivatingly fragrant roses is a sight to remember. The flowers add more than just color and attract visitors from all age groups, especially those who are interested in the study of Botany. You are bound to feel like you have entered a different world as you stroll leisurely across the beautifully landscaped garden.