South India travel guide

Tamil Nadu's great monuments: Mahabalipuram, the Great Living Chola Temples, Gingee Fort, Madurai's Nayak palace and more to plan a tour.

Tamil Nadu travel guide: temple towns, hill stations, coast, food, culture, the best season to travel and how to get around the state.

Chennai travel guide: Marina Beach, Kapaleeswarar Temple, the Margazhi music season, Pongal, key sights and how to get around the city.

Chidambaram guide: the Thillai Nataraja Temple, one of the five element shrines of Shiva, its legends, best season and how to reach the town.

Coimbatore travel guide: textile city and gateway to Ooty, with Marudamalai, Isha Yoga Centre, Siruvani, the best season and transport links.

Kanchipuram guide: ancient temples like Ekambareswarar and Kailasanathar, handwoven silk sarees, best seasons and how to reach from Chennai.

Kanyakumari travel guide: sunrise at India's southern tip, Vivekananda Rock, the Thiruvalluvar Statue, temples, weather and how to get there.

Karaikudi, heart of Chettinad in Sivaganga district, is known for grand mansions, Athangudi tiles, temples and food. What to see and when to go.

Kodaikanal in the Palani Hills: Kodai Lake, Coaker's Walk, Pillar Rocks, waterfalls, how to reach it and tips for planning your stay.

Kumbakonam travel guide: Chola-era temples, the Mahamaham tank and festival, Navagraha circuit, local shopping and how to reach.

Madurai travel guide: Meenakshi Amman Temple, Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal, the Gandhi Museum, Chithirai festival, weather and how to get there.

Mahabalipuram guide: Pallava-era Shore Temple and rock carvings, the January dance festival, best season and a day trip from Chennai.

Masinagudi travel guide: jungle safaris near Mudumalai, the 36-bend Kalhatti road from Ooty, elephant camp, best season and how to reach.

Nagapattinam on Tamil Nadu's delta coast offers old temples, quiet beaches, Point Calimere sanctuary and easy trips to Poompuhar and Sikkal.

Plan an Ooty trip: the lake, Botanical Garden, Doddabetta, the toy train, Pykara Falls, the best months to go and how to reach the Nilgiris.

Thanjavur travel guide: the Chola Big Temple, Saraswathi Mahal Library, palace museums, Tanjore painting and how to reach the rice bowl city.

Tirupur travel guide: India's knitwear export hub, garment shopping, Avinashi and Thirumoorthy temples, waterfalls, best season and how to get there.

Tiruvannamalai travel guide: Arunachaleswarar temple, the 14 km girivalam, Karthigai Deepam, Ramana ashram, best season and how to reach.

Plan a Trichy trip: Rockfort, Srirangam, Thiruvanaikoil and Kallanai, the best months to go, how long to stay and what to eat in the city.

Velankanni on the Tamil Nadu coast is home to the Our Lady of Good Health Basilica, a major Marian shrine often called the Lourdes of the East.

Vellore travel guide: the moated 16th-century fort, Jalakandeswarar temple, Sripuram Golden Temple, Ratnagiri, food, best season and transport.

Yercaud guide: a quiet hill station in the Shevaroy Hills near Salem with a lake, viewpoints, coffee estates, gardens and waterfalls.

Kallalagar Temple, Alagar Kovil near Madurai: a Divya Desam of Vishnu, the Chithirai festival, Pazhamudircholai, timings and dress code.

Alangudi Abathsahayeswarar Temple, the Navagraha shrine for Guru (Jupiter) near Kumbakonam: legends, festivals, timings and how to reach.

Auroville, the international township near Puducherry founded in 1968, is known for the golden Matrimandir, its forests and a slow, simple way of life.

Auroville Beach near Pondicherry: a relaxed stretch of sand with cafés and sunrise views, plus the Matrimandir, the Visitor Centre and how to reach.

Vandalur Zoo on Chennai's southern edge is one of India's largest zoos, with a lion safari, walk-through aviary and reptile house; closed on Tuesdays.

Government Museum, Egmore: India's second-oldest museum, with Chola bronzes, Amaravati sculptures, Roman antiquities and the Connemara Library.

Kalakshetra in Adyar, Chennai, founded by Rukmini Devi Arundale in 1936, teaches Bharatanatyam, Carnatic music and visual arts in gurukulam style.

Kapaleeswarar Temple in Mylapore, Chennai: its legends, history, tall gopuram, the Arupathimoovar festival, timings and how to reach.

Parthasarathy Temple in Triplicane, Chennai: the Pallava-era Divya Desam where Krishna is Arjuna's charioteer, its shrines, festivals and timings.

St Mary's Church inside Fort St George, Chennai, consecrated in 1680: its history, famous weddings, what to see and how to visit.

Valluvar Kottam, Chennai: a 1976 memorial to poet Thiruvalluvar, shaped like the Thiruvarur temple chariot, with all 1,330 Kural couplets carved in stone.

Chidambaram's Nataraja Temple, where Shiva is worshipped as the cosmic dancer, is the Pancha Bhoota shrine for space, with a gold-roofed sanctum.

Isha Yoga Center at the Velliangiri foothills near Coimbatore: Dhyanalinga, Linga Bhairavi, the Adiyogi statue, timings and how to get there.

Kottai Mariamman Temple in Dharapuram, Tiruppur district: the self-manifested goddess, flower-omen custom, festival calendar and opening hours.

Adhi Narayana Perumal Temple at Enkan near Tiruvarur, where Vishnu is shown riding Garuda: its legend, festivals, prayers and how to get there.

Gangaikonda Cholapuram's Brihadisvara Temple: Rajendra Chola's UNESCO-listed capital shrine, its giant Linga, lion well, timings and how to reach.

Irumbai's Shiva temple near Auroville: the Thevaram shrine with a cracked Linga bound in copper, the Kaduveli Siddhar legend, festivals and timings.

Ekambareswarar Temple, Kanchipuram: the earth lingam, the sacred mango tree, festivals, timings, dress code and distance from Chennai.

Pandava Thoothar Perumal Temple in Kanchipuram, a Divya Desam with a 25-foot seated Krishna: legend, Rohini star link, festivals and access.

Kaartha Sundareshwarar Temple at Kanjanagaram near Mayiladuthurai, a Shiva shrine linked to Murugan's birth and the Karthigai star.

Vettuvan Koil at Kazhugumalai, an unfinished 8th-century Pandya rock-cut Shiva temple, with Jain carvings nearby. Best time and route.

Shri Brahmapureeswarar Temple, Keelapoongudi: Shiva shrine linked to Brahma's penance and Uthradam star, with timings, festivals and how to reach.

Naganathaswamy Temple at Keezhaperumpallam, the Navagraha shrine for Kethu near Poompuhar: legend, festivals, timings and how to reach.

Berijam Lake is a protected forest reservoir about 22 km from Kodaikanal, open only to permitted vehicles in daytime, with birds and quiet walks.

Bryant Park, Kodaikanal: a botanical garden by the lake with a glasshouse, hybrid flowers and the May flower show, plus tips on combining nearby sights.

Coaker's Walk, Kodaikanal: a 1 km cliff-side path from 1872 with views over the Pambar valley. Best hours, fees, what you can see and tips.

Green Valley View in Kodaikanal: a cliff-edge viewpoint over deep valleys towards Vaigai Dam, with timing tips and how to get there.

Guna Cave, or Devil's Kitchen, in Kodaikanal: deep rock fissures made famous by the film Guna, what you can see today and nearby sights.

Guna Caves in Kodaikanal, the Devil's Kitchen from the film Guna: what you can see from the viewing area, safety rules and nearby sights.

Kodaikanal Lake: boating, cycling and horse rides around the star-shaped lake, best season and tips for a relaxed day in Kodaikanal.

Kurunji Andavar Temple in Kodaikanal: a hillside Murugan shrine named after the kurinji flower, with valley views, timings and access.

Pillar Rocks, Kodaikanal: three granite columns about 400 ft high, often wrapped in mist, with a garden, Devil's Kitchen and hot snacks nearby.

Silent Valley View Point, Kodaikanal: a quiet cliff-edge view over forested gorges, best at sunrise. Timings, free entry and nearby sights.

Silver Cascade Falls on the ghat road to Kodaikanal: a roadside waterfall about 180 feet high, with fruit stalls and a good stop on the drive up.

Thalaiyar Falls, or Rat Tail Falls, drops about 975 ft down the Palani Hills and is best seen from Dum Dum Rock on the Kodaikanal ghat road.

Mutharamman Temple at Kulasekarapattinam near Tiruchendur, home of the famous Kulasai Dasara: history, festival, timings and travel tips.

The Agneeswarar temple at Kanjanur near Kumbakonam is the Navagraha shrine for Sukran (Venus), visited by devotees seeking prosperity and harmony.

Keezha Korukkai near Kumbakonam is a quiet old Shiva temple with two Nandis, linked to sage Gorakkar and visited by those born under Avittam star.

Suriyanar Koil near Kumbakonam: the Chola-era Sun temple of the Navagraha circuit, its legend, festivals, timings, dress code and access.

Chithira Ratha Vallabha Perumal temple at Kuruvithurai near Madurai is a Vishnu shrine linked to Guru and the Chithirai star; plan a visit.

Madapuram Bhadrakali Amman Temple near Madurai: the fierce guardian goddess, lemon garland offerings, lamp pooja, timings and how to get there.

The rock-cut Yoga Narasimhar Temple at Yanaimalai near Madurai is a Pandya-era cave shrine with a lotus tank and a Gajendra Moksha festival in Masi.

Inmaiyil Nanmai Tharuvar Temple, Madurai: a west-facing Shiva shrine by the Meenakshi temple where Shiva himself worships the lingam. Timings.

Meenakshi Amman Temple, Madurai: gopurams, mandapams, the Golden Lotus tank, legends, festivals, timings and dress code for visitors.

Pazhamudircholai, the sixth of Murugan's Arupadai Veedu, sits in the forested Alagar Hills north of Madurai. Legend, timings and how to reach.

Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal in Madurai: the 17th-century Nayak palace, its giant pillared courtyard, timings, light show and how to get there.

Thiruparankundram, the first of Lord Murugan's six abodes near Madurai: legend, rock-cut shrine, festivals, darshan timings and how to reach it.

Vandiyur Mariamman Temple and its vast Teppakulam tank in Madurai, home of the Thai float festival. Legends, timings and tips for your visit.

Arjuna's Penance, Mahabalipuram: a huge seventh-century Pallava rock relief, also called the Descent of the Ganges. What to look for and tips.

Ride the Nilgiri toy train from Mettupalayam to Ooty: the UNESCO-listed rack railway, 46 km route, stations, timings and booking tips.

Navagraha Temple near Pondicherry: a 27-foot Saneeswara, giant idols of the nine planets and 27 stars, timings and how to reach on the Tindivanam road.

Mudumalai Tiger Reserve in the Nilgiris: elephants, tigers and birdlife along the Moyar river, forest-department safaris and the best months to go.

DakshinaChitra Museum on ECR near Chennai: relocated heritage homes from four southern states, craft workshops, timings and how to get there.

Sri Agneeswarar Temple at Nalladai near Mayiladuthurai: a west-facing Shiva shrine linked to Bharani star, with timings and travel tips.

Avalanche Lake near Ooty: a quiet reservoir in protected shola forest, with bird watching, Neelakurinji slopes and the forest-department ride.

Doddabetta, the highest peak in the Nilgiris, is 9 km from Ooty on the Kotagiri road, with a telescope house and wide views over the hills.

Emerald Lake near Ooty: a quiet reservoir beside Avalanche Lake, with forest drives, tea country views and tips on access and where to stay.

Ooty's Government Botanical Garden: 22 acres of lawns, glasshouses and a fossil tree on Doddabetta's lower slopes, laid out in 1848.

Government Rose Garden, Ooty: thousands of rose varieties on terraced slopes of Elk Hill, the Nila Maadam viewpoint, the May show and visiting tips.

Mukurthi National Park in the Nilgiris: high grassland and shola home to the Nilgiri tahr, with permit-only treks. What to know before you go.

Ooty Lake guide: boating options, the 1824 history, cycling and children's rides, best seasons and how to reach it from the bus stand and station.

Pykara Waterfalls near Ooty: stepped falls amid shola forest, the Pykara Lake boat house, best monsoon months and how to get there.

St Stephen's Church, Ooty, built around 1830: colonial architecture, stained glass, the old cemetery, and how to include it on a tour.

Thunder World near Ooty Lake is a small family theme park with life-size dinosaur models, a ghost house and simple rides for children.

Tiger Hills near Ooty: a quiet forested viewpoint with a hilltop reservoir and an old cave, plus tips on timing your visit and getting there.

Palani Murugan Temple: the hilltop Arupadai Veedu shrine, its legend, panchamirtham, Thaipusam, winch and rope car, and how to reach.

Rameswaram's Ramanathaswamy Temple is a Jyotirlinga and Char Dham shrine, famed for its long pillared corridors and sacred bathing theerthams.

Samayapuram Mariamman Temple near Trichy: the goddess's Pachai Pattini fast, Poochoridal, Chithirai car festival, offerings, crowds and timings.

Jenakai Mariamman temple at Sholavandan near Madurai: the goddess of 48 villages, her Vaikasi festival, healing customs and timings.

Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, Srirangam: seven enclosures, 21 gopurams, key festivals, Ramanuja's link, dress code and how to get there.

Swamimalai Swaminathaswamy Temple near Kumbakonam: the story of Murugan teaching Shiva, the 60 steps, festivals and how to reach it.

A guide to Tamil Nadu's folk dances, from Karagattam and Puli Attam to Theru Koothu and Kavadi, and where to watch them at village festivals.

Thanjavur Maratha Palace: Nayak and Maratha royal complex with its watchtowers, durbar halls and the Saraswathi Mahal Library, plus travel tips.

Thingalur Chandran Temple near Thanjavur: the Navagraha shrine for the Moon, its legend, offerings, festivals, timings and how to get there.

Thirunageswaram near Kumbakonam, the Navagraha temple for Rahu: the milk abhishekam, Sunday Rahu Kalam pujas, timings and how to get there.

Agnipureeswarar Temple at Thirupugalur near Thiruvarur: Appar's final days, Sundarar's golden bricks, Vastu prayers, festivals and timings.

Piravi Marundeeswarar Temple, Thiruthuraipoondi: a Shiva shrine linked to Ashwini star and the Gajasamhara legend. Timings, festivals, access.

Edaganathar Temple at Thiruvedagam near Madurai: a Tevaram-hymned Shiva shrine on the Vaigai linked to Sambandar. Legend, timings, access.

Thiruvenkadu Swetharanyeswarar Temple: the Navagraha shrine for Budhan (Mercury), Aghora Murthy, festivals, timings and how to reach from Sirkazhi.

Padmanabhapuram Palace near Thuckalay: the old Travancore royal seat, famed for rosewood carving, murals and its polished black floors.

The seashore Murugan temple at Tiruchendur, one of the six Arupadai Veedu, is famed for Kanda Sashti and lies about 40 km from Thoothukudi.

Tiruttani Murugan Temple: the hill where Murugan wed Valli, its 365 steps, the elephant in place of the peacock, festivals and access.

Arunachaleswarar Temple, Tiruvannamalai: the fire-element Shiva shrine, Karthigai Deepam, Girivalam, timings, dress code and how to get there.

Jambukeswarar Temple at Thiruvanaikaval, Trichy: the water-element Shiva shrine with its ever-moist lingam, Akilandeswari shrine and timings.

Kamalavalli Nachiyar Temple at Uraiyur, Tiruchirappalli: a Divya Desam where the goddess leads, with legend, murals, festivals and access.

Trichy's Rock Fort Ucchi Pillayar Temple: the climb up hundreds of steps, Pallava cave temples, city views, timings and nearby Srirangam.

Sri Guruvayoorappan Temple, Mutharasanallur near Trichy: a Tamil Nadu copy of Kerala's Guruvayur shrine. Timings, festivals and how to reach.

Vekkali Amman Temple in Woraiyur, Tiruchirappalli: the roofless shrine, its legend, petitions tied to the trident, festivals and timings.

Suyambu Varahi Amman Temple at Uthirakosamangai, Ramanathapuram: the self-manifested goddess, the turmeric-grinding ritual and temple timings.

Uthirakosamangai temple near Ramanathapuram, home of the emerald Nataraja unveiled once a year at Arudra Darshan. Timings and how to reach.

Vaitheeswaran Koil near Sirkazhi, the healing Shiva temple and Navagraha shrine for Angarakan (Mars). Rituals, festivals, timings, route.

Athitheeswarar Temple at Vaniyambadi on the Palar: a Shiva temple linked to the Punarpoosam star, its features, festivals and timings.

Veerapandi Gowmariamman Temple near Theni: the healing goddess, the Chithirai festival with fire-pot and fire-walk rituals, timings and travel.

How Tamil Nadu celebrates Deepavali: dawn oil baths, rows of agal lamps, crackers, home-made sweets and temple pujas, and when it falls.

Maha Shivaratri, the great night of Shiva, is marked across India and Tamil Nadu with fasting, abhishekam, Thevaram hymns and an all-night vigil.

Navaratri in South India: the nine nights of Devi worship, Kolu displays, Ayudha Puja, Vidyarambham on Vijayadashami and where to see it best.

Pongal is Tamil Nadu's four-day harvest festival in mid-January: Bhogi, Thai Pongal, Mattu Pongal and Kaanum Pongal, and where to join in.

Puducherry travel guide: the French Quarter, Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Auroville and Matrimandir, churches, beaches, timings and how to reach.

Aayi Mandapam in Bharathi Park, Puducherry: the white monument honouring Aayi's water tank, its story, timings and nearby sights.

Puducherry's Alliance Française: French classes, library and cultural events in Puducherry's French quarter, and how visitors can drop in.

Ananda Ranga Pillai House in Pondicherry: the 18th-century home of Dupleix's diarist and interpreter, with carved wooden pillars and a courtyard.

Traditional crafts of Puducherry, from terracotta and wood to clay, and where to watch artisans at work and buy directly from them.

The Art and Craft Village at Murungapakkam, Puducherry: terracotta, wood and clay work by local artisans, live demos and shopping.

Bussy Street in Puducherry: a busy central street of cafés, bakeries and shops, best explored on foot, with tips for making the most of it.

Garadi is Puducherry's folk dance of the vanar army from the Ramayana, danced with sticks, iron ankle rings and big Ramadolu drums.

Joan of Arc Statue in Pondicherry's French Quarter: a white marble figure in a garden facing Our Lady of Angels Church, with history and tips.

Kanniga Parameswari Temple on MG Road, Puducherry mixes Dravidian shrines with French-style pillars and stained glass. Timings and festivals.

Le Café on Puducherry's seafront: an old port office turned café with sea views, coffee, snacks and a remnant of the historic pier nearby.

Manakula Vinayagar Temple, Puducherry's much-loved Ganesha shrine near the seafront: golden tower, golden chariot, timings and festivals.

Mohiniyattam, Kerala's graceful solo dance of Mohini, can be seen in Puducherry at temple festivals, heritage events and cultural evenings.

Panchavati temple near Puducherry has a 36-foot five-faced Hanuman on the Tindivanam road; see timings, offerings and how to get there.

Paradise Beach near Puducherry, reached by boat from Chunnambar: clean sands, water sports, facilities and tips for planning your day.

Promenade Beach, Puducherry: the seafront walk along White Town, when to go, safety, food nearby and what else to see in the French Quarter.

Puducherry Museum on Saint Louis Street: Chola and Pallava bronzes, Arikamedu finds, French furniture and a pousse-pousse, open 10 am to 5 pm.

Romain Rolland Library, Puducherry: a public library founded in 1827 with a large French collection, rare books and a children's wing.

Serenity Beach near Puducherry: a quiet fishing-village beach known for surfing lessons, kayaking and fresh seafood. Tips and access.

Sri Vedapureeswarar Temple in central Puducherry: its swayambu lingam, carved pillars, festivals, offerings, timings and how to get there.

Varadaraja Perumal Temple on MG Road, Puducherry: the standing Vishnu, the 108 forms display, festivals, Annaprasanam, timings and access.

Varadharaja Perumal Temple on MG Road, Puducherry, is an old Vishnu shrine known for its 108 Divya Desam images and Purattasi Saturday worship.

Veerampattinam Beach near Pondicherry: a quiet fishing-village shore 7 km from town, known for its Aadi chariot festival and nearby Arikamedu.

Yakshagana explained: Karnataka's all-night dance-drama of epic stories, its costumes, music and the bhagavata, and where you might catch a show.

Thirunallar Saneeswaran Temple near Karaikal: the Navagraha shrine for Shani, King Nala's story, Sani Peyarchi, rituals and access.

Bastille Day in Puducherry on 14 July: a veterans' parade on Goubert Avenue, both anthems, cultural shows and French Quarter food. Travel tips.

Fête de Pondicherry is a three-day August festival of music, dance and food celebrating Puducherry's mixed French and Tamil heritage.

International Yoga Day in Puducherry on 21 June: dawn sessions on the seafront, events at Sri Aurobindo Ashram and workshops across the town.

Every 21 February, Sri Aurobindo Ashram in Puducherry marks the Mother's birthday with darshan, flowers, meditation and cultural programmes.

The Veerampattinam car festival honours Sengazhuneer Amman, protector of Puducherry's fishing families, with a chariot pull and rituals in August.

Kerala travel guide: backwaters, Western Ghats hill stations, wildlife parks, festivals, art forms, food and the best seasons to visit.

Kerala's historic monuments: Padmanabhapuram Palace, Mattancherry, Fort Kochi, Bekal and Thalassery forts, Edakkal Caves and more.

Plan a trip to Alleppey, Kerala's backwater town: houseboat and shikara rides, Kuttanad paddy fields, old temples, the beach and how to get there.

Plan an Alleppey backwater holiday: houseboat stays, Vembanad Lake, beaches, boat races, local food, the best season and how to get there.

Plan a Kochi trip: Fort Kochi and Mattancherry sights, museums, temples and churches, day trips, and how to reach Kerala's port city.

Kannur travel guide: Theyyam season, St Angelo Fort, beaches and North Kerala shrines, with the best time to visit and how to reach the town.

Kovalam beach guide: Lighthouse, Hawa and Samudra beaches, Ayurveda, nearby temples and lakes, best season and how to reach from Thiruvananthapuram.

Kozhikode (Calicut) guide: Kappad Beach, Mananchira Square, Beypore, Kadalundi, Malabar food, the best season to visit and travel options.

Kumarakom on Vembanad Lake: houseboat and shikara cruises, the bird sanctuary, nearby temples and churches, best season and access.

Malappuram travel guide: Nilambur's teak forests, Kadalundi birds, Kottakkal Ayurveda, Kadampuzha temple, best season and how to get there.

Munnar is a tea-country hill station in Kerala's Western Ghats, with Eravikulam National Park, Anamudi peak, Mattupetty Dam and a tea museum.

Palakkad travel guide: Malampuzha Dam, Silent Valley, Nelliampathy and Parambikulam in Kerala's rice bowl, with best season and how to reach.

Ponmudi hill station near Thiruvananthapuram: the 22-bend ghat road, cool weather at 1,100 m, treks, waterfalls and the best months to go.

Plan a Thekkady trip: Periyar Tiger Reserve boat rides, bamboo rafting, guided treks, spice gardens and day trips to Gavi, with ticket details.

Thekkady and the Periyar Tiger Reserve: lake boating, bamboo rafting, jungle treks, Gavi and spice gardens. Best season and how to reach.

Thiruvananthapuram travel guide: Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Kovalam, museums and palaces, Ponmudi and Varkala trips, shopping, best time and transport.

Vagamon hill station in Kerala: pine forest, meadows, Kurisumala and Thangal Para, paragliding, weather by season and how to get there.

Vythiri in Wayanad: plantations, rainforest, tree-house stays and nearby Pookode Lake, Chembra Peak and Edakkal Caves, with travel tips.

Wayanad guide: Edakkal Caves, Chembra Peak, waterfalls, Banasura Sagar, Muthanga wildlife and spice estates in Kerala's green highlands.

Plan an overnight houseboat cruise in Alleppey: cabin sizes, meal timings, what you see on the backwaters and how to prepare for the trip.

Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple in Alappuzha district is famed for its palpayasam, the chess legend, Ottamthullal and festivals. Timings and access.

Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple on the Pamba: legends, the Vallasadya feast, snake boat race, Aranmula mirrors, timings and dress code.

Chengannur Mahadeva Temple, Kerala: an ancient Shiva-Parvati shrine known for the Thripputhu ritual, a 28-day festival and traditional architecture.

Chottanikkara Bhagavathi Temple near Kochi: the goddess in three forms, Makam Thozhal festival, darshan timings, dress code and access.

Cherai Beach on Vypin island near Kochi: calm shallow water, backwaters behind the sand, the December kite festival, best season and how to reach.

Kochi's Chinese fishing nets (cheena vala): how the giant teak lift nets work, when to watch them and how to reach the Fort Kochi shore.

Hill Palace in Tripunithura, former seat of the Kochi royal family, holds Kerala's biggest archaeological museum, with royal treasures and manuscripts.

Mattancherry Palace in Kochi: Portuguese-built, Dutch-renovated, with Kerala murals, royal portraits, a unique floor, and Friday closing.

Mattancherry Palace in Kochi, the Dutch Palace: Ramayana murals, Kochi royal portraits and relics, timings, and tips for a Fort Kochi walk.

Paradesi Synagogue in Kochi's Jew Town, built in 1568: its history, Chinese tiles and clock tower, visiting hours, closing days and access.

St Francis Church, Fort Kochi: among India's earliest European churches and Vasco da Gama's first grave: history, tips and access.

Guruvayoor Sri Krishna Temple: history, the Rudratheertham tank, Krishnanattam, the elephant camp, timings, dress code and travel tips.

Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple, Kerala: one of India's most revered Krishna shrines, known for daily rituals, temple elephants and a strict dress code.

Mannarasala Nagaraja Temple, Haripad: Kerala's great serpent shrine with a priestess, 30,000 snake idols, timings, dress code and festivals.

St Angelo Fort in Kannur: a Portuguese laterite fort on the sea, with bastions, a moat and views of Mappila Bay. Timings and access.

Bekal Fort in Kasaragod, Kerala's largest fort, on a headland above the Arabian Sea: history, what to see, timings and how to reach.

A traveller's guide to Kerala's art forms: Kathakali, Mohiniyattam and Theyyam, what to expect at a show, and the best season to see them live.

Chakyar Koothu, Kerala's solo temple storytelling art: its Chakyar performers, the mizhavu drum, witty satire and where you can watch it.

A traveller's guide to Kerala's folk and ritual arts: Theyyam, Thiruvathirakali, Kathakali and Pulikali, what they are and when you can see them.

Kathakali is Kerala's classical dance-drama, told through mudras, eye movements and elaborate make-up with no spoken lines. Where to watch it.

Koodiyattam is Kerala's ancient Sanskrit temple theatre, known for slow, detailed acting, mizhavu drums and a witty Vidushaka who talks in Malayalam.

Mohiniyattam, Kerala's graceful solo dance: its Mohini legend, lasya style, costume, Carnatic music and where travellers can see it.

Padayani, central Kerala's night-time temple ritual with giant painted masks, drums and songs to Bhadrakali, and when and where to see it.

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is a dry rain-shadow forest near Munnar, known for the grizzled giant squirrel, thorny scrub and sandalwood trees.

Eravikulam National Park near Munnar: Nilgiri tahr, shola grasslands, Anamudi peak and Neelakurinji, with best season and visitor tips.

Sabarimala Ayyappa temple guide: the 41-day vratham, Irumudi, the 18 holy steps, the trek from Pamba, Makaravilakku season and how to reach.

Thalassery Fort in Kannur district, built by the East India Company in 1708: its history, sea views, timings and how to get there.

Vadakkunnathan Temple, Thrissur: a classic Kerala Shiva temple, home of the Pooram festival, with murals, timings, dress code and travel details.

Attukal Bhagavathy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram: the Kannaki legend, the Attukal Pongala festival, timings, dress code and access.

Napier Museum, Thiruvananthapuram: a colourful 19th-century Indo-Saracenic building holding Kerala bronzes, temple carvings, murals and old artefacts.

Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Thiruvananthapuram: Vishnu reclining on Anantha, Kerala-Dravidian architecture, dress code and visiting tips.

Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Thiruvananthapuram: the reclining Vishnu, darshan timings, strict dress code, festivals and nearby sights.

Thiruvallam Parasurama Temple on the Karamana river: Kerala's only Parasurama shrine, famed for Karkidaka Vavu ancestor rites.

Thiruvananthapuram Zoo, founded in 1859: tigers, lions, rhinos, a reptile house and Western Ghats species, plus timings and best season.

Vaikom Mahadeva Temple in Kottayam district, the 'Kashi of the South': legends, Vaikathashtami festival, timings, dress code and how to reach.

Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave Temple near Kovalam: an early granite cave shrine to Vinadhara Dakshinamurthy, with timings and how to get there.

Chembra Peak near Meppadi is Wayanad's highest point at about 2,100 m, with a trek past tea estates to a heart-shaped lake and wide valley views.

Lakkidi, the gateway to Wayanad: a rainy, forested viewpoint above the ghat road near Vythiri, close to Pookode Lake and Edakkal Caves.

Onam is Kerala's harvest festival in Chingam (August–September): flower carpets, the Onasadya feast, snake boat races and the return of Mahabali.

Thrissur Pooram, held in Medam (April–May) at Vadakkunnathan Temple, brings caparisoned elephants, drum ensembles and night fireworks to Kerala.

Karnataka travel guide: Hampi and Pattadakal, the hills of Coorg, the coast at Murudeshwar, Mysuru Dasara, local food and when to go.

Aihole in Karnataka's Bagalkot district holds over a hundred early Chalukya stone temples, showing how Indian temple building first took shape.

Badami travel guide: Chalukya cave temples in red sandstone, Agastya Lake, Badami Fort, the museum, best season and how to get there from Hubli.

Bengaluru travel guide: palaces, gardens, Cubbon Park, Lal Bagh, Bannerghatta, the best season to visit and how to reach Karnataka's capital.

Belur in Hassan district is home to the Chennakeshava Temple, a showcase of Hoysala carving. Best season, history and how to plan a visit.

Chikkamagaluru, Karnataka's coffee country: estate walks, Mullayanagiri treks, Hebbe and Jhari falls, and when to go for the harvest season.

Coorg (Kodagu) travel guide: Raja's Seat, Abbey Falls, Dubare, Bylakuppe monastery, Talacauvery, weather and how to reach.

Hampi travel guide: Vijayanagara ruins, Virupaksha Temple, Lotus Mahal, Matanga Hill sunset, timings and how to reach via Hospet.

Hubballi, Dharwad's twin city in north Karnataka: Unkal Lake, Chandramouleshwara Temple, Siddharoodha Math, Navagraha Teertha and more.

Karwar travel guide: quiet beaches like Devbaug and Tagore Beach, Kurumgad Island, a warship museum, seafood and easy access from Goa.

Mangalore travel guide: beaches, temples, St Aloysius Chapel, Sultan Battery, local food, the best season to visit and how to get there.

Murudeshwar on Karnataka's coast: the giant Shiva statue, the tall temple gopuram with a lift, the beach, Netrani Island and travel tips.

Mysuru travel guide: the palace, Chamundi Hills, Dasara and Jamboo Savari, silk, sandalwood and Mysore Pak, best season and how to reach.

Pattadakal, UNESCO-listed Chalukya temple site on the Malaprabha: Virupaksha and other temples, best season and how to reach from Badami.

Somnathpur, a quiet village near Mysuru famed for its star-shaped Hoysala temple, with nearby Talakadu, Shivanasamudra and travel tips.

Srirangapatna guide: Tipu Sultan's island capital on the Cauvery, with Daria Daulat, the Gumbaz, the Ranganathaswamy temple and bird sanctuary.

Udupi on the Karnataka coast: the Sri Krishna Math, famous temple cuisine, Malpe Beach, St Mary's Island, best season and travel tips.

Attara Kacheri, Bengaluru: the red Gothic-style building opposite Vidhana Soudha, built 1864–68 and now home to the Karnataka High Court.

Bangalore Palace: the Wadiyar family's Tudor-style residence, its ballroom and Durbar Hall, tour length, photo rules and how to get there.

The old Basavanagudi market near Bengaluru's Bull Temple is a lively spot for fresh produce, jasmine garlands and a look at everyday city life.

Bull Temple, Basavanagudi, Bangalore: the giant monolithic Nandi, its legend, the Kadalekai Parishe groundnut fair and how to reach the shrine.

Cubbon Park is Bangalore's green lung since 1870: shaded walks, the State Central Library and quiet car-free mornings in the city centre.

Dodda Ganapathi Temple in Basavanagudi, Bengaluru, houses an 18-foot monolithic Ganesha famed for its butter alankara, next to the Bull Temple.

Gavi Gangadhareshwara, Bengaluru's cave temple to Shiva, known for the Sankranti sunset that lights the lingam; timings, festivals and access.

Bangalore's Government Museum on Kasturba Road: the Halmidi inscription, Hoysala sculpture and the Venkatappa Art Gallery next door.

HAL Aerospace Museum, Bengaluru: India's first aerospace heritage centre, with aero engines, flight simulators and a model ATC tower.

The ISKCON Sri Radha Krishna Temple in Rajajinagar, Bengaluru: a modern hilltop temple with a gold-plated tower, chanting and a large book shop.

Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain on Raj Bhavan Road, Bangalore: evening water, light and music shows in landscaped grounds near the planetarium.

Vivek Nagar's Infant Jesus Church in Bengaluru: a popular Catholic shrine known for Thursday devotions, its January feast, and daily hours.

Jamia Masjid near City Market, Bangalore: the city's largest mosque, in white Rajasthan marble, with room for 10,000 worshippers. Visiting tips.

Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium, Bangalore: Sky Theatre shows, astronomy talks and science exhibits near Raj Bhavan, ideal for families and school groups.

Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath in Bengaluru: art galleries, the Roerich paintings, Mysore painting and puppetry, and events through the year.

Lal Bagh in Bengaluru: 240 acres of trees and flowers, the Glass House flower shows, an ancient rock outcrop, a lake and birdlife to enjoy.

National Gallery of Modern Art, Bangalore: Indian art from the late 1700s in Manikyavelu Mansion on Palace Road, with gardens, library and cafe.

Ragigudda Sri Prasanna Anjaneya Temple is a hilltop Hanuman shrine in south Bengaluru, famous for its 12-day Hanuman Jayanti and social work.

Shivoham Shiva Temple, Old Airport Road, Bangalore: the 65-foot seated Shiva, Jyotirlinga replicas, themed caves, timings and how to get there.

Tipu Sultan's teak Summer Palace and the remains of Bangalore Fort: what to see, the history, and how to get there in old Bengaluru.

Vidhana Soudha, Bengaluru: history of Karnataka's granite legislature building, its architecture, viewing tips and how to get there.

Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum, Bengaluru: hands-on science galleries, the Wright Flyer replica, shows and tips for families.

Belgaum Fort in Karnataka holds Hindu shrines, a Chalukyan Jain basadi and two old mosques. Timings, entry fees and nearby sights to plan a visit.

Chennakeshava Temple, Belur: a 12th-century Hoysala masterpiece and UNESCO site with fine carvings, madanikas, timings and travel tips.

Bidar Fort in north Karnataka: the Bahmani capital's moats, Rangin Mahal and palaces, with timings, best season and travel tips.

Chaubara, Bidar's old watchtower at the main crossroads: its 71-foot tower, clock faces, free entry, timings and nearby Bahmani sights.

Chitradurga Fort, Karnataka: the seven-walled stone fort of the Nayakas, its legends, timings, entry details and how to reach from Bangalore.

Gokarna beaches and temples: Kudle, Om, Half Moon and Paradise beaches, the Mahabaleshwar and Maha Ganapati temples, and how to get there.

Mahabaleshwar Temple in Gokarna, home of Shiva's Atma Linga: the Ravana legend, Shivaratri festival, timings and how to reach it.

Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebidu: twin Shiva shrines carved in soapstone, history, visiting season, dress code and how to get there.

Virupaksha Temple, Hampi: a living Shiva temple in the UNESCO-listed Vijayanagara ruins, with its towering gopuram, timings and festivals.

Lakshminarayana Temple, Hosaholalu: a finely carved three-shrine Hoysala temple of 1250 on a star-shaped platform in Mandya district.

A traveller's guide to Karnataka's traditional arts: Yakshagana, Dollu Kunita, Goravara Kunita, folk theatre, Mysore painting and temple sculpture.

Beesu Kamsale is a devotional dance of Karnataka performed with clashing bronze cymbals in honour of Male Mahadeshwara, best seen at MM Hills.

Goravara Kunitha is a ritual dance of north Karnataka's Gorava devotees of Mailara Linga, known for bearskin caps, the damaru and black blankets.

Krishna Parijatha is a night-long Kannada folk theatre of North Karnataka, retelling Krishna's quest for the Parijatha tree with song and humour.

Somana Kunita is a ritual mask dance of southern Karnataka, performed at village temple fairs with tall cane headgear, bright colours and drums.

Yakshagana is coastal Karnataka's night-long dance-drama of epic stories, with towering headgear, chande drums and a lead singer, the Bhagavata.

Kateel Durgaparameshwari Temple near Mangaluru: a goddess shrine on an islet in the Nandini river, famed for Yakshagana, Navaratri and April festival.

Kaup (Kapu) Beach near Udupi: a quiet stretch of sand with an old lighthouse, sunset views, nearby beaches and how to reach it.

Abbey Falls near Madikeri in Coorg: a 70-foot monsoon waterfall among coffee and spice estates, the best season, nearby sights and how to reach.

Malpe Beach near Udupi: water sports, the floating bridge, boats to St Mary's Island, seafood, best season and how to get there.

Maravanthe Beach in coastal Karnataka: highway between river and sea, quiet sunsets, Udupi nearby and practical travel tips.

Murudeshwar Temple guide: the giant seated Shiva, the 249-foot gopuram with a lift, the Atma Linga legend, timings, festivals and access.

Mysore Palace, the Wadiyar royal seat in Mysuru, blends Indian, Islamic and Gothic styles and is the centre of the city's famous Dasara festival.

Betta Byraveshwara Temple is a dark stone Bhairava shrine in the Western Ghats near Sakleshpur, close to the Jenukal Gudda trekking peak.

Jog Falls on the Sharavathi: Karnataka's highest waterfall, a 253 m drop split into Raja, Rani, Rocket and Roarer, at its fullest in monsoon.

Shravanabelagola's Gommateshwara: the 17 m Bahubali monolith on Vindhyagiri, its story, temple timings, Mahamastakabhisheka and travel tips.

Shravanabelagola's 17 m Bahubali statue on Vindhyagiri Hill: history, Mahamastakabhisheka, timings, dress code and how to reach.

Keshava Temple at Somanathapura: a 1268 Hoysala shrine to Vishnu, part of a UNESCO listing, with timings, dress tips and the route from Mysuru.

Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary near Mysuru: boat rides past nesting storks, pelicans and crocodiles on the Cauvery islets, plus best season.

Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, Srirangapatna: the first of the Cauvery's Ranga shrines, with Vishnu reclining, plus timings and festivals.

Mekekattu Nandikeshwara Temple near Barkur, Udupi: tall painted wooden warrior figures, local legends, Sankranti festivals and access.

Udupi Sri Krishna Matha: darshan through the nine-holed window, the Ashta Mathas, Madhvacharya's legend, timings, dress code and access.

Makar Sankranti in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana: the solar harvest festival, ellu bella, Bhogi fires, Kanuma and kite flying.

Ugadi is the lunar New Year of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, marked by oil baths, mango-leaf torans, the Panchanga reading and pachadi.

Andhra Pradesh travel guide: Tirupati, Vizag beaches, Araku Valley, Borra and Belum caves, Gandikota, the best season and trip ideas.

Anantapur travel guide: Lepakshi's hanging pillar, Gooty and Penukonda forts, Puttaparthi, Dharmavaram silk and the giant Thimmamma Marrimanu banyan.

Araku Valley guide: Borra Caves, Katiki and Dumbriguda falls, the Tribal Museum and the tunnel-filled train ride from Visakhapatnam.

Chittoor travel guide: the Mango City of Andhra Pradesh, a base for Tirumala, Kanipakam, Srikalahasti, Horsley Hills and forest waterfalls.

Guntur travel guide: chilli and cotton country near Amaravati, with Kondaveedu Fort, Undavalli Caves and the old Agasthyeswara Shiva temple.

Nellore on the Pennar in Andhra Pradesh: Ranganathaswamy temple, Udayagiri and Venkatagiri forts, Nelapattu bird sanctuary and Mypadu beach.

Srisailam guide: the Mallikarjuna temple in the Nallamala hills, Srisailam Dam, Patalaganga, Shankaracharya's springs and the tiger reserve.

Tirupati and Tirumala travel guide: Venkateswara temple, hair offering, laddu, nearby temples and falls, best season and how to reach.

Vijayawada on the Krishna river: Kanaka Durga Temple, Undavalli Caves, Bhavani Island, Prakasam Barrage, best season and how to reach.

Visakhapatnam travel guide: beaches, Kailasagiri, Simhachalam, the Submarine Museum, Araku Valley and Borra Caves, plus best months to go.

The nine Narasimha shrines of Ahobilam in the Eastern Ghats: the Prahlada legend, the nine forms, and how pilgrims plan the circuit.

Kuchipudi, Kalamkari, Kolattam and more: a short guide to the classical and folk arts of Andhra Pradesh and where travellers can see them.

Borra Caves near Araku Valley: limestone caverns with stalactites, Stone Age finds, timings and how to reach them from Visakhapatnam.

Katiki Waterfalls near Borra Caves: jeep ride from Gatevalsa, a short forest trek, bamboo chicken and the best months for full flow.

Kanipakam Vinayaka Temple near Chittoor: the self-manifested Ganesha idol in a well, key festivals, temple hours and how to reach it from Tirupati.

Belum Caves in Kurnool district: India's second-longest natural cave system, with Pataalaganga, musical rock chambers and old monk cells.

Perantalapalli is a quiet tribal village on the Godavari near Papi Hills, reached by river cruise from Rajahmundry, with bamboo crafts and an old temple.

Srikalahasteeswara Temple near Tirupati: the Vayu lingam, Rahu-Ketu puja, legends, festivals, dress code and how to reach Srikalahasti.

Sri Vari Museum in Tirumala explains the history, rituals and festivals of the Venkateswara temple through artefacts, sculpture and old photographs.

Chandragiri Fort near Tirupati: the last Vijayanagara capital, with the Raja Mahal museum, Rani Mahal, ruined temples and an evening sound-and-light show.

Deer Park on the Tirupati–Tirumala ghat road: a TTD-run woodland where spotted deer roam, a restful family stop with no entry fee.

Govindarajaswamy Temple in Tirupati: the Ramanuja legend, the tall carved gopuram, annual festivals, darshan timings and how to get there.

TTD Gardens near Tirupati: the 460-acre gardens that supply flowers to the Venkateswara temple, rare plants, free entry, timings and nearby sights.

Talakona Waterfalls near Tirupati: Andhra Pradesh's tallest falls, about 270 ft, in the Seshachalam forest, with a canopy walk and Shiva temple.

Plan your Tirumala darshan: the Alipiri and Srivari Mettu footpaths, daily sevas, the laddu, sights on the hill and the best ways to reach Tirupati.

Undavalli Caves near Vijayawada: rock-cut shrines above the Krishna, the reclining Vishnu, timings, tickets, best season and how to reach.

Kanaka Devi Temple, a goddess shrine known for its holy streams and the legend of King Parikshit's Sarpa Yaga, with tips for pilgrims.

Victory at Sea War Memorial on Vizag's Beach Road: the 1971 naval tribute near RK Beach and INS Kursura, with timings, history and nearby sights.

Brahmotsavam at Tirumala: the nine-day annual festival of Lord Venkateswara, its rituals, processions and tips for pilgrims attending.

Kanuma, the third day of Sankranti in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, honours cattle with decorated horns, temple visits and village festivities.

Plan a Telangana trip: Hyderabad's Charminar and Golconda, Kakatiya temples in Warangal, the best season, food to try and how to get there.

Plan a trip to Adilabad in north Telangana for Kuntala Waterfalls, the Kawal tiger reserve, forest sanctuaries and old temples.

Gundala, near Bhadrachalam in Telangana, is known for its sacred hot spring, forest viewpoints and monsoon waterfalls. Best season and how to reach.

Hyderabad guide: Charminar, Golconda Fort, Falaknuma Palace, Hussain Sagar, the Salar Jung Museum, biryani and how to reach the city.

Khammam in Telangana: the hilltop Kakatiya fort, Narasimha temple, Kinnerasani sanctuary and Lakaram lake, with season and travel tips.

Mahbubnagar guide: the giant Pillalamarri banyan, Alampur's Chalukya temples, Gadwal sarees, Koilsagar dam and the forests of Nallamala.

Nalgonda travel guide: Yadagirigutta, Bhongir and Rachakonda forts, Kolanupaka Jain temple, Nagarjuna Sagar dam and Ethipothala falls.

Nizamabad travel guide: the hilltop fort, Alisagar gardens, Pocharam sanctuary, Pochampad dam, Kanteshwar temple and how to get there.

Warangal travel guide: Kakatiya fort and gateways, the Thousand Pillar Temple, Bhadrakali Temple, Pakhal Lake and how to get there.

Dhokra metal art of Adilabad, Telangana: how the lost-wax craft works, what artisans make, and tips for buying genuine pieces.

Jainath Temple near Adilabad, Telangana: an old stone shrine with a Prakrit inscription, its annual festival period, and nearby temples to visit.

Kala Ashram in Adilabad keeps fourteen rural crafts alive, with a small museum of Gond artefacts and a Diwali pottery exhibition each year.

Kawal in Telangana's Adilabad district: teak and bamboo forest, tigers and sloth bears, jeep safaris and the best months to plan a trip.

Kuntala Waterfalls on the Kadem river, Telangana's tallest falls: the legend, the best months to go, how to reach and other waterfalls nearby.

Pochera Waterfalls near Adilabad: a 20-metre forest cascade with a calm pool, an old Shiva temple and quiet trails, best seen after the monsoon.

Pranahita Wildlife Sanctuary in north Telangana: forests along the Pranahita river, sloth bears and leopards, fossil beds and the best season.

Sivaram Wildlife Sanctuary on the Godavari in Telangana protects mugger crocodiles, sloth bears and deer in quiet deciduous and riverside forest.

Basar Gnana Saraswati Temple in Telangana: Vyasa's legend, the Akshara Abhyasam ceremony for children, festivals and planning tips.

Kinnerasani Wildlife Sanctuary near Bhadrachalam: forested islands, a reservoir, deer park and birdlife in Telangana's quiet teak country.

Thousand Pillar Temple in Hanamkonda, built by the Kakatiyas in 1163: its star-shaped plan, three shrines, Nandi, festivals and timings.

Charminar, Hyderabad's 1591 landmark: its history, four minarets and mosque, Laad Bazaar bangles, Mecca Masjid nearby, and how to get there.

Golconda Fort in Hyderabad: clapping acoustics, Bala Hissar, diamond-trade history and the evening sound-and-light show. Timings and tips.

Hussain Sagar, the 1562 lake linking Hyderabad and Secunderabad, with its 18 m monolithic Buddha statue, boat rides, Lumbini Park and Necklace Road.

Kondapur Museum near Hyderabad displays coins, beads, pottery and terracottas dug from a Satavahana-era town, beside the excavation site itself.

Khammam Fort in Telangana: a hilltop stronghold of Kakatiya and Qutb Shahi times, its bastions, stone structures, views and visiting tips.

Lakaram Lake in Khammam: a restored lakeside park with boating, walking paths and birdwatching, plus nearby temples and travel tips.

Nelakondapalli near Khammam: an early Buddhist stupa site, local Mahabharata legends, plus Jamalapuram temple and Godavari trips nearby.

Medak Cathedral in Telangana, consecrated in 1924: its Gothic design, stained glass, mosaic floors, size, history and tips for visiting.

Medak Fort in Telangana: a hilltop fort with town views, free entry, timings, best season, and other Telangana heritage sites to add.

Pocharam Wildlife Sanctuary in Telangana: a Nizam-era lake, antelopes and sloth bears, wetland birds and a forest trekking trail.

Ramappa Temple near Warangal, the 1213 Kakatiya Shiva temple and UNESCO site known for floating bricks and dancer sculptures. Visit guide.

Telangana's arts and crafts: Pochampally ikat, Gadwal and Narayanpet weaves, Nirmal paintings and toys, Bidri, and dances like Perini.

Banjara needle craft of Telangana: bold embroidery with mirrors, shells and beads, its meaning, what is made, and where to buy it.

Bidri craft explained: silver inlay on blackened zinc-copper alloy from Bidar, its Persian roots, how it is made and what to buy in Hyderabad.

Chindu Bhagavatham, Telangana's leaping folk theatre: its Madiga roots, stories of Vishnu, how it is staged, and when you can see it.

Mahatma Gandhi Park in Telangana: a landscaped green space with a Gandhi statue, walking paths and seating. Best hours, tips and who it suits.

Perini Shivatandavam, the warriors' dance of the Kakatiya era in Telangana: its history, revival by Nataraja Ramakrishna and where to see it.

The Deccan Festival in Hyderabad: five days of ghazals, qawwali, mushaira poetry, pearl and bangle stalls, and Hyderabadi food in February.

Rajasthan travel guide: forts and palaces of Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur and Jaisalmer, desert festivals, best season and how to get there.

Plan a trip to Ajmer: the Dargah of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, Ana Sagar Lake, the Jain Gold Temple, best season and how to get there.

Bikaner in northern Rajasthan is known for Junagarh Fort, red sandstone palaces, the camel research centre and the Karni Mata temple at Deshnok.

Chittorgarh guide: the great Rajput hill fort of Mewar, with Vijay Stambh, Rani Padmini's Palace, Jain towers and the Kalika Mata Temple.

Jaisalmer guide: the living Sonar Quila fort, carved havelis, Jain temples, Gadisar Lake and Thar Desert camps, best from October to March.

Mount Abu, Rajasthan's only hill station: Nakki Lake, Guru Shikhar, Toad Rock, the Dilwara temples, best season and how to get there.

Neelkanth Temple near Alwar: an early medieval Shiva temple in the Aravalli hills by Sariska, with fine carved pillars and Pratihara-era sculpture.

Junagarh Fort in Bikaner: the never-captured Rajput fort built by Raja Rai Singh, its painted palaces, museum, best season and time to allow.

Lalgarh Palace, Bikaner: Maharaja Ganga Singh's red sandstone palace by Swinton Jacob, now a heritage hotel and museum, with visiting tips.

Chittorgarh Fort: Mewar's hilltop capital, Vijay Stambh, Kirti Stambh, Padmini's Palace, its three sieges and tips for planning a visit.

Ambika Mata Temple at Jagat near Udaipur: an early medieval Maru-Gurjara shrine to Durga with rich carvings. Timings, dress and how to reach.

Amber (Amer) Fort near Jaipur: courtyards, palaces and halls, the sound and light show, timings and how to reach it from the city.

Amer Fort near Jaipur: Rajput palaces, Sheesh Mahal mirror work, Sukh Niwas, light and sound show, best season and how to get there.

Birla Mandir, Jaipur: a white marble Lakshmi Narayan temple with scripture carvings, stained glass, timings, dress code and festivals.

Hawa Mahal, Jaipur's pink sandstone Palace of Winds from 1799, with 953 latticed windows; timings, history and tips for your visit.

Jaipur's Jantar Mantar observatory: giant stone instruments including the huge Samrat Yantra sundial, with timings, fees and how to reach.

Nahargarh Fort, Jaipur: Sawai Jai Singh II's hilltop fort, the queens' suites of Madhavendra Bhawan, city views at sunset and visit tips.

Jaisalmer Fort, the Sonar Qila: a living fort of yellow sandstone with palaces, Jain temples, havelis and desert views, plus visit tips.

Patwon Ki Haveli in Jaisalmer is a row of five carved sandstone merchant mansions near the fort; see what's inside, timings and tips.

Tanot Mata Temple, deep in the Thar near the border west of Jaisalmer, is famed for shells that failed to explode here during the India-Pakistan wars.

Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur: clifftop ramparts, period rooms, museum galleries and views over the blue city. Timings, tips and how to reach.

Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur is a royal home, Taj hotel and museum of clocks and vintage cars; how to visit, best season and tips.

Kumbhalgarh Fort in the Aravallis: a 36 km wall, hundreds of temples and Maharana Pratap's birthplace. Best season and how long to spend.

Mandawa in Rajasthan's Shekhawati region is an open-air gallery of painted merchant havelis, from Newatia and Chokhani to the Murmuria mansion.

The Dilwara Jain Temples of Mount Abu: five marble shrines with some of India's finest carving. Timings, dress rules and the best time to visit.

Parshuram Mahadev, a Shiva cave shrine in the Aravallis near Kumbhalgarh, reached by about 500 steps. Legend, festivals and visiting tips.

Brahma Temple, Pushkar: one of the rare shrines to Lord Brahma beside the holy lake, with the Kartik Purnima festival, timings, dress and best season.

An overview of Rajasthan's arts and crafts: textiles, jewellery, miniature painting, puppetry, folk music and dance, and how to explore them.

Rajasthan's folk arts: Phad scroll paintings, Mandana floor art, Thape wall motifs, Badaley water-vessel covers and Thewa glasswork explained.

A guide to Rajasthan's folk dances: Bhavai pot-balancing, Chakri, Chari with lamps, drum and fire dances, and where travellers can watch them.

An introduction to Rajasthan's folk theatre, from Khayal and Tamasha to Swang, Raas Leela and Rammat, and what to watch for at a performance.

Rajasthan handicrafts explained: Makrana marble carving, Nathdwara terracotta, Meenakari, Jaipur blue pottery, block prints, Thewa and lac work.

A guide to Rajasthani painting: its roots, the Phad scrolls and court miniatures, major schools, common themes and where to see them.

Ranakpur Jain Temple: the 15th-century marble Chaturmukha shrine with 1,444 carved pillars, festivals, timings, dress code and access.

Ranthambore Fort and National Park: a UNESCO-listed hill fort inside a tiger reserve, with safari booking, season, timings and travel tips.

Ranthambore National Park: tigers, leopards and a hilltop fort in Rajasthan's dry forest. Safari types, best season and booking tips.

Shri Mahaveerji Temple in Karauli district, a major Digambar Jain pilgrimage site: its legend, architecture, Mahavir Jayanti fair and access.

Lake Palace, Udaipur: the 18th-century Jag Niwas on Lake Pichola, its history, how to see it by boat, access rules and the best season to go.

The Jaipur Literature Festival gathers writers, thinkers and readers each winter in Rajasthan's capital for talks, debates and book launches.

Jodhpur RIFF at Mehrangarh Fort: five days of Rajasthani and world folk music, when it is held, what to expect and how to plan your stay.

The three-day Kumbhalgarh Festival in December brings Rajasthani music, dance and crafts to the walls of Kumbhalgarh Fort near Udaipur.

Gujarat travel guide: Rann of Kutch, Gir lions, Dwarka and Somnath, Harappan sites, seasons, festivals, food and how to get around.

Ahmedabad, India's first UNESCO World Heritage City, pairs Sabarmati Ashram and old mosques with textile museums, Manek Chowk and kite season.

Bhavnagar guide: a Gujarat port city of Gohil rulers, Gandhi links, Barton Museum, Takhteshwar Temple and the Velavadar blackbuck park.

Rajkot travel guide: Gandhi's family home, the Watson Museum, Rajkumar College, Kathiawadi food, the best months to visit and how to get there.

Surat travel guide: a historic Mughal-era port, diamond and textile hub, heritage sites, beaches, local food and the best time to visit.

Vadodara travel guide: Lakshmi Vilas Palace, Gaekwad museums, Navratri garba, day trips to Champaner and Sankheda, best season and how to reach it.

Swaminarayan Akshardham in Gandhinagar: a carved pink sandstone temple from 1992, with exhibitions, gardens and an evening water show.

Koteshwar Mahadev Temple in Kutch, Gujarat: a Shiva shrine at India's far western edge, its Ravana legend, stone architecture and how to reach.

Somnath Temple at Prabhas Patan, Gujarat, is the first of Shiva's twelve Jyotirlingas. Its history, architecture and how to reach it by rail or air.

Gopnath Mahadev Temple on the Gulf of Khambhat near Talaja, Gujarat: a seaside Shiva shrine linked with Narsinh Mehta, and how to reach it.

International Kite Festival and Uttarayan: how western India fills the sky with kites on Makar Sankranti in mid-January, and where to join in.

The Madhavpur fair near Porbandar in Gujarat re-enacts Krishna's wedding to Rukmini, with processions, folk culture and Mer community traditions.

The Beach Festival at Tithal near Valsad, Gujarat: music, dance, magic shows, beach sports and Gujarati food on a quiet dark-sand shore.

Maharashtra travel guide: Mumbai and Pune, Ajanta and Ellora, Sahyadri hill stations, Konkan beaches, food, festivals, best season and transport.

Shirdi pilgrimage guide: Sai Baba Samadhi Mandir, Dwarkamai, Chavadi and Gurusthan, aarti timings, darshan tips, best season and how to get there.

Delhi travel guide: Mughal monuments, Old Delhi food lanes, the best months to visit, festivals and how to get there by air, rail and road.

Delhi's Red Fort: Shah Jahan's red sandstone palace-fortress, its audience halls, Independence Day link and tips for planning a visit.

Holi, India's spring festival of colours: the legends behind it, when it falls, and where to see Lathmar Holi, Hola Mohalla and Basant Utsav.

Chitrakoot, on the Mandakini River at the UP–MP border, is where Rama is said to have spent his exile. Ghats, Kamadgiri Hill and when to go.

Dalhousie travel guide: colonial churches, Khajjiar meadow, Dainkund Peak, Kalatop forest, Himachali food, best season and how to get there.

Kufri near Shimla: Mahasu Peak, Himalayan Nature Park, winter snow and skiing, Himachali food, best season and how to get there.

Manali guide: Beas valley hill town at 2,050 m, Hadimba Temple, Solang Valley and Rohtang Pass, adventure sports, food and the best seasons to go.

Shimla, the old summer capital of British India: the Ridge, Mall Road, Jakhoo, Kufri, the toy train, local food and the best time to go.

Ramzan explained for travellers in India: the month of fasting, suhur and iftar, Laylat al-Qadr, Eid al-Fitr and what visitors should keep in mind.

An overview of India's fairs and festivals, from Diwali and Eid to Pushkar and the Kumbh Mela, with tips for travelling during them.