The world recognizes February as the Month of Love but in India, it is also a tranquil time in terms of weather. The perfect spring climate also indicated the beginning of a number of festivals and fairs held across the country. India is a big country but the one thing all the places have in common is the pleasant weather that sweeps the place in the month of February. To make life easier for you travel bugs, here is an ultimate guide to the best places to visit in February in India.

It’s important for you to decide what you would like to experience from this trip, so that you can make the right plan. India is multicultural with vast and diverse areas to explore. Here is a comprehensive list of all the best places to visit in North and South India.

Best Places to Visit in February in North India 

A trip to North India is for those who crave the wondrous nature of mountains and valleys. The spellbinding beauty of the Himalayas to the sandy deserts in North India garner the attention of tourists on a regular basis. Here is a compilation of the best places to visit in February in North India.

Nainital: A Journey Through The Lake City 

This Himalayan resort town located in Uttarakhand is a mesmerizing hill station, putting it on the top of the North India tourist places list. The serene town is built around a gorgeous lake with amazing boating activities. If you are looking for a peaceful getaway, Nainital is the place to be. It has also been rated as one of the best places to visit in February. Also, remember to add shopping at the Tibetan Market on Mall Road to your itinerary.

Shimla: Venture Down The Queen Of Hills 

Your winter getaway can be surrounded by breathtaking beauty if you choose to explore all the best places to visit in Shimla. Famously known as the Queen of Hills, Shimla is one of the best places to visit in February. Get ready to experience the beauty of plush valleys and snow-capped mountains.

Ranthambore: Join The Fraternity Of Tigers 

This one is for all the wildlife lovers out there looking for a way to reconnect with nature. The Ranthambore National Park was once a hunting ground for the royals and now is a place where wild animals get to live in serenity. You can get an exciting safari across the 1300 sq km area to spot tigers, bears, and many other endangered species.

The National Park is also filled with many water bodies where the animals gather to cool off. This trip is your very own African safari but in India giving it a spot among the best places to visit in February.

Rann of Kutch: Experience The Wild West At Its Best

Everyone needs to travel to the white desert of India at least once in their lifetime as it is one of the best places to visit in February. In the second month of the year, the Rann of Kutch offers a plethora of experiences. One of the main reasons to visit is the Rann Utsav, a festival that reflects the authenticity of the region.

Best Places to Visit in February in East India 

Puri – A Spiritual & Beachside Escape

Puri in Odisha is a great place to visit in February which combine spirituality with beach fun. This place is home to the famous Jagannath Temple, is a popular destination for pilgrims all year round, but February offers ideal weather for visiting its beautiful coastline. Puri offers a unique combination of culture tranquility, whether your goals are to enjoy the seafood of Odisha, explore the historic Konark Sun Temple, or take a peaceful morning walk along Golden Beach.

Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh – A Hidden Gem of the Northeast

Arunachal Pradesh’s Ziro Valley is a haven for people who enjoy offbeat travel. The Apatani tribal group resides in this UNESCO World Heritage Site, which hidden away amid verdant hills and features enchanting views of rice fields, bamboo woods, and quaint towns. With bright sky and mild, crisp air, February is the best time to visit. It’s ideal for trekking, cycling, and learning about the valley’s unique heritage. Ziro is the ideal getaway from the bustle of the city because of its serene beauty.

Shantiniketan, West Bengal – A Cultural Retreat

If you’re an art, literature, or history enthusiast, Shantiniketan is a must-visit place in February, founded by Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore. This quiet town in West Bengal is well-known for its rich cultural heritage and open-air university, Visva-Bharati. Explore the Tagore Ashram, travel to the artisan markets, and take in the town’s creative atmosphere in February. The town begins getting ready for Basanta Utsav (Holi in Shantiniketan) in March as spring approaches, which enhances its lively attractiveness.

Best Places to visit in February in West India 

Mount Abu, Rajasthan – A Cool Escape in the Desert State

If you’re looking for a hill station retreat, Rajasthan, Mount Abu is the perfect February destination to visit. Unlike the rest of the state, which is mostly arid, Mount Abu offers lush greenery, serene lakes, and pleasant weather. You can enjoy a peaceful boat ride on Nakki Lake, visit the breathtaking Dilwara Temples, or hike up Guru Shikhar, the highest peak in the Aravalli range. February is also the time for Mount Abu’s Winter Festival, where folk music, dance performances, and cultural shows bring the town to life.

Gir National Park, Gujarat – A Date with the Asiatic Lions

For wildlife lovers, Gir National Park in Gujarat is a must-visit in February. Home to the majestic Asiatic lions, this park offers thrilling jeep safaris where you can spot these rare big cats in their natural habitat. The dry yet pleasant winter climate makes wildlife spotting easier as animals come out to bask in the sun. Apart from lions, you can see leopards, hyenas, jackals, and a variety of birds. The nearby Somnath Temple and Junagadh Fort make for great additions to your trip.

Best Places to visit in February in South India 

Now that we’ve covered the best places to visit in North India it’s time to explore the South. The South of India is full of surprises from housing the Scotland of India (Coorg) to God’s very own country (Kerala). While most places list out every tourist place to visit, here you will find the best places to visit in February in South India.

Coorg: Discover The Scotland Of India 

The Scots were the first to notice the uncanny similarities between their homeland and Coorg. Both places are surrounded by never ending misty mountainous landscapes making it one of the best tourist places in the South. The month of February is particularly special as the weather goes from cold to pleasant.

Kerala: An Unforgettable Trip In God’s Own Country 

God’s own country, Kerala is an oasis of natural beauty that lies along the Western Ghats. This South Indian state is known for its beautiful backwaters and is named one of the 10 paradises in the world by National Geographic Traveler. This list covers places rather than a whole state but choosing one of the many glorious places in Kerala is difficult.

Hence, if you plan a trip to South India, Kerala should be on your bucket list. Travel through the green carpeted landscapes in Palakkad or visit the Land of Lagoons in Alleppey. Don’t worry whichever place you choose Kerala will not disappoint.

Pondicherry: The French Riviera of The East 

This former French colony is the perfect dreamy escape to experience the best of both worlds. Although this Union Territory is small, it is filled with a beautiful blend of Indian and French cultures. Visit any of the cozy cafes or chic boutiques that offer mouth-watering French food.

If Pondicherry is your choice, remember to take a walk down the French Quarter also known as White Town. Colonial structures with an unending trail of Bougainvillea flowers are the highlight of this street adding it to the best places to visit in February.

This ultimate India travel guide was carefully planned to suit travelers visiting India in February. Apart from choosing a place, you also have to book flight tickets for your much-awaited getaway. Finding reasonable flights can be strenuous and that’s why IndianEagle has your back. It compares and lists all the cheap flights available from the United States to India. So, what are you waiting for, start booking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What region in India is ideal for February travel?

North and Northeast India are ideal in February, offering snow-clad mountains in Himachal and Uttarakhand, while Rajasthan and Gujarat have pleasant weather for sightseeing.

Which state is best in February?

Rajasthan is one of the best states to visit in February, with its cool climate, vibrant festivals like the Desert Festival in Jaisalmer, and stunning historical forts and palaces.

What is February famous for in India?

February is known for pleasant weather, cultural festivals, and events like the Goa Carnival, Desert Festival in Rajasthan, and Basanta Utsav in West Bengal, making it a great month for travel.

Which city is best to visit in February?

Udaipur is a fantastic city to visit in February, offering lakeside beauty, heritage hotels, and a romantic atmosphere with mild weather perfect for exploring palaces and markets.

Which hill station is best in February?

Auli (Uttarakhand) is one of the best hill stations to visit in February, especially for skiing, as the slopes are covered in fresh snow, making it a winter paradise.

Is February a good time to travel?

Yes, February is an excellent time to travel in India, as the weather is comfortable, most regions are accessible, and several cultural festivals make for an enriching experience.

The post 7 Best places to visit in February in India 2025 appeared first on Travel Blog | Travel Inspiration, Tips and News | Travel Diary.

India is a harmonious land of diverse cultures, traditions, languages, and religions. The most beautiful characteristic of this ancient land is that it stays true to its roots despite its rapidly changing facade with changing times. It is the strong and deep cultural roots that set India apart from the rest of the world, more than anything else. Each Indian state has a distinctive culture, yet the culture of Bharat can be talked about broadly referring to North Indian, Northeast Indian, and South Indian culture. Let’s delve into the brightly colorful culture of the southern part of India that encompasses the states of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu along with the Union territories of Andaman & Nicobar, Lakshadweep, and Puducherry.

Cultural Heritage of South India:

South Indians are said to be the descendants of the Dravidian race (many dismiss this as a mere myth though). Culture in South India has evolved against the backdrop of 5000 years of rich history, during which peninsular India has changed hands several times. Many cultural aspects like art, architecture, music, dance, and literature among others have flourished during the rule of the Cholas, Pandyas, Pallavas, Satavahanas, Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, Kakatiyas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagara, etc.

You can sense the culture of South India by witnessing events as simple as the daily routine at a South Indian home to things as elaborate as South India’s vibrant festivals, age-old customs and traditions, mind-boggling architecture, ancient dance forms, classical music, etc. Undoubtedly, the cultural experience turns out to be the highlight of your tour of South India. Grab Indian Eagle exclusive deals on international flights and fly down South for a first-hand experience of South India culture.

South Indian Languages:

The four main Dravidian languages widely spoken in the southern part of India are Telugu (Andhra Pradesh and Telangana), Tamil (Tamil Nadu), Kannada (Karnataka), and Malayalam (Kerala). Other languages like Tulu and Kodava are also spoken in some regions. Several dialects and sub-dialects branch out of each language, clearly pointing to South India’s immense contribution to the linguistic diversity of India.

More than 220 million people speak one of these indigenous languages, which have existed for over 4500 years as asserted by various studies. The earliest Dravidian inscriptions discovered on the cave walls in Madurai and Tirunelveli date to the 2nd century BCE.

Religion in South India:

Naturally, more than 80% of South Indians are Hindus, either Shaivites or Vaishnavites. Islam and Christianity are the most practiced religions down South, after Hinduism. Nearly 50% of India’s Christian community lives in South India.

Besides Hindus, Muslims, and Christians, Kerala is home to a sizable Jewish community and is one of the most religiously diverse states in India. The followers of other religions like Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism constitute a minuscule portion of the entire population. Whatever religion and faith they belong to, Indians understand and appreciate cultural differences and live up to the country’s ideal of Unity in Diversity.

Art & Architecture as a Reflection of South Indian Culture:

Art and architecture is a window on the culture of a place. South India boasts a great wealth of art and architecture, thus enticing travelers across the world. If you are traveling from Charlotte to Hyderabad or any other destination, book cheap flights to explore its artistic and architectural wonders.

South India’s Dravidian style of architecture has greatly evolved under the influence of various dynasties and is famed for its exquisite intricacy, which is awe-inspiring, to say the least. Thousands of ancient temples, forts and other monuments dotted all across the five states exemplify the architectural heritage of South India. The temple architecture follows Vastu Shastra principles, and the elaborate carvings and sculptures on the temple walls and rock-cut caves speak volumes of the phenomenal craftsmanship of our artisans. Hampi, Mahabalipuram, Thanjavur, Madurai, Lepakshi, Warangal, Halebidu, Belur, Pattadakal, Aihole, Rameshwaram, Chidambaram, Tirupati, and Kancheepuram are a haven for history, art and architecture enthusiasts.

The influence of South Indian culture is evident on the arts and crafts produced here, of which the most famous ones are Thanjavur paintings, Mysore paintings, Bidri artworks, hand-made wooden toys, Kathakali masks, Budithi brassware, fine embroidery, ivory craft, pottery, stone carvings, silver filigree work, bamboo handicrafts, coconut shell and coir products, bronze castings, and sandalwood carvings. These arts and crafts are indeed among the most sought-after Indian souvenirs. Some of the paintings of Raja Ravi Varma are beautiful depictions of South Indian traditions and culture.

Festivals in South India:

A festival is a vibrant celebration of the culture and tradition of the land. If you truly wish to immerse yourself in South Indian culture, then you must take part in the resplendent celebrations of festivals like Dussehra, Deepavali, Maha Shivaratri, Ugadi, Sankranti, Ganesh Chaturthi, Onam, Vishu, Hampi festival, Thrissur Pooram, Chithirai Thiruvizha, Karthika Poornima, etc. Onam is the biggest festival in Kerala and Tamil Nadu is famous for its 4-day Pongal celebrations. The grand-scale festivities of Mysore Dasara offer you insight into the rich Karnataka culture and tradition.

Music and Dance Forms:

You can explore plenty of unique features of South Indian culture, let it be music, dance, or any other performing arts. The traditional music of South India is termed Carnatic music, which is known for its main focus on vocal music. Much like Hindustani music, swara, sruti, raga, and tala constitute the basic elements of Carnatic music. Most music in Carnatic style is composed such that it can be sung and its common form of composition is Kriti or kirtanam. Carnatic music heavily relies on improvisation which again takes forms. Musical instruments like mridangam, tambura, violin, veena, venu, ghatam, morsing, kanjira are key to the presentation of Carnatic music. The famed music composers of South India include Purandara Dasa,  Kanaka Dasa, Annamacharya, Ramadasa, Sripadaraja, and the Trinity of Carnatic Music – Tyagaraja, Muthuswami Dikshitar, and Syama Sastri.

Some of the celebrated classical dance forms like Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Kathakali, and Mohiniyattam have originated in South India. Performed with great devotion to God, the classical dances took birth in temples. The ancient Sanskrit text, Natyashastra, is the source for all classical dance forms. Elaborate costumes, elegant postures, rhythmic movements, subtle expressions, and traditional music complete these arresting performances on mythological themes. Koodiyattam, Perini Thandavam, Oppana, Kerala Natanam, Theyyam, Karakattam, Yakshagana are some of the other dance forms practiced in various parts of South India.

Traditional South Indian Attire:

Clothing is closely associated with cultural identity, and thus the way South Indians dress themselves up reveals a lot about South Indian culture. The traditional attire for women of South India is a saree or langa voni (half-saree) and men can be seen wearing starched dhoti or panche for special occasions and celebrations. Lungi, a type of sarong, is another common item of clothing for men.

Food Culture in South India:

There’s no denying the fact that food is an intrinsic part of the culture. South Indians, in general, have a taste for spicy food, and rice is the staple food in the South. As a peninsular region bounded by water bodies on 3 sides, South India is very much a seafood lover’s paradise. The highly flavorful Hyderabadi biryani from Telangana cuisine and Tamil Nadu’s idli-sambhar, dosa, and filter kaapi need no introduction at all.

The culinary traditions differ in different regions within each state and so does the aroma and flavor of food. Malabar cuisine uses coconut extensively whereas the cuisine of Andhra is known for its high spice quotient.

South India’s food culture is as much about how food is consumed as it is about how it is cooked. Food is traditionally served on a fresh banana leaf and eaten with hands while sitting cross-legged on the floor.

Agriculture in South India: 

Agriculture in South India is part of the culture and lifestyle. Rich in fertile land and a great climate, it flourishes with rice cultivation, considered the staple food of a South Indian besides other crops. It includes coconut, spices, millets, coffee, and sugarcane. A large portion of spices used in Indian kitchens, like black pepper, cardamom, and turmeric, grow in abundance in South India.

The agricultural practices here further support the traditional food culture, with fresh and locally grown produce used to contribute to the rich culinary diversity of the region. Besides this, the green paddy fields, coconut plantations, and spice gardens spread across Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka. This explain the importance of agriculture in shaping the landscape and economy of South India.

South India is an epitome of culture, tradition, and heritage. Its magnificent Dravidian structure, festivals, distinctive gastronomical pleasure, classical music, and dance form altogether present the southern region with a profound cultural experience. Be it the wandering around ancient temple, or tasting delicious South Indian food, a tour to this region is a journey down the ages steeped in tradition. Discover the magic of South India by booking today with exclusive Indian Eagle deals.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What is South India famous for?
South India is famous for its Dravidian architecture, classical dance forms, Carnatic music, vibrant festivals, and delicious food.

2. Which states form South India?
South India encompasses Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and the Union Territories of Puducherry, Lakshadweep, and Andaman & Nicobar Islands.

3. What is the staple food for South India?
Rice is the staple food in the south, combined with spicier curries, sambhar, rasam, and coconut items.

4. Which are some of the classical dance styles from South India?
Famous classical dance forms include Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Kathakali, and Mohiniyattam, which originated in South India.

5. Name some of the major festivals in South India.
The major festivals in South India are Onam, Pongal, Dussehra, Ugadi, Deepavali, and Thrissur Pooram.

6. What are the major languages spoken in South India?
The major Dravidian languages spoken in South India are Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam.

7. What is the importance of South Indian temples?
South Indian temples represent not only places of worship but also masterpieces of Dravidian architecture. With its carvings and sculptures being extremely intricate.

8. In what way is traditionally South Indian food served?
Conventionally, the food in South India is served on banana leaves and eaten by hand while sitting on the floor.

The post South Indian Culture: Exploring Diversity in Art, Architecture, Language, Food, & More appeared first on Travel Blog | Travel Inspiration, Tips and News | Travel Diary.

South India is a captivating region known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisine. A 2-week South India itinerary allows you to delve into the essence of the Deccan, experiencing the vibrant cities, ancient temples, serene backwaters, and bustling metropolises. Get ready to embark on a memorable journey through the enchanting lands of South India.

Day 1-3: Chennai – Gateway to the South

Start your 14 days South India trip in Chennai, the vibrant capital of Tamil Nadu. Explore the historic Fort St. George, visit the iconic Marina Beach, and immerse yourself in the culture at the Government Museum. Don’t miss the chance to experience authentic South Indian cuisine at local eateries, indulging in dosas, idlis, and filter coffee. On day two, visit the beautiful Kapaleeshwarar Temple and take a stroll along the lively streets of Mylapore. Spend a day at Mahabalipuram, exploring its UNESCO World Heritage Site temples and rock-cut sculptures.

Day 4-6: Pondicherry – French Colonial Charm

Next, travel to Pondicherry, a quaint coastal town during your South Itinerary. It has a unique blend of Indian and French influences. Explore the charming French Quarter with its colorful colonial buildings, visit the iconic Aurobindo Ashram, and take a relaxing walk along the picturesque Promenade Beach. Experience tranquility at the serene Auroville, an experimental township focused on unity and spirituality. Indulge in French delicacies at the local cafes and savor the peaceful ambiance of this coastal gem.

Day 7-9: Hyderabad – City of Nizams

Head to Hyderabad, the capital of Telangana and the land of the Nizams as the third spot for your South India trip. Visit the iconic Charminar, a magnificent monument and symbol of the city. Explore the historic Golconda Fort, known for its acoustics and panoramic views. Delve into the opulence of the Chowmahalla Palace and marvel at the grandeur of the Falaknuma Palace. Indulge in the delectable Hyderabadi biryani and experience the bustling markets of the old city. Don’t miss a visit to the renowned Ramoji Film City, the largest integrated film city in the world.

Also Read: India Itinerary: A Two-Week Guide to Discover this Incredible Country

Day 10-12: Bangalore – The Silicon Valley of India

Travel to Bangalore , the bustling metropolis and the Silicon Valley of India. Explore the vibrant markets of Commercial Street and Brigade Road, where you can shop for traditional handicrafts and trendy fashion. Visit the magnificent Bangalore Palace and marvel at its architectural beauty. Explore the Lalbagh Botanical Garden, a paradise of exotic plants and tranquil lakes. Experience the vibrant food scene, from street food delicacies to fine dining restaurants. Don’t miss a visit to the famous ISKCON Temple, a spiritual haven in the heart of the city.

Day 13-14: Backwaters of Kerala – Serenity on the Water

Travel to Alleppey , the gateway to the enchanting backwaters of Kerala as the last stop of your South India itinerary. Opt to stay on a traditional houseboat and have a unique experience. You will enjoy cruising through the tranquil canals, surrounded by lush greenery and coconut groves. Experience the peacefulness of these serene waterways and witness the daily life of the local communities living along the backwaters. Indulge in delicious Kerala cuisine prepared onboard, and let the gentle rhythms of the water soothe your soul.

Conclusion

A 2-week South India itinerary offers a glimpse into the region’s vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and diverse experiences. From the vibrant streets of Chennai to the tranquil backwaters of Kerala, each destination unfolds a unique story, leaving you with cherished memories. Embrace the warmth and hospitality of the people, savor the tantalizing flavors of the cuisine, and immerse yourself in the diverse landscapes that make South India a truly enchanting destination. So pack your bags, embark on this extraordinary journey, and let the wonders of South India unfold before you.

Book cheap USA to India flights with Indian Eagle and travel to the country on a budget. So, why wait? Make use of the ongoing deals and save more!

The post A 2-Week South India Itinerary: Exploring the Essence of the Deccan appeared first on Travel Blog | Travel Inspiration, Tips and News | Travel Diary.

South India is popular for its light and delicious breakfasts that include idlis, dosas, vadas, and several of their variants. Of all the items, idli is the most popular and favorite of the locals and tourists when served with coconut chutney and sambhar. Now the question is where can you get the best idlis in South India? Ask any of the South Indians and they will say Chennai. Here are the best places for idli in Chennai. Do not miss the plate of idli sambhar when in the city.

Triplicane Rathna Café

Location: Triplicane High Road, Chennai, Tamil Nadu

A simple place with a simpler ambiance, Triplicane Rathana Café is a South Indian restaurant offering a traditional seating style. The brand has also spread its wings outside the state. The sambhar-idly here is a must-try for every tourist visiting the city, it is exemplary. The best part is they have maintained the same taste through all these years.

Sangeetha Veg Restaurant

Location: Gandhi Nagar, Adyar, Chennai

With its first branch in Chennai, now the chain has 23 branches in different locations. Add this to the list of restaurants serving the best idlis in Chennai. To your surprise, it also has some international branches in cities like Sydney, Doha, Canada, Qatar, and Hong-Kong. Food at Sangeetha will never disappoint you, especially their idlis. The city dwellers often reach to this place with a joyful ambiance to have a delicious plate of idli-sambhar with chutney on the top.

Also Read: Chennai Food

Hotel Shri Balajee Bhavan

Location: 1^st Avenue, Anna Nagar East, Chennai, Tamil Nadu

From early morning to late night, Hotel Shree Balajee Bhavan serves delicious idlis with traditional authentic taste. It is a South Indian restaurant with a peaceful ambiance serving tasty food at its various branches across the city. At the Chrompet branch, you will get to dine at the rooftop restaurant. Its breakfast menu has a wide range of varieties and sambhar-idli is among the most favorite dishes. Want to have a full-course meal or a light breakfast, this is the place.

Mahamudra

Location: Luz Church Road, Near Nageshwara Rao Park, Mylapore, Chennai

It is another pure veg restaurant serving the best idli dosas in Chennai. Here idlis are not limited to breakfasts; you can have it all day. Yes, all-day breakfasts at Mahamudra! The food is healthy prepared in proper hygiene conditions and by the best chefs in the city. It also offers some of the offbeat but delectable items such as Dosa Ballapur, Pineapple Rasam, Wheat Thali, and the list goes on.

Annachi Dosai Kadai

Location: East Coast Road, Injambakkam, Chennai

Situated on ECR Highway, it is the ultimate stop for travelers seeking a break. You can also go to Annachi Dosai Kadai for breakfast or brunch on weekends. You will find group of students from colleges coming there on weekends. In its menu, you will find a good range of options from varieties of dosas to idlis – Paneer Dosa, Egg Dosa, Keema Dosa and more. Try the MLA Dosa here along with a plate of idli-sambhar. It’s delicious!

Mr. and Mrs. Idly

This is a franchise that has its branches all across India. With its three outlets in the city of Chennai, Mr. and Mrs. Idly has become a popular eatery for the best idli-sambhar. In a very short time, it has gained much popularity and it’s all because of the authentic and delicious food. No matter in which part of the country you are, the taste of Chennai’s idli will stay intact at Mr. and Mrs. Idly. You will find a range of options for idlis to choose from – mini, regular-sized, and more. There are some unique dishes too such as Idli Manchurian.

Annalaya

Location: Jaganathan Road, Nunhambakkam, Tamil Nadu

Annalaya is a popular restaurant in Chennai serving the most delicious idli-sambhar. Earlier pure vegetarian, Annalaya added a good range of non-vegetarians to the menu as well. They serve the food in the traditional ways – on banana leaves that bring the authentic feel of South Indian dishes. It is among the most famous restaurants so you will find no difficulty in reaching there. Follow Google Maps or ask any local for the directions but just don’t miss the idli-sambhar here.

Murugan Idli Shop

Location: 6^th Avenue, Opposite Vilankanni Church, Chennai

Murugan Idli Shop in Chennai is known for its exquisite range of South Indian breakfasts. Now extended to three countries, Murugan Idli specializes in podis, idlis, chutneys, and sambhar. The dosas here are also worth trying. Try the nutrient-rich meals and stay energetic for the whole day. Also, try jigarthanda, a drink everyone recommends to have at Murugan Idli Shop.

When you plan a trip to South India don’t miss a place Chennai in your bucket list. Food is one of the best parts of our trip. Once you land at Chennai International Airport you can experience this delicious food.

The post 8 Top Places for Idli in Chennai You Must Check Out appeared first on Travel Blog | Travel Inspiration, Tips and News | Travel Diary.

India is a vast country with a lot of diversity spreading throughout the land. A famous Bollywood song’s lyric reads, “East or West India is the best,” but in this case, North or South India which one is the best? Since India is divided into North, South, East, West and Central, this list will focus on the distinct differences to help you choose between North and South India.

If you are planning a trip to this culturally rich country, you need to have a plan. The first dilemma everyone faces is choosing North or South India. This guide compares the upper and lower half of India to make your decision easier.

The Difference between North and South Indian Culture:

The cultural difference between North and South India is vast and can be widely seen in their way of speaking, dressing and eating. Although each part of India is diverse in their own way, the North and South of India have distinct differences. From the way they dress to the languages they speak and even the weather, there are a number of differences.

The North Indian people speak a vast array of languages just like South India but the distinction lies in the origin. The Northern languages were derived from the Aryans while the Southern languages from Dravidians. Many people find the North Indian way of speaking inflectional while the South is considered more agglutinative.

The dressing styles in India also vary depending on where you are, for example in the North you’ll see more women in salwar kameez but in the South most of them are in sarees. In the South, men are found wearing lungis but in the North men prefer kurta-pyjama.

The Weather in North and South India:

This country has three distinct seasons namely, summer, monsoon and winter. However, this peninsular land is just as varied in terms of its weather. While the North experiences extreme climate like snow, the South faces a fair amount of humidity. To choose between North or South India, one must be aware of the weather changes.

If you are set on visiting the snowy peaks of the Himalayas, you have a small window during the summer months of April and May. However, if the South is the place you want to visit, you must know that the temperature remains humid and relatively hot throughout the year. It has its bursts of mellow temperatures during January and February making it the best time to visit India.

North vs. South Indian Cuisine:

Food is an important part of any vacation and the food in North or South India is to die for, quite literally for the ones who struggle to digest the spice. Food is spicy all around India but many say the North Indian food is more of a relief than the South. However, the biggest difference is the North’s staple diet is wheat while the South’s is rice.

The North Indian food is heavily influenced by the Mughals after all those years of ruling. Their food has a mixture of vegetables and meat but cooked on a royal scale with spices and herbs. On the other hand, the South prefers using seafood and vegetables. However, an important thing to remember is whatever you choose North or South India, food of the other can be easily found.

Geographically India may be divided but people from the North live in the South and vice-versa. This means you can find North or South Indian food wherever you might be. The difference being the food is not considered authentic, since the cooking style is influenced by the area it’s been cooked in.

So what’s it going to be Butter Chicken and roti in the North or Dosa and Idli in the South? Honestly speaking both cuisines are delectable and choosing between North or South India based on food is not easy. So, maybe the places will help make things easier. However, before you get excited to pack, book flight tickets to India.

Do these North or South Indian places float your boat?

India’s economy is primarily built on tourism filling this diverse land with innumerable places to tour. From the salt marshes of Rann of Kutch in Rajasthan to the pristine backwaters of Kerala, India has every kind of landscape you can think of. So, here are a few places in North and South India that reflect the vast beauty of this country.

North Indian Places: The North of India is home to the Taj Mahal, a magnificent historic monument which is famous worldwide. There are a number of ancient relics in the North and South of India but North is still rich with the remnants from the Mughal rule. The Himalayas and salt deserts are also famous among tourists traveling to North India.

Rishikesh and Udaipur in the North are two breathtaking places filled with culture and scenic beauty. There are also a number of wildlife sanctuaries filled with rare flora and fauna. North India also houses The Golden Temple in Punjab, the most important Sikh house of worship.

South Indian Places: Now that the North has been covered, it’s time to look at the South Indian places you must visit. The one thing common between the two are the unlimited amount of temples spread across the country. However, South India offers different landscapes and beauty compared to the North.

Kerala is without a doubt the best tourist place with marshy backwaters and progressive nature. While this state is enough for the South to win this battle, here are a few special mentions. Pondicherry in Tamil Nadu is a former French colony that truly takes you back in time. Coorg is a quaint hill station in Karnataka that allows you to be one with nature.

Hoping this comparison has helped you come to a conclusion between North or South India. If you need a bit more convincing check out these weekend gateways in India. Indian Eagle is an online airline booking company that gives you the best offers to book last minute flights and it’s only a click away.

–Travel Diary

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