The Golden Chariot, one  of the Indian luxury trains has picked some most culturally rich destinations of Southern India.The blog describes some of them:

Bangalore– Bangalore, Karnataka’s capital is popularly known as the Silicon Valley of India and the Garden City too. One can witness  a perfect blend of traditionalism and modernity in this city, which is now called Bengaluru. Located on the Deccan Plateau, this city has a tropical weather, a mix of dry and wet seasons.

Bangalore

The city is known for having a rich historical past that one can feel even now. It is one of the most well-known metropolitan city of Southern part of India, which is flocked by tourists, both local and foreigner while on their tour to India.The city boasts of a number of tourist attractions.

Mysore– Mysore, the second largest city of Karnataka is fondly known as the cultural capital of the state.

Mysore

It is around 150 km away from Bangalore. If history is to be believed then in the ancient times it was under the rule of the demon king, Mahishasura from whom the city also gets its name but with timely alterations. The city boasts of a number of cultural centers sprinkled all around its landscape.

Hampi– Hampi is the destination for you, if you are keen on knowing about the architectural heritage of the country. This small village, placed in the northern part of the state used to be the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. In the present times, it is home to the glorious remnants  of the temples built by the erstwhile rulers that are now popular religious sites and tourist attractions that are dispersed all around the place.

Hampi

Along with an archaeological museum in Kamalapura, the list of temples is long- Zenana enclosure, Virupaksha temple, Virupaksha temple, Anjeyanadri Hills, Tiruvengalanatha temple,  Ugra Narasimha, Vittala temple etc.

Belur– Located in Kerala, Belur is also well-known for its collection of Hindu temples which is visited by a large number of tourists as well as devotees every year. Because of this ancient  town is also popular as the Southern Benaras.

Belur

The origin of this place dates way back to 11th and 12th century during the reign of Hoysala rulers. The temples such as the Veeranarayana temple and The Chennakesava temple  are not only known for being sites to be in close proximity of the Divine but are also proof of the architectural beauty of those days.

Kabini– Kabini, around 80 kms away from Mysore, is known as a destination which has to offer abundant in wildlife variety.

Kabini Call of the Jungle

The Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary boasts of being home to a large population of elephants, birds and deer. If you are a wildlife enthusiast, then this destination is perfect for you. This beautiful town used to be a hunting spot for the royalty of Mysore. Along with this, you can also pay a visit to Nagarholre, another nearby tourist destination.

Badami–  The capital of erstwhile Chalokuya rulers from 5th to 7th Century, one of the most famous tourist destinations in Karnataka, is placed on the banks of the Agastya Lake.

Bhutanatha Temple, Badami

This town is home to some magnificent museums, cave temples as well as forts that are famous tourist destinations which are known for their beauty as well as stunning architectural brilliance. While on an excursion, you can visit the temple of Banashankari, the Mallikarjuna temple, the Bhutanatha temple, the Badami Fort etc.

Goa-Goa, a world-renowned beach destination of the country is not only known for  its extended sandy coastline but also for its unique customs, geography and churches. Placed in the Konkan region of the country.

Goa Beach

You can pay a visit to the Portuguese churches, old heritage mansions built during the Bristsh times or can enjoy Ayruvedic massages.