Discover the Nicest Part of India: A South India Travel Guide

South India is a region covering the peninsular states of Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Goa, known for its lush landscapes, historic temples, and vibrant coastal towns. If you’ve ever Googled “what is the nicest part of India”, the answer usually points to this sun‑kissed corner of the subcontinent. Below we break down why South India often steals the spotlight, rank the top states, and give you a ready‑to‑use itinerary.

Quick Takeaways

• Kerala tops the list for backwaters, tea gardens, and Ayurvedic retreats.
• Karnataka offers a mix of hill stations, wildlife, and UNESCO heritage sites.
• Tamil Nadu shines with temple architecture and vibrant festivals.
• Goa remains the go‑to spot for beaches, nightlife, and relaxed vibes.
• Best travel window: October-March, when the weather is cool and dry across the south.

How We Judge “Niceness”

“Niceness” can feel vague, so we distilled it into five measurable criteria:

1. Scenic Variety - mountains, coasts, forests, and plains.
2. Cultural Richness - festivals, cuisine, and historic sites.
3. Ease of Travel - connectivity, infrastructure, and safety.
4. Value for Money - accommodation, food, and activities.
5. Visitor Experience - friendliness of locals and overall vibe.

Each state gets a score (1‑10) for every criterion, and we average them to find the overall winner.

Kerala: The Crown Jewel

Kerala is a coastal state famous for its tranquil backwaters, spice‑laden hills, and a strong tradition of Ayurveda. Backwater cruises in Alleppey, tea‑plucked treks in Munnar, and the iconic Kathakali performances in Kochi check every box on our niceness rubric.

• Scenic Variety: 9 - From the Western Ghats to the Arabian Sea.
• Cultural Richness: 9 - Houseboats, festivals like Onam, and a literary heritage.
• Ease of Travel: 8 - Well‑connected airports (Cochin, Trivandrum) and a reliable bus network.
• Value for Money: 9 - Mid‑range homestays and tasty seafood for pennies.
• Visitor Experience: 9 - Locals are famously welcoming, often greeting tourists with “Namaskaram”.

Result: 8.8/10 - makes Kerala the top contender for the nicest part of India.

Karnataka: The Versatile Explorer

Karnataka blends hill stations, wildlife sanctuaries, and a rich tech‑savvy culture. Highlights include Coorg’s coffee farms, the ancient ruins of Hampi (a UNESCO World Heritage site), and the modern buzz of Bengaluru.

• Scenic Variety: 8 - Western Ghats, plains, and coastal stretch.
• Cultural Richness: 8 - Classical music, Mysore Dasara, and historic forts.
• Ease of Travel: 7 - Major airports in Bengaluru and Mangalore; some rural roads need a bit of patience.
• Value for Money: 8 - From luxury resorts in Coorg to budget guesthouses in Hampi.
• Visitor Experience: 7 - Friendly in tourist hubs, quieter in remote villages.

Result: 7.6/10 - strong runner‑up, especially for adventure seekers.

Tamil Nadu: The Temple Trail

Tamil Nadu is the cradle of Dravidian architecture, offering a cascade of towering temples and bustling markets. Must‑see spots are the marble marvel of Mahabalipuram, the cultural hub of Chennai, and the serene hill station of Ooty.

• Scenic Variety: 7 - Coastal plains and Nilgiri hills.
• Cultural Richness: 9 - Temple festivals, classical dance (Bharatanatyam), and a vibrant film industry.
• Ease of Travel: 7 - Multiple airports and a robust rail network.
• Value for Money: 7 - Mid‑range hotels, but some premium beachfront resorts run pricey.
• Visitor Experience: 8 - Warm hospitality, especially in temple towns.

Result: 7.6/10 - excels in culture, slightly lower on scenic diversity.

Goa: The Laid‑Back Beach Haven

Goa is India’s premier beach destination, known for its Portuguese heritage, nightlife, and relaxed vibe. From the bustling Baga Beach to the quiet Palolem cove, Goa offers a beach experience unmatched elsewhere in the country.

• Scenic Variety: 6 - Predominantly coastal.
• Cultural Richness: 6 - Portuguese churches, flea markets, and vibrant carnival.
• Ease of Travel: 9 - International airport, plentiful budget airlines, and good road links.
• Value for Money: 6 - Beachfront resorts can be pricey; budget hostels are plentiful.
• Visitor Experience: 8 - Easy-going atmosphere, English widely spoken.

Result: 7.0/10 - perfect for sun‑and‑sand lovers, but less varied than the other states.

Side‑by‑Side Comparison

Practical Tips for Exploring the Nicest Part of India

Now that you know which states rank highest, here are some on‑the‑ground pointers:

• Plan ahead for October‑March. This window avoids monsoons and keeps temperatures comfortable.
• Book houseboats in Alleppey early - they fill up fast, especially during Onam (August‑September).
• Rent a scooter in Coorg for flexible coffee‑farm hopping; roads are scenic but narrow.
• Carry a reusable water bottle and a small first‑aid kit - rural clinics may be far apart.
• Respect local customs: remove shoes before entering temples, and dress modestly during festivals.

Mini‑FAQ

So, if you ask yourself “what is the nicest part of India?”, the data points straight toward South India, with Kerala pulling ahead as the ultimate blend of nature, culture, and comfort. Pack your bags, follow the tips above, and you’ll experience why millions call this corner the heart‑warming side of the subcontinent.