Historical Towns In South India: When we think of South India’s historical places, names like Hampi, Madurai, and Mahabalipuram often come to mind. But beyond these popular destinations lie quieter towns brimming with stories, heritage, and charm that often go unnoticed. These underrated historical towns may not make it to every travel guide, but they hold timeless architecture, forgotten kingdoms, and rich cultural footprints that are equally mesmerising. If you enjoy meaningful journeys and exploring new places, these hidden gems in South India are worth checking out:
Considered a historic marvel and a home to ancient shrines of Shiva, Vishnu, and Veerabhadra, Lepakshi is known for its intricate carvings, including a floating temple pillar and India's largest Nandi statue carved out of a single piece of granite.
Lepakshi is gearing up to take the Pride of UNESCO World Heritage Tag...! The Monolithic Nandi and The Veerabhadraswamy Temple has included in the list of UNESCO. #LepakshiTemple #monolithicNandi #VeerabhadraSwamyTempleLepakshi #AmazingAndhra #andhrapradeshtourism #DekhoApnaDesh pic.twitter.com/mwmcSMeH4R
— AP Tourism (@Tourism_AP) March 31, 2022
“Lepakshi, located in Andhra Pradesh, is renowned for its historical and architectural brilliance, notably the Veerabhadra Temple with its unique Hanging Pillar and Monolithic Nandi”, states Incredible India, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India.
Narthamalai is a small town surrounded by hills and light forest. It has rocky land and green views. Long ago, during the Chola period (848–1279), it was a busy trading town.
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Image credit: Tamil Nadu Tourism/ Twitter (X)
These include the 9th‑century Vijayalaya Choleeswaram, one of the earliest stone temples in South India, blending Pallava and early Chola architectural styles. It’s a peaceful spot where the artistry and quiet hills transport you to the historic past.
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An unexplored gem of a place, Lakkundi is known for its Chalukya style temples, stepped wells and historic inscriptions. Situated in the district of #Gadag, Let your mind script your next adventure, starting at Lakkundi! ✨
— Karnataka Tourism (@KarnatakaWorld) May 19, 2020
_#NoduBaNammaOoru #ILoveMyNative #NammaKarnataka pic.twitter.com/jtby847dsy
Gadag District, Government of Karnataka portal states, “Lakkundi is a place of antiquarian interest, with more than 50 ancient temples scattered throughout the village, 101 stepped wells which are also called as Kalyani, and many inscriptions that were built during the rule of the Chalukyas, Kalachuris, Seuna, and Hoysalas.” Lakkundi in Karnataka is a must-visit for its rich history, ancient temples, and stepwells that showcase stunning Chalukyan architecture.
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Tharangambadi, a peaceful coastal town in Tamil Nadu, is steeped in history and charm. “Masilamani Nathar (Shiva) temple was built here in 1306, on land given by Maravarman Kulasekara Pandyan I. It is a Danish settlement with an ancient fort, which is known as Fort Dansborg. Construction started in 1620”, as per the Karaikal District, Government of Puducherry portal.
Behold the imposing and magnificent Fort Dansborg situated on the shores of the Bay of Bengal in Tharangambadi (Tranquebar), #TamilNadu. Fort Dansborg is the second largest fort built by the Danish, the first being Kronborg in Denmark. #IncredibleIndia pic.twitter.com/avL6No9TE2
— Incredible!ndia (@incredibleindia) June 7, 2019
Once a Danish settlement known as Tranquebar, it still carries the quiet legacy of colonial times with its well-preserved Fort Dansborg, old churches, and streets lined with European-style buildings. The blend of Tamil culture and Scandinavian influence makes it a unique stop for travellers.
If you’re curious to explore beyond the usual, these underrated towns in South India are waiting. Make sure to visit these on your next trip to South India.
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