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Chennai, India
Gateway to South India, Chennai is home to the magnificent Kapaleeshwarar Temple and Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world. Explore the buzzing neighbourhood of Mylapore and try local filter coffee and dosas at traditional Brahmin restaurants.
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Mahabalipuram, India
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mahabalipuram dazzles with rock-cut Shore Temples, magnificent bas-relief carvings like Arjuna's Penance, and a relaxed beachside vibe. The town is small enough to explore on foot or by bicycle, and fresh seafood is plentiful along the shore.
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Thanjavur, India
Thanjavur is the cultural heart of Tamil Nadu, dominated by the spectacular Brihadeeswara Temple, a 1000-year-old Chola masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don't miss the Royal Palace and its art gallery filled with Chola bronzes, and sample the local Thanjavur-style biryani.
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Madurai, India
One of the oldest living cities in the world, Madurai is centred around the stunning Meenakshi Amman Temple, a towering Dravidian marvel covered in thousands of colourful sculptures. Visit at night when the temple is beautifully illuminated, and try the famous Madurai kari dosa and jigarthanda dessert.
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Munnar, India
Munnar is a breathtaking hill station in Kerala nestled among rolling tea plantations, misty valleys, and the Anamalai mountain range. Trek through Eravikulam National Park to spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, and sip freshly brewed tea at one of the many estate tea factories.
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Alleppey, India
Known as the Venice of the East, Alleppey is the perfect base to explore Kerala's legendary backwaters by traditional houseboat, drifting past paddy fields, coconut palms, and fishing villages. The town also has lovely beaches and is famous for its annual Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race.
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Kovalam, India
Kovalam is Kerala's most famous beach destination, offering three crescent-shaped bays with warm, calm waters ideal for swimming and relaxing. The iconic Vizhinjam Lighthouse offers panoramic coastal views, and the beachside shacks serve excellent Kerala fish curry and fresh grilled seafood.