Chill winds, misty whiffs, sensational views, and you amidst it all, you get the drift. Welcome to the world of hill stations that fall in the lush green strips of the great Western Ghats and the Eastern Ghats in Southern India. Discover serenity in the opulent forests, hilly views, and gorgeous ghats. We give you 5 spectacular hill stations in Tamil Nadu to soothe your soul with nature.
Every destination has its charm, and it is better experienced than just heard. While there is a season for certain places, there are hill stations that are beautiful to visit during various seasons. This is one such state that is abundant with many of nature’s best spots. Most of the routes to visit these hilly areas are just as amazing as the final place. Lined with dense woods on the sides, curvy hairpin pin bends, and cloudy touches, the journey will leave you completely bewitched.
Shouting out to people who are in the state or planning to visit, don’t miss out on these mesmerizing hill stations in Tamil Nadu.
Kodaikanal
Kodaikanal translates to ‘The gift of the forest’ in the native language, hinting at its abundant flora and fauna with some great tourist spots known and hidden. It is called the Princess of the Hills for its popularity amongst tourists, couples, and families alike, who have traveled to this place since the olden days. Now, it’s a hub for many adventure activities attracting all types of travel enthusiasts.
The location is a mix of hills, valleys, thick forests, waterfalls, and so much more. Its key alluring spot is the artificial Kodaikanal Lake in the shape of a star amidst the green scene. Let’s begin to explore more about one of the must-visit hill stations in Tamil Nadu for weekend getaways.
What to see:
Kodaikanal Lake: An artificial lake that is beautiful for some picture-perfect moments. One can enjoy boating here just to relish the peace amongst nature.
Coaker’s Walk: Built by Lt. Coaker, it’s a small pathway that pans out to about 1km giving its visitors various views of some of the most famous valleys, ranges, and peaks amidst other trails that have great views at its summit.
Perumal Peak: It is known to be one of the highest peaks in the Palani Hills of the Western Ghats. Trekkers can hike up this beautiful trail for a sensational panoramic view. Read this to explore other treks in Kodaikanal.
Silver Cascade Falls: A wonder of nature that is formed by the overflowing of the artificial Kodaikanal Lake joined by the Palar River. The rock behind the falls has a step-like formation creating a beautiful effect when the water flows down.
Guna Caves: In the middle of tall deep-rooted trees lies the Guna Caves, popularly known as Devil’s Kitchen. It got its name Guna because of the movie that was shot here. The entrance is formed by two pillar-like rock boulders and the third on the top. The cave is deep and further extends. It is a mysterious spot to explore for sure.
Other things to see:
Enjoy the various hiking trails the place has to offer. Visit the Kukkal Caves to understand the history of the native tribe. Get a dose of thrill while you take a night safari into the wilds of Kodaikanal. There are multiple viewpoints and waterfalls to explore too. For bookings and timings, visit the Kodaikanal Tourism website.
Where to stay:
Treebo Trend Hotel Kodai Kings Park
A lovely stay perfect for couples, family, and friends. Located in a key area, it is just a few kilometers away from many tourist spots.
Kolli Hills
Kolli Hills, also known as Kolli Malai, translated to ‘Mountains of Death.’ The natural charisma of the places lures bikers and travelers from all across the country. The mountain ranges stretch from Namakkal district to Thiruchirapalli district. Packed with various tourist attractions, the place is teeming with amazing views and things to do. Let’s explore one of the most thrilling hill stations in Tamil Nadu. Setting aside what’s inside the place, the journey to reach it is just exhilarating.
What to see:
Masila Waterfalls: Appearing as though it’s flowing out of nowhere, this spot is a beautiful sight. One can walk up to the place to see the stunning falls and capture some great pictures.
Belukuruchi: This particular route has some amazing views at the curves of the hairpin bends.
Siddhar Caves: It is a set of small caves that open a time window into the ages of the sages when they practiced medicine and studied the benefits of rare herbs available in the region.
Agasagangai Waterfalls: Also called Akasa Gangai Waterfalls, it is located in the Kolli Hills cradled in the Eastern Ghats. The place is just marvelous, and going further up the steep steps to get a better view of the falls is definitely worth the effort.
Other things to see:
It houses various hiking trails, viewpoints, more waterfalls, and some gorgeous ancient temples.
Thoppur
Thoppur is a beautiful quaint hill town with emerald green lush belts that decorate the ghat. It is a quiet place offering some visitor attractions that leave you wanting more. For a quick weekend getaway with friends or family, this is one of the best hill stations in Tamil Nadu to visit.
What to see:
Thoppaiyaru Dam: The pathway to the place is through lush lands and abundant flower fields. It is where you can just take time for yourself and get lost in the great scenery. You can see ranges and valleys from this spot. The place also houses some beautiful temples and dargahs.
Anaimalai
Anaimalai or Annamalai hills, also known as Elephant Hills, are part of the great Western Ghats and lie at the border of Tamil Nadu in the district of Coimbatore and stretch towards Kerala. It is learned to be one of the highest ranges in Southern India. This quaint place is lined with glorious mountains, which have an array of scenic viewpoints, a wildlife sanctuary, and is also near to various other tourist towns.
What to see:
Monkey Falls: An enchanting waterfall in the hilly ranges that cascades beautifully into a pool of water before flowing further. The place is exciting to be at, not just to view this natural marvel but also as one can get into the water for some fun time. It also has some guided seasonal treks that one can take. It is one of the many waterfalls to discover amongst the others in various hill stations in Tamil Nadu
Aliyar Dam: Surrounded by the luxuriant green Anaimalai ranges, this dam is picturesque and a must-visit.
Anaimalai Tiger Reserve: Previously called Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park, this forest is the abode to animals like elephants, Bengal tigers, leopards, Nilgiri tahr, sloth bears, and more.
Yercaud
Cradled in the Servarayan ranges of the Eastern Ghats, Yercaud is a charming place to just relax and get cozy. Want to laze around watching captivating views or be on your toes ready to explore every nook of the town, you can do it all here. Laden with terrains of plantations from coffee to other spices, this enchanting destination is one of the must-visit hill stations in Tamil Nadu. It has gorgeous scenic points and a hint of wildlife. Let’s get to exploring, shall we?
What to see:
Manjakuttai View Point: To begin your day in a beguiling way, catch the sunrise from this place. Just stand and watch as the world comes to life under the fading clouds. Layers of mountains and ranges in shades of deep blues and purples and valleys splashed with vivid green lands leave you awestruck.
Yercaud Lake: Also called Emerald Lake, it is a nice spot to hang out with your loved ones in the mornings or evenings. The lake is lined with roadside eateries to keep you company while you spend time walking around or watching the boats go to and fro with tourists in them. It is a perfect place to click away some stunning photos of the lake surrounded by the hills. Don’t miss out on a boat ride yourself.
Arthur Seat and Lady’s Seat viewpoints: Just a few minutes away from the main town, these locations are a must-see to experience nature in all its glory from above.
Kiliyur Falls: Ready to get drenched in fun? Visit this waterfall formed by the overflowing Yercaud Lake to have an incredible time with your loved ones. The path to the site is paved and has a set of steps one needs to climb before reaching the place. The route offers a peek into the valley here and there while you journey to the falls. One can enjoy playing in the water here. The cascading water flows over the steep textured rock creating an amazing backdrop for some snaps.
Well, that must have gotten you excited to make some weekend plans. There is no place like nature to give you a boost from the day-to-day lifestyle. Take a break and drive up to the hills. Discover the charm of meandering ghats, mountain ranges, and valleys in these enticing hill stations in Tamil Nadu. Plan a quick trip with your other half or get going with your friends to these locations.
Travel has no limits and we got travelers more destinations to explore. Love the sands more than the hills? Then explore these spectacular beaches in South India you can visit for a relaxing vacay.
