If you want to explore the best hill stations in South India, you must consider these hill stations. The lush green landscapes and cool breezes of South India make some of the country’s most beautiful hill stations. In South India, these hill stations aren’t just about the chill in the air or the misty mountains, they are a completely different world.

In addition to offering peace, beauty, and a touch of adventure, these hill stations are perfect for vacationers looking to escape the bustle of city life.

Hill Stations in South India

1. Ooty

As a revered hill station in South India, Ooty is tourist one of the best hill stations in Tamilnadu. It has a soothing atmosphere that impresses every traveler. Nestled cozily in the Nilgiri mountains, it is an ideal getaway for restless souls. There are cliffs, mountains, waterfalls, and tea gardens that surround this lovely hill retreat, adding a wonderful twist to the spectacular scenery. With South India Tour Packages, a ride on the Toy Train is the best way to experience all the natural treasures this place has to offer.

Best Time to Visit Ooty

Summer (March to June):

  • Weather: Pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 31°C.
  • Activities: Ideal for sightseeing, boating, and exploring tea plantations.
  • Highlights: The Ooty Summer Festival, including the famous Flower Show at the Botanical Gardens.

Monsoon (July to September):

  • Weather: Cool and misty, with temperatures between 12°C to 16°C.
  • Activities: Enjoy the lush green landscapes and waterfalls.
  • Highlights: The serene beauty of rain-washed surroundings, though some outdoor activities might be limited due to rain.

Winter (October to February):

  • Weather: Chilly, with temperatures often below 15°C.
  • Activities: Great for enjoying the misty mountains, tea plantations, and cozying up by the fire.
  • Highlights: The Tea and Tourism Festival in January or February.

Overall Best Time: October to June offers a mix of pleasant weather and various activities.

5 Best Places to Visit in Ooty

  1. Ooty Botanical Gardens:
    • Description: Spread over 55 acres, featuring sections like the Fern House, Lower Garden, Italian Garden, Conservatory, and Nurseries.
    • Highlights: The annual Flower Show, a variety of exotic plants, and beautifully landscaped lawns.
  2. Ooty Lake:
    • Description: An artificial lake popular for boating.
    • Highlights: Boating, cycling by the lake, and local shops selling handmade items.
  3. Doddabetta Peak:
    • Description: The highest peak in the Nilgiri Mountains, offering panoramic views.
    • Highlights: Trekking, a telescope house for closer views, and lush green scenery.
  4. Rose Garden:
    • Description: Located at 2200 meters altitude, home to over 20,000 varieties of roses.
    • Highlights: A vibrant display of roses, well-maintained pathways, and the annual Rose Show.
  5. Avalanche Lake:
    • Description: A serene lake surrounded by greenery, about 28 km from Ooty.
    • Highlights: Trout fishing, camping, rafting, and trekking.

Best Hotels to Stay in Ooty

  1. Savoy – IHCL SeleQtions:
    • Amenities: Spa, fitness center, on-site restaurant, bar/lounge, conference rooms.
    • Highlights: Colonial architecture, serene atmosphere, bonfire, and fun games.
  2. Fortune Resort Sullivan Court:
    • Amenities: Spa, fitness center, on-site restaurant, bar/lounge, conference rooms.
    • Highlights: Great location, friendly staff, excellent food, and comfortable rooms.
  3. Sterling Ooty Elk Hill:
    • Amenities: Spa, fitness center, on-site restaurant, bar/lounge, kids’ play area.
    • Highlights: Beautiful views, spacious rooms, and a variety of recreational activities.

2. Coorg

The most visited hill station in Karnataka, Coorg, overwhelms you from the moment you arrive. There are acres of spice and coffee plantations, sandalwood forests, streams and misty valleys that create a heavenly landscape. Besides offering endless opportunities for adventure enthusiasts like angling, white water rafting and trekking, these natural havens also offer endless opportunities for adventure enthusiasts.

Best Time to Visit Coorg

Summer (March to May):

  • Weather: Pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C.
  • Activities: Ideal for outdoor activities like trekking and sightseeing. Popular spots include Kumara Parvatha Trek, Tadiandamol Peak, and Madikeri Fort.
  • Travel Tips: Pack light cotton clothing, comfortable footwear, and sun protection like hats and sunglasses.

Monsoon (June to September):

  • Weather: Heavy rainfall, with temperatures between 23°C to 28°C.
  • Activities: Enjoy the lush green landscapes and waterfalls such as Abbey Falls and Iruppu Falls.

Winter (October to February):

  • Weather: Cool and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C.
  • Activities: Great for sightseeing, trekking, and enjoying the serene environment. Festivals like Puthari and Madikeri Dasara enhance the cultural experience.
  • Travel Tips: Pack warm clothing for the chilly nights.

Overall Best Time: October to March offers the best weather and opportunities for outdoor activities without the interruption of rain.

5 Best Places to Visit in Coorg

  1. Abbey Falls:
    • Description: A stunning waterfall about 10 km from Madikeri, surrounded by lush greenery and coffee plantations.
    • Activities: Ideal for photography and nature walks. The hanging bridge near the falls provides a great vantage point.
  2. Mandalpatti:
    • Description: A scenic viewpoint at an altitude of 1800 meters, offering panoramic views of the Western Ghats. Known for its misty landscapes and serene environment.
    • Activities: Popular for trekking and jeep rides.
  3. Raja’s Seat:
    • Description: A beautiful garden with an elevated viewpoint, offering stunning views of the valleys and hills. Historically, it was a favorite spot for the kings of Coorg to watch sunsets.
    • Activities: Enjoy the well-maintained garden, musical fountains, and panoramic views.
  4. Dubare Elephant Camp:
    • Description: A unique camp on the banks of the River Kaveri where visitors can interact with elephants. Learn about elephant training and conservation.
    • Activities: Elephant rides, feeding, and bathing sessions.
  5. Namdroling Monastery (Golden Temple):
    • Description: The largest teaching center of the Nyingma lineage of Tibetan Buddhism in the world, known for its beautiful architecture and serene environment.
    • Activities: Explore the monastery, attend prayer sessions, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. The vibrant murals and statues are a visual treat.

Best Hotels to Stay in Coorg

  1. Evolve Back Coorg:
    • Amenities: Outdoor infinity pool, Ayurvedic spa, gym, multiple dining options, cottages and villas with modern amenities, private plunge pools in select villas.
    • Highlights: Luxurious ambiance, excellent service, beautiful views, and a serene environment.
  2. Coorg Cliffs Resort:
    • Amenities: Outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, restaurant, free breakfast, business center.
    • Highlights: Excellent plantation walks, great views, and a memorable vacation experience.
  3. Club Mahindra Madikeri, Coorg:
    • Amenities: Two outdoor pools, spa treatments, on-site classes (cooking, fabric painting, etc.), library, barbecue facilities.
    • Highlights: Family-friendly, various on-site activities, and beautiful surroundings.

3. Munnar

The picturesque hill station of Munnar is located in the Western Ghats and is known for its sprawling tea estates, misty valleys, and pristine lakes. In addition to strolling through the verdant tea plantations of Kolukkumalai, visitors can climb the highest peak in South India, Anamudi Peak, or take a boat ride on Kundala Lake’s tranquil waters. This region is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers thanks to its diversity and abundance of wildlife.

Best Time to Visit Munnar

Munnar is a year-round destination, with each season offering a unique experience:

  1. Summer (March to May):
    • Weather: Pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C.
    • Activities: Ideal for sightseeing, trekking, and exploring tea plantations.
    • Overall: A refreshing escape from the heat of the plains.
  2. Monsoon (June to September):
    • Weather: Lush and green with heavy rainfall.
    • Activities: Perfect for nature lovers who enjoy the vibrant landscape enhanced by rain.
    • Overall: Less crowded, though some outdoor activities might be limited.
  3. Winter (October to February):
    • Weather: Cool and refreshing, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C.
    • Activities: Best for honeymooners and those who enjoy a cozy, chilly climate.
    • Overall: The most popular time to visit due to the pleasant weather.

5 Best Places to Visit in Munnar

  1. Eravikulam National Park:
    • Description: Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and famous for the rare Neelakurinji flowers that bloom every 12 years.
    • Activities: Wildlife spotting, trekking, and enjoying panoramic views.
  2. Mattupetty Dam:
    • Description: A scenic dam and lake surrounded by tea plantations and rolling hills.
    • Activities: Boating, picnicking, and photography.
  3. Attukad Waterfalls:
    • Description: A picturesque waterfall set amidst lush greenery, ideal for a refreshing dip.
    • Activities: Trekking, nature walks, and enjoying the serene environment.
  4. Top Station:
    • Description: The highest point in Munnar, offering breathtaking views of the Western Ghats and Theni Valley.
    • Activities: Sunrise views, photography, and trekking.
  5. Tea Museum:
    • Description: Run by Tata Tea, this museum showcases the history and development of tea plantations in Munnar.
    • Activities: Learning about tea processing, tasting different varieties of tea, and exploring the exhibits.

Best Hotels to Stay in Munnar

  1. Blanket Hotel & Spa:
    • Amenities: Luxurious rooms, spa, infinity pool, multi-cuisine restaurant, and stunning views of the Attukad Waterfalls.
    • Highlights: Ideal for a relaxing and indulgent stay.
  2. Parakkat Nature Resort:
    • Amenities: Spacious rooms with balconies, multi-cuisine restaurant, spa, and beautiful mountain views.
    • Highlights: Perfect for nature lovers seeking tranquility.
  3. Kaivalyam Wellness Retreat:
    • Amenities: Ayurvedic treatments, yoga and meditation sessions, organic food, and serene surroundings.
    • Highlights: Ideal for a holistic wellness experience.

4. Kodaikanal

With its scenic beauty and cool climate, Kodaikanal is one of the best tourist places to visit in summer with family. It is a beautiful hill station perched atop the Palani Hills. There are many attractions to explore at Kodaikanal Lake, Bryant Park, and Pillar Rocks, among others. A tranquil ambiance and laid-back atmosphere make the region the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway for adventure enthusiasts, who can trek to Dolphin’s Nose and Devil’s Kitchen, which provide panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Best Time to Visit Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal is a year-round destination, with each season offering a distinct experience:

  • Summer (March to June): This is the peak tourist season with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 32°C. This is the best time for adventure activities. The Grand Annual Summer Festival in May is a major attraction.
  • Monsoon (July to September): The hill station experiences moderate to heavy rainfall, transforming the landscape into a lush green paradise. Although the rains can be heavy, the misty weather and fewer tourists create a serene atmosphere.
  • Winter (October to February): Winters are chilly with temperatures dropping to 8°C. This season is perfect for those who enjoy cold weather and the misty charm of Kodaikanal. The period from October to March is considered the best time overall due to the pleasant weather and clear skies.

5 Best Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

  1. Kodaikanal Lake:
    • A star-shaped, man-made lake at the heart of Kodaikanal. It offers boating, horse riding, and cycling around the lake, with serene surroundings and picturesque views.
  2. Coaker’s Walk:
    • A beautiful paved pedestrian path along steep slopes offering stunning valley views. On clear days, you can see the distant plains and even the city of Madurai.
  3. Pillar Rocks:
    • Three giant rock pillars standing 400 feet high, providing breathtaking views. The area also features beautiful gardens and a mini zoo.
  4. Bryant Park:
    • A well-maintained botanical garden near the lake, showcasing a variety of flowers, hybrids, and grafts. The annual horticulture show in May is a key attraction.
  5. Bear Shola Falls:
    • A seasonal waterfall located in a reserve forest, ideal for picnics and short treks. The falls are named after the bears that once drank from here.

Best Hotels to Stay in Kodaikanal

  1. The Carlton Kodaikanal:
    • Amenities: Free breakfast, Wi-Fi, parking, valet parking, spa, fitness center, and an in-house restaurant offering Indian, Continental, and Italian cuisine.
    • Highlights: Lakeside location, great views, excellent service, and spacious rooms.
  2. Le Poshe By Sparsa:
    • Amenities: Free breakfast, Wi-Fi, parking, fitness center, spa, games room, and garden view rooms.
    • Highlights: Luxurious stay, clean rooms, excellent room service, and beautiful garden views.
  3. Villa Retreat:
    • Amenities: Cozy rooms, free Wi-Fi, parking, and a restaurant. The hotel offers a serene environment with picturesque views.
    • Highlights: Ideal for honeymoon couples and small families, with classic Victorian-style architecture and tranquil surroundings.

5. Yercaud

If you want to get away from your hectic schedule, Yercaud is the perfect place to unwind at a much lower price than most other mountain retreats. It is also known as the Land of Seven Forests and has plenty of trekking routes tucked away in its cliffs and valleys. This place is a perfect getaway from the grind of life set against the backdrop of the Shevagiri Mountains in the Eastern Ghats.

Best Time to Visit Yercaud

Yercaud, a scenic hill station in Tamil Nadu, is a year-round destination with a pleasant climate.

  • Summer (March to June): With temperatures between 23°C and 30°C, summer is an ideal time to escape the heat of the plains. Enjoy sightseeing and local festivals like the Summer Festival in May, featuring flower shows, boat races, and cultural events.
  • Monsoon (July to September): This period sees moderate to heavy rainfall, enhancing the natural beauty with vibrant greenery and waterfalls. However, outdoor activities may be limited due to the risk of landslides and slippery paths.
  • Winter (October to February): Temperatures range from 10°C to 22°C, offering a cool and pleasant climate perfect for nature walks, trekking, and exploring Yercaud’s scenic beauty. The best time to visit Yercaud is from October to June, avoiding the heavy monsoon rains.

5 Best Places to Visit in Yercaud

  1. Yercaud Lake (Emerald Lake):
    • A picturesque lake surrounded by lush greenery, ideal for boating, picnics, and photography. The serene atmosphere and beautiful views make it a popular spot for relaxation.
  2. Pagoda Point:
    • Known for its panoramic views, Pagoda Point offers stunning vistas of the surrounding hills and valleys. It’s an excellent spot for sunrise and sunset, providing a tranquil escape from city life.
  3. Kiliyur Falls:
    • About 3 km from Yercaud Lake, this impressive waterfall cascades from a height of 300 feet. The trek to the falls is adventurous and rewarding, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
  4. Shevaroy Temple:
    • Located at Yercaud’s highest point, this temple dedicated to Lord Shevaroyan offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and serves as a significant cultural and religious site.
  5. 32-km Loop Road:
    • A scenic drive through coffee plantations, orange groves, and spice gardens. The loop road provides a unique experience of Yercaud’s natural beauty, perfect for a leisurely drive or cycling trip.

Best Hotels to Stay in Yercaud

  1. Sterling Yercaud:
    • Amenities: Free breakfast, Wi-Fi, playground, parking, valet parking, spa, and a clubhouse with various activities. The resort also offers theme parties, campfires, and live entertainment.
    • Highlights: Great location, excellent service, and stunning views.
  2. Great Trails Yercaud by GRT Hotels:
    • Amenities: Well-designed rooms, coffee plantations, luxuriant forests, and a variety of room options.
    • Highlights: Scenic views, excellent service, and a range of activities.
  3. Cloud Residency Yercaud:
    • Amenities: Comfortable rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a garden.
    • Highlights: Cozy atmosphere and picturesque views.

Tamilnadu Trekking Places

Some of the most popular hill stations in South India are located in Tamil Nadu. Apart from these touristy destinations, Tamil Nadu has many trekking destinations as well, including Ooty and Kodaikanal. Trails can be found deep in the western and eastern ghats. There are waterfalls nestled in lush green forest and lakes in the Nilgiri ranges that offer beautiful views.

1. Sathuragiri Hill trek

The Sathuragiri Hill trek is one of the most sacred treks in Southern Tamil Nadu. It is a Western Ghats trail that falls inside the Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

As you make your way to the summit of Sathuragiri, you are rewarded with panoramic views of the Western Ghats that will give you an adrenaline rush.

Trek Distance

The trek is approximately 8 kilometers from the base to the summit.

Trek Routes

There are three main routes to reach Sathuragiri Hill:

  1. Usilampatti, Periyur through Saptur to Vazhai Thoppu: This route involves trekking upward in the mountain range for about 5 km.
  2. Andipatti, Theni, Varusanad, and Karuppasamy Temple.
  3. Thaniparai via Kallupatti, Rajapalayam, and Krishnankoil: This is the most commonly used route, starting from Thaniparai village.

5 Best Highlights

  1. Kona Thalai Vasal Climb: A challenging Z-shaped steep trail stretching about 1 kilometer, surrounded by dense forest and a stream.
  2. Sundara Mahalingam and Santhana Mahalingam Temples: Ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, over 2,500 years old, offering significant spiritual value.
  3. Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary: The trek passes through this UNESCO World Heritage Site, rich in flora and fauna.
  4. Scenic Views of the Western Ghats: The trek offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Western Ghats.
  5. Spiritual Experience: Known as the Abode of the Gods, the trek is a spiritual journey for many devotees.

2. Athri Hill Trek

Located near the village of Alwarkurichi in the Western Ghats, the Athri Hill Trek is a short but beautiful trek in the Pothigai mountain range. The trek is 25 kilometers from Tenkasi and 210 kilometers from Madurai, a popular tourist destination that has yet to be discovered.

Athri hill trek highlights include the beautiful Kadana Nathi Dam (Nathi means river in Tamil), dense forest trails, an unusually shaped limestone cave, and spectacular views of the Western Ghats.

Trek Distance

The Athri Hill Trek covers approximately 5 kilometers and is considered a moderate trek.

Trek Route

The trek begins at Alwarkurichi village, near Tenkasi district, and passes through the northeastern section of the Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve Forest. The route includes scenic views of the Kadana Nathi Dam, dense forest trails, and an unusually shaped limestone cave before reaching the summit.

5 Best Highlights

  1. Kadana Nathi Dam: Offers breathtaking views of the dam set against the Western Ghats.
  2. Dense Forest Trails: Traverse lush, evergreen forests unique to this region.
  3. Limestone Cave: Explore a distinctively shaped limestone cave along the trek.
  4. Western Ghats Views: Enjoy spectacular vistas of the Western Ghats from various points.
  5. Athri Maharishi Temple: Visit this temple dedicated to Lord Shiva at the summit, which is of religious significance.

3. Kookal Waterfalls trek

Even though Kodaikanal is one of the most popular hill stations in South India, Kookal Waterfalls remains a hidden gem because it takes six kilometers to even see the waterfall.

In this trek, you will find a scenic village called Kookal at the beginning of your journey. Kookal village has lush greenery and an aura that gives you an idea of what lies ahead. Kookal waterfalls trek begins at a beautiful lake and gradually winds downhill with spectacular views of the Palani hills in the background. The trek then winds up in a dense forest before rewarding you with the majestic sight of the multilayered Kookal waterfall.

Trek Distance

The trek covers approximately 6 kilometers.

Trek Route

The trek is divided into two main sections:

  1. Trek Start Point to Forest Entry: This 2 km section takes about 1 hour and begins 1 km from Kookal Lake, leading through mud trails.
  2. Forest Entry to Kookal Falls: This segment takes you through dense forest, with lush greenery and the sound of the waterfall guiding you.

5 Best Highlights

  1. Kookal Lake: A picturesque lake with floating lotus plantations and clear blue water reflecting the surrounding hills.
  2. Dense Forest Trail: Immerse yourself in the lush greenery and soothing sounds of the forest.
  3. Scenic Drive: Enjoy a beautiful, shaded drive from Kodaikanal to Kookal village, lined with pine and eucalyptus trees.
  4. Pombarai View Point: Take in a bird’s-eye view of Pombarai village along the way.
  5. Kookal Waterfalls: The main attraction, a stunning 300-foot waterfall that offers a captivating view after a one-and-a-half-hour descent.

4. Nilgiris Green Lake trek

This Nilgiris Green Lake trek is one of the best in Tamilnadu. The trail is a delight, but the lake’s beauty is enthralling. Surrounded by lush grassy knolls, the unspoiled lake is a peaceful oasis, except for occasional fishermen. Sitting on the grassy mounds and watching the lake’s gentle ripples is nothing short of blissful.

Trek Distance

  • Total Distance: Approximately 8 kilometers round trip.

Trek Route

  1. Starting Point: Hindustan Photo Films (HPF)
  2. Route:
    • Begin by following the road to the X-ray plant.
    • Reach a small clearing on the left, accessed via a cow trail.
    • Ascend into a picturesque meadow, with the Ooty Golf Course on your right.
    • Cross the meadow and head towards the hill, passing through an eucalyptus grove.
    • Descend through dense thickets of thorny bushes with bright yellow blooms.
    • Continue along a well-maintained road tracing the edge of Green Lake.
    • Follow the dirt path branching to the right for various viewpoints around the lake.

5 Best Highlights

  1. Green Lake: The trek culminates at Green Lake, renowned for its lush grassy knolls and serene waters.
  2. Eucalyptus Groves: Enjoy the refreshing aroma as you pass through fragrant eucalyptus groves.
  3. Meadows and Forests: Experience Switzerland-like meadows and dense forests, including deciduous and bamboo varieties.
  4. Wildlife Spotting: The route offers opportunities to see elephants, deer, peacocks, and bison in Bandipur National Park.
  5. Scenic Viewpoints: Multiple viewpoints along the trail provide breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding forests.

5. Parvathamalai Trek

Parvathamalai Trek is one of the adventurous treks in southern India. It falls within the Kanchi section of the Pudupalayam range in the Parvathamalai Reserved Forest.

A trekker’s adrenaline rush is triggered by the rough and challenging terrain. They also love the expansive and serene views of the Eastern Ghats as they ascend the mountain. This temple has been in existence in some form or another for 2000-odd years, and it is also popular amongst devotees who take the challenging journey to pay their respects to it.

Trek Distance

The Parvathamalai Trek covers approximately 8.5 kilometers (5.3 miles) round trip.

Trek Route

The trek begins at Thenmathimangalam village, about 30 km from Tiruvannamalai. The trail traverses the Parvathamalai reserved forest in the Eastern Ghats, featuring rocky terrain and steep sections, notably the challenging Kadaparai Pathai.

5 Best Highlights

  1. Adventurous Paths: Known for its rugged and demanding terrain, the trek offers an exhilarating experience.
  2. Kadaparai Pathai: The most challenging part, where trekkers climb steep sections using iron rods and chains.
  3. Scenic Views: Stunning vistas of the Eastern Ghats and surrounding hills.
  4. Shiva Temple: At the summit, a historic Shiva temple that has been a place of worship for over 2000 years.
  5. Unique Flora: The forest is home to rare herbs and around 152 uncommon plant species

Conclusion

Those are the best hill stations in South India that you must visit at least once in your lifetime. These hill stations offer wonderful experiences with natural beauty, serene landscapes, and unique cultural experiences. From the charming tea estates of Munnar and the misty peaks of Ooty to the lush coffee plantations of Coorg, each destination promises its own special allure.

On the other hand, Tamil Nadu’s diverse trekking also further adds to the region’s appeal. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or a blend of both, these hill stations cater to every traveler’s desire, making South India a perennial favorite for those searching for peace and rejuvenation amidst breathtaking natural surroundings.

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