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Personally, I always prefer hill stations down south over Northern India. Why, you ask? Undoubtedly, all mountain towns are equally spectacular, but the weather makes the experience so starkly different.
While the northern peaks are extremely cold with very high altitudes, hill stations in South India are more pleasant. You won’t find yourselves shivering at all times. Trekking experiences are also relatively easier, making them ideal for slow vacations.
Having visited many of them over the years, in this article, I will take you on a virtual journey to the 10 best hill stations of South India. Let’s go?
Contents
1. Munnar
I have to start with Munnar, because this is the destination that made me fall madly in love with travel for the first time! When I set my eyes on the magnificent dark green mountains embellished with cloudy white mist, it was pure magic.
The fresh aroma in the air, with hints of spices, tea, and other gems of nature, was further uplifting for the senses. Perched 1600 meters above sea level in Kerala’s Idukki district, Munnar is truly a must-visit hill station in south India.
Did You Know?
Munnar is home to South India’s highest peak Anamudi, only next to the Himalayan ranges. The peak boasts of 2,695 meters height from the sea level.
Things to do:
- Trek to Anamudi Peak.
- Spot the engaged Nilgiri Tahr at Eravikulam National Park.
- Explore the Tata Tea Museum.
- Shop for local spices, tea, essential oils & chocolates.
- Go boating at Mattupetty lake.
- Visit the Powerhouse Waterfalls.
- Go for jeep safari through the carpets of tea gardens.
- Enjoy the panoramic vistas everywhere (my favorite part).
Where to stay: Some of the best places to stay in Munnar are Elephant Passage, Viceroy, The Panoramic Gateway, The Fog, and The Valle.
Right time to visit: December to May.
How to get there: The easiest way to reach Munnar is to take a train/flight to Kochi and then hop on a taxi or bus to the hill station, which is a 4-hour drive. You can also alight at Aluva or Angamaly railway station if you’re travelling by train, as it cuts the travel time to reach Munnar by half an hour.
2. Ooty
The most popular hill station in South India and Tamil Nadu, Ooty has been a getaway for residents of Bangalore, Mysore, Coimbatore and Chennai for ages. The fragrant Eucalyptus forests, lush hills carpeted with tea plantations, and colorful flower gardens will always remain etched in my memory.
It’s the go-to holiday destination for families, friends as well as couples. You will also find several scenic lakes and trekking points here.
TWT Tip: If you wish to stay at a peaceful place away from the tourist chaos, Emerald near the pristine Emerald Lake is a wonderful lakeview BnB. It is situated amidst sprawling forests, farms and tea plantations, which made for one of our most memorable stay experiences.
Things to do:
- Explore tribal culture at the Toda temple.
- Learn about tea production at the tea factory.
- Trek to Doddabetta Peak.
- Go boating at Ooty Lake.
- Shop at the Tibetan Market.
- Visit the vibrant botanical garden & rose garden.
- Hike to the Cairn Hill Reserve Forest & High Hill Tea Garden.
- Admire the architecture of St. Stephen’s Church.
- Find peace at Emerald & Avalanche Lake.
- Watch the Pykara Waterfalls.
Where to stay: Some of the best places to stay in Ooty are Emerald, Willow Hill, Sinclairs Retreat, WelcomHeritage Ayatana, Gempark and Sterling Ooty Fern Hill.
Right time to visit: December to May.
How to get there: You can get on a flight/train to Mysore or Coimbatore, from where you can hire a taxi or a bus. Both the places are a 3-hour drive away from Ooty. Alternatively, if you are travelling from Chennai, you can board a direct bus to Ooty.
3. Coorg
Coorg is one of the few hill stations in South India where you will find a river (Kaveri) flowing through. The water is not very deep in some parts. So, we tried river hiking with the support of rock beds, and this turned out to be one of the most exciting parts of our trip.
Plus, the dense forests and rugged mountains covered with mist make for a romantic and breezy setting. The Karnataka hill station is also renowned for its coffee and spice plantations.
TWT Tip: If you step into the river, be extremely careful and try to hold your company’s hands while crossing the river. Ensure that your belongings are securely locked inside your bag. Wear knee-length outfits or clothes that can easily be folded up for convenience.
Things to do:
- Trek to Mandalpatti Peak.
- Visit Raja’s Seat and Madikeri Fort.
- Find peace at the Namdroling Monastery.
- Hike to Abbey Waterfalls.
- Relax on the banks of Kaveri river.
- Visit Omkareshwara Temple & Talacauvery.
- Go for plantation walks.
- Shop for local coffee, chocolates and spices.
Where to stay: Some of the best places to stay in Coorg are Coorg Cliffs, The Tamara, Coorg Wilderness Resort, Taj Madikeri, and Evolve Back.
Right time to visit: August to May.
How to get there: Coorg is one of the most popular getaways from Bangalore. So most people self-drive or take a taxi from this city to reach Coorg. However, the nearest airport to Coorg is in Mangalore and the nearest railway station is in Mysore.
4. Tirumala
This temple hill town in Andhra Pradesh is among the most visited pilgrimage destinations of India. The Tirumala hills is home to the famous Venkateshwara Temple, which welcomes over a million devotees every year.
While most people come here solely for the temple visit, I thoroughly enjoy the uphill and downhill journey from Tirupati to Tirumala. It offers panoramic views of the rolling hills studded with lush flora. There are also several places that you can explore after your temple visit.
Things to do:
- Explore the Talakona, Kapila Theertham & Chakra Theertham waterfalls.
- Check out historical artefacts at SV Museum.
- Offer prayers at Srikalahasti.
- Watch the unique Silathoranam rocks.
- Visit Chandragiri Fort.
Where to stay: Some of the best places to stay near Tirumala are Golden Tulip, Park Varaahi, Mount View Comforts, Hotel Janas, Fortune Select, and Manasa Sarovar.
Right time to visit: October to March.
How to get there: You can first reach Tirupati by flight, train or bus, and then take a taxi/bus to Tirumala. Pilgrims also climb up the stairs from Tirupati to Tirumala on foot.
5. Coonoor
Acres of zigzag tea gardens, alluring valleys, cascading waterfalls and stunning viewpoints make Coonoor one of the most beautiful hill stations of South India. Most people visiting Ooty also make a stop at this destination due to its close proximity.
Similar to Ooty, you will find vibrant parks and lush greenery here as well. Don’t miss spotting the exotic bird species and sunrise-sunset points.
Things to do:
- Become a child at the whimsical Sim’s Park.
- Soak in the views from Dolphin’s Nose and Lamb’s Rock viewpoints.
- Shop for local tea.
- Take the Coonoor-Ooty toy train.
- Try bird watching with binoculars.
- Visit Doddabetta Peak.
Where to stay: Some of the best places to stay in Coonoor are Teanest, Gateway, Yellow Tulip, Neemrana’s and Kanchins Homes.
Right time to visit: December to May.
How to get there: The nearest airport and railway station to Coonoor are in Coimbatore. You can take a taxi from here or directly reach Coonoor bus stand by bus.
6. Chikmagalur
For me, Chikmagalur will always be about coffee experiences. After all, this is where coffee was first discovered in India. You simply can’t miss the tours of coffee plantations, World Of Coffee and the Coffee Museum. Even after 3 years, I continue to order Monsoon Malabar coffee from World Of Coffee every quarter. And my mornings feel incomplete without sipping on it.
However, the place also has gorgeous mountains, rich biodiversity, heritage temples and river banks. The mountain treks and wildlife safaris are equally memorable.
Did You Know?
Chikmagalur gets to witness the rare Neelakurinji flowers one time in 12 years on the Mullayanagiri Peak. The valleys turn into purple flower carpets when they bloom, making for a visual spectacle.
Things to do:
- Trek to Baba Budangiri mountains & Mullayanagiri Peak.
- Explore coffee history & making at the Coffee Museum and World Of Coffee.
- Go on a safari at Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Visit Hirekolale Lake.
- Go to Hebbe, Jhari & Manikyadhara Falls.
- Get enthralled by the architecture of the ancient Hoysaleshwara and Chennakeshava Temple.
Where to stay: Some of the best places to stay in Chikmagalur are Aadrika, StayVista at Cicada, Shanthi Kunnj, and Balekhan Homestay.
Right time to visit: August to May.
How to get there: Mangalore and Mysore have the closest airport and railway station to Chikmagalur. You can also drive down or take a bus from Bangalore, which is around 5 hours away.
7. Kotagiri
Situated close to Ooty in Tamil Nadu, this hill station is quieter and less-crowded compared to the former. Thus, you will find pristine virgin hills in Kotagiri that’s not spoiled by tourism activities.
It’s the perfect hill station in south India, if you’re looking for an offbeat vacation away from touristy chaos. Kotagiri is also known for its trekking zones.
Things to do:
- Try the tea varieties at factories.
- Visit the waterfalls — Elk and Catherine.
- Trek through the Longwood Shola or Kodanad trail.
- Enjoy the sunsets.
- Go for a plantation walk.
Where to stay: Some of the best places to stay in Kotagiri are Teanest Nightingale, Solitude, Green Nest Resort, and Hanging Huts.
Right time to visit: December to May.
How to get there: The easiest way is to reach Kotagiri directly by bus. Alternatively, you can alight at the Coimbatore railway station or airport and then take a taxi or bus from there.
Warning: Always remember to keep your stomach empty when you are going uphill on ghat roads. If you go on such drives immediately after a heavy meal, it could lead to nausea and vomiting.
8. Wayanad
Wayanad offers the perfect blend of majestic wildlife, dense forests, and mist-laden hills. It’s an unmatchable feeling to witness herds of Asiatic elephants graze through the woods here.
Situated in Kerala, this South Indian hill station is also home to a rich variety of flora and fauna. So, keep an eye out for rare species of plants, birds and animals such as panthers and leopards. You will also get intrigued by the petroglyphs in Edakkal Caves.
Things to do:
- Enjoy the comforting Kerala sadhya (meal on banana leaf)
- Go on a wildlife safari.
- Trek through the forests and hills.
- Revisit history at Edakkal Caves.
- Visit Banasura Sagar Dam.
- Relax by Pookode Lake.
- Check out the Soochipara and Meenmutty Waterfalls.
Where to stay: Some of the best places to stay in Wayanad are Mountain Shadows Resort, Ananterra, Taj Wayanad, Wayanad Wild by CGH Earth, and Mount Xanadu.
Right time to visit: December to May.
How to get there: You can reach Kozhikode airport or railway station and then hire a taxi or bus to reach Wayanad. The next nearest place with flight, rail and bus connectivity is Mysore.
9. Kodaikanal
A summer destination for British bureaucrats during the colonial period, Kodaikanal is a verdant hill town in Tamil Nadu adorned with shimmering lakes, rolling valleys and beautiful waterfalls.
You will also be mesmerized while walking through pine forests, or the clouds at Coaker’s Walk. The place’s serenity is sure to rejuvenate your mind and offer some much needed calm in the lap of nature.
Things to do:
- Hike through pine forests.
- Explore Guna Caves.
- Go for a rejuvenation picnic at Kodaikanal Lake and Berijam Lake.
- Trek to Coaker’s Walk.
- Go for boating rides.
- Camp under the stars.
Where to stay: Some of the best places to stay in Kodaikanal are GReaT Trails, Cloudwalks Homestay, Zostel, The Tamara, and Sterling Kodai Lake.
Right time to visit: December to May.
How to get there: If you’re taking a flight or train, you can either reach Coimbatore or Madurai and then hop on a taxi to Kodaikanal. However, the closest railway station is in Palani. Those who are travelling by bus can directly alight at Kodaikanal bus stop.
10. Araku
Though Araku is not among the most popular South Indian hill stations, it’s a hidden gem. With its tranquil valleys, pleasant weather, tribal presence and coffee plantations, it’s one of the most visited hill towns of Andhra Pradesh.
Plus, its close proximity to Vizag makes it a part of the perfect Visakhapatnam itinerary. Don’t forget to explore the caves and waterfalls when you’re here.
Things to do:
- Visit the coffee museum & plantations.
- Explore Borra Caves.
- Learn about tribal culture at the Tribal Museum.
- Soak in the beauty of the waterfalls.
- Camp in the mountains.
Where to stay: Some of the best places to stay in Araku are Haritha Valley Resort, Ushodaya Resorts, and Holiday Park Resort.
Right time to visit: October to May.
How to get there: Araku is quite close to Visakhapatnam. Thus, you can easily reach Vizag by air or rail and reach Araku in a taxi or bus.
TWT Summary
Whether you’re looking for peace and solitude, or you’re someone who prefers chirpy and crowded tourist places, South India has a variety of hill stations waiting to be explored. Some of the most popular options to choose from are Ooty, Munnar, Coorg, Coonoor and Kodaikanal.
For an offbeat summer vacation, head to South Indian hill stations such as Kotagiri, Wayanad, Araku or Chikmagalur. But, whichever place you choose, you are sure to find yourself amidst abundant meadows in all the places we’ve recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions About South India’s Hill Stations
1. Which South Indian hill station has the highest peak?
With a height of 2,695 meters, Anamudi in Munnar, Kerala is the highest peak in south India. It is also the highest in India after the Himalayan mountains.
2. What activities can travelers opt for in south India’s hill stations?
You can opt for trekking, jeep safari, zip lining, and plantation visits. Depending on the location, you can also explore waterfalls and tea/coffee museums or factories in the hill stations of south India.
3. Which hill station in south India has the coldest climate?
Ooty, Munnar, Coonoor and Kodaikanal are some of the coldest hill stations in south India, with temperatures dropping down to 0-8 degrees Celsius in Winters.
4. Which is the most popular hill station of south India?
Owing to the elevation, sprawling meadows, hotel infrastructure and cool climate, Munnar, Ooty, Kodaikanal, Coorg and Chikmagalur are some of the most popular and visited hill stations in south India.
5. What are the offbeat and less-crowded hill stations in South India?
Araku, Meghamalai, Kotagiri, Horsley Hills, Vagamon, Yercaud and Agumbe are some of the offbeat hill stations of south India with very less tourist crowds.
6. What is the ideal time to visit hill stations of South India?
As many South Indian hill stations experience rains between June and November, the best time to visit any of these mountain towns for a vacation is from December to May.
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