Cool Comforts: Discovering South India’s Scenic Hill Stations

#1 Udhagamandalam, Tamil Nadu (also known as Ooty)

If it’s about hill stations of South India, then Ooty is a definite favourite amongst all. This cosy, sleepy town on the Western Ghats was once British Raj’s summer resort. The soothing greenery all around, the pleasing temperature and the stunning landscape make it a favourite spot amongst people of neighbouring states.

Worth exploring:

• Nilgiri Mountain Railway: Take a ride on this UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its scenic views.

• Ooty Lake: Enjoy boating, cycling around the lake, and picnicking.

• Botanical Gardens: Walk through beautifully landscaped gardens with rare trees and flowering plants.

• Doddabetta Peak: Trek to the highest peak in the Nilgiri Hills for panoramic views.

• Tea Factory Visit: Learn about tea production and taste freshly brewed Nilgiri tea.

How to Reach:

Ooty is very convenient to reach via flights, trains and even by road.

• By Air: Coimbatore Airport (88 km)

• By Train: Mettupalayam Railway Station (40 km)

• By Road: Well connected by road from Bangalore, Coimbatore, and Mysore.

#2 Kodagu, Karnataka (also known as Coorg)

Offering a perfect blend of tranquil bliss and adventure is Kodagu popularly known as Coorg. For nature lovers, the stunning waterfalls, such as Abbey Falls, and scenic viewpoints like Raja’s Seat are a must visit and for adrenaline junkies activities like trekking, river rafting, and wildlife spotting in the nearby Nagarhole National Park are just perfect. 

Best Time to Visit: October to March

What to Do:

• Abbey Falls: Witness this picturesque waterfall amidst coffee plantations.

• Raja’s Seat: A stunning viewpoint to watch sunrise and sunset.

• Dubare Elephant Camp: Spend time bathing, feeding, and learning about elephants.

• Coffee Plantation Tours: Visit the coffee estates and enjoy fresh coffee.

• Trekking & Adventure: Trek to Tadiandamol Peak or Brahmagiri Hills. Try river rafting in Barapole.

How to Reach:

You can reach Coorg from Mangalore, Bangalore, basically anywhere in Karnataka, obviously. From other states like Maharashtra, Delhi, Rajasthan, etc., you might have to reach Mangalore or Bangalore airport and then travel by road. 

• By Air: Mangalore Airport (160 km), Bangalore Airport (265 km)

• By Train: Mysore Railway Station (120 km)

• By Road: Well connected from Bangalore, Mysore, and Mangalore.

#3 Munnar (Kerala)

Located on the Western Ghats of Kerala is this stunning hill station, with rolling hills and an expansive tea plantation. Known as the “Kashmir of South India”, this place offers rich flora and fauna, gorgeous, romantic weather, and a relaxing vibe. Apart from visiting the popular sites, you can enjoy guided tours of the tea gardens, where you can make the most of the rather enriching tea-making experience. 

Best Time to Visit: September to March

Worth Exploring:

• Tea Estate Tours: Explore the sprawling tea gardens and visit the Tea Museum.

• Eravikulam National Park: Spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and explore the grasslands and hills.

• Anamudi Peak: Hike to the highest peak in South India.

• Mattupetty Dam & Lake: Enjoy boating and picnicking by the serene lake.

• Top Station: Visit this highest point on the Munnar-Kodaikanal Road for breathtaking views of the Western Ghats.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Cochin International Airport (110 km)

• By Train: Aluva Railway Station (110 km)

• By Road: Easily accessible from Kochi, Madurai, and Coimbatore.

#4 Kodaikanal (Tamil Nadu)

This Princess of Hill Stations is known for its abundance of natural beauty. The unmissable, and calming Kodaikanal Lake, the valleys across Coakers Walk, or the ancient temple of Kurinji Andavar, make Kodaikanal an ideal destination for exploration and relaxation.

Best Time to Visit: April to June, September to October

Worth Exploring:

• Kodaikanal Lake: Rent pedal boats or cycles to explore this star-shaped lake and don’t forget to click some Instagram-worthy pictures.

• Coaker’s Walk: A scenic walking trail offering stunning views of the valleys.

• Bryant Park: A botanical garden with a wide variety of plants and flowers, ideal for nature lovers.

• Pillar Rocks: Visit these massive, natural rock formations offering panoramic views.

• Bear Shola Falls: A short trek to this waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. 

How to Reach:

• By Air: Madurai Airport (120 km)

• By Train: Kodai Road Station (80 km)

• By Road: Well connected by road from Madurai, Coimbatore, and Bangalore.

#5 Wayanad (Kerala)

Known for its rich agricultural heritage, Wayanad is home to sprawling coffee and spice plantations, offering visitors a taste of local flavours. From nature to adventure, Wayanad has it all. Travellers can explore the crowd favourites like Edakkal Caves, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, and the picturesque Banasura Sagar Dam and adventure enthusiasts can enjoy trekking, cycling, and bamboo rafting in the region’s scenic landscapes. 

Best Time to Visit: October to May

Worth Exploring:

• Edakkal Caves: Explore these two natural caves with prehistoric rock carvings dating back to the Neolithic Age.

• Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: Spot elephants, tigers, leopards, and other wildlife amidst their natural lush-green habitat.

• Soochipara Falls: Enjoy trekking and swimming near this waterfall, also known for rock climbing.

• Pookode Lake: Go boating or enjoy a peaceful walk around the lake surrounded by forests. 

How to Reach:

• By Air: Calicut International Airport (100 km)

• By Train: Kozhikode Railway Station (100 km)

• By Road: Well connected by road from Bangalore, Kozhikode, and Mysore.

#6 Yercaud (Tamil Nadu)

Nestled cosily in the Shevaroy Hills of Tamil Nadu is a tranquil hill station that beckons everyone to forget their woes and just relax. Yercaud is known for its vast coffee plantations and cool, soothing climate that puts one at ease immediately. Boat rides at the stunning Yercaud Lake, sweeping views of the hills at Lady’s Seat, Yercaud offers the perfect escape from the bustling city life.

Best Time to Visit: October to June

What to Do:

• Yercaud Lake: Take a boat ride or a leisurely walk around the scenic lake.

• Pagoda Point: Visit this viewpoint for breathtaking views of the Eastern Ghats.

• Lady’s Seat: Another viewpoint offering panoramic views of the plains below.

• Kiliyur Falls: Trek through the forest to reach this stunning waterfall.There are almost 300 steps to go down and see the falls.

• Botanical Gardens: Explore the orchidarium and various plant species. 

How to Reach:

• By Air: Trichy Airport (165 km), Coimbatore Airport (190 km)

• By Train: Salem Junction (30 km)

• By Road: Well connected by road from Salem and Bangalore.

#7 Coonoor (Tamil Nadu)

Coonoor, located in the Nilgiris, is a charming hill station offering a mix of natural beauty and colonial charm. Similar to other hill stations of South India, Coonoor is famous for its tea plantations and misty landscapes. The town’s cool climate and green valleys make it a favourite for tourists looking to explore tranquil hilltop vistas. You can explore the nearby spots, sit beside the lake or hike up the nearest hilltop for an adventurous escape.

Best Time to Visit: October to March

Worth Exploring:

• Sim’s Park: A well-maintained garden with a variety of flowers, trees, and shrubs.

• Dolphin’s Nose Viewpoint: Capture views of the deep ravines and cascading waterfalls.

• Lamb’s Rock: Visit this viewpoint for breathtaking views of tea estates and lush valleys.

• Heritage Train Ride: Take a scenic ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway.

• Tea and Coffee Plantations: Walk through the plantations and taste locally produced teas and coffees. 

How to Reach:

• By Air: Coimbatore Airport (70 km)

• By Train: Coonoor Railway Station (part of Nilgiri Mountain Railway)

• By Road: Well connected by road from Ooty, Coimbatore, and Mysore.

#8 Kudremukh

Blessed with rich biodiversity and located on the Western Ghats of Karnataka is Kudremukh. The unique name of this place is derived from the mountain peak that is shaped like a horse’s face (Kudre: horse; Mukh: face). This is a perfect place for trekkers as the rolling hills are the perfect to explore. The region is also home to Kudremukh National Park and it is where you can find tigers, leopards and deer. The pristine rivers, magnificent hills and greenery all around make it ideal for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.

Best Time to Visit: October to May

Worth Exploring:

• Kudremukh Peak: Trekking on the peak for panoramic views of the Western Ghats.

• Kudremukh National Park: Explore the Kudremukh National Park, known for its rich wildlife and flora. Go birdwatching to spot rare and migratory bird species.

• Hanuman Gundi Waterfalls: A refreshing dip at these gushing waterfalls is a must.

• Tunga River: Experience the calm and scenic riverside with picnics with your loved ones. 

How to Reach:

• By Air: Mangalore Airport (100 km)

• By Train: Mangalore Railway Station (100 km)

• By Road: Well connected by road from Mangalore, Bangalore, and Chikmagalur

We hope this list will give you a clear picture of what place you must consider visiting. While most of them have a similar vibe, the landscape surely keeps changing because of the rich biodiversity. Some are more hilly than others, some are more cooler than others, and some offer more entertainment options. Choose what connects with you, what calls you as these scenic havens offer much more than just tranquility. Embark on this rejuvenating journey that will refresh your soul and give you memories galore.