Published on Dec 26, 2023, 05:00 PM
If the traveller in you craves peace and tranquillity amidst rolling hills, lush tea gardens, serene lakes and stunning waterfalls, then our curated list of the best hill stations in South India is a must-see. These hill stations offer a refreshing escape from the tourist-saturated spots up North, providing the perfect backdrop for a quiet and relaxed vacation.
Grab a light sweater and that novel you’ve been meaning to read and head to these charming spots down South for some much-needed rejuvenation. Tucked in the lap of the Western and Eastern Ghats, these destinations are just a short drive away from major South Indian cities, making them ideal for a scenic road trip. From the underrated Araku Valley in Andhra Pradesh to the misty hills of Coonoor in Tamil Nadu and the picturesque landscapes of Coorg in Karnataka, these destinations promise a rejuvenating retreat amidst nature’s beauty.
An underrated destination in Andhra Pradesh, Araku Valley is perched at 2,990 feet above sea level in the Eastern Ghats. Greeting visitors with tunnels, waterfalls, orchards and valleys, the region has no dearth of coffee plantations tended by the local aboriginal tribes. Araku is also home to the Ananthagiri and Sunkrimetta reserved forests, and adventurous souls can trek through popular trails to the base of stunning waterfalls. Try the local bamboo chicken for some rustic culinary flavours.
Best time to visit: September to February
Key attractions: Tribal Museum, Mulberry Garden and Katiki waterfall
How to reach
By air: Visakhapatnam Airport is approximately 108 km away
By train: Araku Valley has its own railway station
By road: Araku Valley is approximately 115 km from Visakhapatnam
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Coonoor, a quiet town in the Nilgiris, welcomes you with mist-covered valleys and hills. Immerse yourself in the aromatic tea estates, and spend a day savouring tea and leisurely walks. Head to the rose garden or Sim’s Park to explore the varieties of flowers and trees, chase waterfalls or hike in the woods for a perfect day.
Best time to visit: October to March
Key attractions: Lamb’s Rock, Dolphin’s Nose and Highfield Tea Factory
How to reach
By air: Coimbatore Airport is approximately 44 km away
By train: Mettupalayam Railway Station is approximately 45 km away
By road: Coonoor is approximately 538 km from Chennai
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Known as the Scotland of India, Coorg offers vast coffee plantations, lush valleys, charming colonial structures and picturesque roads. Whether you prefer a lazy day absorbing the sights and sampling local cuisine or an adventurous exploration, Coorg has it all. Head to the cascading Abbey Falls, interact with elephants at the Dubare Elephant Camp or embark on a trek to Tadiandamol, Karnataka’s second-highest mountain.
Best time to visit: March to June
Key attractions: Raja’s Seat, Golden Temple and Madikeri Fort
How to reach
By air: Mangalore International Airport is approximately 140 km away
By train: Mysore Railway Station is approximately 107 km away
By road: Coorg is approximately 118 km from Mysore
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Kodaikanal, home to the enchanting Kodai lake, stands as one of Tamil Nadu’s jewels. Explore the picturesque lake, go cycling, balloon shooting and skating while indulging in delicious local cuisine. Stride through Coaker’s Walk, a scenic kilometre-long pathway overlooking the town, and explore different varieties of orchids at the Shenbaganur Museum.
Best time to visit: October to March
Key attractions: Poombarai Village View, Guna caves and Pine Forest
How to reach
By air: Madurai Airport is approximately 120 km away
By train: Palani Railway Station is approximately 64 km away
By road: Kodaikanal is approximately 527 km from Chennai
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Nestled in ‘God’s own country’, the quaint hill station of Munnar welcomes you with the convergence of three mountain streams – Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala. Known for its lush tea estates and diverse flora, Munnar, like many other hill stations in South India, offers a tourist-friendly experience with several boutique hotels and retreats. Wildlife enthusiasts can explore Eravikulam National Park to spot wild elephants, tigers, Nilgiri Tahr, and Indian Bison. Savour local Idiyappam with egg curry and Kerala-style Malabar parotta.
Best time to visit: October to February
Key attractions: Wonder Valley Adventure & Amusement Park and Cheeyappara Waterfalls
How to reach
By air: Cochin International Airport is approximately 110 km away
By train: Aluva Railway Station is approximately 110 km away
By road: Munnar is approximately 126 km from Kochi
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Being one of the most popular hill stations in South India, Ooty is a crowd-favourite. Known as the ‘Queen of Hill Stations’, Ooty captivates with its Hindu temples and charming colonial architecture. Experience the miniature train ride, which slowly chugs its way past some stunning locales.
Best time to visit: March to June
Key attractions: Pykara Lake, Doddabetta Peak, Government Rose Garden and Avalanche Lake
How to reach
By air: Coimbatore International Airport is approximately 94 km away
By train: Podanur Railway Station is approximately 60 km away
By road: Ooty is approximately 271 km from Bangalore
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Vagamon, a hidden gem in Kerala, offers verdant valleys, pine forests, and a river meandering through its lush landscapes. Ideal for adventure-seekers, this hill station in South India offers trekking, camping, boating and paragliding opportunities. Explore the Ulipooni Wildlife Sanctuary and witness a diverse bird population, from the Malabar Grey Hornbill to the Spotted Dove.
Best time to visit: March to May and December to February
Key attractions: Vagamon Falls, Mundakayam Ghat and The Pattumala Church
How to reach
By air: Cochin International Airport is approximately 94 km away
By train: Kottayam Railway Station is approximately 64 km away
By road: Vagamon is approximately 186 km from Trivandrum
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Trekking trails, caves, bird-watching sites, coffee and tea plantations, and waterfalls make Wayanad, a beautiful destination in the northern hills of Kerala. Explore the historic Edakkal caves adorned with petroglyphs dating back approximately 8,000 years. Go boating on the Pookode Lake or hop on a bamboo raft to visit Kuruva Island, a cluster of islands on the Kabini River.
Best time to visit: October and February
Key attractions: Banasura Sagar Dam, Chembra Peak, Thirunelli Temple and Soochipara Falls
How to reach
By air: Kozhikode International Airport is approximately 90 km away
By train: Kozhikode Railway Station is approximately 110 km away
By road: Wayanad is approximately 470 km from Trivandrum
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Located close to the state capital, Thiruvananthapuram, Ponmudi’s winding roads beckon road trip lovers for a scenic drive. A trekker’s paradise, Ponmudi is home to trails like Varayadumotta, adding to its allure. Home to several wildlife sanctuaries and waterfalls along the breathtaking vistas, Ponmudi stands among the best hill stations in South India. While on your way, make a stop at River Country near Kallar for delicious home-style food amid lush green surroundings.
Key attractions: Meenmutty Waterfalls, Shenduruny Wildlife Sanctuary and Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve
Best time to visit: October to March
How to reach
By air: Thiruvananthapuram Airport is approximately 67 km away
By train: Thiruvananthapuram Railway Station is approximately 61 km away
By road: Ponmudi is approximately 165 km away from Kottayam
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Chikmagalur, a less-explored hill station in Karnataka, offers a tranquil escape from heavy tourism. Home to the state’s highest peak, Mullayanagiri, and the ancient Amrutesvara Temple, this haven for nature lovers also beckons architecture enthusiasts. Explore the lush coffee plantations and savour fresh brews amidst the verdant greens.
Key attractions: Hebbe Falls, Baba Budangiri, Hirekolale Lake and Coffee Museum
Best time to visit: September to February
How to reach
By air: Mangalore Airport is approximately 113 km away
By train: Kadur Railway Station is approximately 40 km away
By road: Chikmagalur is approximately 242 km from Bangalore
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Known as ‘The Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh’, Lambasingi, nestled in the Eastern Ghats, is a hidden gem. Popular for its tea and coffee plantations and an abundance of exotic flora and fauna, Lambasingi is being developed as an ecotourism destination by the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC). A perfect place to experience avian wonders, Lambasingi is one of the best hill stations in South India waiting to be explored.
Key attractions: Thajangi Reservoir and Kothapalli Waterfalls
Best time to visit: November to February
How to reach
By air: Visakhapatnam Airport is approximately 115 km away
By train: Chintapalle Railway Station is approximately 20 km away
By road: Lambasingi approximately 320 km from Vijayawada
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Situated close to Hyderabad, Ananthagiri Hills stands among the best hill stations in South India. Devotees frequent this serene hill station in Telangana to pay their respects at the Sri Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple, overlooking the Musi River. Offering a plethora of activities such as cycling, hiking, camping, swimming in the river and zip-lining, Ananthagiri Hills is a must-include in your Andhra Pradesh/Telangana itinerary.
Best time to visit: November to March
Key attractions: Borra Caves, Galikonda viewpoint and Godamguda viewpoint
How to reach
By air: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad is approximately 100 km away
By road: Srikakulam Railway Station is approximately 3 km away
By train: Hyderabad is approximately 80 km from Ananthagiri Hills
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(Feature Image Credit: Lenstravelier/ Unsplash)
Related: From Peaks To Plateaus: Unveiling The Charms Of Maharashtra’s Scenic Hill Stations
When is the best time to visit hill stations in South India?
The best time to visit hill stations in South India is mostly between September and March.
What can I expect in terms of weather in the hill stations in South India?
Hill stations in South India generally enjoy pleasant weather throughout the year, except for some that experience heavy rainfall.
What activities can I enjoy at the hill stations in South India?
Adventure activities such as trekking, hiking, and camping can be enjoyed at hill stations in South India.
Are there any specific precautions that I should take while visiting these hill stations?
It is advisable to check the weather updates before visiting any hill station.
How do I reach hill stations in South India?
Most hill stations in South India are easily accessible by road from the nearest airports or railway stations.
What are the top attractions in these hill stations in South India?
Most hill stations in South India offer viewpoints offering breathtaking vistas and majestic waterfalls.
Can I find good accommodation options in these hill stations?
Yes, you can easily find good accommodation options in these hill stations.
Are these destinations family-friendly?
Yes, these destinations are family-friendly.
Do I need any special permits to visit these hill stations?
No, you do not need any special permits to visit these hill stations, but it is always good to check official websites in case of specific queries.
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