When we hear about hill stations in India, the smooth emerald hills of North-India start flooding our memories. On the other, some lovely hill stations located in Southern part of our country can easily serve as must visit destinations for a refreshing holiday. These best hill station in South India are a perfect hideaway from the hustle-bustle and offer cool temperatures, green cover and blissful surroundings to nature fans and adventure junkees.
Through this article, we are going to take you through 13 of the most beautiful and best hill stations in South India that deserve your visit due to their scenic beauty. Top destinations to some not heard before alternatives, every hill station is a destination in itself with experiences even more peculiar than the last one! Grab your hiking boots and backpacks, let us go to visit these great places with me!
1. Ooty: The Queen of Hill Stations
Ooty, formerly known as Udhagamandalam is one of the most popular tourist destinations and best hill station in TamilNadu and also known as Queen of Hills in Tamilnadu. Ooty is a picturesque destination situated in the Nilgiri Hills and it ranks among the top hill station of South India being one of those places that were adored by Britishers during their Raj days.
History and Significance of Ooty
The British used Ooty as Summer Capital from 1820 – 1919 before shifting the capital to Bangalore, and it was established by John Sullivan in early of Nineteenth century. The colonial vibe surrounding the settlement with its old churches, scenic cottages and iconic Ooty lake has remained intact over time and become a best hill station in south India. Ooty with its UNESCO World Heritage Site — Nilgiri Mountain Railway that offers a beautiful train ride passing through tea estates and hills should be in your travel bucket list. The cool climate of Ooty make it one of best hill stations in south India during summer.
Best Time to Visit Ooty
The Best Time to Visit Ooty: March to June is the ideal time in view of its lovely environment for touring. Ooty is one of the hill stations in south India to visit in May.
How to Reach Ooty
Air – The nearest airport is the Coimbatore International Airport which is at 88 kilometers from there.
By Train: Ooty is connected by rail with the Nilgiri Mountain Railway.
By Road: Ooty is well connected by road to major cities like Bangalore, Chennai, and Coimbatore.
Accommodation in Ooty
Accommodation: From luxury resorts to budget hotels, Ooty has a wide range of places offering you comfortable beds and warm food. Select from a variety of such reputed hotels like Taj Savoy Hotel, Sterling Ooty Elk Hill, and Hotel Lakeview.
2. Munnar: The Land of Tea Gardens
Munnar, located in Kerala, is a popular hill station in South India map known for its sprawling tea gardens, misty hills, and pleasant climate. It is one of the best places in South India for a tranquil retreat.
History and Significance of Munnar
An erstwhile summer resort for the British, Munnar is now known for its tea plantations that dot greens in every natural setting. Munnar is famous for its nature scene and a host of other attractions such as the Eravikulam National Park where you could see some rare wild goats called the Nilgiri Tahr, Anamudi Peak which is highest hill station in South India. Like Ooty Munnar is also treated as one of the best hill stations in south India during summer.
Best Time to Visit Munnar
From September till March is the best time to visit Munnar. During these time weather is pleasant and valley is in it’s prettiest form.
How to Reach Munnar
- By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, about 110 kilometers away.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Aluva, about 110 kilometers away.
- By Road: Munnar is well connected by road to Kochi, Madurai, and Coimbatore.
Accommodation in Munnar
Munnar offers a variety of accommodation options, including luxurious resorts like The Fog Munnar and budget-friendly options like Munnar Tea Country Resort.
3. Coorg: The Scotland of India
Coorg, also known to as Kodagu is one of the most picturesque and beautiful hill stations in India and often named “Scotland of India” for its verdant greenery spread all over, loping mountains and soothing weather. It is also known for the coldest hill station in south India.
History and Significance of Coorg
Coorg is a place of rich history, and it is also identified as where you see your morning couplets are grown, beautiful Landscapes with Waterfalls & vibrant culture. The Kodavas, a caste of warriors famed for their hospitality in this region, are the other predominant element which is visible. Abbey Falls, Raja’s Seat and the Namdroling Monastery are popular attractions in Coorg. It’s made it the best hill station in south India.
Best Time to Visit Coorg
The most suitable time to visit Coorg is from October-March because by then the outside surroundings could be explored in compliance with leisure and comfort.
How to Reach Coorg
Air– The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport located at a distance of about 160 km.
By Rail: Closest railway station is Mysore, 120 km away.
By Road: Coorg has good connections to cities like Bangalore, Mysore and Mangalore.
Accommodation in Coorg
Everything from the luxury resorts such as Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa which is the best hill resorts in South India to homestays that offer a more local flavor, Coorg offers something for everyone.
4. Kodaikanal: The Princess of Hill Stations
Kodaikanal – Princess of Hill Stations, Tamil Nadu Kodaikanal is one of the top 5 hill stations in South India to visit and are famous for its meadows, rolling hills, waterfalls as well pristine woodlands.
History and Significance of Kodaikanal
In the 19th century, Kodaikanal was developed as a hill station resort by American missionaries and British officials. Today, it is one of the famous destinations for honeymoon couples and nature lovers. Some of the main attractions in Kodaikanal are star shaped Kodaikanal Lake, Bryant Park and Coaker’s Walk. Kodaikanal is the best hill stations in Tamilnadu.
Best Time to Visit Kodaikanal
Ideal times to visit Kodaikanal: April to June; September and October. During these months, the weather is cool and pleasant.
How to Reach Kodaikanal
How to Reach Kodaikanal by Air: The nearest airport is the Madurai Airport, which lies at a distance of 120 kms.
By Train: The closest railhead would be Kodai Road, approximately 80 kms away.
Road — Kodaikanal is well connected by road to Madurai, Coimbatore & Chennai.
Accommodation in Kodaikanal
Kodaikanal caters to travelleres with a wide spectrum of staying preferences ranging from plush luxury resorts (such as The Carlton ), midrange hotels and budget options like Hotel Kodai International.
5. Wayanad: The Land of Paddy Fields
Wayanad, a coolest hill station in South India popular for its cool breeze walks through the lush greenery and waterfalls in Kerala. A magical and stunning hill station in India, located about 6900 ft above the ground level favored amongst nature lovers. It is one of the best hill station in India.
History and Significance of Wayanad
The history of Wayanad and about the antiquity from which it has come is interesting as well. Here there are rice paddies, coffee plantations and the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary — home of elephants, tigers another fauna. Appealing to history buffs, the national caves of Edakkal in Wayanad have old petroglyphs appearing on their dividers.
Best Time to Visit Wayanad
Ideal Season: October to May is the best time to visit Wayanad when weather conditions are comfortable, and you can easily take part in outdoor activities.
How to Reach Wayanad
- By Air: The nearest airport is Calicut International Airport, about 100 kilometers away.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Kozhikode, about 110 kilometers away.
- By Road: Wayanad is well connected by road to cities like Bangalore, Mysore, and Calicut.
Accommodation in Wayanad
Wayanad offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts like The Windflower Resort & Spa to eco-friendly homestays.
6. Yercaud: The Poor Man’s Ooty
Yercaud, a popular hill station in South India is located on the Shevaroys range of hills in the Eastern Ghats situated at 1 and half km from main city. It is better known for coffee plantations, orange groves and very good climatic condition throughout the year. Due to its cost effectiveness over other hill stations tourists claim it as the “Poor Man’s Ooty.
History and Significance of Yercaud
A summer resort for the British in the 19th century, Yercaud The town is quite famous for its beauty and the key attractions here are Yercaud Lake, Lady’s Seat & Shevaroy Hills. It has beautiful coffee plantations and orange orchards that add to the natural beauty of this small hill station.
Best Time to Visit Yercaud
The best time to visit Yercaud is from October to June when the weather is cool and comfortable.
How to Reach Yercaud
- By Air: The nearest airport is Salem Airport, about 38 kilometers away.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Salem Junction, about 35 kilometers away.
- By Road: Yercaud is well connected by road to cities like Salem, Coimbatore, and Bangalore.
Accommodation in Yercaud
Yercaud offers a variety of accommodation options, from budget hotels to mid-range resorts like Grand Palace Hotel & Spa and TGI Star Holidays.
7. Coonoor: A Quaint Hill Station
Coonoor – The famous hill station in South India situated near Ooty, Tamil Nadu is known for its tea gardens, picturesque environs and colonial vibes. This beautiful hill station of South India is known for placing itself as the best place to enjoy peace.
History and Significance of Coonoor
Developed as a summer resort the British Coonoor is famous for its green tea plantation and colonial bungalows. The town also boasts of breathtaking sights of the Nilgiri mountain range — key attractions in Coonoor include Sim Park, Dolphin Nose Point and the unique experience that is travelling across Nilgiri Mountain Railway.
Best Time to Visit Coonoor
Coonoor experiences a very conducive climate, making it all year-round place to visit but the best time would be from October- March because of its pleasant weather and ideal sightseeing conditions.
How to Reach Coonoor
- By Air: The nearest airport is Coimbatore International Airport, about 70 kilometers away.
- By Rail: Coonoor has its own railway station connected to the Nilgiri Mountain Railway.
- By Road: Coonoor is well connected by road to Ooty, Coimbatore, and other nearby cities.
Accommodation in Coonoor
Coonoor offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts like The Gateway Hotel Church Road to charming heritage hotels like Wallwood Garden.
8. Ananthagiri Hills: The Hidden Gem of Telangana
Ananthagiri Hills is beautiful hill station and one of the relatively best Hill station in South India, situated in Telangana. The island is renowned for its dense forests, ancient caves and unpolluted lands making it a great getaway destination for nature lovers.
History and Significance of Ananthagiri Hills
Ananthagiri Hills is the home of an ancient Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple and the Musi River originates here. They are very popular for treks and camping with a beautiful panoramic view all around. With a storied past and peaceful surroundings, the spot is truly an undiscovered treasure.
Best Time to Visit Ananthagiri Hills
Best Time to Visit — October to March, when weather is cool and pleasant.
How to Reach Ananthagiri Hills
- By Air: The nearest airport is Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad, about 80 kilometers away.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Vikarabad, about 10 kilometers away.
- By Road: Ananthagiri Hills is well-connected by road to Hyderabad, making it a popular destination for a quick getaway.
Accommodation in Ananthagiri Hills
Ananthagiri Hills offers limited accommodation options, including government guest houses and a few private resorts, which provide basic amenities and a peaceful stay.
9. Chikmagalur: The Coffee Land
Karnataka’s Chikmagalur is well-known for its coffee estates, verdant hills and temperate weather; it’s also one of the most popular hill station in South India. It is one of the best holiday destinations in Karnataka and perfect to take time off from a hectic schedule, restore your balance at this tranquil atmosphere.
History and Significance of Chikmagalur
Chikmagalur, the “Coffee Land of Karnataka” is famous for acres and acres of verdant estates that make up most part tranquil town. It is the home to Baba Budan Giri range, which is a famous pilgrimage site and Mullayanagari peak — highest point of Karnataka.
Best Time to Visit Chikmagalur
Chikmagalur attracts travel-lovers during the best time of September-March, with its perfect climate to start your outdoor experience.
How to Reach Chikmagalur
- By Air: The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport, about 170 kilometers away.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Kadur, about 40 kilometers away.
- By Road: Chikmagalur is well-connected by road to major cities like Bangalore, Mangalore, and Mysore.
Accommodation in Chikmagalur
Chikmagalur offers a variety of accommodation options, from luxury resorts like The Serai to budget homestays nestled in coffee plantations.
10. Vagamon: The Undiscovered Gem
Located in the state of Kerala, Vagamon is an offbeat hill station in south India map where you can relish a calm and tranquil environment sans masses popping up at every corner. BEST FOR: Nature Lovers and Adventure Seekers.
History and Significance of Vagamon
Vagamon is famous for its cool climate, lush green rolling meadows and a unique amalgamation of Christian, Hindu & Muslim traditions that co-exist here. This hill station is a paradise for paragliders, trekkers & rock climbers as well, making it a great spot for adventure enthusiasts.
Best Time to Visit Vagamon
The best time to visit Vagamon is from March to May and September – December when the weather is comfortable for a picnic, sightseeing etc. It is a hill station in south India to visit in May.
How to Reach Vagamon
- By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, about 100 kilometers away.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Kottayam, about 64 kilometers away.
- By Road: Vagamon is well-connected by road to cities like Kochi, Kottayam, and Munnar.
Accommodation in Vagamon
Vagamon offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts like Vagamon Hideout Resort to budget-friendly homestays.
11. Yelagiri: The Weekend Getaway
Yelagiri Situated in the Tamil Nadu South India, Yelagiri is another beautiful and small hill station in South India to visit on weekend. The place suits those who like weather, beauty and are interested in exploring something adventurous.
History and Significance of Yelagiri
Yelagiri A haven of peace, Yelagiri used to be the summer hideout for the British and even today boasts some picturesque landscapes with orchards, rose gardens and valleys. The hill station is also well-known for adventure sports, i.e trekking, paragliding and rock climbing.
Best Time to Visit Yelagiri
The ideal time to visit Yelagiri is between November and February when the weather remains pleasant, making it great for outdoor activities.
How to Reach Yelagiri
- By Air: The nearest airport is Bangalore International Airport, about 160 kilometers away.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Jolarpettai Junction, about 21 kilometers away.
- By Road: Yelagiri is well-connected by road to cities like Bangalore, Chennai, and Coimbatore.
Accommodation in Yelagiri
Yelagiri offers a variety of accommodation options, from budget hotels to mid-range resorts like Sterling Yelagiri.
12. Nandi Hills: The Sunrise Point
Nandi Hills in Karnataka is another hill station which is a popular escape from Bangalore. Best known for its magnificent sunrise, it is a land of green lands and cool climate. It is one of the most popular south hill stations in India
History and Significance of Nandi Hills
Nandi Hills has a lot of history, and this place was the admired retreat for Tippu Sultan, who ruled Mysore at that time. Nandi Hills is the site of an ancient hill-fort and Nandidurga, which were built by Tipu Sultan in 1791 A.D. It is strategically placed at a height above sea level giving panoramic view of myriad rocky hills that are doused in mist for many months thereafter. Major highlight being Tipu’s Drop—an intimidating cliff from where prisoners were hurled during private wars.
Best Time to Visit Nandi Hills
The best time to visit Nandi Hills is during winters (September-February) when the weather is pleasant with clear skies and good views.
How to Reach Nandi Hills
- By Air: The nearest airport is Kempegowda International Airport, Bangalore, about 58 kilometers away.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Chikkaballapur, about 19 kilometers away.
- By Road: Nandi Hills is well-connected by road to Bangalore, about 60 kilometers away, making it a popular weekend destination.
Accommodation in Nandi Hills
While Nandi Hills doesn’t have many accommodation options on the hill itself, you can stay in Bangalore or Chikkaballapur, which offer a wide range of hotels and resorts.
13. Araku Valley: The Gem of Andhra Pradesh
Andhra Pradesh is home to the beautiful hill station in South India Araku Valley which has amazing coffee plantations, a breath-taking landscape and tribal culture. This is the destination, which offers a range of Breathtaking views and pleasant Climate most charming choice for all Travellers. It is one of the most scenic and coolest hill station in South India.
History and Significance of Araku Valley
Known for its native tribes, the coffee and organically produced chocolates of Araku Valley have always been unique. The area is renowned for its coffee plantations, the Araku Tribal Museum and Borra Caves with stalactites, reprcasing and Stalagmite structures. The scenic train journey to Araku Valley from Visakhapatnam is also a major highlight for visitors. This make it one of the hill stations to visit in south India.
Best Time to Visit Araku Valley
October to March; The cold climate of the valley is aesthetic and best for the travelers.
How to Reach Araku Valley
- By Air: The nearest airport is Visakhapatnam Airport, about 114 kilometers away.
- By Rail: Araku has its own railway station, which is well-connected to Visakhapatnam.
- By Road: Araku Valley is well-connected by road to Visakhapatnam, and buses and taxis are easily available.
Accommodation in Araku Valley
Araku Valley offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts like Araku Valley Mayuri Hill Resort to budget guest houses.
Conclusion
South India boasts some of the best hill stations in India which are nothing short of natural wonders combined with rich history and cultural heritage. From the refreshingly beautiful and coolest hill station in South India such as Ooty and Munnar to relatively off-the-beaten-path ones like Vagamon, Yercaud, each of these destinations have their own charm that caters to all kinds of travelers.
So, whether you are seeking for a quiet gateway in the mountains or love an excitement rush while trekking and mountaineering, these hill stations in South India cater to all. Therefore, the next time when you make any plan to spend some quality times in vacation, consider exploring these beautiful hill stations in India and enjoy the charm of South India.
FAQ
1. What is the best hill station in South India?
Ooty is often considered the best hill station in South India due to its scenic beauty, pleasant climate, and rich history.
2. Which are the top hill stations in South India?
The top hill stations in South India include Ooty, Munnar, Coorg, Kodaikanal, and Wayanad.
3. What is the coolest hill station in South India?
Munnar and Kodaikanal are considered some of the coolest hill station in South India due to their pleasant climate year-round.
4. Which is the highest hill station in South India?
Munnar is home to the Anamudi Peak, the highest hill station in South India.
5. What are the best tourist places in South India?
Some of the best tourist places in South India include Ooty, Munnar, Coorg, and Kodaikanal.
6. Which hill station in South India is famous for coffee?
Coorg, also known as the Coffee Land of Karnataka, is a famous hill station in South India known for its coffee plantations.
7. What are the top 10 hill stations in India?
The top 10 hill stations in India include Ooty, Munnar, Kodaikanal, Coorg, Darjeeling, Manali, Shimla, Nainital, Mussoorie, and Mount Abu.
8. Which hill station is best to visit during summer?
Ooty, Kodaikanal, and Munnar are considered the best hill station in South India during summer due to their cool and pleasant climate.
9. What are the best road trips in South India?
The best road trips in South India include drives to Ooty, Coorg, Munnar, and Wayanad.
10. Which is the coldest hill station in South India?
Kodaikanal and Munnar are among the coldest hill station in South India, especially during the winter months.
11. Which hill station is best for honeymoon in South India?
Munnar and Coorg are popular hill stations for honeymooners due to their romantic settings and scenic beauty.
12. Which hill station in South India is known for tea plantations?
Munnar is famous for its sprawling tea gardens and is a popular hill station in South India for tea enthusiasts.
13. What are the best places to visit in South India during May?
The hill stations in South India to visit in May include Ooty, Munnar, Kodaikanal, and Coorg, where the weather remains pleasant.
14. Which is the most beautiful hill station in South India?
Ooty, with its picturesque landscapes and serene environment, is often considered the most beautiful hill station in South India.
15. Which hill station is closest to Bangalore?
Nandi Hills is the closest hill station to Bangalore, making it a popular destination for a quick weekend getaway.
