10 Best Hill Stations in South India

The Hill stations in South India are a majestic belt of vast landscape with luscious green tea and coffee estates. Each hill station around South India has its own uniqueness and beauty to it. Being an adherent traveller to Hill Stations and nature lover I have lots to say about these places. So, Come let’s find out the 10 Best Hill Stations in South India.

Ooty – Queen Of The Hills

Often called as Nilgiri Mountains by people in South India. It got this name because “Kurunji flower” which blooms every twelve years here giving its slopes a bluish tinge and also considered as the highest elevated Hill Stations in southern India. From having the best climate, to spot unique wildlife and homegrown coffee and tea goes without saying. Considered as “India’s Switzerland” during the British rule Ooty has more to offer than you think

Munnar

Munnar is a quaint town and is an ideal hill station for all age segments of people. Set at an altitude of 6000 ft, Munnar used to be the Summer Resort of the British rulers during colonial times. Very famous for its unending tea estates, lush green forests, and some of the endangered species of animals like Neelakurinji and Nilgiri Tahr. Trekking and camping are the popular activities that you must try when you visit the Hill Station. Munnar is one of the most sought after tourist destinations in southern India so when you plan for visiting Munnar make sure to plan well in advance.

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Wayanad

Very well known for its soothing temperature all around the year, Wayanad is the ultimate destination to escape the scorching sun of North India. Known as the Spice Garden of India it is famous for various spices like cardamom, Black pepper, Star Anise, Fenugreek, Black cumin. Also, home to numerous wildlife sanctuaries and national parks protecting the rural life of the forests. Wayanad is a hub for various adventure activities like trekking, Mountaineering, Rock Climbing, Rappeling, and Camping. It is also home to India’s Largest Earth Dam “Banasura Dam”

Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal Often termed as ‘Princess of Hill Stations’ is mostly known for being one of the best honeymoon destinations in South India. Be ready to get awestruck with its scenic beauty and untouched forests. Every day you will get a feeling of experiencing something new and is quite famous among international travellers as well. Not just for honeymoon couples, Kodaikanal offers families also their best time and has great adventures provided by this mesmerizing and beautiful town.

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Yercaud

One of the most beautiful Hill Stations in Tamil Nadu, Yercaud is settled at an altitude of 4970 feet and is super famous for its coffee plantations. If you want time just for yourself without much interaction with the world and fewer people, make sure to visit this hill station in the month of October and November. Some of the touristy spots include Kiliyur Falls and Lady’s Seat which offers peace and tranquillity during the above mentioned months.

Coonoor

Located on the western edge of Tamil Nadu, Coonoor is situated right below Ooty and people generally combine with Ooty as its one the way to the Queen of Hills. Coonoor is very accessible with the nearest airport being at a distance of 79 kilometres. With the population being less Coonoor offers a very peaceful and relaxing environment which famous Hill Stations might not offer. Coonoor has some good vantage points like Dolphin’s Nose Viewpoint, Lamb’s Rock from where you can enjoy the magnificent views of the beautiful Hills of Nilgiri.

Yelagiri

Located close to the metro city “Chennai” Yelagiri is perfect for a weekend gateway and will also not burn a hole in your pocket as it is considered as a cost-effective destination. Famous for its tranquil environment, coffee plantations, and orange groves. It is also perfect for a beginner’s bike ride from Chennai. When you are in Yelagiri make sure to try some adventure sports like High Rope And Zipline, ATV Ride: Treat The Adventurer and Trampolining. The best time to visit Yelagiri will be between the months of September to May as the climate is quite cool during this time of the year.

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Vythiri

A Nature lover’s delight and among the top-visited Hill Station in Kerala. Spread over 150 acres of eco-friendly ranges. To put in a few words about Vythiri I would choose the following Exquisite, Refreshing, Pollution Free, and super relaxing. Somewhere between September to May are the best part of the year to visit this Hill Station

Idukki

One of the most unexplored Hill Stations In South India, Idukki has a lot to offer ranging from tea gardens, National Parks, Spice Gardens, and Wildlife Sanctuaries. If you are searching for an ideal weekend gateway and avoid the city buzz then Idukki is one perfect place. It is also among the few Hill Stations in India to offer Paragliding. October to June is considered as a perfect time to visit this beautiful Hill Station.

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Gavi

We are sure at least 60% of the people reading this don’t know such a place exist. Cited deep within the Interiors of Kerala, Gavi is one of the most offbeat hill stations in south India. It is an integral part of Periyar National Park and offers night camping in forests and trekking deep into the Jungle. Gavi is also famous for its homegrown Spice gardens and you can see them on the way to the Hill Station. July to September is generally the best time to visit this offbeat hill Station. I am sure you will fall in love with Gavi!!

We will bet our life and say that there are hidden gems in and around South India which will be perfect for a weekend gateway or an extended weekend gateway. We had tried to cover the top 10 best Hill Stations in South India and I hope the travel buzz has awakened in your hearts and minds. Visit Pickyourtrail and check some of the best-curated packages and customize it the way you want. Until then, Happy Planning!!!