Discover the Best Hill Stations Near Namma Chennai

Yelagiri a calm hill station in Vellore provides a tranquil escape from the bustle of the city. You can visit the Velavan Temple a colourful Murugan temple built in 1964, which has breathtaking views of the valley and the Jalagamparai Waterfalls which is also a great picnic spot. You can boat on the Punganur Lake and visit the Nature Park. If you're in for some activities trek to the highest point Swamimalai Hills, you can enjoy the sunset or sunrise here. Additionally, Yelagiri does have some fun adventure sports such as rock climbing and paragliding apart from trekking.

Best Time to Visit: November to February

Time to Reach: 5 hours

Top Places to Visit: Punganoor Lake, Jalagamparai waterfalls, Swamimalai Hills

Horsley Hills in Chittoor is not talked about much but is a quaint and charming hill station named in honour of British collector W.D. Horsley. This beautiful picturesque place was initially known as Yenugu Mallama Konda named after a saintly woman who used to feed elephants and live on the hills. Horsley Hills provides a range of attractions for you to enjoy. Gali Bandalu also called Wind Rocks is known for its dramatic rocky slopes and strong winds, which is how the site was named. During the monsoon when the lake is surrounded by lush greenery and filled with rainwater Gangotri Lake should be visited. The Horsley Hills Zoo located in Vana Vihara Park is home to peacocks, monkeys, crocodiles and various other animals making it a fun destination for families. The Whisper Wind Viewpoint perched ontop of a hill gives breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains valleys and lakes.

Best Time to Visit: November to May

Time to Reach: 6 hours

Top Places to Visit: Gali Bandalu, Gangotri Lake, Horsley Hills Zoo, Whisper Wind Viewpoint

Kolli Hills also known as ‘New Ooty’ is one of the most offbeat hillstations you could visit. The name Kolli comes from the name of the goddess Etukkai Amman also known as Kollipavai. She is believed to guard the hills with her divine protection. You should visit the Arapaleeswarar temple, its history dates back to the first century and is a testament to the magnificence of Dravidian architecture. This temple was constructed in honour of Lord Shiva by the ruler Valvil Ori. A few minutes away is The Botanical Garden which has a beautiful rose garden, breathtaking views, eco-friendly cottages and a fun children's park. The Agaya Gangai Waterfalls is a must-see location for adventure seekers. A 1000-step trail leads from the Arapaleeswarar Temple to this breathtaking 300-foot waterfall which is a well-liked trekking destination. Nearby is the Vasalurpatty Boat House perfect to listen to the movement of the water and enjoy peace. The Siddhar Caves are also a place to visit, it is surrounded by healing herbs and rich in historical significance offering insight into the customs of the sages who once called these places home.

Best Time to Visit: February to December

Time to Reach: 6 hours, 30 minutes

Top Places to Visit: Arapaleeswarar temple, Botanical Garden, Agaya Gangai Waterfalls, Siddhar Caves, Vasalurpatty Boat House

Yercaud is a great affordable hillspot vacation. Tucked away in the Shevaroy Hills, Yercaud has several things to see such as the Yercaud Lake also known as Emerald Lake. You can see a floating fountain, do some boating and the best part all surrounded by lush gardens and hills. Lady’s Seat, a natural rock formation is another site to see. It resembles a seat and was named after an English lady who used to spend her time watching the scenery and surrounding areas from the rock. For botany enthusiasts, The Rose Garden has various types of greenery, showcasing exotic and rare plants. The garden also has the National Orchidarium which was created in 1963 and is the third largest one. It is home to 3000 trees, 1800 shrubs and 30 endangered orchid species. Check out Pagoda Point or Pyramid Point, a popular Scenic View Point. It was apparently made with four piles of stones that were arranged in a pyramid form and is believed to have been built by African tribes. Neighbouring this viewpoint is the Sri Rama Temple, which is one of the main religious shrines of the people there. Other main viewpoints in the vicinity are Annamalaiyar Temple View Point, Shevaroy Temple View Point and Tipperary View Point. While there also visit the Kiliyur Falls a stunning waterfall fed by the overflow of Yercaud Lake, this seasonal waterfall plunges 300 feet into the Kiliyur Valley, offering breathtaking views, especially after the monsoon season.

Best Time to Visit: October to June

Time to Reach: 7 Hours

Top Places to Visit: Yercaud Lake, Lady’s Seat, Rose Garden, Pagoda Point, Kiliyur Falls

Male Mahadeshwara Hills also known as MM Hills is a popular pilgrimage site in Karnataka and one of the state's most visited locations. Known as Elu Male this is made up of seven hills which are Anemale, Jenumale, Kadumale, Kanumale, Ponnachimale, Pavalamale and Pachchemale hills. The Sri Male Mahadeshwara temple which is highly revered and draws in both Tamil Nadu and Karnataka devotees. Apart from making it a religious escapade why not make it an adventurous one as well? Many trekking routes are available in the MM Hills lush forests and the Forest Department regularly hosts hikes along these paths. The usual one is the particularly strenuous trek from Indiganatham to Naagamale a distance of roughly 14 kilometers. You can see rare colourful birds and wildlife like elephants, bears, deer and panthers along this route which offers stunning views of the shola forests. From Naagamale you can continue on an 8-kilometer trail that leads to Palar. This longer hike offers more opportunities to take in the breathtaking natural beauty of the area.

Best Time to Visit: October to March

Time to Reach: 8 hours

Top Places to Visit: Sri Male Mahadeshwara temple, Indiganatham to Naagamale trek

Sirumalai has a remarkable 18 hairpin road, all covered in lush green forests, of course, if you're driving there then hold onto your seats. The Sirumalai area has stunning views and is home to notable landmarks like the Annai Velankanni Church and Vellimalai Murugan Temple. Visit Sirumalai Lak an artificial lake which was constructed in 2010 and has become a beautiful place surrounded by tall green trees. You can go boating but more so during the weekends when the lake has water. Sanjeevani Hills rose to fame from the epic Ramayana, where Hanuman is believed to have carried an entire hill to cure Laxman while a part of it fell there. Enjoy a fantastic view from the Observation Tower and visit the highest point in Sirumalai, the Silver Hills. Some people claim that the tip of the Silver Hill consisted of silver but to prevent people from the Kali Yuga destroying it, Agastya Siddhar, through Alchemy transformed the hill into stone which gave it the name Silver Hill.

Best Time to Visit: October to March

Time to Reach: 8 hours, 30 minutes

Top Places to Visit: Annai Velankanni Church, Sirumalai Lake, Observation Tower, Sanjeevani Hills, Vellimalai Murugan Temple, Khandige Estate, Selvi Koil Point, Agastya Puram, Silver Hills

If you want some adventure Kodaikanal is a fantastic option. This charming hill station is made up of misty mountains, lush valleys and shiny lakes. Check out Berijam Lake which offers a great hike and is perfect for fishing while Coakers Walk has amazing views and is ideal for a leisurely stroll. Kodaikanal Lake is another lake worth exploring. Take one of the many boats that they have to rent, whether you want to cruise around on a motorboat, pedal push on a pedal boat or feel particularly elegant and take a rowboat. For fans of Kamal Haasan and Manjummel Boys the Guna Caves is an exciting excursion. Dolphins Nose and Pillar Rocks are must-see locations for hiking and beautiful scenery. The best part is, that foodies will love Kodaikanals artisanal cheeses, chocolates and honey.

Best Time to Visit: December to February

Time to Reach: 9 hours

Top Places to Visit: Coakers Walk, Mannavanur Lake, Kodaikanal Lake, Berijam Lake, Pine Forest

Kotagiri is one of the least explored parts of Nilgiris. It is a picturesque hill station like any other, but is more quaint and has all the facilities of every other hill station without the hustle and bustle. Elk Falls is a captivating sight with beautiful scenery, and a European-style house showcasing British architecture. Longwood Shola offers a wide spectrum of Kotagiri's wilderness in its full prime. Catherine Falls is the second-highest waterfall of the Nilgiris. The entire area is covered with beautiful greenery of the forest of Nilgiris, tea plantations, and the plains of Mettupalayam. A climb to the top of Dolphin's Nose gives you a spectacular view with the most picturesque view of the falls and the whole stretch of greenery around it. The tip of this unique rock formation resembles the snout of a dolphin, from which it gets its quirky name. Rangasamy Peak and Pillar, a sacred hill houses a holy shrine devoted to Lord Rangasamy. The peak serves as a sacred place to the Irulas Tribe. Kodanand View Point has a beautiful view which looks over a splendid sight of Rangaswamy Peak, Dolphin's Nose, Catherine Fall and Rangaswamy Pillar.

Best Time to Visit: February to May

Time to Reach: 9 hours

Top Places to Visit: Elk Falls, Longwood Shola, Catherine Falls, Dolphin's Nose, Rangasamy Peak, Kodanand View Point

The Palani Hills derive their name from the ancient temple town of Palani. With plenty of temples to visit make this your next pilgrimage spot. A major spiritual site the Arulmigu Dandayudhapani Swamy is home to the Bogar Samadhi the place where Siddhar Bogar attained Samadhi. Palani’s significance as a pilgrimage destination is further enhanced by the Periyanayaki Amman Temple another important religious site which was founded in the 14th century by the Vijayanagara Empire. If you want to see unusual animals and plants Palani Hill Wildlife Sanctuary is a great place to visit and is among the best wildlife preserves in the world. For family vacations, the picturesque Varathamanathi Dam is a great location. It is well renowned for having a ton of outdoor activities suitable for children.

Best Time to Visit: September to March

Time to Reach: 9 hours, 30 minutes

Top Places to Visit:  Palani Hill Wildlife Sanctuary, Varathamanathi Dam, Arulmigu Dandayudhapani Swamy Temple, Periyanayaki Amman Temple

Ooty needs no introduction, it is one of the most sought after hill stations. The hill station of Ooty was the summer capital of the old Madras Presidency during the time of the British and is famously known as ‘India’s Switzerland’. While you are there don’t miss a trip to Doddabetta Peak it's the highest point in the Nilgiri Mountains. At the top of the observation tower, don’t miss the spectacular view of the valleys and the tea estates. Visit the popular tea gardens of Ooty and go on a guided tour and take a stroll through the tea plantation, you will be able to see the process of making tea and of course, taste some fresh brewed tea. Take a boat ride at Ooty Lake, rejuvenate by the lake by renting a paddleboat, or enjoy a picnic while being surrounded by eucalyptus trees and charming hills. Take a stroll around the impressively cared for Botanical Gardens consisting of an incredibly diverse number of wonderful plants, beautiful flowers, and magnificent trees. Rose Garden is an un-missable place which is situated in the centre of Ooty and attracts a lot of tourists. Stop and stare at the many types of roses that are beautifully blooming and ofcourse take several photos. Indulge your sweet tooth at the Ooty Chocolate Factory perfect for homemade chocolates. Learn how chocolate is produced, taste some chocolate treats, and best part take them home. You have to travel by the Nilgiri Mountain Railway Toy Train, this Toy Train is perhaps the most attractive tourist spot out of all the places to visit in Ooty. It was started in the year 1899, and till today, it gives some of the best views of forests, tunnels, sloes, fogs, and birds.

Best Time to Visit: March to June

Time to Reach: 9 Hours 30 minutes

Top Places to Visit: Doddabetta Peak, Tea Gardens, Ooty Lake, Botanical Gardens, Rose Garden, Ooty Chocolate Factory, Nilgiri Mountain Railway Toy Train

If you're searching for some adventure then put on your trekking boots and trek through Coonoor's rainforests. Hidden Valley is great for adventure and photography lovers and a great place for a picnic with family and friends. It is one of the most unusual things to do in Coonoor. An afternoon visit to the ever so famous Sim’s Park a botanical garden with over 85 different varieties of roses and many other varieties of beautiful plants and fragrant flowers is a great choice. Lamb’s rock is among the most popular sites for a picnic in Coonoor. Named after Captain Lamb, who once attempted to create a trail leading to the area, this place is on the way to Dolphin’s Nose. Law’s Falls is perfect for a small hike in the area surrounded by lush green rainforests. Droog Fort also known as Bakasura Malai Fort was a famous outpost of Tipu Sultan and makes for a great trek.

Best Time to Visit: October to March

Time to Reach: 9 hours, 30 minutes

Top Places to Visit: Hidden Valley, Sim’s Park, Lamb’s Rock, Law’s Falls, Droog Fort, Katary Waterfalls

Sakleshpur in Karnataka is known for its mountain ranges and rice fields. The shaped Manjarabad Fort built in the 28th century is the highlight. This fort was built by Tipu Sultan for his protection, it is a must visit to see the grandeur of Islamic-style architecture. One of the state's oldest temples Sri Sakleshwara Swamy Temple is known for its yearly rath yatra throughout February. This temple honours Lord Shiva and is adorned with exquisite Hoysala craftsmanship. Take a day trip to Bisle Reserve Forest to witness flowers blooming during the monsoon season, and other exotic animals. Nearby is the popular Bisle View Point which gives an aerial view of the place. Agani Peak also known as Agani Gudda requires a 3km trek from Agani village to get a good view of paddy fields. Another option is to set up a camp for the night and enjoy the starry sky. An easy one kilometer hike from Manjehalli village leads to the Manjehalli Waterfalls locally called Abbi Falls and is a great place to visit during the monsoon. But be careful if you plan to swim in the stream or walk on the rocks. In the Belur area, Lake Park must be visited if you're with family. This park requires an entire day's visit. There is a temple inside the park and is one of the most significant temples there called Ayyappa Swami Temple.

Best Time to Visit: November to February

Time to Reach: 9 Hours, 51 minutes

Top Places to Visit: Manjarabad Fort, Sri Sakleshwara Swamy Temple, Bisle Reserve Forest, Agni Gudda Hill, Manjehalli Waterfalls, Sakleshpur Lake Park

Meghamalai in Kumily is full of cardamom plantations and tea plantations. While there visit Chinna Suruli Falls, also known as Cloudland Falls, a picturesque two-tiered waterfall amidst the thick forests of the Meghamalai hills. Meghamalai has three popular dams to check out Highway Dam is surrounded by tea and coffee farms. From Manalar Dam you can see the Cumbum valleys and the settlements of the Theni district from above. Iravangalar Dam is an artificial reservoir surrounded by tea plantations and misty hills, and is the ideal location to spend some time alone in the great outdoors. Megamalai Viewpoint will awe you with its spectacular vista, surrounded by a tranquil environment and lush vegetation. Megamalai Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected reserve a paradise for wildlife lovers and the outdoors. It is home to a wide variety of mammals, birds, reptiles, shrubs, evergreen forests, and numerous plant and animal species. One of the best spots to look over Megamalai is Maharaja Mettu, situated inside the Vennial Tea Estate you must see it. Views of the Cumbum Valley the lush tea gardens and the Varusanadu Hills mountain range are all possible from this location.

Best Time to Visit:

Time to Reach: 10 hours

Top Places to Visit:  Chinna Suruli waterfalls, Highway Dam, Iravangalar Dam, Manalar Dam, Megamalai Viewpoint, Megamalai Wildlife Sanctuary, Maharaja Mettu

Thekkady is another hill station near Chennai famous for its wildlife and also having India’s largest tiger ecological reserve. Boating in Periyar Lake, which is inside the centre of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, is a must-do activity. You will be able to see animals swimming or drinking, standing at the bank or even searching for food. Also, the reserve has bamboo rafting where you will be taken on a ride through thick forests. At the Green Park Ayurvedic & Spice Plantation, you can get to know a lot about spice plantations and medicinal plants. If you want to understand and appreciate cultural art such as Kalarippayattu and Kathakali. If you love elephants then dont miss visiting Elephant Junction, an excellent place for getting to know elephants, taking elephant rides, bathd and feed them. To witness and understand the various stages of honey production as well as buy some medicinal honey head to Philip’s Natural Honey and Bee Farm.

Best Time to Visit: October to February

Time to Reach: 10 Hours, 2 minutes

Top Places to Visit: Periyar Lake, Ramakkalmedu, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Green Park Spices, Yodha Cultural Village, Elephant Junction, Philip’s Natural Honey and Bee Farm

Munnar is a charming destination in Kerala and is known for its endless stretch of tea farms. There are dedicated tea walking tours designed specifically for curious travellers. These tours cover right from plucking the tea leaves and processing the leaves into actual tea. Valara, Cheeyappara and Attukal are the most famous waterfalls in Munnar. The most visually beautiful waterfall in the Munnar region is the Attukal waterfall. Stand at the Eco Point, shout at your highest pitch and hear your voice coming back to you. The natural echo phenomenon here gives the place its name and the cold and pure mountain air, the mist-clad views of hills and the panoramic view of tea gardens make it worth a visit. Mattupetty Dam is a travellers delight where you can get to do some speed boating at an almost perfect place, calm waters surrounded by green hills.

Best Time to Visit: December to February

Time to Reach: 10 hours, 30 minutes

Top Places to Visit: Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, Attukal Waterfalls, Valara Waterfalls, Cheeyappara Waterfalls, Eco Point, Mattupetty Dam

Camping at Madikeri is one of the most popular things to do, you can choose from the many available campsites to do so. Visit Madikeri Fort which was reconstructed by Tipu Sultan and dates back to the 17th century. Mandalpatti Peak is a lush green place, it is the perfect place to go for trekking but you will need to take entrance tickets from authorities at the base. Another place to visit is Raja's Seat, Coorg’s kings used to visit and enjoy the scenic beauty around and so can you. The sunset and sunrise make for a mesmerising view. The Tibetan Monastery also known as Golden Temple is one of the largest Tibetan settlements in India. The Temple complex is home to about 16000 refugees and 600 monks. The architecture is magnificent and you can get a great bowl of noodle soup. Abbey Falls drops from river Kaveri for about 70 ft over wide rocks creating a spectacular view. Kote Betta is one of the 3 highest peaks in the region. This place has significance in Hindu mythology. Kotebetta translates to Fort Hill and it is believed that the Pandavas from the famous epic Mahabharata spent a substantial amount of time during their exile in this region. Several coffee plantations, spice estates as well as jackfruit gardens can also be found here. Learn about the production and processing of coffee beans and spices. Mercara Gold Estate is located eight kilometres away from Madikeri. Learn the historical processes, how boutique-style coffee is locally roasted and how to produce balanced blends.

Best Time to Visit: February to April and October to December

Time to Reach: 10 hours, 35 minutes

Top Places to Visit: Coffee Plantation Walk, Madikeri Fort, Mandalpatti Peak, Raja's Seat, Tibetan Monastery, Abbey Falls, Kote Betta

Valparai is another little hill station near Chennai which has flora, fauna, incredible views, and fresh air. Visit the Nallamudi Viewpoint, for scenic views of Anamudi Peak, tea gardens, green valleys, and waterfalls perfect for nature lovers. The viewpoint can be reached through an uphill trek through the plantations. Located in the Karumalai Tea Estate the Karumalai Balaji Temple has a peaceful ambience and the gold statue of Lord Balaji. The temple is a great place for quiet contemplation and prayer but to get there you have to walk 500 meters uphill. Surrounded by lush tea plantations and the Iraichal Parai Falls the ‘Karumalai Annai Velankanni Church’ is a serene Catholic Church in the Karumalai Tea Estate that is believed to be a place of miracles that was built in 2003. Covered by forests Chinnakallar Falls is a breathtaking waterfall known for having the third highest rainfall in India. You can reach this place with a 600m hike full of amazing views. During the hike, you can also pass through the areas of wild elephants, it can be dangerous so get a local guide to go with. Popular for riverside picnics Kuzhankal River View is great for the clear shallow waters and picturesque pebble stone bottom. It’s one of Valparai's most liked locations for picnics. In the Anamalai Tiger Reserve -Grass Hills is a protected area with a rare shola-grassland ecosystem. If you want to get into the reserve you need permission from the reserve office.

Best Time to Visit: May to September

Time to Reach: 10 hours, 40 minutes

Top Places to Visit: Nallamudi Viewpoint, Karumalai Balaji Temple, Karumalai Annai Velankanni Church, Chinnakallar Falls, Kuzhankal River View, Grass Hills, Nirar Dam

Mullayanagiri is the highest peak between the Himalayas and Nilgiris, it makes for one of the most interesting and adventurous trekking spots in Karnataka. The peak's name is from a small temple dedicated to a sage Mullappa Swamy, who is believed to have meditated at the cave. If you're here then visit the Mullayanagiri Temple, a small temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Since you're in the area you can make a visit to the other places in Chikkamagaluru.

Best Time to Visit: September to April

Time to Reach: 11 hours 34 minutes

Top Places to Visit: Mullayanagiri Peak, Mullayanagiri Temple

Chikkamagaluru has several waterfalls, Kalhatti Falls, Jhari Falls and the most popular one Hebbe Falls. Hebbe Falls is located within a coffee estate and is a stunning two-stage waterfall plunging 551 feet. Kalhatti Falls is adjacent to the Veerabhadreshwara Temple attracting pilgrims, and offers nearby trekking trails. Jhari Falls, can be reached with a jeep ride through a scenic forest and is an offbeat stunning waterfall, it is also known as Buttermilk Waterfall for its milky appearance. Sharadamba Temple is dedicated to goddess Saraswati showcasing intricate Dravidian architecture from the 8th century. It has detailed carvings and statues, the nearby Tunga River enhances the overall ambience of the area. Bhadra River is known for river rafting. It offers an exhilarating 8 km stretch of rapids ranging from levels 3 to 5, suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters seeking adventure. There is plenty of trekking opportunities here. Apart from the Mullayanagiri Trek, the Kudremukh Trek, Kemmangundi Trek, Ballalarayana Durga Fort Trek are great options.

Best Time to Visit: September to May

Time to Reach: 10 hours 27 minutes

Top Places to Visit: Kalhatti Falls, Jhari Falls, Hebbe Falls, Sharadamba Temple, Mullayanagiri Mountain Peak, Bhadra River

While in Wayanad explore the Edakkal Caves on Ambukuthi Hill, a must do activity for its prehistoric inscriptions, and boulder formations resembling caves. Boating on Pookode Lake is a fun activity complemented by nearby attractions like a freshwater aquarium, children's park, and local handiwork and spice shops. Kuruva Island, spans over 950 acres in the Kabini River and offers bamboo rafting, picturesque bamboo bridges, bird-watching. Visit the famous Wildlife Sanctuary also known as Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary. An integral part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, the Sanctuary connects Nagarhole and Bandipur parks in Karnataka, and Mudumalai in Tamil Nadu. The reserve offers thrilling jungle safaris and frequent sightings of elephants, tigers, panthers, and peacocks. The two must visit view points in Wayanad are the Neelimala Viewpoint which gives breathtaking views of Meenmutty falls and the lush greenery of the Western Ghats, providing an unforgettable experience of misty peaks, verdant landscapes, and cascading streams merging into rivers and the sea. Lakkidi situated on top of the Thamarassery pass, can be reached through nine hairpin curves amidst steep mountains, culminating in the picturesque Lakkidi View Point, where you can also marvel at the breathtaking views.

Best Time to Visit: October to May

Time to Reach: 11 hours 7 minutes

Top Places to Visit: Edakkal Cave, Pookode Lake, Kuruva Island, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Neelimala View Point, Lakkidi View Point