South India is an ideal destination to spend vacations with your near and dear ones. In fact, there are numerous best hill stations in South India, which are a perfect getaway for couples, families, nature lovers, and solo travelers. Lush green hills, favorable climate and amazing sceneries make hill stations of South India the ideal destinations for all the travelers.
In case you plan a wonderful vacation to South India’s hilly regions, then you must check the list of some of the most popular hill stations in South India mentioned below. These hill stations are worthy to be visited.
List of 15 Best Hill Stations in South India
- Munnar, Kerala
- Ooty, Tamil Nadu
- Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
- Idukki
- Yercaud, Tamil Nadu
- Coonoor, Tamil Nadu
- Valparai, Tamil Nadu
- Coorg
- Araku Valley – Valley of Tranquillity
- Kotagiri
- Coorg
- Vythiri
- Kudremukh
- Cardamom Hills
- Wayanad
1. Munnar, Kerala
Munnar, the small hill station in the “God’s Own Country” – Kerala is an ideal destination. Munnar is listed among the top Hill Stations in South India. The hill station is located far from the hustle and bustle of the routine clad life, and gives you all the reasons to spend quality time with your loved ones. This place is an ideal destination for nature lovers, couples and adventure seekers due to presence of numerous tea gardens, lakes, waterfalls, etc. A few of the top things to do in Munnar include visiting top station viewpoint, plantation walk, mountain biking, trekking, etc.
Places to visit: Anamudi Peak, Echo Point, Chinnakanal Waterfalls, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, etc.
How to Reach: Munnar can easily be reached via air. Cochin International Airport is 100 km from Munnar while Kochi Railway Station is 120 km away from this beautiful hill station.
2. Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Ooty once was a favourite summer getaway for the British. This small hill station is located in the Western Ghats and has a plenty of colonial attractions. It is one of the most visited hill stations in South India among honeymooners due to amazing viewpoints, lakes and the 19th century Stone House. Ooty which is located at a height of 2240 m can best be visited from October to June. Ooty is one of the best summer destinations in Southern India and the key tourist attractions in Ooty include Ooty Rose Garden, Kalhatty Waterfalls, Madumalai National Park, Rock view point, Mukunthu National Park, etc.
Places to visit: Ooty Lake, Tea Museum, Avalanche Lake, Kalhatty Waterfalls, Emerald Lake, etc.
How to Reach
The travelers planning to visit Ooty can fly to Coimbatore International Airport, which is just 88 km from Ooty and then and take a taxi to reach to their destination. Ooty can also be reached via train to Mettupalayam Railway Station, 60 km from Ooty. Also the hill station is well-connected to all of South India and various government and private buses run on this route.
3. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
Your trip to South India would not be considered complete without a trip to Kodaikanal. The visitors coming to this place can enjoy the beauty of gorgeous waterfalls, green valleys, serene lakes, etc. The ideal time to plan your vacations here is from October to June.
How to Reach
Madurai Airport is located 134 km from Kodaikanal and after reaching the airport, travelers can take a taxi from to reach the hill. Another way is to take a train to Kodai Road Railway Station and then continue the rest of the journey via road.
4. Idukki
Though not explored much, Idukki, is an idyllic delight to visit in South India. The place has a lot of sanctuaries, tea gardens, reserve parks and spice plantations, making it a unique destination in itself. Make sure to include Idukki in your bucket list. Run to this hill station with your loved ones to enjoy the rich flora and fauna.
How to reach
The nearest airport to Idukki is at Cochin, located at 132 km away from hill station while the nearest railway station is at Kottayam, 133 km away.
5. Yercaud, Tamil Nadu
Yercaud is a small yet beautiful hill station located in the Shevaroy Hills in the Eastern Ghats. The fragrant coffee and spice plantations here are the main attractions here. Yercaud is a great producer of black pepper, coffee, orange, jackfruit and guava. Also some other places to visit here include Yercaud Lake, and Lady’s Seat vantage point. The place has many lakes, waterfalls, parks and many colonial buildings, the temperature here never exceeds above 30 degrees. The visitors can enjoy the breathtaking vistas with occasional drizzling.
Every year, the summer festival is celebrated with great pomp in Yercaud.
Places to visit: Deer Park, Pagoda Point, Lady’s Seat, Rose Garden, etc.
How to Reach
Salem Airport is just 50 km from Yercaud, while Reach Salem Junction Railway Station is just32 km from Yercaud. So travelers can choose from any of the ways from road, rail, or air to reach Yercaud.
6. Coonoor, Tamil Nadu
Coonoor, a well-structured hill station located in the Nilgiri district. The pleasant climate throughout the year makes it one of the best hill station in south India. The place provides a panoramic view of the Nilgiris and the huge tea estates can give you reason to spend some good time in the lap of the nature. Coonoor is located at a height of 1850 m and can easily be reached via all modes of transportation.
This hill station is a heaven of cascading waterfalls, ravines and valleys. The place is home to a large variety of bird species like Pipits, Skylark, and Nilgiri Verditer. Serene Surroundings, pleasant climate and picturesque scenery is a thing to enjoy at Coonoor.
How to Reach
Coimbatore International Airport is just 75 km from Coonoor and one can take a taxi to reach to the hill station. Another way is to travel via train, the Coonoor Railway Station is just 2 km from Coonoor. Numerous government and private buses run every day connecting places like Coimbatore, Mettupalayam, and Chennai to this hill station.
7. Valparai, Tamil Nadu
A part of the Anaimalai Hills, Valparai also has the Anaimalai Tiger Reserve, home to elephants and panthers. Valparai has many beautiful green tea estates from where you can pick fresh tea leaves. The best time to visit this place ids from September to March.
How to Reach
Fly to Coimbatore International Airport, which is just 114 km from Valparai and then reach to the final destination by taking a taxi. Or else take a train to Pollachi Junction Railway Junction, 65 km from Valparai, and cover the remaining distance via road.
8. Coorg
Popularly known as the Scotland of South by the British, Coorg is definitely the place that must be visited at least once. The hill station is the largest producer of coffee in India and the vibes of Coorg makes it unique. Majestic hills covered with huge green forests, misty landscapes, mesmerizing coffee plantations, amazing tea gardens, beautiful resorts, makes Coorg one of the best places to explore in South India.
Apart from visiting the key attractions, the tourists can also do fishing at Kaveri River and Jeep safari in Kabbi hills.
Places to visit: Madikeri Fort, Kopatty Hills Trek, Omkareshwara Temple, Chettalli, etc.
How to Reach
The nearest airport to Coorg is in Bangalore, at a distance of 260 Km. The nearest railway station is Mysore, located at 120 Km. Apart from rail and air, the travelers can also reach COORG via road.
9. Araku Valley – Valley of Tranquillity
Araku Valley is another magnificent hill station located in the state of Andhra Pradesh. The mesmerizing serene valley consists of numerous hills, undulating meadows, pompous orchards, thereby adding to the beauty of the place. It is one of the best hill stations in southern India to escape to with family and friends. In case you plan to visit this hill station in the winter season, then don’t forget to carry enough woolens as the temperature goes down to below 5 degree Celsius as well.
10. Kotagiri
It is the third highest hill station in the Nilgiri hills, providing a beautiful town in Tamil Nadu. The place is famous for its huge greenery and painted landscapes offering a true sense of tranquility and calm. Located at the towering height of 1985 m above sea level, Kotagiri is a pleasant mountain getaway to beat the heat.
Key attractions: Kodanad View Point, Catherine Falls, John Sullivan Memorial, and Elk Falls to name a few.
How to reach
The Coimbatore Airport is the nearest airport located almost 100KM away from Kotagiri. The hill station can also be reached via rail, the nearest railway station is in Coimbatore, located 21KM away.
11. Coorg
Nestled amidst the hills and valleys of the picturesque Western Ghats, Coorg stands as the quintessential hill station retreat in South India. Countless streams meander through steep hills and tea-blanketed valleys, inviting travelers, trekkers, and rock climbers to partake in the allure of this enchanting destination. One of the most rewarding activities for any adventurer is trekking in Coorg, where natural trails unveil a tapestry of adventure.
Places to visit: Madikeri Fort, Omkareshwara Temple, Chettalli, Kopatty Hills Trek, Namdroling Monastery, Talakaveri, etc. Located at an elevation ranging from 900 to 1,750 meters above sea level, Coorg is characterized by its undulating terrain, interspersed with coffee plantations, dense forests, and winding streams.
How to Reach Coorg: Thenearest airport is Bangalore at a distance of 260 Km while Kodagu is the only district in Karnataka without an inch of rail track so the travelers have to reach Mysore railway station which is located at a distance of 120 Km.
12. Vythiri
Vythiri, a paradise for nature lovers, nestled in the Sylvan Northern High Ranges of Kerala, sprawls over 150 acres of eco-friendly terrain. Exuding exquisite charm, comfort, and tranquility, Vythiri ranks among the top hill stations in South India, steeped in history and legend. The region is characterized by dense evergreen forests, coffee plantations, and a variety of flora, including towering trees and vibrant wildflowers. Vythiri is home to diverse wildlife, including elephants, deer, monkeys, and various species of birds.
Places to visit: Pook ode Lake, Lakkidi Viewpoint, Chembra Peak, Meenmutty Waterfalls, Thusharagiri Waterfalls, Edakkal Caves, etc.
How to reach Vythiri: The nearest airport is Calicut International Airport, 85 km away. By train, one can reach Vythiri via Calicut en route to Bangalore, with a distance of 150 km from Mysore en route to Calicut. The place is also well-connected by road, and buses or private taxis can be availed from nearby cities like Calicut and Mysore.
13. Kudremukh
Kudremukh, known as the horse-faced hill station, offers a panoramic view overlooking the Arabian Sea. Popular among Mangaloreans and Manipal students for trekking and camping, Kudremukh boasts chained hills, deep gorges, steep cliffs, grassy slopes, verdant forests, rivers, captivating cascades, and rare fauna. Nestled in the Western Ghats, it is renowned for its panoramic views, verdant landscapes, and diverse flora and fauna.
Places to visit: Kudremukh Peak, Hanuman Gundi Falls, Lakya Dam, Kadambi Falls, Gangamoola, etc. Also, Kudremukh offers various trekking trails, with the trek to Kudremukh Peak being the most popular.
How to reach Kudremukh: The nearest airport is Mangalore, 99 km away, with the nearest railway station also being Mangalore at the same distance. Kudremukh is well-connected by road, and buses or private taxis can be availed from nearby cities like Mangalore and Chikkamagaluru.
14. Cardamom Hills
Situated in the southernmost part of India, Cardamom Hills earns its place among the top hill stations in South India. Renowned for offering one of the best sunset/sunrise views over the ocean, this destination is surrounded by the Laccadive Sea from three sides. Beyond appealing to beach enthusiasts, it also captivates hill lovers with its serene landscapes.
Places to visit: Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, Munnar, Vagamon, etc. The Cardamom Hills, with their natural beauty and cultural richness, offer a tranquil escape for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a serene retreat in the heart of the Western Ghats.
How to reach Cardamom Hills: Trivandrum Airport, just 100 km away, serves as the nearest airport to Kanyakumari. The town boasts its own railway station, Trivandrum Railway Station, connecting it fairly with different cities and towns across South India.
15. Wayanad
Tucked amidst the majestic mountains of Kerala, Wayanad beckons explorers and travelers with its captivating allure. The famous Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, home to Asiatic elephants, tigers, and egrets, invites visitors on a jungle safari. Beautiful waterfalls, including Meenmutty, Soochipara, and Chethalayam, add to the charm of this perfect spot for a relaxing vacation.
Places to visit: Chembra Peak, Meenmutty Waterfalls, Thirunelli Temple, Kanthanpara Falls, Meppadi. Wayanad, with its scenic beauty and cultural richness, stands as a haven for nature lovers and those seeking a tranquil retreat in the lap of the Western Ghats.
How to reach Wayanad: The nearest airport is Kozhikode International Airport, located 100 km away. Kozhikode Railway Station, situated at a distance of 110 km, serves as the nearest railway station to Wayanad. Wayanad is well-connected by road, with buses and taxis available from major cities in Kerala and Karnataka.
Conclusion
So these are some of the best hill stations in South India that are worth exploring with friends and family. Whether you travel alone, as a couple or with family, make sure to include these a few of these hill stations in your South India trip. Plan your trip to south India and enjoy your refreshing vacation with best packages at Honeymoon Bug.
FAQs About Best Hill Stations of South India
What are the best hill stations in South India?
Ooty, Munnar, Idukki, Coonoor, Kotagiri, Anaimalai Hills, etc. are some of the best hill stations in South India.
Can I visit Munnar in December?
Munnar is one of the best hill station in South India which can be visited in December. The winter season is the best time to visit the place mainly due to pleasant weather.
Is Madikeri a good hill station in South India?
Madikeri is a beautiful hill station in Karnataka, which is also being referred to as the ‘Scotland of India’. This paradisaical little hill station in Karnataka’s Coorg district is listed among the top destinations.
Should I visit Ooty hill station in South India?
Yes, Ooty is a beautiful hill station located in Tamil Nadu. Ooty is a popular hill station situated in the Nilgiri Hills, it is popularly called the Queen of Hill Stations.
What are the adventure activities available at hill stations in South India?
Adventure activities in hill stations located in south India include trekking, boating, wildlife safaris, paragliding, and nature walks.
Which hill station is famous for its coffee plantations in Karnataka?
Coorg, which is also known as Kodagu, is famous for its coffee plantations. It is a prominent hill station in Karnataka.
What is the highest peak in the Western Ghats of South India?
Anamudi, located in the Idukki district of Kerala, is the highest peak in the Western Ghats and South India.
Trending Bogs
- 14 Temples in South India
- Best Places to Visit in South India in December
- Best Places to Visit in South India in Winter
- 20 Best Places to Visit in South India
