South India is blessed with some of the most scenic and serene hill stations in the country. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway, a romantic honeymoon, or an adventurous holiday, you will find a hill station in South India that suits your taste and budget. Here are 10 of the best hill stations of South India that you should visit this summer:
- Ooty: The Queen of Hill Stations
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Ooty, also known as Udagamandalam, is one of the most popular hill stations in South India. Located in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu, Ooty is famous for its tea gardens, lakes, waterfalls, and colonial charm. You can enjoy boating on the Ooty Lake, visit the Botanical Gardens, ride the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, and explore the nearby attractions like Coonoor, Kotagiri, and Pykara. Ooty is also a great place to indulge in some shopping, as you can find a variety of products like chocolates, spices, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
- Munnar: The Tea Heaven
Munnar is another hill station in South India that is renowned for its tea plantations. Situated in the Western Ghats of Kerala, Munnar offers a refreshing and picturesque escape from the heat and humidity of the plains. You can witness the beauty of nature at its best at places like Echo Point, Mattupetty Dam, Eravikulam National Park, and Attukad Waterfalls. You can also learn about the history and culture of tea at the Tea Museum, or enjoy some adventure activities like trekking, camping, and paragliding.
- Coorg: The Scotland of India
Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is a hill station in South India that is known for its coffee estates, spice plantations, and rich biodiversity. Located in Karnataka, Coorg is a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. You can visit the Abbey Falls, Raja’s Seat, Madikeri Fort, and Omkareshwara Temple. You can also explore the Nagarhole National Park, Dubare Elephant Camp, and Talacauvery Wildlife Sanctuary. Coorg is also famous for its cuisine, which is influenced by the local Kodava culture.
- Wayanad: The Nature’s Abode
Wayanad is a hill station in South India that is blessed with lush greenery, exotic wildlife, and ancient caves. Located in Kerala, Wayanad is a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and has many protected areas that are home to rare and endangered species. You can visit the Banasura Sagar Dam, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Chembra Peak, and Edakkal Caves. You can also enjoy some activities like bamboo rafting, zip-lining, cycling, and hiking.
- Yercaud: The Jewel of the South
Yercaud is a hill station in South India that is located in the Shevaroy Hills of Tamil Nadu. Yercaud is a quaint and peaceful destination that offers a panoramic view of the surrounding hills and valleys. You can visit the Yercaud Lake, Lady’s Seat, Pagoda Point, Kiliyur Falls, and Shevaroy Temple. You can also enjoy some activities like boating, fishing, birdwatching, and trekking.
- Idukki: The Land of Spices
Idukki is a hill station in South India that is famous for its spice plantations, sanctuaries, and national parks. Located in Kerala, Idukki is a scenic and serene destination that has many attractions like the Idukki Dam, the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, the Munnar Tea Museum, and the Ramakkalmedu Viewpoint. You can also try some adventurous sports like paragliding, wildlife trekking, and bamboo rafting.
- Coonoor: The Little Sister of Ooty
Coonoor is a hill station in South India that is located close to Ooty in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu. Coonoor is a smaller and quieter destination than Ooty, but equally charming and beautiful. You can visit the Sim’s Park, the Dolphin’s Nose, the Lamb’s Rock, and the Catherine Falls. You can also enjoy some activities like golfing, tea tasting, and birdwatching.
- Kodaikanal: The Princess of Hill Stations
Kodaikanal is a hill station in South India that is located in the Palani Hills of Tamil Nadu. Kodaikanal is a charming and romantic destination that has many attractions like the Kodaikanal Lake, Bryant Park, Coaker’s Walk, Pillar Rocks, and Silver Cascade Falls. You can also visit the Kurinji Andavar Temple, which is dedicated to the goddess of the kurinji flower that blooms once in 12 years.
- Nandi Hills: The Hill of Happiness
Nandi Hills is a hill station in South India that is located near Bangalore in Karnataka. Nandi Hills is a popular weekend getaway for the city dwellers, as it offers a refreshing and rejuvenating break from the urban chaos. You can enjoy the scenic views of the sunrise and sunset from the hilltop, visit the Nandi Temple, Tipu’s Drop, Tipu’s Summer Residence, and Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple. You can also enjoy some activities like cycling, paragliding, and trekking.
- Agumbe: The Cherrapunji of South India
Agumbe is a hill station in South India that is located in the Western Ghats of Karnataka. Agumbe is one of the wettest places in India, and is famous for its rainforests, waterfalls, and wildlife. You can visit the Agumbe Rainforest Research Station, Barkana Falls, Jogi Gundi Falls, and Onake Abbi Falls. You can also explore the Kudremukh National Park, which is home to many animals like tigers, leopards, elephants, and deer.