India has an explosion of geographical locations. There is varied topography, climates and regional idiosyncrasies. Much like the culture of the country, its geography is also a hustling delight of different natural landmarks and tourist sites. For now however, we bring to you (the traveller, dreamer, explorer, backpacker, vacationer) some special gems of a particularly favourite travel genre - Hill Stations.
The fascination of a hill station
Christmas is around the corner and along with it comes the holidays. Holidays call for vacation and what better place to go for a vacation other than ‘Hill Stations’. Just imagine sipping hot, yummy coffee on the balcony of your hotel and the icy cold wind blowing over your face. You are covered with woollen sweaters, enjoying the most beautiful sunrise. Writing this makes me want to leave right now and travel to the hills. If you are somebody who wants to go as well but don’t know where - Don’t worry we got you covered.
Hill stations in Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu is one of India’s southernmost states. It has beaches, hills, mountain tops and many rivers flowing through it. However, there are many ranges in different districts of Tamil Nadu which are home to beautiful hill stations.
They are a perfect getaway from your busy life. Couples, families, honeymooners, solo travellers - all enjoy hill stations. So here are the top four Hill Stations in Tamil Nadu you can visit for your holiday.
Ooty
Ooty also called the ‘Queen of Hills’ is one the most famous tourist spots, not only in Tamil Nadu but all over India. This beautiful hill station is filled with tea plantations and is heaven for tea connoisseurs. Situated in the Nilgiris District, one can enjoy the picturesque of the Nilgiris Hill Ranges. There are a lot of things to do in Ooty - from boating, visiting the botanical gardens, trekking, to safari rides in the reserves- the list is long.
Though you can visit Ooty all around the year, the best time to visit is between October to February. The temperature in Ooty ranges from 25 degrees to 5 degrees Celsius. There are many resorts, villas and hotels to stay in Ooty and transport is readily available.
Things you can do in Ooty
1.Boating in Pykara Lake in Ooty
2.Join trekking groups.
3.Visit tea factories.
4.Travel in the Nilgiris Mountain Railway (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
5.Take a stroll in the beautiful Botanical Garden.
Kodaikanal
Situated in the Dindigul district of Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal is called the ‘Princess of Hill Stations’. I guess all hill stations of Tamil Nadu are part of a royal family. Kodaikanal is known for its misty mountains and green pastured slopes. If you are looking to see a breathtaking sunrise, where the sun is peeping from the misty mountains you’ve got to come to Kodaikanal. The best time to visit is obviously during the winters. The temperature is cool all around the year and does not exceed 30 degrees celsius. Overall it’s a great spot for your next winter vacation.
Things you can do in Kodaikanal
1.Go boating in the Kodaikanal Lake.
2.See a beautiful sunrise from the hills.
3.Visit the Kodaikanal Solar Observatory.
4. Take a walk through Croaker’s walk
5.Visit sightseeing points like - Dolphin’s Nose, Pillar Rock, and Siver Cascade waterfalls.
Solar Observatory
Yelagiri
Next on the list is Yelagiri. This hill station is not as developed as Ooty but it has a lot to offer. Trekking is very famous in Yelagiri nestled in the Swamimalai Hills. It is not as cold as the other hill stations mentioned above but it is perfect for a weekend trip if you are living in and around Chennai. There are a lot of lakes in Yelagiri and there are tons of activities to keep yourself busy. The climate is pleasant all around the year and but winter is the best to visit Yelagiri. Trekking at Yelagiri. You can find a lot of beautiful, luxurious hotels, lodges, and private villas in Yelagiri. Making it an ideal spot for honeymooners and couples as well as groups.
Things you can do in Yelagiri
1.Paragliding
2.Go for a trek in Swamimalai Hills
3.Enjoy a bonfire with family in your private villa.
4.Visit Punganor Lake Parka and Nature Park
5.Trek your way to Jalagamparai Waterfalls.
Yercaud
Last but not the least on this list is Yercaud, situated in the Salem district of Tamil Nadu. Yercaud originally translates to lakes and forests and it definitely is filled with lakes, forests, waterfalls, reserves and so much more. You can find a lot of coffee plantations and orchards in Yercaud. There are Oak and Sandalwood forests too. It is chilly all around the year in Yercaud but winters are the best time to visit this lush green hill station. There are a lot of viewpoints and trails in Yercaud where you can find rare sightings of unique birds and animals. The temperature ranges from 12 to 25 degrees celsius.
Things to do in Yercaud
1. Visit the Sacred Heart Church in Yercaud
2. Explore the Bears Cave
3. Enjoy boating at Yercaud Lake
4. Check out the Orchidarium
5. Get enthralled by visiting various viewpoints like Lady’s Seat and Pagoda Point.
This post was written by the wonderful Mood to Read blog. Their tagline is 'Pick up a coffee and start reading,' a sentiment I can only echo. There blog is filled with interesting stories and about Hobbies, Travel, Relationships and even Gardening, they are the perfect tonic for a winters day. So grab a coffee and head straight over to their website. Thank you for sharing Mood to Read we look forward to working with you in the future.
