5 Hill Stations in South India That Rival the Himalayas

When you think of an escape to the mountains, you usually tend to think of the fabled highlands of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh. But the Himalayas are not the only mountain range in the country! The Western and Eastern Ghats down south are just as beautiful and verdant, and make for idyllic getaways.

Here’s our comprehensive guide to exploring the hills down south:

Coorg

Known for its coffee and rolling green hills, Coorg or Kodagu is one of the most beautiful hill stations of India, rightly deserving the title ‘Scotland of India’. This sleepy town commands spectacular views of the Western Ghats and numerous waterfalls, temples, forts and plantations add to its attraction. Madekari Fort, Abbey Falls, Iruppu Falls, Nagarhole National Park and Omkareshwara Temple are the popular tourist destinations. Whether you have an itinerary or not, Coorg will embrace, sedate and rejuvenate you all the same.

Where to Stay:  Capital Village Resort Madikeri (an exceptional boutique property), or Ambatty Greens (a swanky 4-star).

Book Your Flight to Bangalore

Ooty

Tiny toy train traversing through the majestic Nilgiri Mountains, a picturesque lake, colonial charm evoking memories of an older India, members of the Toda tribe living in peaceful co-existence with the city and nature’s artistry at every step; that’s Ooty or Udhagamandalam for the uninitiated. 95 kilometres from the Coimbatore International Airport, the hill station of Ooty is an ideal holiday spot for family, couples, and friends alike. After visiting the Ooty Lake, St. Stephen’s Church and the beautiful Botanical Garden, head to delights like Stone House, Fernhill Palace, Murugan Temple and Rose Garden.

Kamaraj Sagar Lake, Pine Forest, Pykara Waterfalls, Doddabetta Peak and Catherine Waterfalls are some other places of interest.

Where to Stay:  Deccan Park Resort opposite Ooty Lake. 

Book Your Flight to Coimbatore

Kodaikanal

Though it has a complicated etymology, Kodaikanal is a simple town, flocked by lovers, honeymooners, families and solace seekers of any age. The sprawling Kodaikanal Lake, Bryant Park and Coaker’s Walk in its vicinity usually top the sightseeing list. The Bear Shola Falls, Pine Forests, the infamous Guna Caves, the Silver Cascade Waterfall and Dolphin’s Nose are some attractions in and around Kodaikanal.

Where to Stay:  Country Club Valley Vista (3-Star), or Hill Country Holiday Resort (4-Star).

Book Your Flight to Madurai

Yercaud

Called the Jewel of the South, Yercaud is a lesser-known hill town in the Salem district of Tamil Nadu, and means ‘lake forest’. No prizes for guessing why: there’s a lake called Big Lake with a floating garden at its centre. After soaking in the beauty of the lake, ascend to Servaroyan Temple, where the cave temple of Servaroyan and idols of river deities will be unlike any divine manifestation you’ve seen. Plus there are coffee plantations, trekking jaunts, a botanical garden, the Killiyur Falls, which make Yercaud the perfect long weekend getaway to unwind. Don’t forget to take your camera along!

Where to Stay:  Sri Durga Residency at Pakkoda Point Road, a modest accommodation with all basic amenities.

Book Your Flight to Tiruchirapally

Munnar

They say Munnar is probably God’s favourite city in his own country. This beautiful hill station in Kerala is characterized by tea-plantation-lined mountains, a whiff of exotic spices, and greenery that will put a smile on your face. The Mattupetty Dam with its lake and Indo-Swiss farm is bliss redefined. Keep a day for the splendid wilderness and rare fauna of Eravikulam National Park. Sightseeing, trekking, cycling, walking: whatever you do, you just can’t get enough of Munnar.

Where to Stay:  Misty Mountain Resort, a 3-star property.

Book Your Flight to Cochin