There is no dearth of hill stations in Tamil Nadu as it is a state bordered by both the Eastern and Western Ghats. Abundant in natural beauty and blessed with pleasant weather, these hill stations are great destinations for a soothing getaway.
The list of hill stations in Tamil Nadu includes some of the all-time favorites like Ooty and Kodaikanal. The state also has many off-beat and lesser-explored destinations, including Valparai, Kolli Hills, Megamalai, and more.
Besides offering the much-needed relief from the sweltering heat, hill stations in Tamil Nadu cater to the adventure seeker in you. Go trekking or hiking, engage in leisurely activities like boating and nature walks, or enjoy a staycation in the comfort of a luxurious resort – the choice is yours.
Top Hill Stations In Tamil Nadu – Watch The Video
Complete List Of Hill Stations In Tamil Nadu
- Ooty
- Kodaikanal
- Coonoor
- Kotagiri
- Yelagiri
- Yercaud
- Valparai
- Kolukkumalai
- Javadi Hills
- Kalrayan Hills
- Kolli Hills
- Megamalai
- Pachaimalai Hills
- Ketti Valley
- Masinagudi
- Manjolai Hills
- Bellikkal
Best Hill Stations In Tamil Nadu
Here is a list of some of the best hill stations in Tamil Nadu. We have also given other details like the key attractions, activities, how to reach, distance from nearby cities and towns, and more.
1. Ooty
Ooty, one of the best hill stations in Tamil Nadu, needs no introduction, does it? Tucked away in the Nilgiris, at the confluence of the Western and Eastern Ghats, it attracts visitors all through the year.
One of the key factors that make Ooty the Queen of Hill Stations is the diversity of its attractions. Lakes, viewpoints, gardens, viewpoints, tea estates, wildlife, historical attractions, temples, churches, picnic spots, and waterfalls – you name it, and Ooty has it all.
And there’s more! The Nilgiri Mountain Railway, one of the three mountain railways in the country, is in Ooty. Declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it promises you an exhilarating journey of around five hours (Mettupalayam to Ooty) through a breathtakingly scenic route.
While here, you can also plan a visit to two other hill stations in Tamil Nadu, namely Coonoor and Kotagiri, both located within 30 km from Ooty town.
- Where: Nilgiris District
- Ideal trip duration: 2 to 3 days
- Nearest airport to Ooty: Coimbatore International Airport (90 km)
- Nearest railway station to Ooty: Mettupalayam (50 km) and Coimbatore (90 km)
Nearest cities and towns to Ooty
- Coonoor (20 km)
- Kotagiri (30 km)
- Mettupalayam (50 km)
- Gudalur (50 km)
- Coimbatore (85 km)
- Mysore (125 km)
- Calicut (160 km)
- Salem (220 km)
- Kannur (225 km)
- Bangalore (270 km)
- Chennai (535 km)
Top attractions in Ooty
- Government Rose Garden
- Ooty Lake
- Ooty Botanical Gardens
- Deer Park
- Doddabetta Peak
- Emerald Lake
- Tea Factory and Tea Museum
- Elk Hill Lord Murugan Temple
- Pykara Waterfalls
- St. Stephen’s Church
- Kalhatti Falls
- Avalanche Lake
- Needle View Hill Point
- Thread Garden
Top activities to do in Ooty
- Taking a ride in the toy train (Nilgiri Mountain Railway)
- Camping at the Avalanche Lake
- Tea plantation tours
- Sightseeing
- Trekking through pine forests
- Shopping for local items like chocolates and spices
- Summer Festival
- Picnics
- Staycation
- Jungle safaris in the Mudumalai National Park
2. Kodaikanal
A hill station as popular as Ooty, Kodaikanal is a traveler’s delight in every sense of the term. At a height of around 7000 feet from sea level, it is located in Palani Hills on the Western Ghats and is nicknamed the Princess of Hill Stations.
Kodaikanal, one of the best hill stations in Tamil Nadu, has earned a permanent place in the list of best hill stations in Tamil Nadu for more reasons than one. The region is cocooned in thick forests and has natural and manmade attractions, including waterfalls, parks, lakes, viewpoints, museums, temples, and more.
The adventure activities in Kodaikanal are also aplenty, ranging from sightseeing and trekking to camping and picnics. The famous Palani Murugan Temple, one of the most-visited temples in South India, is around 60 km away from here.
- Where: Dindigul District
- Ideal trip duration: 2 to 3 days
- Nearest airport to Kodaikanal: Madurai Airport (130 km) and Coimbatore International Airport (170 km)
- Nearest railway station to Kodaikanal: Palani Railway Station (65 km). Other major railheads near Kodaikanal are Kodaikanal Road Station (80 km), Dindigul Junction (95 km), and Madurai Junction (115 km).
Nearest cities and towns to Kodaikanal
- Palani (65 km)
- Dindigul (95 km)
- Madurai (115 km)
- Coimbatore (180 km)
- Tiruchirappalli (200 km)
- Bangalore (465 km)
- Chennai (525 km)
Top attractions in Kodaikanal
- Kodaikanal Lake
- Coakers Walk
- Green Valley View
- Bear Shola Falls
- Pillar Rocks
- Berijam Lake
- Thalaiyar Falls
- Bryant Park
- Devil’s Kitchen
- Dolphin’s Nose
- Silver Cascade Falls
- Kurinji Andavar Temple
- Kodaikanal Solar Observatory
- Guna Caves
Top activities to do in Kodaikanal
- Walking through the pine forests
- Sightseeing
- Photography
- Boating
- Trekking, hiking, and rock climbing
- Camping
- Biking
- Night safaris
- Birdwatching
- Picnics, yoga, and rejuvenation
3. Coonoor
Coonoor is yet another Tamil Nadu hill station located in the Nilgiris, located around 20 km away from Ooty. The place is best known for its sprawling plantations that produce the world-famous Nilgiris Tea.
Though a small town, Coonoor has several attractions and activities to keep you engaged. Lush green valleys, beautiful parks, cascading waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, and charming trekking trails all come together to make Coonoor one of the most picturesque hill stations in Tamil Nadu.
Travelers normally club their trip to Coonoor with two other major hill stations in Tamil Nadu, namely Ooty and Kotagiri. It is recommended that you plan your itinerary such that you can explore the best of all three destinations.
- Where: Nilgiris District
- Ideal trip duration: 1 to 2 days
- Nearest airport to Coonoor: Coimbatore International Airport (70 km)
- Nearest railway station to Coonoor: Mettupalayam Railway Station (35 km). The major railhead near Coonoor is Coimbatore Junction (70 km).
Nearest cities and towns to Coonoor
- Ooty (20 km)
- Kotagiri (20 km)
- Mettupalayam (35 km)
- Coimbatore (70 km)
- Mysore (145 km)
- Calicut (180 km)
- Salem (200 km)
- Kannur (250 km)
- Bangalore (300 km)
- Chennai (520 km)
Top attractions in Coonoor
- Sim’s Park
- Dolphin’s Nose Viewpoint
- Lady Canning’s Seat
- Law’s Falls
- Lamb’s Rock
- Droog Fort
- St. George’s Church
- Highfield Tea Factory
- Wellington Lake
Top activities to do in Coonoor
- Tea plantation tours
- Trekking and hiking
- Toy train rides (Nilgiri Mountain Railway)
- Nature walks
- Photography
- Boating in Wellington Lake
- Tea tasting
4. Kotagiri
Kotagiri is the third-largest hill station located in the Nilgiri Hills, the other two being Ooty and Coonoor. This charming hill town rests on the Western Ghats, at an altitude of over 6000 feet from sea level.
The hill town of Kotagiri is charming, to say the least. You can see many tea plantations and colonial-style cottages sprinkled across the town. The region is also dotted with a decent range of attractions, ranging from waterfalls to viewpoints.
Compared to Ooty, Kotagiri is Compared to Ooty, Kotagiri is a less crowded destination and hence preferred by travelers looking for peaceful staycations.
- Where: Nilgiris District
- Ideal trip duration: 1 day
- Nearest airport to Kotagiri: Coimbatore International Airport (70 km)
- Nearest railway station to Kotagiri: Mettupalayam Railway Station (35 km). At a distance of 70 km, Coimbatore Junction is the major railway station near Kotagiri.
Nearest cities and towns to Kotagiri
- Coonoor (20 km)
- Ooty (30 km)
- Mettupalayam (35 km)
- Coimbatore (70 km)
- Mysore (155 km)
- Calicut (190 km)
- Salem (195 km)
- Kannur (255 km)
- Bangalore (300 km)
- Chennai (520 km)
Top attractions in Kotagiri
- Longwood Shola
- Catherine Falls
- Kodanad Viewpoint
- John Sullivan Memorial
Top activities to do in Kotagiri
- Tea plantation tours
- Trekking and hiking
- Photography
5. Yelagiri
Located in the district of Tirupattur, Yelagiri (also called Elagiri) is a quaint hill station comprising 14 villages. The region, surrounded by green valleys and orchards, serves as the perfect summer retreat for people who prefer an off-beat holiday experience.
The main reason why Yelagiri is popular among tourists is its proximity to cities. At a distance of around 160 km, it is one of the best hill stations near Bangalore for a quick weekend getaway. The city of Chennai is around 220 km from Yelagiri.
It also scores high on sightseeing and adventure activities. The region is dotted with many attractions such as waterfalls and lakes, making it a preferred destination for tourists. As Yelagiri is a hub for trekking and paragliding, it is visited by adventure seekers as well.
- Where: Tirupattur District
- Ideal trip duration: 1 to 2 days
- Nearest airport to Yelagiri: Kempegowda International Airport (180 km). The international airport in Chennai is approx. 215 km away.
- Nearest railway station to Yelagiri: Jolarpettai Junction (20 km)
Nearest cities and towns to Yelagiri
- Jolarpettai (20 km)
- Krishnagiri (65 km)
- Vellore (90 km)
- Katpadi (95)
- Bangalore (160 km)
- Chennai (220 km)
Top attractions in Yelagiri
- Punganoor Lake
- Nature Park
- Government Silk Farm
- Government Herbal Farm
- Swamimalai Hills
- Velavan Temple
- Moksha Vimochana Temple
- Jalagamparai Waterfalls
- Nilavoor Lake
- SRL Rose Garden
- Jalagandeeswarar Temple
Top activities to do in Yelagiri
- Local sightseeing
- Trekking
- Paragliding
- Rock climbing
- Nature walks
- Boating
- Farm tours
6. Yercaud
Another noteworthy name in the long list of hill stations in Tamil Nadu is Yercaud, a scenic destination tucked away in the Shevaroy Hill Ranges of the Eastern Ghats. This small hilly town near Salem is known for its cool climate, coffee estates, orange groves, and spice plantations.
Yercaud is also famous among travelers as one of the most affordable hill stations in South India. In addition to an exciting range of attractions like waterfalls, lakes, and viewpoints, the hill station has quite a few activities to keep the adventure junkies engaged.
Being one of the many hill stations in Tamil Nadu developed by the British, the place retains traces of its past in the form of colonial-style buildings and bungalows. Driving through the scenic and winding 32-km Loop Road is another experience you shouldn’t miss out on.
- Where: Salem District
- Ideal trip duration: 1 to 2 days
- Nearest airport to Yercaud: Coimbatore International Airport (190 km)
- Nearest railway station to Yercaud: Salem Junction (30 km)
Nearest cities and towns to Yercaud
- Salem (30 km)
- Dharmapuri (95 km)
- Erode (95 km)
- Coimbatore (195 km)
- Bangalore (230 km)
- Chennai (340 km)
Top attractions in Yercaud
- Anna Park
- Emerald Lake
- Deer Park
- Bear’s Cave
- Shevaroy Temple
- Kiliyur Waterfall
- Lady’s Seat
- Pagoda Point
- Rose Garden
- Silk Farm
- Sri Raja Rajeshwari Temple
- Botanical Garden
- Kottachedu Teak Forest
- Montfort School
- Tipperary View Point
Top activities to do in Yercaud
- Heritage building tour
- Camping
- Drive through the 32-km Loop Road
- Walk through the teak forests
- Local sightseeing
- Trekking
- Plantation walks and tours
- Plantation homestays
- Boating
7. Valparai
Stands majestically on the Anaimalai Hill Ranges of the Western Ghats, Valparai is among the lesser-explored hill stations in Tamil Nadu. This small hill town in the Coimbatore district is covered with tea estates and surrounded by the Anamalai Tiger Reserve.
The route that leads to Valparai from the foothills is a scenic one. With 40 hairpin bends, it is a favorite route for bikers. The region is also known for its abundance of wildlife and is home to Nilgiri Tahr and leopards.
The region offers plenty of sightseeing options, including Sholayar Dam and Aliyar Dam. Valparai, one of the most sought after hill stations in Tamil Nadu is located pretty close to the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border, just around 80 km away from the famous Athirappilly Waterfalls in Kerala.
- Where: Coimbatore District
- Ideal trip duration: 2 to 3 days
- Nearest airport to Valparai: Cochin International Airport (120 km) and Coimbatore International Airport (120 km)
- Nearest railway station to Valparai: Pollachi Junction (65 km) and Coimbatore Junction (105 km)
Nearest cities and towns to Valparai
- Pollachi (65 km)
- Coimbatore (110 km)
- Palakkad (110 km)
- Tiruppur (130 km)
- Thrissur (135 km)
- Cochin (150)
- Erode (200 km)
- Bangalore (460 km)
- Chennai (570 km)
Top attractions in Valparai
- Aaliyar Dam
- Monkey Falls
- Sholayar Dam
- Tea Estate Garden
- Nirar Dam
- Vellamalai Tunnel River
- Loam’s View Point
- Chinna Kallar Falls
- Balaji Temple
- Anamalai Tiger Reserve
- Top Slip
- Grass Hills
- Nallamudi Poonjolai Viewpoint
Top activities to do in Valparai
- Sightseeing
- Picnics
- Birdwatching
- Trekking
- Bicycling
8. Kolukkumalai
How about taking a trip to the world’s highest tea plantation? Make your way to Kolukkumalai, a tiny village located in the Theni district of Tamil Nadu, at a whopping height of around 7900 feet.
The hilltop village is a visual delight for visitors, thanks to its lush tea gardens and scenic setting, and offers commanding views of the Western Ghats. Munnar, one of the top hill stations in Kerala, is located around 50 km away from Kolukkumalai.
The road leading to Kolukkumalai is rugged, so the place can be accessed only in jeeps. The bumpy jeep ride to the top of the village is an adventure experience in itself.
- Where: Theni District
- Ideal trip duration: 1 day
- Nearest airport to Kolukkumalai: Cochin International Airport (135 km) and Madurai Airport (150 km)
- Nearest railway station to Kolukkumalai: Madurai Junction (140 km) andErnakulam Junction (150 km)
Nearest cities and towns to Kolukkumalai
- Munnar (50 km)
- Theni town (65 km)
- Madurai (140 km)
- Cochin (150 km)
- Bangalore (510 km)
- Chennai (570 km)
Top attractions in Kolukkumalai
- Kolukkumalai Tea Factory
- Nearby attractions located in Munnar and Theni
Top activities to do in Kolukkumalai
- Jeep trekking
- Tea factory tour
- Shopping for tea powder
- Neelakurinji trek
- Catching the spectacular sunrise
9. Javadi Hills
Not all hill stations in Tamil Nadu are on the Western Ghats. Some are tucked away in the mountain ranges of the Eastern Ghats too. Javadi Hills (also called Jawadhi Hills and Jawadhu Hills) is one such destination, blessed with abundant natural beauty.
Javadi Hills is located around 45 km away from Yelagiri, another one of the off-beat hill stations in Tamil Nadu. It is recommended that you cover both these destinations together to make the most of your trip.
The astronomical observatory established by the famous Indian astronomer Vainu Bappu is a major attraction in Javadi Hills. You can also find waterfalls and a few other attractions sprinkled around the region.
- Where: Vellore and Tiruvannamalai Districts
- Ideal trip duration: 1 to 2 days (can be combined with Yelagiri)
- Nearest airport to Javadi Hills: Chennai International Airport (200 km) and Kempegowda International Airport, Bangalore (210 km)
- Nearest railway station to Javadi Hills: Vaniyambadi Railway Station (30 km) and Jolarpettai Junction (40 km)
Nearest cities and towns to Javadi Hills
- Vaniyambadi (30 km)
- Jolarpettai (45 km)
- Vellore (75 km)
- Katpadi (80 km)
- Bangalore (175 km)
- Chennai (210 km)
Top attractions in Javadi Hills
- Vainu Bappu Observatory or Kavalur Observatory
- Komutteri Lake
- Beemanmadavu Waterfall
- Amirthi Forest and Zoological Park
Top activities to do in Javadi Hills
- Sightseeing
- Trekking
- Photography
10. Kalrayan Hills
Kalrayan Hills, locally known as Kalvarayan Hills, is among the lesser-known and lesser-explored hill stations in Tamil Nadu. Located in the Kallakurichi district, it is one of the main ranges of hills in the Eastern Ghats.
The hills are cocooned in forests and surrounded by several places of interest, including two waterfalls. Kalrayan Hills is also a great destination for trekkers, especially for those who prefer lesser-explored trails.
The region is easily accessible from Salem, which is around 70 km away. Located within a distance of 100 km from Kalvarayan Hills are two other popular hill stations in Tamil Nadu, namely Yercaud and Kolli Hills.
- Where: Kallakurichi District
- Ideal trip duration: 1 day
- Nearest airport to Kalrayan Hills: Salem Airport (100 km) and Tiruchirappalli International Airport (190 km)
- Nearest railway station to Kalrayan Hills: Salem Junction (90 km)
Nearest cities and towns to Kalrayan Hills
- Kallakurichi town (55 km)
- Salem (70 km)
- Tiruchirappalli / Trichy (165 km)
- Coimbatore (240 km)
- Bangalore (225 km)
- Chennai (290 km)
Top attractions in Kalrayan Hills
- Megam Falls
- Periyar Falls
- Puzhuthikuttai Dam
- Gomukhi Dam
Top activities to do in Kalrayan Hills
- Trekking
- Sightseeing
11. Kolli Hills
Another one of the Tamil Nadu hill stations located in the Eastern Ghats, Kolli Hills aka Kolli Malai is a hidden gem in the heart of nature. This small hill range is in the Namakkal district, a short distance away from Salem (55 km).
One of the key attractions at Kolli Hills is the route that takes you to the top of the hill – it has 70 hairpin bends! It goes without saying that exploring this scenic route on a bike is an exciting experience in itself.
There are waterfalls, viewpoints, and other places of interest around Kolli Hills. The region also attracts devotees and nirvana seekers, thanks to the presence of the Arapaleeswarar Temple.
- Where: Namakkal District
- Ideal trip duration: 1 to 2 days
- Nearest airport to Kolli Hills: Salem Airport (75 km), Tiruchirappalli International Airport (110 km), Coimbatore International Airport (175 km)
- Nearest railway station to Kolli Hills: Salem Junction (60 km)
Nearest cities and towns to Kolli Hills
- Namakkal town (25 km)
- Salem (55 km)
- Tiruchirappalli / Trichy (110 km)
- Coimbatore (180 km)
- Bangalore (260 km)
- Chennai (360 km)
Top attractions in Kolli Hills
- Arapaleeswarar Temple
- Tampcol Medicinal Farm
- Agaya Gangai Waterfalls
- Ettukai Amman Temple
- Botanical Garden
- Masilla Falls
- Selur View Point
Top activities to do in Kolli Hills
- Boating at Vasalurpatty Boat House
- Bike trips through the hairpin bends
- Sightseeing
- Trekking
12. Pachaimalai Hills
Fancy spending your days at one of the most verdant hill stations in Tamil Nadu? You must add the Pachaimalai Hills or Pachais, a lush green hill range in the Eastern Ghats, to your bucket list. And guess what, the name Pachaimalai means ‘green hills’ in Tamil.
Pachaimalai Hills is in the district of Tiruchirappalli, also called Trichy, and covered with dry deciduous and dry evergreen forests. Several waterfalls and small streams cascade through these forests, adding to the pristine charm of the region.
The forests in Pachaimalai Hills also have several scenic trekking trails. The Forest Department of Tamil Nadu has developed the region into an eco-tourism destination with guided trekking tours and accommodation facilities.
- Where: Tiruchirappalli /Trichy District
- Ideal trip duration: 1 to 2 days
- Nearest airport to Pachaimalai Hills: Tiruchirappalli International Airport (85 km)
- Nearest railway station to Pachaimalai Hills: Tiruchirappalli Junction (95 km)
- Details of eco-tourism facilities: Click here
Nearest cities and towns to Pachaimalai Hills
- Thuraiyur (35 km)
- Tiruchirappalli /Trichy (85 km)
- Salem (105 km)
- Coimbatore (260 km)
- Bangalore (305 km)
- Chennai (345 km)
Top attractions in Pachaimalai Hills
- Mangalam Falls
- Koraiyaru Falls
- Mayil Uthu Falls
Top activities to do in Pachaimalai Hills
- Trekking
- Sightseeing
13. Megamalai
Megamalai or Meghamalai is a remote, small, and extremely scenic Tamil Nadu hill station perched at a height of over 4900 feet above sea level. Also called the High Wavy Mountains and Paccha Kumachi, this hill range in the Western Ghats is located in the district of Theni on the Tamil Nadu-Kerala border.
Covered by dense evergreen forests, Megamalai is among the least explore hill stations in the southern part of India. Several tea plantations and cardamom estates dot the region, further adding to its picturesque beauty.
The Meghamalai Wildlife Sanctuary, which borders the Periyar Tiger Reserve in Kerala, is home to a diverse species of wildlife, flora, and fauna. There is also a good array of tourist attractions in and around the hill station, including dams, waterfalls, and viewpoints.
- Where: Theni District
- Ideal trip duration: 1 to 2 days
- Nearest airport to Megamalai: Madurai Airport (105 km)
- Nearest railway station to Megamalai: Kodaikanal Road Railway Station (105 km), Madurai Junction (110 km), and Dindigul Junction (120 km)
Nearest cities and towns to Megamalai
- Theni town (50 km)
- Thekkady (95 km)
- Kodaikanal Road (105 km)
- Madurai (115 km)
- Dindigul (120 km)
- Munnar town (150 km)
- Coimbatore (260 km)
- Bangalore (490 km)
- Chennai (550 km)
Top attractions in Megamalai
- Chinna Suruli Falls
- Megamalai Wildlife Sanctuary
- Vellimalai
- Manalar Dam
- Megamalai Viewpoint
- Cumbum Valley
- Maharajamettu View Point
- Murugan Temple
Top activities to do in Megamalai
- Trekking
- Birdwatching
- Plantation tours
- Sightseeing
14. Ketti Valley
When you want to get yourself lost in panoramic vistas, soothing climate, and nature’s abundance, there is no better place than Ketti Valley. Located in the Nilgiris, a short distance away from Ooty, Coonoor, and Kotagiri, it is one of the largest inhabited valleys in the country.
The valley and the town nestled in it attracts travelers all year round. The Nilgiri Mountain Railway passes through the valley, which enhances its tourist appeal. Often called the Switzerland of the Nilgiris, Ketti Valley is a haven for nature lovers and photographers.
The valley and its surrounding region also contain a few places of interest, such as tea plantations and temples. The valley and the surrounding hills can be viewed from Ketti Valley Viewpoint, which also has a telescope room to give you better and closer views.
- Where: Nilgiris District
- Ideal trip duration: 1 day (can be combined with Coonoor and Ooty)
- Nearest airport to Ketti Valley: Coimbatore International Airport (80 km)
- Nearest railway station to Ketti Valley: Mettupalayam Railway Station (45 km) and Coimbatore Junction (80 km)
Nearest cities and towns to Ketti Valley
- Ooty (12 km)
- Coonoor (15 km)
- Kotagiri (30 km)
- Mettupalayam (45 km)
- Coimbatore (80 km)
- Mysore (135 km)
- Calicut (170 km)
- Bangalore (295 km)
- Chennai (530 km)
Top attractions in Ketti Valley
- Ketti Valley Viewpoint
- Shiva Lingam Temple
- Emerald Tea Plantations
- Other attractions in Ooty and Coonoor
Top activities to do in Ketti Valley
- Sightseeing
- Watching sunrises and sunsets
- Photography
- Picnics
15. Masinagudi
Masinagudi, located in the Nilgiris, is a hill station blessed with lush green forests and rich wildlife. It is part of the Mudumalai National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary and can be easily accessed from other popular hill stations in the Nilgiris, including Ooty (30 km) and Coonoor (50 km).
Of the many things that make Masinagudi one of the most popular hill stations in Tamil Nadu is its natural beauty. The region is known for several tourist attractions and adventure activities such as wildlife safaris, dams, elephant camps, rivers, and more.
Masinagudi is also one of the most popular destinations for jungle stays and retreats. There is a good range of wildlife resorts and jungle huts located deep inside the forest, where you can experience wilderness in close quarters.
- Where: Nilgiris District
- Ideal trip duration: 2 to 3 days
- Nearest airport to Masinagudi: Mysore Airport (90 km), Coimbatore International Airport (115 km), and Calicut International Airport (120 km)
- Nearest railway station to Masinagudi: Mettupalayam Railway Station (80 km), Mysore Junction (100 km), and Coimbatore Junction (115 km)
Nearest cities and towns to Masinagudi
- Ooty (30 km)
- Coonoor (50 km)
- Mettupalayam (80 km)
- Mysore (100 km)
- Coimbatore (115 km)
- Calicut (135 km)
- Bangalore (255 km)
- Chennai (565 km)
Top attractions in Masinagudi
- Mudumalai National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary
- Maravakandy Dam
- Moyar River
- Theppakadu Elephant Camp
- Kalhatti Falls
- Bandipur National Park
Top activities to do in Masinagudi
- Jungle living
- Jungle safaris and wildlife spotting
- Birdwatching
- Trekking
- Elephant rides
- Tent camping
16. Manjolai Hills
Another one of the hill stations in Tamil Nadu in the southern parts of the Western Ghats, Manjolai Hills is your perfect little summer resort. Located in the Tirunelveli district, it forms part of the Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve.
The Manjolai region is best known for its tea plantations and it also has a decent array of tourist attractions like waterfalls and viewpoints. It is one of the top off-beat hill stations in Tamil Nadu to beat the summers, thanks to its cool weather and serene settings.
Since Manjolai Hills is part of a reserve forest, you must obtain prior permission from the forest department to visit the region in private vehicles. Hotels and restaurants are also scanty in the area, so it is recommended that you plan the trip accordingly.
- Where: Tirunelveli District
- Ideal trip duration: 1 to 2 days
- Nearest airport to Manjolai Hills: Tuticorin Airport (100 km) and Trivandrum International Airport (180 km)
- Nearest railway station to Manjolai Hills: Kallidaikurichi Railway Station (30 km), Ambasamudram Railway Station (30 km), Viravanallur Railway Station (35 km), and Tirunelveli Junction (60 km)
Nearest cities and towns to Manjolai Hills
- Manimutharu (25 km)
- Ambasamudram (30 km)
- Viravanallur (35 km)
- Tirunelveli (65 km)
- Kanyakumari (110 km)
- Nagercoil (120 km)
- Thoothukudi / Tuticorin (120 km)
- Thiruvananthapuram (170 km)
- Madurai (220 km)
- Bangalore (640 km)
- Chennai (690 km)
Top attractions in Manjolai Hills
- Upper Kodayar Dam
- Kuthiravetti Viewpoint
- Manimuthar Dam and Falls
- Papanasam Dam
- Agasthyar Falls
- Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve
- Dasan Pool / Tarzan Pool
- Kakkachi Lake
- Vaanatheertham Falls
Top activities to do in Manjolai Hills
- Sightseeing
- Trekking
17. Bellikkal
A quaint little hamlet located around 15 km away from Ooty, Bellikkal is one of the hill stations in Tamil Nadu where you can put your feet up and unwind. Perched at an altitude of around 5,500 feet in the Nilgiri Mountains of the Western Ghats, it oozes serenity and natural beauty.
Bellikkal, unlike Ooty or Coonoor, is not frequented by hundreds of tourists and hence serves as an off-beat holiday destination. This lesser-explored hill station has a few attractions, which includes Bellikkal Lake.
Though best suited for laid-back vacations, the place also offers a good range of outdoor activities for nature lovers, including birdwatching and wildlife spotting. You can easily cover Bellikkal and its attractions on your trip to Ooty.
- Where: Nilgiris District
- Ideal trip duration: 1 day (can be combined with Ooty)
- Nearest airport to Bellikkal: Coimbatore International Airport (100 km) and Calicut International Airport (145 km)
- Nearest railway station to Bellikkal: Mettupalayam Railway Station (65 km) and Coimbatore Junction (100 km)
Nearest cities and towns to Bellikkal
- Ooty (15 km)
- Coonoor (35 km)
- Mettupalayam (65 km)
- Coimbatore (105 km)
- Mysore (120 km)
- Calicut (160 km)
- Bangalore (270 km)
- Chennai (550 km)
Top attractions in Bellikkal
- Bellikkal Lake
- Bison Valley Viewpoint
- Kalhatti Falls
Top activities to do in Bellikkal
- Birdwatching
- Laid-back vacations
- Wildlife spotting
When there are so many hill stations in Tamil Nadu for a quick getaway or a relaxing vacation, why wait any further? Plan a trip and soak in the splendor of nature.
