Best hill stations of south India for the perfect holiday

These famous hill stations of south India are totally worth a visit in summer.

Published: March 22, 2017 2:37 PM IST

By Dilip Merala

There is something about hill stations that instantly transports us to a happy place. Not only do they provide a welcome respite from the summer heat, they also make us feel one with nature. Most hill stations have splendid weather conditions and offer spectacular views almost all year round. This is what makes them a preferred holiday choice for families and couples. The southern part of India is blessed with some of the most beautiful hill stations. They are all located at convenient distances from the urban plains making them popular weekend getaways. Here are the best hill stations of south India that can serve as ideal vacation destinations. ALSO SEE Top 15 places to visit in India

Ooty, Tamil Nadu

ooty (1)

Ooty in Tamil Nadu

The Queen of hill stations, Ooty is perhaps south India’s most popular holiday spot. Its emerald lakes and breathtaking views of rolling green hills make it an excellent choice for a getaway. Add to it the pleasant weather and what you have is a fantastic summer holiday destination for family and kids as well as couples looking for a honeymoon option.

Thenmala, Kerala

Photograph Courtesy: Akhil Unnithan/Creative Commons

Photograph Courtesy: Akhil Unnithan/Creative Commons

Renowned as India’s first planned eco tourism destination, Thenmala in the Kollam district of Kerala is a delight for nature lovers. Its beautiful waterfalls, rivers, and dams make for great picnic spots. It is also home to a deer park, vaerious adventure zones, and some of the most beautiful railway routes you will travel on. DO SEE These were Google’s top 10 most searched Indian hill stations in 2016

Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu

Kodaikanal’s beautiful lakes, gushing waterfalls and grassy hills make it a wonderful holiday spot in Tamil Nadu. Located around the Kodaikanal lake, it is one of the most popular hill stations of south India. Its breathtaking views are a big hit among tourists. It is also a delight for trekkers and backpackers thanks to the various trails around and the cheap accommodation options.

Idukki, Kerala

Idukki in Kerala

Idukki in Kerala

Idukki is one of Kerala’s prime tourist attractions that draws in nature lovers and history buffs alike. It is home to remains of the Chera dynasty, Vembolinad Kingdom, and European plantations in the later years, this rugged hill resort is best known for its wildlife sanctuaries, beautiful bungalows, tea factories, rubber plantations and forests.

Kudremukh, Karnataka

Photograph Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons

Photograph Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons

Located in the lush green Chikmagalur district of Karnataka, Kudremukh is a hill station known for its bio-diversity and rich minerals. Its stunning landscapes combined with its pleasant weather make Kudremukh an ideal summer getaway for people living in cities like Bangalore. CHECK OUT Top 10 most searched destinations in India in 2016 according to Google

Munnar, Kerala

Munnar

Munnar in Kerala

One of Kerala’s most precious gems, Munnar is famous for its rolling green spice and tea gardens and its mesmerizing climate. From simple activities like boating and hiking to adventure stuff like paragliding, Munnar offers w wide range of activities for all kinds of tourists. Whether your a wildlife enthusiast or an adrenaline junkie, a nature lover or a photographer, there is loads for you to do in Munnar.

Coonoor, Tamil Nadu

Coonoor

Coonoor in Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu’s second largest hill station is also one of south India’s most famous holiday spots. Coonoor was recently used as one of the locations for the hugely popular Bollywood movie Kapoor and Sons. Located in the Nilgiris, Coonoor is abundant in greenery and blessed with splendid weather during the winter season.

Araku Valley, Andhra Pradesh

Photograph Courtesy: Adityamadhav83/Wikimedia Commons

Photograph Courtesy: Adityamadhav83/Wikimedia Commons

Located amidst the eastern ghats, the beautiful Araku Valley makes for a wonderful holiday spot in Andhra Pradesh. It is the least populated hill station in India and a summer getaway for the local residents of Andhra Pradesh. Its breathtaking views of green hillocks and a clear blue sky will make you feel rejuvenated. DON’T MISS Best hill stations in Maharashtra in winter

Coorg, Karnataka

Coorg

Coorg is another hill station in Karnkataka known for its tea and coffee plantations. It is home to some enchanting waterfalls and trekking trails making it a delight for nature lovers. Its misty landscapes and huge mountains are a sight to behold. Coorg is an excellent choice for a pleasant and laid-back vacation.

Wayanad, Kerala

Wayanad-4

And then there is Wayanad in Kerala! From ancient ruins and mysterious caves to lush green hills and breathtaking landscapes, Wayanad has it all. Its temples are as alluring as its Western Ghat jungles and lovely lakes. Wayanad is also a trekker’s paradise as it is full of perfect camping spots and trekking trails. NOW SEE Where to go on a summer vacation in India with family

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