26 Best Hill Stations in South India

South India has a lot to offer for those looking to have fun and adventure during their vacation. The scenery of beautiful South Indian hill stations is mesmerizing. It has green forests, majestic mountains, and heritage sites that are cradled in rich flora and fauna. The sight of a gushing waterfall amidst tall cliffs is very soothing. 

South India’s hill stations are the perfect getaways for those who want to escape from sweltering summers. The Western Ghats, which is home to lush greenery and wildlife, comes alive during this time of year when temperatures soar in coastal cities like Chennai or Kochi as well as metropolitan areas such as Bangalore. 

Along with beautiful landscapes, it is also filled with historic sites and places of interest as well as tranquil backwaters and cascading waterfalls. In South India, every mile is full of bliss and steeped in the rich culture of the region.

The ambiance of the towns and villages are infinitely varied in form and color which makes it an unforgettable place for visitors.You can explore the region’s rich biodiversity through hiking trails along with the Wayanad forests that house exotic flora and fauna. Below we have listed the most popular Hill Stations in South India.

Coorg, Karnataka

Nestled amidst imposing mountains in Karnataka Coorg has a misty landscape that is perpetually blooming. It stands as one of the most popular coffee-producing destinations. This location has been noted for its beautiful green hills and streams cutting through them, along with their culture and people who are well known for being especially hospitable. The hospitality of the Kodava community which specializes in martial arts is heartwarming.

Coorg is officially known as Kodagu and is popular as the most affluent hill station in Karnataka. The beautiful scenery and lush greenery of the hill station have hills covered with spice plantations that make this region unique. Madikeri serves as the central point of tourism around Coorg. On your visit, you can explore popular tourist attractions in Coorg and nearby places like Virajpet where you can definitely try “homestays” for a memorable experience.

Ooty, Tamil Nadu

Nestled amidst the Nilgiri hills is Ooty, a quaint hill station in the state of Tamil Nadu. It has served as the summer headquarters of East India Company and even today attracts tourists from across the country. Its beautiful landscapes lure couples, making it the best honeymoon destination in South India.

There are many popular tourist places to visit in Ooty that you can plan to visit on your multi day trip. Also there are several tea gardens on the lush slopes of the hills, country lanes winding through verdant forests offering stunning views of the towering mountains. The Nilgiri mountain railway is the steepest track of Asia that takes you through lush greenery along Indian hillsides.

Munnar, Kerala

Munnar is a hill station in Kerala, perched at an altitude of 1600 meters. It is also popularly known as the ‘Kashmir’ of South India. This mountain resort has tea estates with unperturbed spreads of green everywhere covered with blankets of mist forming natural viewpoints. It is a popular place among nature photographers to capture stunning pictures.

Munnar is one of the most popular destinations for honeymooners in India with an abundance of resorts and cottages offering romantic views of the surroundings. The town has three rivers that meet here- Mattupetti, Nallathanni, and Periavaru which adds to the city’s beauty.

The town of Munnar also has a region known as Old Munnar, which has a tourist information office and where most guest houses are located. In contrast to this, its major attractions include Eravikulam National Park, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary as well as tea plantations.

Wayand, Kerala

Wayanad is a forest area in Kerala is famous for its spice plantations, historical caves, comfortable resorts and homestays. You can experience the city by walking through its sprawling spice plantations to trekking into prehistoric cave systems or enjoy a resort holiday here.

Wayanad is best known for its beautiful wildlife and there are many famous tourist places to visit in Wayanad. Home to an exquisite variety of flora and fauna, Wayanad Wildlife Reserve is a perfect weekend escape from the bustling cities in South India.

If you are traveling by road from Bangalore to Wayanad you can visit three national parks along the route. Stay amidst the wild or enjoy jungle safari at Nagarhole National Park, Bandipur National Park, and Mudumalai Tiger reserve that lie along your travel route.

Araku Valley, Vizag

A calm and secluded getaway in South India, Araku Valley is the perfect place to visit for a relaxing vacation in South India. Located 120 kilometers away from Visakhapatnam towards Andhra Pradesh’s Eastern Ghats mountains, Araku Valley is a famous hill station in South India that offers some beautiful vistas of untouched landscapes.

The journey to this destination by train is an amazing experience itself. The Vistadome Train leaves at 6:50 AM making its way through 58 tunnels and passing over 84 bridges as it makes its journey towards Araku.

Located in the gentle hills of Eastern Ghats, Araku Valley is also home to a number of tribes. You can explore the Borra caves in the area and shop for handmade artifacts. You can also try your hand at adventure sports like trekking or swimming. 

You can relax in the splendid ambiance of Araku Valley while enjoying the beautiful vista points located near coffee plantations. The subtle aroma of coffee attracts coffee enthusiasts to take tours along the plantations.

Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

Located in Dindigul, Kodaikanal is one of the best hill stations in South India during summer. With an altitude of 7200 feet and surrounded by lush forests, this small town offers much to explore for those looking beyond the busy city life.

Surrounded by the green Palani Hills, Kodaikanal is a beautiful place with a lot of tourist attractions. The highlights of the place include Silver Cascade Falls, Kodai Lake, Berijam Lake, Pillar Rocks, etc. 

With its beautiful climate and scenic views, Kodaikanal is the perfect destination for a relaxing vacation. The rolling hills of Palani provide an idyllic setting for honeymooners. Whether you head out on biking or hiking, there are plenty of trails in this hill town. Kodaikanal is easily accessible via public transport as well.

Yercaud, Tamil Nadu

Yercaud is among the popular hill stations in Tamilnadu, South India. It is located in the Shevaroy Hills of the Eastern Ghats, at an altitude of 1,515 meters. The cool climate and scenic views of the hill town make it a popular tourist destination.

Yercaud is known for its coffee plantations, orange groves, and fruit orchards. The town also has several interesting places to visit such as the Lady Lake, Killiyur Falls, Pagoda Point, and the Botanical Gardens. Shevaroy Temple is an important pilgrimage in the hill station.

Hiking, bird watching, and trekking are popular activities to enjoy in Yercaud. The region is home to a wide variety of animals including foxes, deer, snakes, and squirrels.

Yelagiri, Tamil Nadu

Yelagiri is one of the best hill stations in South India during summer. It is situated in the Vellore district of Tamil Nadu at an altitude of 1,110 meters above sea level. The hill station has a temperate climate and is surrounded by natural abundance.

Yelagiri has 14 hamlets that are spread across the hills. The hill station is known for its plantations of coffee, tea, cardamom, and honey. There are also many fruit trees such as mango, jackfruit, orange, and lemon.

Yelagiri hill station is a popular tourist destination among nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The hill station offers a number of activities such as trekking, bird watching, and camping. A hidden gem, the hill town has been preserved for centuries. One of its most famous features is the annual summer festival which celebrates nature, culture and heritage. The festival is organized in May each year by the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Board.

Coonoor, Tamil Nadu

Located in the Nilgiri Hills at an altitude of 1,860 meters, Coonoor is a popular hill station in Southern India. Known for its lush green landscapes and picturesque views, the hill station is also home to a number of tourist attractions. You can explore Sim’s Park, Dolphin’s Nose, and Lamb’s Rock to witness the natural grandeur of the region.

Sim’s Park is a lush garden and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Coonoor. The park is home to a variety of plant species, including some rare and endangered ones. You can also indulge in a fun toy train ride and experience nostalgia at the Nilgiri Mountain Railways. 

Coonoor is the best hill station in South India for those searching for some adventure. You can embark on an exciting trek through the town’s mysterious rainforests. Hidden Valley is another haven for adventure seekers and photography enthusiasts. It is a nice place for a relaxing picnic with family and friends.

You can enjoy trekking through the rainforests of Hidden Valley or hike to the mesmerizing Law’s Falls. Nature lovers can walk through the lush tea plantations at High Fields Tea Factory and indulge in tea tasting. 

Kotagiri, Tamil Nadu

Kotagiri is a gorgeous hill station that rests at an altitude of 5882 feet. Being one of the oldest hill stations in South India, it attracts tourists from across India. The town served as a coffee plantation earlier, but today it specializes in tea production. Tea estates cover 30 thousand acres of the hill station.

You can enjoy vistas of vast greenery and rolling hills to offer plenty of opportunities for nature and adventure lovers. Trekking and hiking are popular activities to enjoy in Kotagiri. Catherine Falls and Longwood Shola offer an opportunity for easy treks. Kotagiri-Kodanad serves as one of the most popular trekking trails in town. You can enjoy splendid views of the Rangaswamy Peak, Catherine Falls, Dolphin’s Nose, and Rangaswamy Pillar from the Kodanand View Point.

The region is home to the Kota tribe and is also resplendent with instances from the history of British rule in India. You can dig up the history of the region at the John Sullivan Memorial.

Anaimalai Hills, Tamil Nadu

Anaimalai Hills is popularly known as The Elephant Mountains. It is a beautiful hill station in South India located in the Western Ghats. Home to rich biodiversity for centuries, it still preserves much of the flora and fauna.

Anaimalai Hills is the perfect weekend getaway for those who love a trip to the forest. Nature lovers can explore the lush green forests to spot rare birds and animals. The pristine forests and mountain ranges in Anamalai provide an unparalleled natural environment for hiking, trekking or boat trips. The rivers are perfect spots to go fishing while stunning photos can be taken at waterfalls.

Valparai, Tamil Nadu

The perfect destination for a weekend getaway, Valparai is nestled in the Anaimalai Hills. It offers visitors astounding views of Anamalai Tiger Reserve or  Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park, with a chance to spot elephants and panthers living in their natural surroundings. 

Though less-known among the hill stations in South India, Valparai is an upcoming tourism destination. It is surrounded by beautiful green tea estates. You can experience a luxurious stay amidst the wild at the Wild Woods Cottages.

There are several sightseeing spots in and around the hill station. Prominent tourist attractions in Valparai are Monkey Falls, Nirar Dam, and Azhiyar Dam. You can also swim and relax at the Vellamalai Tunnel River. The Balaji Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu is a prominent pilgrimage in the region. 

Thekkady, Kerala

Thekkady is a hidden treasure trove for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. It was among the lesser-known hill stations in South India but is growing in popularity with so much to offer. Ideal for a short trip with family and friends, the hill station has a multitude of activities to enjoy.

Thekkady has a wide array of tourist attractions and offers a chance to explore the lush green slopes, deep forests, lakes and waterfalls. Some popular places to visit in Thekkady include Periyar Lake, Chellarkovil Waterfall, and Periyar Tiger Reserve. The hill town also has many ancient temples such as the historic Mangala Devi temple.

You can indulge in boating at the Periyar Lake, bamboo rafting at the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, and elephant rides at the Periyar Tiger Park. There are several trails for trekking and hiking around Thekkady. Spring Valley Mountain, Pandikuzhi, and Gavi are popular spots among trekkers. You can also explore the hill station through guided nature walks and tribal walks.

Athirapally, Kerala

Athirapally is one of the lesser-known hill stations of Kerala. Located in the state renowned as God’s own country- Kerala, this quaint hill station has scenic landscapes filled with natural charm. The pristine views make it a perfect spot for nature photography. 

Athirapally is home to charming waterfalls that attract travelers from across the country. Its scenic beauty has been captured in movies like Guru, Dil Se, and Roza. The hill station offers stunning views resplendent with the lush greenery of Sholayar forests and soothing landscapes.

Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary is a hidden treasure trove of wildlife species located in Athirapally alongside the Western Ghats in Kerala. The sanctuary offers a wide variety of endangered species of flora and fauna. The beauty of Western Ghats can be witnessed at Athirappilly Falls. 

Ponmudi, Kerala

Travelers looking for a slice of Kerala in the middle of their trip will find what they’re seeking at Ponmudi. With winding pathways leading up to beautiful views, this hill station has something that makes each person want more than just one day for relaxation.

Ponmudi is a quaint little town in the lap of rolling hills, with lush green landscapes and waterfalls. There are tea plantations embellished with exotic butterflies and small rivulets which offer stunning scenery when traveling by road. You can enjoy mountain biking through the narrow roads of Ponmudi. A walk through Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary allows you to witness the flora and fauna of the region in their natural habitat. 

The most popular activity in this region is trekking and mountain climbing. Agasthyarkoodam, 2nd highest peak in the region, is a popular trekking spot in South India. You can also explore nature’s beauty while spending some time with your loved ones at the Golden Valley. Located on the banks of the Kallari River, it is a popular picnic spot offering splendid views of the surroundings with the freshwater springs. 

The annual celebration of the Aranmula Temple festival takes place in August-September every year. Witness the wondrous Aranmula Boat Race on the Pampa River and understand the local rituals.

Malampuzha, Kerala

One of the best hill stations in South India, Malampuzha is resplendent with lush greenery. With a backdrop of lush greenery and serene waters, Malampuzha Dam is one of the most scenic spots in the region. The dam was constructed 50 years ago on the tributary of River Bharathapuzha to aid proper irrigation for farmers. Today it offers visitors an array of entertainment options including boat rides on its beautiful river or leisurely walks along paths lined with flowers. You can also explore the nearby Rock Garden built by the genius sculptor, Nek Chand. 

The Snake Park and rehabilitation center is home to various species of snakes. It is maintained by the Government of Kerala and allures nature lovers from across the region. Another prominent tourist spot in Malampuzha is the beautiful Thread Garden, featuring flowers and plants woven using colorful thread. You can also spend some time relaxing in the lap of nature at the Malampuzha Garden, fondly referred to as the ‘Vrindavan of Kerala’.

Adventure seekers can visit the amusement parks in Malampuzha for a fun-packed holiday with your folks. Fantasy Park is a popular themed water park offering respite from the scorching summer sun. Udan Khatola ropeway is another fun activity popular among tourists. Tourists can enjoy aerial views of the lush surroundings of the Malampuzha Dam and Gardens.

Vagamon, Kerala

Vagamon or Wagamon in Kerala is an offbeat hill station in South India. With its pleasant climate throughout the year, this quiet hill station is an upcoming tourist destination. There are many popular places to visit in Vagamon. Natural attractions like waterfalls, pine forests, and tea estates add up to Vagamons’ beauty and uniqueness.

The breathtaking beauty of the lush green hills is enhanced by the meandering rivulets. A plethora of adventure activities makes it an amazing getaway destination for a refreshing vacation. You can enjoy activities such as trekking, hiking, rock climbing, and paragliding. Mountain biking is another interesting activity to entertain visitors. 

The annual International Paragliding Festival is hosted by Kerala Tourism Department and the Adventure Sports and Sustainable Tourism Academy (AASTA). It is the perfect way to witness the magnificence of Vagamon while enjoying an enthralling activity.

Ramakkalmedu, Kerala

Ramakkalmedu is an enchanting retreat and ranked among the most beautiful hill stations in South India. The fresh mountain air and cool green hills make this place a haven for nature lovers who want to escape from their busy lives back home. The place gets its name from the impressions on the rock surfaces believed to be of Lord Rama. 

This quaint hill town is located in the Idukki district on the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border. It is located near the popular tourist spots of Thekkady and Nedumkandam. You can enjoy panoramic views of the vibrant Western Ghats.

The windy, hilly landscape of Ramakkalmedu is a perfect spot for generating electricity. The Government has set up turbines here to produce clean energy that makes the lives of locals better. 

Frog Rock and Turtle Rock are prominent tourist attractions of the hill station. It also hosts the highest twin statue in Kerala called Kuravan and Kurathi. Besides sightseeing the area is famous for a wide variety of adventure activities including hiking, trekking, and camping amidst nature. You can also enjoy paragliding to witness a bird’s eye view of the hill station.

Chikmagalur, Karnataka

Chikmagalur is a small hill town in the state of Karnataka. It is renowned for its coffee production. The perpetual fragrance of coffee brings visitors back again and again to enjoy nature’s beauty. You can enjoy the pleasant weather while exploring the popular tourist attractions of Chikmagalur.

Chikmagalur is a town that not only produces coffee but also provides visitors with an opportunity for self-discovery. There are many coffee and tea plantations offering guided tours and tasting sessions. You can add fun to your trip by booking a homestay in Chikmagalur within the estate so you can wake up to the smell of fresh coffee.

The best way to see the breathtaking Indian mountains is by trekking through Chikmagalur. The town boasts of many exciting trails, such as the BabaBudangiri trek, Kemmanagundi trek, and Mullayangiri trek. Being the highest peak in the region, the  Mullayanagiri peak provides uninterrupted access to the incredible view of the surroundings. You can spend your vacation watching the morning sun rising behind lush green ranges and tall snowy peaks.

Sakleshpur, Karnataka

The emerald green forest, hike-able mountains and waterfalls are only the beginning of what makes Sakleshpur so special. There is also a quaint little town filled with history that earned its name rightfully as it has much more to offer than just lush greenery.

It is among the offbeat hill stations of South India and offers something for all types of travellers. History lovers and architecture enthusiasts will be mesmerised by the Manjarabad Fort. The imposing structure narrates the tales of Tipu Sultan. Another important tourist attraction is Bettada Bhairaveshwara Prasanna Temple and Pandavar Gudda. According to folklore, the Pandavas resided at this spot during their exile.

The mountains in Sakleshpur are a great place to get some fresh air and enjoy the outdoors. You can go trekking in the region and enjoy the beautiful views. The prominent trails are those heading towards Agni Gudda, Jenukal Gudda, Ombattu Gudda, and Pandavar Gudda.

Kemmannugundi, Karnataka

Kemmanagundi or KR hills is among the best hill stations in South India. These pristine hills are a perfect summer retreat for those looking for a refreshing vacation in the lap of nature. The region was set up as a summer retreat by Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV. It was later handed over to the Government of Karnataka.

The region has a wide variety of sightseeing spots for nature lovers and activities for adventure enthusiasts. A walk in the Rock Garden is a treat to all your senses. You can trek to Z Point to enjoy exquisite views of the Western Ghats. Other prominent vantage points are Mullayanagiri and Rajendra Hill. The spiritual vibe of Kalahatti Falls and Veerabhadreshwara Temple is unmatchable. You can spend a day enjoying a picnic at Shanti Falls or trek to Hebbe Falls.

Horsley Hills, Andhra Pradesh

Horsley Hills in Andhra Pradesh is an ideal destination for those who seek peace away from the bustling city life. Named after the British collector W. D. Horsley, the picturesque hills are ideal for a relaxing vacation with family and friends. The pristine hill station is often referred to as the Ooty of Andhra. 

The magnificent landscape of Horsley Konda also doubles up as a destination for adventure sports and fun activities. You can enjoy enthralling activities such as trampoline, shooting, fish spa, bow and arrow, and water walking. Kids can indulge in wall climbing or enjoy a visit to the Horsley Hill Zoo. 

Nature lovers can visit Gangotri Lake to spend some time relaxing in the lap of nature. You can trek to the ViewPoint to explore the beauty of Horsley Hills. It is a great place to capture the splendid sunrise and sunset. Night camping is another popular activity at the hill station. You can enjoy bonfires and stargaze along with the thrill of sleeping under the open sky.

Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh

The significance of Tirumala is more than all major hill stations in South India. Located in the Chittoor district, Tirumala is one of the seven hills in Tirupati. It is a prominent pilgrimage destination in India for Hindu devotees. Sri Venkateswara Temple in Tirumala is regarded as the abode of the presiding deity. Swami Pushkarini Lake is a sacred water reservoir adjoining the temple. The serenity of the lake is awe-inspiring.

There are several spiritual spots in the region. You can visit Akasaganga Teertham for a dip in the holy water. Silathoranam is a unique landmark in the region with immense archaeological and cultural importance.

Tirumala is home to several temples including Vedadri Narasimha Swamy Temple, Sri Padmavathi Ammavari Temple, and Sri Govindarajaswami Temple. You can explore the heritage of the region at the Sri Venkateswara Dhyana Vignan Mandiram. It is a museum that exhibits traditional articles used for offering prayers to the almighty.

Nature enthusiasts and animal lovers can visit Deer Park to witness the regional flora and fauna. Kids can enjoy feeding the deer and see how they live in their natural habitat.

Nallamala Hills, Andhra Pradesh

The Nallamala Hills are one of the highest hills in Andhra Pradesh, with an altitude of over 3608 ft. These hills spread across 5 different districts making it a popular destination for tourists from all around India. The hills are blanketed by the dense Nallamala Forests.

If you are looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life, then you must visit the scenic Nallamala hills. You will be captivated by their natural beauty as well as the rich cultural heritage of the region.

You can visit the Mahanandiswara Swamy Temple. It is a tenth-century shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Mallikarjuna Swami Mandir in Srisailam is a Jyotirlinga Temple located at the top of the Nallamala Hills. Cumcum Lake is a 15th-century man-made lake. It offers wonderful vistas for nature lovers and photographers. 

Lambasingi, Andhra Pradesh

Lambasingi is a small village in the Eastern Ghats of Chintapalli Mandal of Visakhapatnam district in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. It is the only hill station in South India with snowfall as the temperatures in the region drop significantly. This offbeat hill station in South India is located in the verdant Araku Valley.

Locally referred to as Korra Bayalu Lambasingi has earned the epithet of ‘Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh’ for its picturesque beauty. Surrounded by the beautiful and lush forests of the Eastern Ghats of Andhra Pradesh. It is a perfect weekend getaway from Visakhapatnam as this hill station is covered with an ethereal white mist throughout the year.

Lambasingi has rich tea and coffee plantations where you can enjoy nature walks. The region also has apple orchards and strawberry farms. Nature photographers can capture the grandeur of Lambasingi at the Thajangi Reservoir. You can visit Kothapalli Waterfalls or Yerravaram Waterfalls for a refreshing picnic with family and friends. Bird lovers can enjoy gazing at migratory birds at Kondakarla Bird Sanctuary.

Ananthagiri, Andhra Pradesh

Ananthagiri hills is a famous hill station in Southern India. Besides being beautiful, it is one of the earliest human habitats. The hill station showcases ancient caves, temples as well as mediaeval fort palaces. These monuments date back centuries ago and have been painstakingly preserved amidst the hills of Ananthagiri.

You can explore the stunning Borra Caves. These limestone structures are presumably the deepest caves in the country. Surrounded by hills covered with semi-evergreen deciduous forests, these caves are a must-visit site in Ananthagiri hills.

The breathtaking views of the region can be witnessed from the Dolphin’s Nose Viewpoint. Kids can visit the Padmapuram Gardens to enjoy swinging in tree huts. 

You can add thrill to your trip by camping at Tyda Park. It is an experience of a lifetime as you spend time with wild animals in their natural habitat. The park offers fun activities such as bird watching, rock climbing, and target shooting.

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Enjoy a fun filled vacation with your loved ones by visiting the hill stations in South India listed above. These are some of the best hill stations in South India that are surrounded by lush greenery, beautiful waterfalls and scenic viewpoints. The pleasant weather along with the mouth watering cuisines they offer is sure to make your trip a memorable one. You can also check out the list of best hill stations in North India. With so much to see and explore in India, why go anywhere else?