Here are Lesser-known Hill Stations of South India

When you say hill stations, most people think about North India, but you’d be surprised to find that there are many mesmerizing hill stations down South too. Ooty, Munnar, Wayanad, and Coorg maybe some of the most popular hill stations, but South India has many other lesser-known hill stations to be explored. If you’re looking to take the road less travelled and discover the beauty of the South, you should look at visiting some of the more unexplored hill stations. They are a perfect getaway from the hustle-bustle of city life and get close to nature.

Here are some offbeat hill stations of South India you must visit:

Idukki

Located in the northern part of Kerala, Idukki is one of the lesser-known hill stations of South India. For nature-lovers, this is the best spot for a weekend getaway. Greenery covers more than 97% of the area, and it is also rich in flora and fauna. The three rivers Periyar, Thalayar, and Thodupuzhayar flow through the valley, offering a scenic sight for tourists. You can go on long nature walks, trek to the highest points, watch the sunset, camp under the stars, catch the wild animals in their natural habitat at the wildlife reserves, visit the spice and tea plantations, and do so much more. Idukki is one of Kerala’s best-kept secrets for sure.

Chikmagalur

This lovely little hill station in Karnataka is known for its coffee plantations and the never-ending greenery. There are many things for nature-lovers and adventure-enthusiasts to do and places to explore here. Hebbe falls, Kallathigiri falls, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, and Baba Bundagiri Range are some places to see in Chikmagalur that will make you fall in love with this scenic little hill station.

Araku Valley

Located very close to the Odisha border, this scenic hill station is all about greenery! The hills are covered in lush greenery and coffee plantations. The misty weather, and foggy clouds make for a dreamy setting. It’s the perfect place to lose yourself amid nature and get rejuvenated.

Yercaud

Located in Tamil Nadu, this is one of the most offbeat hill stations of South India. The hill station is known for its spice, fruit and coffee plantations, and orange groves. It is one of the lesser-known hill stations of South India, and hence, unexplored by many tourists. It’s a serene and peaceful hill station where you can enjoy the greenery and listen to the birds chirping and gushing waterfalls in the distance. Although it is an offbeat hill station, one can find many things to do here. There’s a big lake with a boathouse, the Lady’s Seat offers a panoramic view of the Salem City, Cauvery Peak, Anna Park, Botanical Garden, and many other places to visit on your trip to Yercaud.

Kudremukh

Not too far from Chikmagalur lies the quaint little hill station Kudremukh. It is one of the lesser-known hill stations of South India. Travellers like to trek here, and there are many other adventurous activities here for them to indulge. There is also a national park at the hill station that travellers can visit.

Yelagiri

Yelagiri is a hill station in Tamil Nadu, surrounded by green valleys, rose gardens, and colourful orchards. There are many trekking and other adventure activities organised here for adventure enthusiasts. Even those who aren’t very big on an adventure can make the most of their trip here due to the panoramic views. The artificial lake Punganur is one of the most popular spots for tourists. 

Madikeri

A hill station in the Coorg district, this place is called the ‘Scotland of India’. It is a great summer escape for families, honeymooners, or a group of friends. The coffee, fruit, and spice plantations are a popular attraction for tourists. When in Madikeri, you can plan your stay at Club Mahindra Madikeri, Coorg Resort Enjoy a cup of Madikeri’s world-famous coffee while enjoying the lush greenery of the mountains, go trekking in the valleys, enjoy a relaxing massage at the spa in the middle of the forest and do a lot more. 

These hidden gems in South India should be on every traveller’s bucket list. So the next time you take a vacation, visit these offbeat hill stations of South India for a truly unique experience.