June 06, 2025
20 Best Hill Stations Near Chennai for a Scenic Getaway in 2025
CM Content Team
Update on : 06 June, 2025, 12:00 pm
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When the sweltering heat and fast-paced life of Chennai become overwhelming, the cool embrace of nearby hill stations offers a much-needed escape. Surrounded by lush greenery, misty landscapes and serene environments, these elevated retreats are perfect for recharging. Whether you crave adventure, a romantic interlude, spiritual solace, or just time with nature, there’s a destination waiting just a few hours away.
In this guide, we’ve handpicked 20 of the best hill stations near Chennai that are ideal for weekend getaways, summer vacations, or a relaxing stay at a hill station resort in Tamil Nadu.
Here are the 20 Best Hill Stations Near Chennai
- Yelagiri Hills
- Yercaud
- Horsley Hills
- Kolli Hills
- Munnar
- Kodaikanal
- Valparai
- Coonoor
- Coorg
- Ooty
- Sirumalai
- Palani Hills
- Kotagiri
- Meghamalai
- Sakleshpur
- Thekkady
- Javadi Hills
- Chikmagalur
- Wayanad
- Araku Valley
Yelagiri Hills
Distance from Chennai to Yelagiri Hills: 230 km
Yelagiri Hills is a quaint and budget-friendly hill station near Chennai. Tucked away in the Eastern Ghats and known for its salubrious climate and serene landscapes, it's a top pick for weekend getaways from Chennai. The Chennai to Yelagiri distance makes it ideal for a short road trip with scenic views along the way.
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Key Attractions & Activities at Yelagiri Hills:
- Trek to Swamimalai Hill
- Boating at Punganoor Lake
- Nature walk through orchards and rose gardens
- Paragliding during the Yelagiri Summer Festival
Yercaud
Distance from Chennai to Yercaud: 365 km
Yercaud is a charming hill station in the Shevaroy Hills, often called the “Jewel of the South.” It offers a cooler alternative to Ooty with fewer crowds, making it a popular summer destination near Chennai. Surrounded by coffee plantations and orange groves, Yercaud is perfect for nature lovers and peace seekers.
Best Time to Visit Yercaud: October to June
Key Attractions & Activities at Yercaud are:
- Boating at Yercaud Lake
- Explore the Botanical Garden and Rose Garden
- Trekking at Shevaroy Temple
- Viewpoints like Lady's Seat and Pagoda Point
Horsley Hills
Distance from Chennai to Horsley Hills: ~275 km
Horsley Hills is a peaceful hill retreat in Andhra Pradesh, perfect for a quick weekend getaway from Chennai. With its dense forests, cool breezes, and pleasant weather, it's ideal for both couples and families looking for a relaxed holiday. This hill station near Chennai offers tranquillity and scenic charm.
Best Time to Visit Horsley Hills: November to March
Key Attractions & Activities at Horsley Hills are:
- Visit the Horsley Hills Zoo
- Sunrise view from Gali Bandalu (Wind Rock)
- Trekking and ziplining
- Lake Gangotri and Environmental Park
Kolli Hills
Distance from Chennai to Kolli Hills: ~360 km
Kolli Hills, located in the Namakkal district of Tamil Nadu, is known for its 70 hairpin bends and untouched natural beauty. It’s a lesser-known hill station near Chennai that’s perfect for adventure lovers and bikers. The lush greenery and mystic charm make it a serene escape.
Best Time to visit Kolli hills: October to March
Key Attractions & Activities at Kolli Hills are:
- Trekking to Agaya Gangai Waterfalls
- Visit the ancient Arapaleeswarar Temple
- Explore Siddhar Caves
- Scenic bike rides along the hairpin bends
Munnar
Distance from Chennai: ~580 km
Munnar is one of the most popular places to visit near Chennai in summer, known for its rolling tea gardens and misty mountains. Though a bit farther, it’s a top choice for extended summer vacations and honeymooners. Munnar offers one of the best hill station resort experiences near Chennai.
Best Time to Visit: September to March
Key Attractions & Activities:
- Visit Eravikulam National Park and spot Nilgiri Tahr
- Tea estate tours and museum
- Boating at Mattupetty Dam
- Trekking to Anamudi Peak
Stay with Club Mahindra: Club Mahindra Munnar is surrounded by lush tea gardens and offers scenic views, cosy stays and authentic Kerala cuisine in misty Munnar hills.
Kodaikanal
Distance from Chennai: ~525 km
Known as the “Princess of Hill Stations,” Kodaikanal is one of the most scenic and romantic places to visit near Chennai in summer. Nestled in the Western Ghats, it's famed for its misty cliffs, cool weather and lush valleys. Kodaikanal is ideal for couples, families and nature lovers alike.
Best Time to Visit: October to June
Key Attractions & Activities:
- Boating on Kodaikanal Lake
- Trek to Dolphin’s Nose and Pillar Rocks
- Stroll through Bryant Park
- Visit the Kurinji Andavar Temple
Stay with Club Mahindra: Club Mahindra Associate Resort Le Poshe Kodaikanal, perched on a hillside, this resort in Kodaikanal offers panoramic views, spa facilities and warm hospitality for tranquil escapes.
Valparai
Distance from Chennai: ~590 km
Valparai is a quiet, eco-friendly hill station in the Anamalai Hills of Tamil Nadu. Surrounded by tea estates and thick forests, it's an offbeat hill station near Chennai ideal for those seeking solitude and wildlife. The untouched beauty and serene environment make it a hidden gem.
Best Time to Visit: September to March
Key Attractions & Activities:
- Spotting elephants at Anaimalai Tiger Reserve
- Visit Sholayar and Nallamudi viewpoints
- Scenic drive through tea plantations
- Explore Balaji Temple and waterfalls
Coonoor
Distance from Chennai: ~540 km
Coonoor, a peaceful alternative to Ooty, is known for its scenic charm, tea gardens and colonial architecture. It’s among the best summer destinations near Chennai, perfect for a laid-back vacation amidst nature. The cool weather and fewer crowds add to its appeal.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Key Attractions & Activities:
- Ride the Nilgiri Mountain Railway
- Visit Sim’s Park and Dolphin’s Nose
- Explore tea estates and factories
- Birdwatching and nature walks
Coorg
Distance from Chennai: ~580 km
Often referred to as the “Scotland of India,” Coorg is a lush hill station in Karnataka. Known for its coffee estates, waterfalls and forested hills, Coorg is a great pick for adventure and leisure. It’s a longer drive from Chennai, ideal for long weekends or family trips.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Key Attractions & Activities:
- Explore Abbey Falls and Iruppu Falls
- Visit coffee plantations and local markets
- Trekking at Tadiandamol and Brahmagiri Hills
- Visit Namdroling Monastery
Stay with Club Mahindra: Club Mahindra Madikeri, Coorg is located amidst coffee plantations. This expansive resort offers nature trails, spa treatments and regional cuisine in a lush, serene environment. Club Mahindra Virajpet, Coorg is a serene retreat offering modern comforts, plantation experiences and nature-inspired stays, ideal for families and couples exploring scenic Coorg.
Ooty
Distance from Chennai: ~560 km
Ooty, the most iconic hill station near Chennai, is known for its evergreen charm, colonial architecture and mist-covered mountains. A top choice for summer holidays, Ooty from Chennai is a classic road trip. It offers numerous hill station resort options for a complete retreat.
Best Time to Visit: March to June
Key Attractions & Activities:
- Boating in Ooty Lake
- Ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway
- Stroll through the Government Botanical Garden
- Trek to Doddabetta Peak
Stay with Club Mahindra: Club Mahindra Derby Green Ooty is a heritage resort in Ooty with colonial charm, offering lush gardens, mountain views and proximity to key attractions and trails. Club Mahindra Danish Villa Ooty is an elegant boutique stay in the Nilgiris, featuring old-world charm, peaceful surroundings and easy access to Ooty’s top spots.
Sirumalai
Distance from Chennai: ~460 km
Sirumalai is a quiet and lesser-known hill station near Dindigul, Tamil Nadu. Surrounded by dense forests and fruit orchards, it's an ideal offbeat destination for nature lovers looking for a peaceful and cool place near Chennai. Its untouched charm makes it perfect for solitude seekers.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Key Attractions & Activities:
- Trekking through forest trails
- Visit Sirumalai Lake
- Explore the Agasthiarpuram viewpoint
- Tour banana plantations and herbal farms
Palani Hills
Distance from Chennai: ~510 km
Palani Hills, part of the Western Ghats, are renowned for their spiritual and natural allure. While the Palani Temple attracts pilgrims, the surrounding hills offer a peaceful escape with panoramic views and lush green landscapes. This is a unique mix of spirituality and a hill station near Chennai.
Best Time to Visit: October to April
Key Attractions & Activities:
- Visit Palani Murugan Temple
- Explore the scenic Guna Caves nearby
- Forest treks and nature photography
- Ideal base for exploring nearby Kodaikanal
Kotagiri
Distance from Chennai: ~540 km
Kotagiri is one of the oldest hill stations in the Nilgiris, known for its tranquil environment and unspoiled landscapes. Less commercialised than Ooty or Coonoor, Kotagiri is a serene hill station near Chennai for those looking to escape crowds. It offers a refreshing break with rich flora and fauna.
Best Time to Visit: November to May
Key Attractions & Activities:
- Visit Catherine Falls and Elk Falls
- Trek to Rangaswamy Peak and Pillar
- Walk through tea estates
- Explore the Longwood Shola Forest
Meghamalai
Distance from Chennai: ~550 km
Also called the “High Wavy Mountains,” Meghamalai is an unexplored paradise in the Western Ghats. Covered with cardamom plantations, dense forests and misty hills, it’s a scenic and quiet hill station near Chennai for offbeat travellers.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Key Attractions & Activities:
- Wildlife spotting at Meghamalai Wildlife Sanctuary
- Trekking and nature walks
- Visit the Highways Dam and Vellimalai
- Explore local spice plantations
Sakleshpur
Distance from Chennai: ~570 km
Sakleshpur is a charming hill station in Karnataka's Western Ghats, known for its lush greenery, coffee estates and historical ruins. Ideal for long weekend getaways from Chennai, it's perfect for adventure lovers and those who enjoy offbeat travel experiences.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Key Attractions & Activities:
- Trekking at Kumara Parvatha and Jenukal Gudda
- Visit the Manjarabad Fort
- Explore coffee and spice plantations
- Enjoy scenic drives and nature camps
Thekkady
Distance from Chennai: ~560 km
Thekkady, located in Kerala’s Idukki district, is a lush green hill station famous for its wildlife and spice plantations. It is home to the renowned Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, making it an excellent choice for places to visit near Chennai in summer,.
Best Time to Visit: September to April
Key Attractions & Activities:
- Boat safari in Periyar Lake
- Explore Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
- Spice plantation tours
- Trekking and bamboo rafting in the forest
Stay with Club Mahindra: Club Mahindra Thekkady is nestled near Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. This resort in Kerala blends nature, spice-scented air and comfort, perfect for jungle adventures and relaxation.
Javadi Hills
Distance from Chennai: ~220 km
Tucked within the Eastern Ghats, Javadi Hills is an offbeat hill station near Chennai, ideal for weekend getaways, steeped in tranquillity and nature. Spread across Vellore and Tiruvannamalai districts, it is known for its verdant forests, tribal culture and scenic trekking routes. The peaceful setting makes it a hidden gem for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Key Attractions & Activities:
- Stargazing at Vainu Bappu Observatory
- Trekking and nature trails through forested paths
- Visit the Beemanmadavu Waterfalls
- Explore tribal hamlets and local markets
Chikmagalur
Distance from Chennai: ~600 km
Chikmagalur is a scenic hill station in Karnataka, best known for its sprawling coffee plantations and peaceful ambience. It’s a popular summer destination near Chennai for travellers who enjoy quiet nature retreats, trekking and mountain drives.
Best Time to Visit: September to March
Key Attractions & Activities:
- Trekking at Mullayanagiri and Baba Budangiri
- Coffee museum visits
- Exploring Hebbe and Jhari waterfalls
- Jeep rides through plantations and hills
Wayanad
Distance from Chennai: ~610 km
Wayanad, located in northern Kerala, is a lush green region known for its forests, wildlife and heritage sites. Ideal for eco-tourism and adventure, Wayanad is a favourite long weekend getaway from Chennai in summer for nature lovers.
Best Time to Visit: October to May
Key Attractions & Activities:
- Trekking to Chembra Peak
- Visit Edakkal Caves and Banasura Sagar Dam
- Wildlife safari at Wayanad Sanctuary
- Explore Pookode Lake and Soochipara Falls
Stay with Club Mahindra: Vythiri Village Wayanad Resort is an elegant 5-star retreat in Wayanad offering scenic views, wellness spa, adventure activities and authentic Kerala cuisine.
Araku Valley
Distance from Chennai: ~870 km
Araku Valley is a scenic hill station located in Andhra Pradesh, known for its tribal culture, coffee gardens and spectacular landscapes. Though a bit far, it’s a rewarding getaway from Chennai for travellers seeking offbeat experiences and cooler climes.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Key Attractions & Activities:
- Coffee museum and plantations
- Visit Borra Caves and Katiki Waterfalls
- Ride the scenic Araku train route
- Tribal museum and cultural dance performances
Club Mahindra Resorts in Tamil Nadu
Elevate your hill station escape with a stay at one of the premium Club Mahindra Resorts in Tamil Nadu. Perfect for families and couples, these resorts in Tamil Nadu blend comfort, local culture and nature.
Yelagiri Hills is the nearest hill station to Chennai, located about 230 km away. It's ideal for quick road trips and weekend escapes. The cool weather, trekking trails and boating at Punganoor Lake make it a family-friendly destination close to the city. Kodaikanal is among the most romantic hill stations near Chennai. With misty valleys, boat rides on the lake and cosy resort stays like Club Mahindra Le Poshe, it’s perfect for couples looking for a serene getaway. Yes. Yelagiri, Horsley Hills and Javadi Hills are perfect for weekend getaways. All are within 300 km and offer quick travel, pleasant climates and light adventure activities. Yercaud, Ooty and Coorg are top choices for families. They offer boating, parks, nature walks and stay options like Club Mahindra resorts that cater to all age groups. Kolli Hills, Meghamalai and Chikmagalur are great for trekking enthusiasts. From forested trails to mist-covered peaks, they offer moderate to challenging hikes with beautiful scenery. The ideal time is October to March, when the weather is cool and scenic. However, popular spots like Ooty and Kodaikanal are also pleasant during summer, offering relief from the heat.
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About Club Mahindra
Mahindra Holidays & Resorts India Ltd. (MHRIL), a part of Leisure and Hospitality sector of the Mahindra Group, offers quality family holidays primarily through vacation ownership memberships and brings to the industry values such as reliability, trust and customer satisfaction. Started in 1996, the company's flagship brand ‘Club Mahindra’, today has over 300,000 members , who can holiday at 140+ resorts in India and abroad.
