1. Ooty
Ooty, also known as Udagamandalam, is a popular tourist destination in Tamil Nadu. The Queen of the Hills, which is now the summer headquarters of the East India Company, is a lovely getaway.
Tea plantations, beautiful waterfalls, winding country lanes, and attractive colonial buildings exist in Ooty, making it the ideal vacation for everyone. The breathtaking views of the Nilgiri mountains entice couples and lovers. Botanical Gardens, Dolphin’s Nose, Toda Huts, and the Tea Museum are all worth exploring. Try the native tea served near the tea estates, and take some tea leaves home with you to share with your friends.
Best Month to Visit: October – June
2. Kotagiri
Kotagiri is the oldest and third largest hill station in the Nilgiris, and it is one of the most beautiful hill stations near Chennai. It is well-known around the world for its magnificent tea plantations. It is very popular with tourists and has breathtaking views of the countryside.
The ‘mountains of the Kotas’ are known as Kotagiri. It is usually filled with European-style homes and goes back to the British administration in India. One of the amazing features of this hill station is the 8-kilometer climb to Catherine Falls. This place is also suitable for rock climbing, with its jagged terrain and peaceful setting. The unique flavors and spices of the traditional food it’s a must-try. It manufactures Nilgiri tea, which is rated as one of the best in the world.
Best Month to Visit: Between February to early May, and Late October to December
3. Yercaud
Yercaud is one of the top hill stations around Bangalore and the town got its name from the Yercaud Lake located at its center. Yeri means lake, while Kaadu means forest in Tamil. Emerald Lake, Anna Park, Lady’s Seat, Shevaroy Temple, Small Lake, Bear’s Point, Pagoda Point, Killiyur Falls, and Botanical Garden are among the best places to visit in Yercaud. It’s a beautiful hill station in the Eastern Ghats, and trekking here is one of the most fun activities. The Servarayan temple, at a height of 5326 feet, is the highest point in Yercaud. It is mainly known for its coffee, orange, jackfruit, guava, cardamom, and black pepper farms. Sandalwood, teak, and silver oaks are abundant in the forests of Yercaud. These woodlands are home to many different wild species, including bison, deer, foxes, mongooses, snakes, and squirrels, as well as birds such as bulbuls, kites, and sparrows.
Best Month to Visit: October to June
4. Anaimalai Hills
Anaimalai hills are mighty mountain ranges on the Western Ghats’ boundary, cradled between the southern states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Anaimalai Hill is a one-stop destination for those looking for stunning hill stations in Tamil Nadu, whether you want to escape the blazing tropical heat or hike across the mountainous terrains of the Western Ghats.
Though it is most recognized for being Southern India’s tallest peak, the wide plains of tea and coffee plantations on its lower slopes are too beautiful to be forgotten. Sandalwood, rosewood, teak, and sago palm plantations flourish in this region’s monsoon forests.
Best Month to Visit: September – June
5. Sirumalai
Sirumalai is a hill station in the eastern ghats of Tamil Nadu and is located in the Dindigul district that covers an area of 60,000 acres. It is recognized for its stunning terrain, which is situated at an altitude of 1600 meters and has a variety of flora and fauna. The weather is pleasant all year in this southern highland station. Certain sacred and rare medicinal herbs grow in this region, which has been recognized as a religiously valuable place. The Tamil Nadu Forest Department manages and protects these reserve forests.
Best Month to Visit: October to March
6. Meghamalai Hills
Meghamalai, also known as “high wavy mountains,” is a small but attractive destination nestled in the Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu. This picturesque hill station, perched at 1500 meters above sea level, is the ideal spot for relaxing and soaking in the beauty of nature. Be ready to be overwhelmed by the enticing aromas of pepper, cardamom, and cinnamon as you reach this region. You can refresh your mind with a cup of fresh herbal tea, discover the diverse animals in its forests, or wonder at the fantastic beauty of nature at Meghamalai Falls once you arrive. The hilly town also has six dams out of which you can get a bird’s eye perspective of the entire region. The town’s other must-see attractions include Mangla Devi Temple, Maharaja Mettu Point, and Murugan Temple.
Best Month to Visit: October – May