While summers in the southern part of India can be quite intense, those who love to travel can find respite at one of the many hill stations here. Lush green hills, pleasant climate and gorgeous sceneries make these destinations extremely attractive to those who love nature and yearn to get away from the madding urban crowd once in a while! So, here is a list of the most popular hill stations in South India that should be on your travel list.
List of Hill Stations in South India, Tamil Nadu
1. Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Ooty | #1 of 30 Hill Stations in South India
Once a favourite summer getaway for the British, Ooty is cosily nestled in the Western Ghats and boasts plenty of colonial attractions. It is one of the most frequented hill stations in South India for honeymoon, owing to the gardens, viewpoints, lakes and the 19th century Stone House.
- Elevation – 2240 m
- Best time to visit – October to June
- How to Reach –
- By Air: You can fly to Coimbatore International Airport (88 km from Ooty) and take a taxi or a bus.
- By Train: Mettupalayam Railway Station is 60 km from Ooty. You can take a taxi or bus from there.
- By Road: Ooty is well-connected to all of South India via government and private buses.
- Places to Stay: Hotels in Ooty, Budget hotels in Ooty, Couple Friendly Hotels in Ooty, 3 Star Hotels in Ooty
Also Read: Places to Visit in Ooty
2. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
Kodaikanal | #2 of 30 Hill Stations in South India
This enchanting hill station is one of nature’s best gifts to mankind. Located in the Dindigul district of Tamil Nadu, this is one of the coldest hill stations in South India and is peppered with gorgeous waterfalls, green valleys, serene lakes and sharp granite cliffs.
- Elevation – 2133 m
- Best time to visit – October to June
- How to Reach –
- By Air: Madurai Airport is 134 km from Kodaikanal. You can hire a taxi from there or board buses to reach the hill.
- By Train: Reach Kodai Road Railway Station (80 km from Kodaikanal) and take a taxi or a bus.
- By Road: Kodaikanal is well-connected by roadways to most places in South India. You can take government/ private buses or hire taxis.
- Places to Stay: Hotels in Kodaikanal, Budget Hotels in Kodaikanal, Couple Friendly Hotels in Kodaikanal
Also Read: Places to Visit in Kodaikanal
3. Yercaud, Tamil Nadu
Yercaud | #3 of 30 Hill Stations in South India
The small yet charming hill station of Yercaud is nestled in the Shevaroy Hills in the Eastern Ghats. It has become a popular tourist spot these days, thanks to fragrant coffee and spice plantations, the placid Yercaud Lake, and Lady’s Seat vantage point.
- Elevation – 1623 m
- Best time to visit – October to May
- How to Reach –
- By Air: Salem Airport is 50 km from Yercaud. You can take a bus or taxi from the airport to cover the distance.
- By Train: Reach Salem Junction Railway Station (32 km from Yercaud) and then hire a taxi or board government /private buses.
- By Road: Yercaud is easily reachable via roadways from Salem, Coimbatore and Chennai, and buses ply regularly.
Also Read about Places to visit in Yercaud
4. Yelagiri, Tamil Nadu
Yelagiri | #4 of 30 Hill Stations in South India
Yelagiri is a lesser-known hill station in South India located near Jolarpettai, Tamil Nadu. It is home to the stunning Jalagamparai Waterfalls and Murugan Temple which impresses with breathtaking views.
- Elevation – 1111 m
- Best time to visit – August to February
- How to Reach –
- By Air: Salem Airport is 160 km away and Kempegowda International Airport is at 200 km. You can hire a taxi or find buses to take you to the hill from either airport.
- By Train: Jolarpettai Junction Railway Station (20 km from Yelagiri) connects to various other main railway terminals in the country. Taxis are available in plenty outside the station.
- By Road: Government and private buses operate every day from major cities in South India to Yelagiri.
Also Read Places to visit in Yelagiri
5. Coonoor, Tamil Nadu
Coonoor | #5 of 30 Hill Stations in South India
Coonoor, a well-developed hill station in the Nilgiri district, has a mild and pleasant climate all throughout the year. Apart from offering panoramic views of the Nilgiris, Coonoor has verdant tea estates, the colourful Sim’s Park and the Dolphin’s Nose viewpoint to make your holiday a memorable one.
- Elevation – 1850 m
- Best time to visit – October to March
- How to Reach –
- By Air: You can fly to Coimbatore International Airport (75 km from Coonoor) and then hire taxis or board government/private buses.
- By Train: Coonoor Railway Station is just 2 km from Coonoor. Mettupalayam Railway Station (35 km) connects to Coonoor too. You can get a taxi or bus from either of them.
- By Road: Government and private buses run every day from places like Coimbatore, Mettupalayam, and Chennai to this hill station.
Suggested Read: Places to Visit in Coonoor
6. Kotagiri, Tamil Nadu
Kotagiri | #6 of 30 Hill Stations in South India
Kotagiri is one of the best hill stations in South India for trekking and is a lush green haven for those seeking peace and solitude. You will come across plenty of plantations, forested areas, riverbeds, and a variety of flora and fauna on your trip.
- Elevation – 1847 m
- Best time to visit – November to April
- How to Reach –
- By Air: Coimbatore International Airport is 70 km from Kotagiri. You can get taxis from there to cover the distance.
- By Train: Coonoor Railway Station is 20 km from Kotagiri. You can cover the distance by getting a private taxi or boarding a government bus.
- By Road: Buses run regularly from places like Chennai, Coimbatore, Bangalore, and Hyderabad to Kotagiri.
7. Anaimalai Hills, Tamil Nadu
Anaimalai Hills | #7 of 30 Hill Stations in South India
Also called Elephant Mountains, these hills are known for rich biodiversity. An undisturbed section of the Western Ghats, these are perfect for spending time away from the monotony of life. Anaimalai Hills are located between the states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
- Elevation – 2695 m
- Best time to visit – September to May
- How to Reach –
- By Air: Coimbatore International Airport (120 km) and Cochin International Airport (130 km) are the closest airports. You can hire a taxi from either of these.
- By Train: Pollachi Junction Railway Station is 70 km from the hill station. You can take a taxi or one of the government/private buses from there.
- By Road: Buses operate every day from places like Pollachi, Cochin, Coimbatore, and Palakkad to Anaimalai Hills.
8. Valparai, Tamil Nadu
Valparai | #8 of 30 Hill Stations in South India
A part of the Anaimalai Hills, Valparai houses the Anaimalai Tiger Reserve, where you will find elephants and panthers too. Dotted with beautiful green tea estates, this hill station is ideal for clicking postcard pictures with loved ones.
- Elevation – 2287 m
- Best time to visit – September to March
- How to Reach –
- By Air: Fly to Coimbatore International Airport (114 km from Valparai) and then take a prepaid or metered taxi.
- By Train: Pollachi Junction Railway Junction is 65 km from Valparai. You can take a taxi or bus from there to cover the distance.
- By Road: Government and private buses run from Coimbatore to Valparai regularly.
Also check Places to visit in Valparai
Hill Station in South India, Kerala
9. Munnar, Kerala
Munnar | #9 of 30 Hill Stations in South India
Gorgeous rolling hills and picture-perfect tea plantations made Munnar a hot destination for the British elite once upon a time. Located in the Idukki District in Kerala, it is one of the highest hill stations in South India. Apart from being a hiker’s delight, Munnar is home to the Lakkam Waterfalls and Eravikulam National Park.
- Elevation – 1532m
- Best time to visit – September to June
- How to Reach –
- By Air: Cochin International Airport is 100 km from Munnar and you can find taxis and buses from there to reach the hill station.
- By Train: Kochi Railway Station is at 120 km. You can hire a prepaid taxi from the station to reach Munnar.
- By Road: Taxis and government/private buses connect most of the cities in Tamil Nadu and Kerala to Munnar.
- Places to Stay: Hotels in Munnar, Budget Hotels in Munnar, Couple Friendly Hotels in Munnar
Also Read: Places to Visit in Munnar
10. Thekkady, Kerala
Thekkady | #10 of 30 Hill Stations in South India
Boasting both dense forests and grasslands, Thekkady is a low-lying hill station in Kerala, located near the Periyar National Park. This is one of the most popular hill stations in South India and is home to tigers, elephants, deer, Nilgiri langurs and gaur.
- Elevation – 900m
- Best time to visit – September to February
- How to Reach –
- By Air: Fly to Madurai Airport (150 km from Thekkady) and then take a taxi.
- By Train: Kottayam Railway Station is 100 km from Thekkady, and you can get taxis or buses from there.
- By Road: Thekkady is well-connected to most major junctions of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Government and private buses are available to reach the hill station.
Know more about places to visit in Kerala
11. Athirapally, Kerala
Athirapally | #11 of 30 Hill Stations in South India
Though Athirapally is one of the lesser-known hill stations in South India, it is sure to take your breath away with forests, waterfalls and rivers. Pay a visit to the majestic Athirapally Falls too, which is located 100 ft above sea level. Spas and wellness centres add to the appeal of this hill station.
- Elevation – 80 m
- Best time to visit – September to January
- How to Reach –
- By Air: Cochin International Airport (40 km) is the closest to Athirapally. You can hire taxis from there.
- By Train: Chalakudi Railway Station is 32 km away. It takes about an hour to reach Athirapally from there if you board a bus or hire a taxi.
- By Road: Government and private buses connect Athirapally to places like Cochin, Trissur, Pollachi, and Coimbatore.
12. Wayanad, Kerala
Wayanad | #12 of 30 Hill Stations in South India
Perched high on the Western Ghats, Wayanad is one of the best hill stations in South India that you should not miss. It is a mix of farmlands, tribal settlements, and green hills. The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, home to tigers, leopards, and elephants, is a must-visit, apart from the ancient Edakkal Caves.
- Elevation – Lowest elevation – 700 m, highest elevation – 2100 m
- Best time to visit – September to March
- How to Reach –
- By Air: Kozhikode International Airport is 98 km from Wayanad. You will get prepaid and regular taxis and buses from there.
- By Train: Reach Kozhikode Railway Station (100 km from Wayanad) and hire a taxi or board a bus.
- By Road: Wayanad is well-connected via road to major cities like Cochin, Kozhikode, Bangalore, and Mysore. Government and private buses run every day.
Also, check places to visit in Wayanad
13. Ponmudi, Kerala
Ponmudi | #13 of 30 Hill Stations in South India
The name Ponmudi means Golden Hill or Golden Peak, and the place boasts misty hills. This hill station is located in the Trivandrum district and is surrounded by the grand Western Ghats. This is one of the most popular hill stations in South India for honeymoon.
- Elevation – 1100 m
- Best time to visit – September to February
- How to Reach –
- By Air: Trivandrum Airport is 60 km from Ponmudi. You can hire a taxi from there.
- By Train: Trivandrum Railway Station is 55 km from Ponmudi. Once you reach the station, hire a taxi or take a bus.
- By Road: Kerala RTC government buses operate from all parts of Kerala to take you to Ponmudi.
14. Malampuzha, Kerala
Malampuzha | #14 of 30 Hill Stations in South India
Malampuzha is a small and quaint little hill station located in the Palakkad District. Covered by thick vegetation all throughout the year, it is home to the Malampuzha River and the Malampuzha Dam.
- Elevation – 141 m
- Best time to visit – September to March
- How to Reach –
- By Air: Coimbatore International Airport, at 64 km, is the closest airport. You can find taxis outside the airport to take you to the hill station.
- By Train: Palakkad Railway Station is just 16 km away. You can find autos, taxis, and buses from the station to reach the hill.
- By Road: Kerala RTC and TNSTC buses operate every day to Malampuzha from all major cities.
15. Vagamon, Kerala
Vagamon | #15 of 30 Hill Stations in South India
Adventurous souls are bound to fall in love with Vagamon for the many opportunities it offers for trekking, rock climbing, and mountaineering. It is one of the most beautiful hill stations located in the Idukki district, and is surrounded by the Western Ghats, enchanting valleys, and tea plantations.
- Elevation – 1200 m
- Best time to visit – September to June
- How to Reach –
- By Air: Fly to Cochin International Airport (100 km from Vagamon) and then take a taxi.
- By Train: Kottayam Railway Station (65 km from Vagamon) is the closest and you will find taxis and Kerala RTC buses right outside.
- By Road: Kerala RTC buses, private buses, and taxis can be taken to reach Vagamon via road.
16. Ramakkalmedu, Kerala
Ramakkalmedu | #16 of 30 Hill Stations in South India
Known for offering panoramic views of the Western Ghats, Ramakkalmedu is a charming hill station in the Idukki district. It packs a delightful punch despite its small size and is dotted with many windmills.
- Elevation – 981m
- Best time to visit – October to March
- How to Reach –
- By Air: Cochin International Airport is 135 km from Ramakkalmedu and you can find taxis outside the airport.
- By Train: Reach Kottayam Railway Station, 135 km from Ramakkalmedu, and then hire a taxi.
- By Road: All Kerala RTC buses connect to Idukki and you can take a cab or another bus from there to reach Ramakkalmedu.
Hill Stations in South India, Karnataka
17. Coorg, Karnataka
Coorg | #17 of 30 Hill Stations in South India
Coorg is undoubtedly one of the most popular hill stations in South India and also known as the Scotland of India. This lush green hill station is peppered with amazing viewpoints, coffee and tea plantations, and plenty of great eateries for foodies.
- Elevation – 900m
- Best time to visit – September to June
- How to Reach –
- By Air: Kannur International Airport in Kerala is 95 km from Coorg. You can find taxis from there to reach the hill.
- By Train: Mysore Junction Railway Station and Kannur Junction Railway Station are both about 115 km from Coorg. You will find taxis and government buses from there.
- By Road: KSRTC buses and Kerala RTC buses frequently ply to Coorg.
- Places to Stay: Hotels in Coorg, Budget Hotels in Coorg, Couple Friendly Hotels in Coorg
Also Read: Places to Visit in Coorg
18. BR Hills, Karnataka
BR hills or Biligirirangana Hills is one of the lesser known yet beautiful hill stations in Karnataka. It houses the BRT Wildlife Sanctuary and is the starting tip of the mighty Eastern Ghats. This site is also known as one of the tiger reserves of the country.
- Elevation – 1800m
- Best time to visit – October to March
- How to Reach –
- By Air: Mysore Airport is 82 km from BR hills. Take a taxi or a bus from there to cover the distance.
- By Train: Chamaraja Nagar Railway Station is at 45 km and you can find taxis and buses from there to reach BR Hills.
- By Road: Few buses run directly to BR Hills from Bangalore. Else, get a bus to Chamaraja Nagar and then find a connecting bus from there.
19. Chikmagalur, Karnataka
Chikmagalur | #19 of 30 Hill Stations in South India
If you are passionate about nature and wildlife, Chikmagalur is one of the popular tourist destinations in Karnataka to check out. Located in the foothills of the Mullayanagiri Peak and surrounded by lush coffee plantations, this hill station is perfect for hiking. The Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, with its tigers and elephants, is a must visit too.
- Elevation – 1090m
- Best time to visit – September to June
- How to Reach –
- By Air: Fly to Mysore Airport (185 km from Chikmagalur) and then take a bus or a taxi.
- By Train: Kadur Junction is 40 km from Chikmagalur and buses and taxis can take you to the hill station in less than an hour from there.
- By Road: KSRTC buses run every day to Chikmagalur from various parts of Karnataka.
Also, check Places to visit in Chikmagalur
20. Agumbe, Karnataka
Agumbe | #20 of 30 Hill Stations in South India
Located in the Shimoga district of Karnataka, Agumbe is called the Cherrapunji of Southern India for the high amount of rainfall it receives every year. Agumbe is famous for its rainforests, waterfalls, trekking trails and cottage industries.
- Elevation – 823m
- Best time to visit – October to March (best to avoid the rainy season)
- How to Reach –
- By Air: Mangalore Airport is 95 km from Agumbe and you can find KSRTC buses and private taxis from there.
- By Train: Udupi Railway Station is 50 km from Agumbe. You will find taxis outside to take you to the hill station. Private and government buses are available too.
- By Road: Buses run from Bangalore, Mysore, Udupi, and Mangalore to Agumbe directly.
21. Sakleshpur, Karnataka
Sakleshpur | #21 of 30 Hill Stations in South India
Often called the Switzerland of Karnataka, Sakleshpur is another famous hill station in South India, situated in the Hassan district. The hill boasts unique species of flora and fauna and offers panoramic views of the Western Ghats.
- Elevation – 956m
- Best time to visit – October to April
- How to Reach –
- By Air: Mangalore International Airport (137 km from Saskleshpur) is the closest airport, from where you can hire private taxis.
- By Train: Trains from Bangalore, Mysore, Kannur, and Mangalore arrive at and depart from Sakleshpur Railway Station every day.
- By Road: KSRTC buses connect all major cities of Karnataka to Sakleshpur. Private buses are available in plenty too.
Also Like Places to Visit in Sakleshpur
22. Antara Gange, Karnataka
Anthara gange | #22 of 30 Hill Stations in South India
Located in the Kolar District, Antara Gange is a small mountain with lots of caves for exploration. In Kannada, Antara Gange means “Ganges from deep”. Do visit Sri Kashi Vishweshwara Temple and its underground natural stream when you are here.
- Elevation – 1226m
- Best time to visit – October to February
- How to Reach –
- By Air: Kempegowda International Airport is 70 km from Antara Gange. Buses and taxis are available from there.
- By Train: Kolar City Railway Station (5 km from Antara Gange) is connected to Bangalore via local trains. Once you reach the station, you can hire a taxi.
- By Road: KSRTC buses and taxis connect Antara Gange to all parts of Bangalore.
23. Kemmannugundi, Karnataka
Kemmannugundi | #23 of 30 Hill Stations in South India
Kemmannugundi was once the summer retreat for the royal family of Mysore and is located in the Chikkamagaluru district. The hill station is dotted with ornamental gardens, amazing viewpoints, and tranquil waterfalls.
- Elevation – 1434m
- Best time to visit – September to February
- How to Reach –
- By Air: Mangalore International Airport is 245 km from this hill station. You can board a KSRTC bus or hire a taxi from the airport.
- By Train: At 35 km, Tarikere Railway Station is the closest train station. Autos and taxis can transport you to the hill station from there.
- By Road: KSRTC buses connect most parts of Karnataka to places like Kadur and Birur. You can find local buses from there to reach Kemmannugundi.
Hill Stations in South India, Andhra Pradesh
24. Araku Valley, Andhra Pradesh
Araku Valley | #24 of 30 Hill Stations in South India
Surrounded by the densely forested Eastern Ghats and located in the Vishakhapatnam district, Araku Valley is a popular tourist destination. The hill station is dotted with coffee plantations and great viewpoints, while the Tribal Museum is a must-visit to find out more about the indigenous tribes.
- Elevation – 910m
- Best time to visit – November to February
- How to Reach –
- By Air: Vishakhapatnam International Airport is 105 km from Araku Valley. You can find prepaid taxis from the airport.
- By Train: Trains are available from all parts of India to Vishakhapatnam Railway Station (110 km from the valley). One passenger train leaves from Vishakhapatnam for Araku Valley Railway Station every day.
- By Road: APSRTC and private buses ply every day from Vishakhapatnam to Araku Valley.
25. Horsley Hills, Andhra Pradesh
Horsley Hills | #25 of 30 Hill Stations in South India
Horsley Hills is a small and well-maintained hill station located between Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. Situated in the Madanapalle Taluk, Horsley Hills makes for a perfect getaway from the hustle of the city.
- Elevation – 1290m
- Best time to visit – November to February
- How to Reach –
- By Air: Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore is 135 km from Horsley Hills. You can find taxis from the airport.
- By Train: Reach Madanapalle Railway Station, which is 25 km from Horsley Hills, and then take a taxi, bus or auto.
- By Road: KSRTC buses and APSRTC buses can take you to Madanapalle, and from there, you can take a local bus or an auto to reach the hills.
26. Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh
Tirumala | #26 of 30 Hill Stations in South India
Tirumala is one of the most famous hill stations in South India for good reason. It is home to the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple. Tirumala offers amazing views of the Eastern Ghats too.
- Elevation – 976m
- Best time to visit – October to February
- How to Reach –
- By Air: Tirupati Airport at 40 km from Tirumala, is the closest airport, from where you can hire a taxi or a jeep.
- By Train: Tirupati Railway Station at 20 km is the closest rail junction and you will find plenty of buses, jeeps, and taxis from there.
- By Road: Buses are available every 2 minutes from Tirupati to Tirumala. Direct buses from most South Indian cities are available too.
27. Lambasingi, Andhra Pradesh
Lambasingi | #27 of 30 Hill Stations in South India
Pleasantly cool and covered with deciduous forests, Lambasingi is a small and adorable hill station in the Vishakhapatnam district. It is known as the ‘Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh’ and surrounded by deep valleys and coffee plantations.
- Elevation – 1000m
- Best time to visit – November to January
- How to Reach –
- By Air: Vishakhapatnam International Airport is 110 km from Lambasingi. You will have to hire a taxi from there to reach the hill.
- By Train: At 62 km, Narsipatnam Road Railway Station is the closest junction, and you can find autos and taxis right outside. Government and private bus services are available too.
- By Road: APSRTC and private buses connect Lambasingi to Vishakhapatnam, Hyderabad, and other cities in and around Andhra Pradesh.
28. Papi Hills, Andhra Pradesh
Papi Hills | #28 of 30 Hill Stations in South India
Papi Hills is considered to be a hidden gem as it is among the lesser known hill stations in South India. Located near Rajahmundry, the hill boasts the popular Papikonda National Park, with River Godavari flowing through it.
- Elevation – 20 – 850m
- Best time to visit – October to February
- How to Reach –
- By Air: Fly to Rajahmundry Airport, which is 40 km from the hills, and then take a taxi.
- By Train: Rajahmundry Railway Station (37 km from Papi Hills) is the closest railway station. Taxis are available right outside.
- By Road: Public transport modes are available to either Rajahmundry or Bharachalam. You can hire a taxi from either of these places to reach the hills.
- By Water: Boat trips are offered from places like Bharachalam, Rajahmundry, and Kunavaram. The view is lovely and you can cross the River Godavari to reach Papi Hills.
Hill Stations in South India, Telangana
29. Ananthagiri, Andhra Pradesh
Ananthagiri | #29 of 30 Hill Stations in South India
Refreshingly green and located in the Vikarabad District, Ananthagiri is a small hill station that is the birthplace of River Musi. The Nagasamudram Lake and the Anantha Padmanabha Swamy temple are major attractions here. The hill also attracts trekkers in droves.
- Elevation – 700m
- Best time to visit – October to March
- How to Reach –
- By Air: You can fly to Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad (80 km from the hill station) and then take a taxi.
- By Train: Vikarabad Junction Railway Station is the closest railway station at 7 km. Taxis, autos, and buses are available there.
- By Road: Government and private buses connect Vikarabad and Hyderabad to Ananthagiri.
30. Nallamala Hills, Andhra Pradesh
Nallamala Hills | #30 of 30 Hill Stations in South India
Nestled in the Eastern Ghats, this is among the most dense and luscious hill stations in South India. Apart from enjoying amazing views of the dense greenery, waterfalls and temples, you can soak in the peace and quiet of the place.
- Elevation – 1100m
- Best time to visit – October to January
- How to Reach –
- By Air: At 200 km, Vijayawada International Airport is the closest airport. You will have to hire a taxi from there.
- By Train: Vinukonda Railway Station is 50 km from the hill station. Buses and taxis are available right outside.
- By Road: Government and private buses are available to take you to Nallamala Hills from all of Telangana.
So, are you all set to explore the top hill stations in South India for a memorable getaway or vacation? Let the above list guide you to a wonderful experience.
