Hill Stations in South India

Location: Idukki District, Kerala Main Attractions: Devikulam, Mattupetty, Ervikulam National Park Altitude: 1600 m Above Sea Level Best Time To Visit: September to May

Munnar is another gem in the already star studded list of Western Ghat wonders. Situated in the Idukki District of God's Own Country Kerala, Munnar is probably the most famous attraction of Kerala after the world famous Backwaters. This hill station nestles at an altitude of nearly 1600 m above sea level and is almost half covered with lush green tea gardens, which truly are the best attraction of this quiescent hill station. Munnar used to be the summer capital of British Government in South India.

Munnar is located at the confluence of three rivers namely Nallathani, Kundale and Muthirapuzha; The name Munnar literally means three rivers. The nature is at its generous most in Munnar. The blue flower 'Neelakurinji', is found only in Munnar. Its specialty is that it blooms only once in twelve years and it last bloomed in December 2006. The highest peak in entire South India, Anamudi, which rises to a height of 2695 m, is in Munnar. The green surroundings and the pleasant climate makes it a favorite for tourists, especially honeymooners. From the cultural point of view, Munnar will give you glimpse of culture of both Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

Munnar is also a conducive destination for adventure sports like trekking, rock climbing and aerosports. Apart from indulging in adventure, do not forget to shop for coffee, tea and spices. The best time to visit Munnar is after monsoons in September when the hill station is at its most green.

Main Attraction of Munnar

Mattupetty
At a distance of 13 km, Mattupetty is most famous for its cattle breeding farm. The Mattupetty farm is a joint venture between India and Switzerland where more than 100 breeds of cattle are reared. There are in all 11 sheds but only 3 are open to visitors. You can visit Mattupetty farm between 9 AM to 11 Am and 2 PM to 3.30 PM. Other attraction of Mattupetty includes a dam and a lake. You can enjoy a refreshing round of boating in the lake where you could hire a five seater speed boat or a 20 seater boat. However, this facility is only available from 9.30 AM to 5.30 PM.

Solar Observatory
Covering an area of 97 sq km, Ervikulam National Park, Ervikulam became a wildlife Sanctuary only in the year 1975. Ervikulam Park proudly flaunts its population of the rare Nilgiri Tahr. This is one of the very few natural habitats of this species. Till 1950s, the area was a hunting reserve, but timely intervention by an NGO helped preserve the population. The highest peak Anamudi is also located in the park premises. You can visit Ervikulam National Park from 7 AM till 5 PM. The park is 15 km away from Munnar.

Devikulam
Just 7 km from Munnar, Devikulam is a destination for solace and rejuvenation. It is a splendidly quiet destination with beautiful surroundings and clean environment. Sita Devi Lake is what brings hundreds of tourists and locales to Devikulam. This picnic spot offers an ideal setting for anglers. You can indulge in angling in Sita Devi Lake but you cannot use a live bait. You will have to use artificial fliers or spinners on your fishing rod. Before angling in Sita Devi Lake, make sure you have gained permission from the secretary of High Range Angling Association.

Marayoor
Marayoor is famous as the only place in entire Kerala which is conducive to the natural growth of Sandalwood Tree. So don't be bewildered if you are greeted into Marayoor with a strong scent of sandalwood. Other attraction of Marayoor are the numerous natural caves which are filled with murals and relics dating back to stone age. Also visit the huge Children Park which covers an area of nearly 1 hectare. The rare Neelakurinji flower which blooms once in 12 years is also found here. You will be amazed to know that large part of this 1 hectare park is shaded by a single Banyan tree. Marayoor is situated nearly 40 Km from Munnar and is a perfect one day trip from the hill station.

Nyayamakad
Nyaymakad is a heaven for trekkers. The steep slopes proves to be a challenge for the trekkers. But the stunning view of the surroundings more often than not, takes your mind off your tiredness. The views of waterfalls falling from the height 1600 m is an absolute treat which are hard to come by.

Accommodation in Munnar

Munnar sees a huge number of tourists throughout the year. And to accommodate them, there are numerous hotels, resorts and homestays catering to different budgets. For the sake of convenience, we have here provided you a list of Munnar hotels, Munnar resorts and homestay options in Munnar.

How to Reach Munnar

By Air: Cochin is the nearest airport to Munnar which is at a distance of 121 km. The airport receives flights from all major cities of India. From airport, you can hire a taxi to Munnar which will take nearly 4 hrs to cover the distance.

By Rail: The nearest railhead too is in Ernakulam. There are two railhead in Ernakulam, North and South but are close to each other.

By Road: Munnar is well connected to all the major cities of Kerala and few cities of Tamil Nadu. The closest important cities are Cochin, Kottayam, Coimbatore and Madurai. five daily), Coimbatore (six hours, two daily) or Madurai (six hours, one daily).

Distance Chart From Munnar to other Destinations in South India

Munnar - Alleppey 198 km Munnar - Calicut 337 km Munnar - Alleppey 198 km Munnar - Coimbatore 248 km Munnar - Cochin(Ernakulam) 130 km Munnar - Kanyakumari 445 km Munnar - Kasargod 545 km Munnar - Kollam 285 km Munnar - Kottayam 201 km Munnar - Kovalam 371 km Munnar - Kumarakom 212 km Munnar - Madurai 162 km Munnar - Malampuzha 295 km Munnar - Mangalore 505 km Munnar - Nedumbassery 105 km

Location: 120 Km from Madurai, 520 Km fro Chennai Famous As: Kodai Best Time To Visit: April to June, September to October Loved Attractions: Star Shaped lake

Visions of Paradise

Kodaikanal is a charming little hill Station in Tamil Nadu situated at an altitude of 6,854 feet above sea level. In a state that is more famous for 'The Queen of Hill Stations', Kodaikanal hill station attracts as many tourists and has a fair share of its own die hard admirers. So much were people smitten by its beauty and sedateness that today Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu is referred to as 'The Princess of Hill Stations'.

The name Kodaikanal means 'The Gift of Forest'. And once you visit Kodaikanal and its nearby areas, you will know why this hill station has this name. Kodaikanal hill station is surrounded by deep and dark forest which it seems are guarding its beautiful landscape. Plan Kodaikanal tours and explore that Kodaikanal is brimming with some of nature's wonders like Coaker's walk, Fairy falls, Bear shola falls and many more.

What To See In Kodaikanal

Star Shaped Lake
Known as the Kodaikanal lake, this is a man made lake which is probably the most liked attraction in the Kodaikanal hill station. Situated right in the center of Kodaikanal, the lake was converted from a marshy land by former Collector Sir Vere Levinge. This star shaped lake covers an area of nearly 60 acres and provides facilities for boating. You can also take a horse ride by the sides of Kodaikanal Lake which is surrounded by different types of trees.

Solar Observatory
One of the only three solar observatories in the world, the observatory in Kodaikanal is almost 75 years old. Located at a distance of 3 km from the lake and at an altitude of 2343 m., the observatory is at the highest point of Kodaikanal hill station. You can buy tickets for a show that is played in this observatory that will give you a glimpse of our solar system.

Fairy Falls
Fairy falls have become an inseparable part of people of Kodaikanal as an interesting spot for picnics. Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu has also become famous among tourists for its crystal clear waters. A swim at the foot at the falls will leave surely leave you refreshed and re-energized.

Coaker's Walk
Situated around 1 Km from the lake, the coaker's walk proves to be an exceptional place to get some of the most fascinating views of the surrounding areas. Named after the Lt. Coaker, it is situated on the southern end of Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu.

Kurinji Andavar Temple
Dedicated to Lord Murugan, Kurinji Andavar Temple is situated at a calm and secluded place, some 3 km away from the star shaped lake. The beautiful temple in Kodaikanal hill station gives you beautiful views of Northern Plains and Palani Hills.

Accommodation in Kodaikanal

Hotel in Kodaikanal provides excellent services and facilities to its guests. Kodaikanal has luxury resorts as well as low budget lodges for tourists. There is a TTDC operated resort located on the Fern Hill. Other hotels in Kodaikanal are Carlton Hotel, Hotel Clifton and Hotel Garden manor.

How To Reach Kodaikanal

By Air: Madurai is the nearest airport that is situated just around 120 Km from Kodaikanal. There are flights operating to and from all major cities of India. You can take a taxi from Madurai or a state transport bus for a 2 to 3 hrs drive from Madurai to Kodaikanal.

By Rail: Kodai Road Railway station is the nearest rail head at a distance of 80 km away from Kodaikanal.

By Road: Kodaikanal is well connected to all major cities of Tamil Nadu. The Capital city Chennai is around 520 Km, Ooty is 264 km from here. Transport buses from nearby cities and towns ply to Kodaikanal with appreciable frequency. Luxury coaches are also an option. Inside the city, you will find cycle rickshaws and auto rickshaws for short distance commute. For longer distances, state run and private buses are present in good number. Taxis are also a good option for touring inside the city.

Location: Nilgiri District, Tamil Nadu Famous Hill Stations: Ooty, Coonoor, Kotagiri The Highest Peak: Doddabetta Famous Festivals: Tea & Tourism Festival, Summer Festival, The Fruit & Flower Show

Nilgiris- The Blue Mountains
Nilgiri means "Blue Mountains". The entire area of the Blue Mountains constitutes the present district of Nilgiri. The height of Nilgiri hills in the Blue Mountain range varies between 2,280 and 2,290 metres, the highest peak being Doddabetta at a height of 2,623 metres.

The Beauty Of Nilgiris Hills in Tamil Nadu
Nilgiris derives its charm from its natural setting. The steep hills and fantastically narrow valleys with numerous rivers and rivulets running in all directions with a few fine waterfalls here and there provide beautiful scenery. The temperate and most equable climate further heightens the attractiveness of the place. The major tea growing areas in the South are the Nilgiris hills and these tea gardens are beautiful to watch.

Adventure And Trekking In The Nilgiris
The Nilgiri hills in Tamil Nadu are a trekker's paradise. Landscaped by nature, the Nilgiri hills abound in trek for lovers of nature. There are treks and treks in whichever direction you turn and from whichever point you start. A trek can be full of thrill, excitement and adventure and a way of seeing and enjoying nature in all its beauty and splendour.

Trekking pamphlets are available with the Nilgiri Wildlife and Environment Association (NWLEA). There are guides who have sound knowledge of certain areas. If necessary, their services may be hired. And for further details contact the Tourist Information Office at Charing Cross, Ooty.

Location And Boundaries of Nilgiri Hills
High above the sea level, situated at the junction of the two ghat ranges of the Sahayadri Hills, Nilgiri district provides a fascinating view. Kerala on the west, the Mysore State on the north, and Coimbatore district on the east and south bound it. Headquarters of Nilgiris district is Udhagamandalam (also called as Ooty).

How to Get There

By Air: Coimbatore, 105-km from Ooty, is the nearest airport. It has daily flights to and from Chennai, Bangalore, Cochin and Trivandrum.

By Rail: Ooty is on the narrow gauge railway connected to Mettupalayam (47-km), which is directly connected to Coimbatore and Chennai. The famous toy train connects Ooty with Mettupalayam and Coonoor.

By Road: A good network of roads and national highways connect Ooty with all major towns and cities. There are regular bus services to and from Coimbatore, Trichy, Bangalore, Madurai, Kanyakumari, Mysore, Palghat, Calicut, Tirupati and other important destinations in South India. Ooty is also well connected with major cities of Kerala and Karnataka.

Coonoor and Kotagiri are also well connected by road with the major cities and towns of the state. For local transportation, auto rickshaws and taxis are available.

Hill Stations In The Nilgiri Hills

Ooty (Udhagamandalam)
Udhagamandalam (Ooty), the headquarters of Nilgiri district, is popularly known as the "Queen of hill stations' among the tourist circuits. It is situated at a distance of 105 kilometres away from Coimbatore. The Botanical Gardens and the Doddabetta peak (the highest peak in the Nilgiris, located 10-km from Ooty) are the major attractions.

Kotagiri
Kotagiri is located 16-km away from Ooty and it is the oldest hill station of the Nilgiris. Kotagiri is situated at an altitude of 1,950m, which was once a British hill resort, that dates back to 1819 and is quieter than Ooty. Elk falls, Kodanad viewpoint and Catherine falls are a few places to visit.

Coonoor
Coonoor is situated on the eastern side of the southern extremity of the Doddabetta range, at an altitude of 1,858 metres above the sea level. It is the second largest hill station in the Nilgiris. Coonoor is located 19-km away from Ooty and is essentially a small tea garden town where the weather remains pleasantly cool throughout the year.

Fair & Festival in Nilgiri Hills

Tea And Tourism Festival
The Department of Tourism, Government of Tamil Nadu and Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, jointly celebrate the annual Tea and Tourism Festival during the months of January-February in the Nilgiris. The festival is held for 3 days. Varieties of tea are on display. Visitors can also taste and select from the wide varieties of tea available.

Summer Festival
There are several beautiful hill stations in Tamil Nadu. With the Summer Festivals, the hills are even hospitable to welcome the visitors. The summer festival is held in the 'Queen of Hill Stations', the evergreen Ooty; the exquisite Kodaikanal and the salubrious heights of Yercaud - where boat races, flower and fruit shows are specially organized.

Major Attractions of Nilgiri Hills

The Nilgiris, the most popular hill resort of the south has a number of tourist of attractions, which chiefly include the Botanical Gardens, Doddabetta Peak, Mukkurthi Peak, the Pykara Dam and sprawling tea plantations.

Botanical Garden
Botanical gardens are a major tourist attraction for those who visit Ooty. They sprawl over 50-acres and lie on the lower slopes of Dodabetta peak, which is the highest point in Ooty. Marquis of Tweeddale established these gardens in the year 1848.

Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary
The Mudumalai wildlife sanctuary is located where the Nilgiri Hills, the offshoot of the Western Ghats meet the Eastern Ghats. The Mysore-Ooty highway runs through the sanctuary, following the course of the Mayyar River, which separates Mudumalai from Bandipur.

This 321-sq-kms wide sanctuary encompasses a National Park measuring an area of 103-sq-kms. The sanctuary has varied mixture of flat land, open grassland, swamp and valleys. Apart from the wide range of animal and bird life, the rich fauna of this sanctuary has made Mudumalai very popular with wildlife enthusiasts

Ooty Lake
An artificial lake constructed in 1824 by Mr. Sullivan. The lake garden is an added attraction.

Doddabetta
Doddabetta is the highest peak (2,623 mts.) in the Nilgiris and offers beautiful vistas of the hill ranges, plateaus and plains around. It is 10-km from Ooty. There is a good motorable road to reach the peak.

Dolphin's Nose
Dolphin's Nose is about 12-km from Coonoor. The Nose is unique rock of tremendous proportions, jutting out of the face of the hillside in formation in which its name suggests. It exposes a vast panorama, which encompasses Catherine falls.

Pykara
Pykara is situated about 21-km from Ooty. Some of the tourist attractions of this place are well-protected fenced sholas, Toda settlements, undisturbed grassy meadows and also a good wildlife habitat. The Pykara Dam, Pykara falls and the reservoir attracts many tourists. A boathouse with restaurant and a rest house are available at Pykara.

The Mukkurthi Peak and National Park
About 40-km from Ooty there is a beautiful peak called "Mukkurthi". The Mukkurthi National Park is located on the Southern corner of the Nilgiri Plateau. The Kollaribetta and Nilgiris Peak are other major peaks around. A number of little perennial streams flow between these peaks, which fall into Bhavani Puzha. Silent Valley is located on the Western side in the Western Ghat, which is a feast to the visitor's eye.

Kodanad Viewpoint
Kodanad Viewpoint located at a distance of 16-km from Kotagiri commands a panoramic view of the plains and the eastern slopes of the Nilgiris.

Laws Falls
Laws falls are a beautiful picnic spot, named after Lt. Colonel Law, who traced and mainly constructed the Coonoor Ghat. They are about 5-km below Coonoor on Mettupalayam road. The height of the falls is about 180 feet. There are vast stretches of undisturbed sholas and it is a paradise for naturalists.

Places to stay in Nilgiri Hills

Accommodation is available at the hotels, guesthouses and lodges in the hill stations in the Nilgiris (Ooty and Coonoor). Coonoor has its share of luxury and budget hotels to guesthouses and picturesque resorts. Upper Coonoor is highly recommended.

In Ooty, varied accommodation options varying from luxurious and economy class hotels to lodges and resorts are available. Both Indian and Western style accommodation and food are available. Prior booking is advisable, especially during the summer months. It is also possible to get paying guest accommodations through brokers haunting the bus stand/railway station.

Shopping in Nilgiri Hills

Just about anything available in the cities can be had at Ooty with the added attraction of leisurely shopping. Exclusive Nilgiri products including Nilgiri tea, fruits, natural oils like Eucalyptas, Toda embroideries, plant nurseries are easily available in the town. Co-operative Super Market and Municipal Market are some of the best places for shopping fruits and general groceries. Kairali of Kerala Handicrafts and Poompuhar of Tamil Nadu Handicrafts have their showrooms near to Super Market Buildings on Charring Cross.

Distances

Coimbtore: 55 km Coonoor: 13 km Erode: 113 km Namakkal: 161 km Palni: 180 km

Tourist Office in Nilgiri Hills

Tourist Office, Government of Tamil Nadu Supermarket Complex Charring Cross Ooty ( Udhagamandalam ) -1

Tourist Information about Nilgiri Hills

Area (District Area) 2,459 sq kms Population (district): 7,10,210 (1991 Census) Latitude: N 11° and 11° 55' Longitude: E 76°13'and 77° 2' Altitude: 2,280 and 2,290 metres Clothing: Heavy woollen in winter and light woollen in summer Languages Spoken: Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam and English STD Code: 0423 Climate: Temperate and Most Equable Temperature Range (deg C): Summer- Max 25ºC, Min 10ºC Winter- Max 21ºC, Min 5ºC Rainfall: 1,960 mm

Location: Niligiri District, Tamil Nadu Discovered By: British In 1800 Highest Peak: Doddabetta Famous Festivals: Summer Festival And The Tea And Tourism Festival

Welcome to one of the most breathtaking locations in entire India, Ooty. Udhagamandalam is the official name of this hill station in Tamil Nadu, but is more famous by the name Ooty and is admiringly referred to as 'The Queen of Hill Stations'. Situated nearly 105 km from the city of Coimbatore, Ooty nestles in the Nilgiri Hills, nearly 7,347 m above sea level. As you enter the magnificent hill station of Ooty in Tamil Nadu, you will be treated with excellent weather, deep forests, lush green slopes and landscape dotted with acres of tea gardens in both sides of the road.

Travel Ooty to know its history which of Royalty and development. Ooty hill station in Tamil Nadu served as the summer retreat for British Officers of Madras presidency and enjoyed a special reputation with them. Ooty developed thick and fast under their rule, most of which is still present in all its glory. The best is surely the railway network that was installed in Ooty. In fact, a ride in a steam train in Ooty has become one of the favorite attraction of tourists here.

Travel Ooty to explore the surroundings of this quiet and small hill station by trekking through the Nilgiri Hills. Walking along the well laid out tea gardens, taking in the aroma of fresh tea is truly a feeling for a lifetime. The best time to visit Ooty is February and May. On your Ooty tours, don't miss to experience the thrill of aerosports.

Main Attraction of Ooty

Rose Garden
Covering an area of 4 hectares, Rose garden is divided into five terraces and is a wonderful spot for outings. There are approximately 2800 varieties of roses in the garden that mesmerize tourists of all ages. This is the largest collection of roses found anywhere in India. The park is situated at an altitude of nearly 2200 m and provides an unmatched views of surrounding areas.

Doddabetta Peak
Doddabetta Peak is the highest peak in the Nilgiri Hills. At distance of 10 Km from Ooty and at an altitude of 2623 m above sea level, Doddabetta Peak is among the most visited spot in and around Ooty. You are advised to trek to top of the peak for some wonderful moments. Not only is the trek through the woods a picturesque one, the views of the Nilgiri Hills that you will get once you reach the top are simply breathtaking.

Ooty Lake
Ooty lake is an artificial lake that was built by the then district collector John Sullivan in the year 1825. The lake is a famous option for picnics among locales as well as tourists as the lake offers opportunity for both boating and fishing. However, you will have to take prior permission from the officials for fishing in the lake.

Government Botanical Garden
Government Botanical Garden is home to few of the most rare species of plants, brought here from all corners of the world. The garden is open to public since 1848 and is maintained by Department of Horticulture. The park covers an area of nearly 22 hectares and is famous for a 20 million year old tree fossil, rare tree species like Lily Pond and Cork Tree. Do not forget to solve the puzzle of monkey-puzzle tree situated here. It is named so because monkeys can't climb this tree.

Deer Park
Situated just 1 km from the famous Ooty Lake, Deer Park is one of the very few high altitude wildlife parks in the country. Deer park is not a very big park and covers only 22 hectares. The main attraction of the park are chital and Sambar.

Things To Do in Ooty

Take a Ride in the Mountain Railway
This is one experience you should not miss out traveling in the Nilgiri toy train. The train gently meanders through rolling tea gardens, passing by the lush green hilly terrains. The Mountain railway line in Ooty is maintained by the Mountain Rail League. The unique rack system and complicated locomotives is a fascinating feature of this line. The Mountain Railway line to Ooty is connected with major railway stations in Metupalaiyam and Coimbatore. Enjoy the delightful train voyage during your Ooty tourism.

Trek to Discover th Beauty of Ooty
Enjoy the enthralling experience of trekking on your Ooty tourism. The hilly terrains of Nilgiris, at an altitude of 2600 m, invite the trekkers from every corner of the world. Ooty travel vacations gives you an opportunity to explore the excellent trek routes, enhanced with forests of rhododendron and meandering streams. The rugged and rough hilly ranges of Nilgiris in Ooty allures the adventure lovers and evokes the inherent sportsman spirit. Walk through the rolling green downs to have a breathtaking view of spectacular lush surroundings.

Up Above in the Sky - Hang Gliding
The pleasant climate and distinct topographical features of Ooty, makes it an ideal destination for thrilling adventure sport hang gliding. Enjoy the natural splendor of Ooty and have breath taking view of verdant surroundings. Hang gliding on Ooty tourism gives you an opportunity to look beyond the spines of lofty mountains heights and explore the rivers gushing through the dense forests. Make your Ooty travel plan to feel the ecstasy of flying high over the dense forests.

Catch Your Prey Enjoy Angling
Angling in Ooty reminds the tourist about their childhood days, when they use to hangout around the river side with their fishing rod and net to catch the fish. Ooty tourism offers an opportunity to explore the various meandering rivers and small gurgling streams which are suitable for angling. Indulge yourself in this delightful adventure activity in your Ooty tourism, to make your summer vacations a memorable one.

Taste Tea & Roam Around the Tea Gardens
And after all this, if you are tired, just sit back, relax and have a cup of tea or coffee Ooty special. Ooty is known for its tea gardens. Tea produced from here have immense taste. And the plantation themselves have a rejuvenating power. The immense scenic beauty of the sprawling lush greenery, dense forests and miles and miles of tea gardens allures the visitors from every pocket of the world. Ooty tourism offers an opportunity to discover the widespread tea estates. Travel Ooty to taste the green leaves tea, with a unique flavor which is delicious, organic and healthy.

Accommodation in Ooty

Ooty being one of the most happening tourists destinations in India, sports numerous luxury hotels as well as budget hill resorts. There are hotels that are situated in the sedate countryside and there are hotels right in the heart of city center. You have the option to choose according to your convenience. Some of the good staying option in Ooty are Sullivan Court, Hotel Sinclair, Sterling Holiday Resort and Hotel The Monarch.

How To Reach Ooty

By Air: Coimbatore Airport at Peelamedu is the nearest airport to Ooty. It is nearly 100 km from here. Coimbatore receives flights from all major airports in the country. From the airport, the most convenient way to reach Ooty is by taking a taxi. There are privately run and state transport buses as well plying between the two cities.

By Rail: Ooty is well connected to all cities of Tamil nadu. You can reach Ooty from Chennai by taking Nilgiri Express that takes tourist till, Mettupalyam. From there, you can either take a bus or a steam train. Traveling by steam train is the advised way as surroundings on the route is breathtakingly attractive.

By Road: The well laid out road network connects Ooty to all the major cities of Tamil Nadu and nearby states. There is regular public and private bus services to and from Ooty. For traveling inside Ooty, local buses, taxis and rickshaws are easily available.