Nearest Hill Stations from Chennai: Chennai is a busy metropolis on the southeastern coast of India. It is known for its hot and humid weather. However, the surrounding region is home to several hill stations which offer a refreshing escape from the city’s heat. Here is a list of the nearest hill stations from Chennai which is ideal for quick getaways.
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Nearest Hill Stations from Chennai
Yelagiri Hills
Yelagiri is a peaceful hill station located in the Vellore district of Tamil Nadu. It is known for its calm environment, Yelagiri is surrounded by green valleys and scenic views. It is a popular spot for trekking, and the Jalagamparai Waterfalls are a major attraction.
- Distance and Commute Time: About 230 km from Chennai, it takes around 4-5 hours by road to reach Yelagiri.
- How to Reach: You can travel by car or bus. The nearest railway station is Jolarpettai, about 20 km away.
- Things to Do: Trekking, boating in the Punganoor Lake, visiting the Nature Park, and experiencing the local culture at the weekly markets.
Kolli Hills
Kolli Hills is located in the Namakkal district of Tamil Nadu. It is lesser-known but offers an unspoiled natural environment. It has historical significance as well, with references to ancient Tamil literature.
- Distance and Commute Time: Around 360 km from Chennai, it takes approximately 6-7 hours by road.
- How to Reach: Best accessed by road, Kolli Hills can be reached by car or private taxis. The nearest railway station is Salem, about 90 km away.
- Things to Do: Visit the Agaya Gangai Waterfalls, and Arapaleeswarar Temple, and take long nature walks along the scenic viewpoints.
Yercaud
It is known as the “Poor Man’s Ooty”. Yercaud is situated in the Shevaroy Hills in Tamil Nadu. With its cool climate, coffee plantations, and lush green surroundings, Yercaud is a popular hill station for quick escapes.
- Distance and Commute Time: About 365 km from Chennai, the drive takes around 6-7 hours.
- How to Reach: It can be reached by road or train. The nearest railway station is Salem Junction, located 30 km away.
- Things to Do: Enjoy boating at the Yercaud Lake, visit the botanical gardens, and explore the Kiliyur Falls.
Kodaikanal
Kodaikanal is known as the “Princess of Hill Stations”. It is famous for its lush greenery, mist-covered cliffs, and the serene Kodaikanal Lake. It is located in the Dindigul district of Tamil Nadu and is a perfect destination for nature lovers.
- Distance and Commute Time: About 525 km from Chennai, it takes roughly 8-9 hours to drive to Kodaikanal.
- How to Reach: You can reach Kodaikanal by road, bus, or train. The nearest major railway station is Kodai Road, around 80 km away.
- Things to Do: Boating in Kodaikanal Lake, hiking to Dolphin’s Nose, visiting the Bryant Park, and cycling around the lake.
Ooty (Udhagamandalam)
Ooty is one of the most famous hill stations in South India. It is situated in the Nilgiri Hills. It was developed as a summer retreat by the British and continues to be a popular destination, known for its tea gardens, botanical gardens, and the Ooty Lake.
- Distance and Commute Time: Around 555 km from Chennai, it takes approximately 9-10 hours to reach Ooty by road.
- How to Reach: The best way to reach Ooty is by train via Mettupalayam or by road. The Nilgiri Mountain Railway offers a scenic train ride from Mettupalayam.
- Things to Do: Take a ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, visit the Government Botanical Garden, explore the Doddabetta Peak, and enjoy boating in Ooty Lake.
Coonoor
Coonoor is a small hill station near Ooty. It is famous for its tea gardens and beautiful landscapes. It offers a quieter and less commercialized alternative to Ooty, with attractions like Sim’s Park and Dolphin’s Nose Viewpoint.
- Distance and Commute Time: Approximately 530 km from Chennai, it takes about 9 hours by road.
- How to Reach: Coonoor can be reached by road or via the Nilgiri Mountain Railway from Mettupalayam.
- Things to Do: You can visit Sim’s Park, trek to Dolphin’s Nose, and explore the tea plantations.
Meghamalai
It is also known as the “High Wavy Mountains”. Meghamalai is a hidden gem in the Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu. It is well-known for its pristine beauty, wildlife, and tea estates.
- Distance and Commute Time: Around 555 km from Chennai, the journey by road takes about 9-10 hours.
- How to Reach: Best accessed by road; the nearest major railway station is Madurai, which is about 130 km away.
- Things to Do: Visit the Meghamalai Wildlife Sanctuary, explore the tea plantations, and enjoy the panoramic views of the mountains and valleys.
Valparai
Valparai is located in the Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu and is part of the Anaimalai Hills. It is known for its tea plantations and wildlife, Valparai is an ideal destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
- Distance and Commute Time: Around 600 km from Chennai, it takes around 10 hours to drive to Valparai.
- How to Reach: The best way to reach Valparai is by road. The nearest railway station is Pollachi, about 65 km away.
- Things to Do: You can visit the Sholayar Dam, trek through the tea estates, and spot wildlife in the Anaimalai Tiger Reserve.