20 Hill Stations Near Chennai In 2024 That Will Leave You Loving Summer Forever

23 Mar 2023

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Chennai is not only popular for its industrial outlook but has been a Mecca for tourists as well. The climate of the place, however, is hot and humid all year round, so most tourists seek to spend their outings in the outskirts. Chennai is enveloped by a number of scenic and mesmerizing hill stations, which can make your vacation a memorable experience. So, all you have to do now is to get packed and explore these stunning hill stations near Chennai.

20 Hill Stations Near Chennai

Chennai weather can be hot and humid but thanks to all the cool getaways nearby that you can have respite any time you want. If you are planning a hilly getaway, then you have got plenty of options near Chennai. Listed below are 20 such hill stations near Chennai you must visit to escape the scorching heat. Keep scrolling down and read along.

Yelagiri Hills: For A Tranquil Escape
Kolli Hills: For Lush Green Sceneries
Sirumalai: For Flora And Fauna
Palani Hills: For Trekking
Kotagiri: For Picturesque Landscapes
Meghamalai: For Pristine Waterfalls
Valparai: For Majestic Streams
Munnar: For Tea Plantations
Madikeri: For Wildlife Safari
Araku Valley: For Ancient Caves
Yercaud: For A Relaxing Trip
Coonoor: For All Nature Lovers
Coorg: For Coffee Plantations
Ooty: For Mystical Views
Horsley Hills: For Hiking Activities
Kodaikanal: “Princess of Hill Stations”
Chikmagalur: For Picturesque Waterfalls
Sakleshpur: For Verdant Greenery
Wayanad: For The Love Of Lakes
Thekkady: For Wildlife

1. Yelagiri Hills: For A Tranquil Escape

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Yelagiri is the nearest hill station from Chennai, surrounded by lakes, valleys, mountains and flower orchids. The scenery is filled with picturesque landscapes which are quite enthralling. The place includes a panoramic beauty that beguiles every visitor. It is amongst the few good hill stations near Chennai within 300 km.

How to reach: Yelagiri is approx 230 km. from Chennai and the nearest railway station is Jolarpettai Junction.
Best time to visit: September to March
Ideal Duration: 2-3 days
Best Experience: Lake Punganoor. You can enjoy boating at this lake in the pedal or manned rowing boats to watch the beauty of the surrounding hills during a leisurely cruise.
Distance from Chennai: 228 km
Places to stay: O Nila Resort, Rhythms Lake View Resort, Dolphin Resort

Must Read: 16 Road Trips From Chennai For The Roadie In You

South Weekend Holiday Packages On TravelTriangle

2. Kolli Hills: For Lush Green Sceneries

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Surrounded by green lush sceneries, it is one of the closest hill stations to Chennai. It is famous for its coffee and tea plantations. Untouched by commercial tourism, the hills are a favourite amongst nature lovers, hikers, meditation practitioners and trekkers.

How to reach: Kolli Hills is 357 Km. far from Chennai and the nearest railway station is Salem.
Best time to visit: February to December
Ideal Duration: 3-4 days
Best Experience: Siddhar Caves. These were homes to sages who used to practice medicines ages ago. They are surrounded by groves with magical medicinal properties. Plus, don’t miss out on visiting the famous Arapaleeswarar Temple.
Distance from Chennai: 360 Kms
Places to stay: Silverline Retreat Hotel, Nallathambi Resort

3. Sirumalai: For Flora And Fauna

Sirumalai is a beautiful hill station in Tamil Nadu

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Sirumalai is a hill station in Tamil Nadu, located in the eastern ghats. With a wide variety of flora and fauna, Sirumalai is known for its breathtaking landscape.

How to reach: Sirumalai is situated nearly 465 km. from Chennai and the nearest railway stations are Kodaikanal Road Railway Station and Ambaturai Railway Station.
Best time to visit: February and October to December.
Ideal Duration: 3-4 days.
Best Experience: Dindigul Rock Fort. The fort is popular for its un-commercialized surroundings that give a pleasing and enchanting experience to every traveller.
Distance from Chennai: 464 Kms
Places to stay: Wild Rock, Lion Resorts, Coffee Country Resorts

4. Palani Hills: For Trekking

Palani hills is one of the best hill stations near Chennai

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Palani Hills is located in the Western Ghats that joins the Annamalai Range on the west. The area is mostly surrounded by the dense forests that form the Palanm Hills Wildlife Sanctuary. Travellers can also enjoy adventure activities like trekking and hiking here.

How to reach: Palani hills is approx. 530 km. from Chennai and the nearest railway station is Madurai.
Best time to visit: September to March.
Ideal Duration: 2-3 days
Best Experience: Thiru Avinankudi Temple. It is said that Lord Muruga holds a Royal Court at this temple where saints and gods come in full attendance, clad in deerskin and saffron dyed clothes.
Distance from Chennai: 534 Kms
Places to stay: Wood Cabins, Greenlands Youth Hostel, The Kodai Heaven

Suggested Read: 16 Reasons Why You Should Never Visit Chennai

5. Kotagiri: For Picturesque Landscapes

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Kotagiri is one of the outstanding hill stations near Chennai. Situated in the Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu, this place is surrounded by exotic tea plants and green landscapes and is also a popular trekking spot.

How to reach: Kotagiri is approx. 538 km. from Chennai and the nearest railway station is Coimbatore.
Best time to visit: February to May and December.
Ideal Duration: 2-3 days
Best Experience: Kodanad View Point. Get the mystic views of both Coimbatore Plains and the Mysore Plateau from a single point.
Distance from Chennai: 537 Kms
Places to stay: Silver Spruce, Hanging Huts Resorts, Oak n Tea’s villa

6. Meghamalai: For Pristine Waterfalls

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Meghamalai is amongst the least known hill stations near Chennai. Once here, you can enjoy trekking through rich tea estates and virgin forests or unwind with a bath under the pristine waterfalls. You may simply sit quietly and spend some time with yourselves amidst the dense evergreen forest covers.

How to reach: Meghamalai is approx. 554 km. from Chennai and the nearest railway station is Madurai.
Best time to visit: October to May.
Ideal Duration: 2-3 days.
Best Experience: Meghamalai Wildlife Sanctuary. You can spot various species of migratory and resident elephants, leopard, Nilgiri tahr, gaur, barking deer, sambar, wild boar, porcupine, Nilgiri langur, bonnet macaque, sloth bear, Grey Junglefowl, Smooth-coated Otter and flying squirrel.
Distance from Chennai: 551 Kms
Places to stay: Cloud Mountain Bungalow, Sandriver Cottage, Manalar

7. Valparai: For Majestic Streams

Valparai is a mesmerizing hill station in Tamil Nadu

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One of the best hill stations around Chennai, Valparai is located around 1193 meters above sea level and situated amidst the Annamalai range of the Western Ghats. Bordered by several forests, the place is popular for its majestic streams and whispering waterfalls.

How to reach: Valparai is approximately 582 km. from Chennai and the nearest railway station is Pollachi and Coimbatore.
Best time to visit: May to September
Ideal Duration: 3-4 days
Best Experience: Chinnakallar Falls. You can cool off in a leisurely swim around these falls while children can paddle to their heart’s content. You can also find a number of wildlife reserves around it, which include a wide variety of fauna including tiger, sloth bear, pangolin, etc.
Distance from Chennai: 587 Kms
Places to stay: Ganapathy homestay, Maryland Homestay, ATS HOMESTAY

8. Munnar: For Tea Plantations

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Munnar is located in the Western Ghats and is popular for being an ideal hill station near Chennai with its picture-book views and sprawling tea plantations. It houses the highest peak in South India, Anamudi, which is an ideal spot for trekking.

How to reach: Munnar is 583 km. from Chennai and the nearest railway station is Aluva.
Best time to visit: February to May and August to December.
Ideal Duration: 3-4 days
Best Experience: The magical phenomenon of Neelakurinji. This flower blooms once in 12 years and covers the entire hill range in blue. It will next bloom in 2018.
Distance from Chennai: 590 Kms
Places to stay: Talayar Valley Bungalow, Mountain Hut Resorts, Veetee Midtown

Suggested Read: 20 Most Beautiful Hill Stations in Kerala

9. Madikeri: For Wildlife Safari

Madikeri is a quaint hill station near Chennai

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Situated in the Kodagu district of Karnataka, Madikeri is surrounded by green picturesque hills and forests and tourists quite enjoy the tropical climate of the place. It has a rich history and you can witness the influence of many dynasties here, including Sultans and the British.

How to reach: Madikeri is around 585 km. from Chennai and the nearest railway stations are Hassan, Kasaragod, Kanhangad, Kannur and Thalassery.
Best time to visit: February to April and October to December.
Ideal Duration: 2-3 days.
Best Experience: Dubare Elephant Camp. Enjoy elephant ride and wildlife safari, or witness these large animals getting trained.
Distance from Chennai: 586 Kms
Places to stay: Lotus The Cottages, Spatika Comforts, Vanavihar Holiday Homes

10. Araku Valley: For Ancient Caves

Araku Valley amongst the best hill stations near Chennai

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Araku Valley is situated 902 meters above sea level and is enveloped with numerous green mountains including Galikonda and Chitamogondi. It is popular for its premium coffee plantations and is the ultimate place for sightseeing.

How to reach: Araku Valley is 895 km from Chennai and the nearest railway station is Koraput Junction.
Best time to visit: October to March
Ideal Duration: 2-3 days
Best Experience: Borra Caves. These 150 Million years old caves are said to have originated out of nowhere. These caves hold special significance for pilgrims. One can find a Shivalingam and a cow mural known as Kamdhenu amongst the various formations inside the caves.
Distance from Chennai: 880 Kms
Places to stay: Vihar Resort, Hill Park Resorts, Dhimsa Resorts

11. Yercaud: For A Relaxing Trip

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Located in Tamil Nadu, Yercaud is one of the most beautiful hill stations near Chennai that you can visit during your holidays. With a picturesque view and pleasant weather, this hill station will make you fall in love with it. Yercaud is home to a plethora of fascinating tourist attractions that you should visit on your vacation. Some of the best ones are Yercaud Lake, Pagoda Point, Silk Farm, and Rose Garden.

How to reach: Board a flight till Bangalore Airport and then hire a cab or take a local bus till Yercaud
Best time to visit: October to June
Ideal Duration: 1-2 days.
Best Experience: Explore famous places like Bears Cave, Kottachedu Teak Forest, Tipperary View Point, Deer Park
Distance from Chennai: 366 Kms
Places to stay: Valley View Cottage, Rain Rock Villa, Apple Cottage

12. Coonoor: For All Nature Lovers

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Famous for the Nilgiri Tea, Coonoor is the most frequented spot in Tamil Nadu. Craving for a tranquil vacation amidst lush green hills? Head to Coonoor and get ready to relax amidst nature, witness serene waterfalls, and indulge in adventurous activities. There are many other things to do in Coonoor that will make your trip exciting. The local food served in this hill station has its charm and if you are a foodie then Coonoor is calling you and you must plan your trip soon.

How to reach: The nearest airport from Conoor is Coimbatore Aiport and you can later hire a can or take a local bus and reach.
Best time to visit: October to March
Ideal Duration: 1-2 days.
Best Experience: Trekking, Learn How To Make Cheese, visit Indian Bakery and relish deliciously baked goods
Distance from Chennai: 539 Kms
Places to stay: HS Holiday Homes, The Xanadu, Vasanth Vihar Homestay

13. Coorg: For Coffee Plantations

If you are a coffee lover then you are in for a delight as the next spot on this list of hill stations near Chennai is famous for its coffee plantations. Known as Scotland of India, Coorg will surely impress you with its beauty and coffee. This impressive hill station offers all the travellers a long list of must-dos and places that they can explore on their vacation. You can go for a hike or live in a camp while you are surrounded by green hills all around.

How to reach: The nearest airport from Conoor is Mangalore Aiport and you can later hire a can or take a local bus and reach.
Best time to visit: October to April
Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 days
Best Experience: Camping, Fishing, River Rafting, Heritage Tour, Microlight Flying
Distance from Chennai: 586 Kms
Places to stay: Serene Woods, Bhagavathy Budget Cottage, Lotus The Cottages

14. Ooty: For Mystical Views

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Situated in Nilgiris District, Ooty is all about tea plantations and mesmerizing views. A perfect spot to head for a family vacation in the summers, Ooty will provide you with a much-needed break from hot weather. As far as the tourist attractions are considered, you can visit Botanical Gardens, Dolphin’s Nose, Toda Huts and Tea Museum. Do try the local tea served near the tea plantations and carry some tea leaves back home for your friends.

How to reach: Coimbatore Airport is the nearest airport and you can easily reach Ooty by hiring a cab from the airport.
Best time to visit: October to June.
Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 days
Best Experience: Explore the tea plantations, shop for local tea, visit Tamilnadu Tourism Ooty Boat House and Doddabetta Peak
Distance from Chennai: 555 Kms
Places to stay: Meadows Residency, Astoria Residency, Paradise Perfect

15. Horsley Hills: For Hiking Activities

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Horsley Hills are one of the fun places in Chennai where you can enjoy your summer break. The cool and salubrious weather will provide you with much relief from the scorching heat. Horsley Hills is one of the most popular hill stations in Andhra Pradesh that needs no introduction. Home to the oldest Banyan tree and Eucalyptus tree, the verdant landscapes of Eastern Ghats will charm your senses. It is one of the must-visit hill stations near Chennai within 300 km.

How to reach: Madanapalle is the nearest railway station to Horsley Hills. You can also take a cab from Chennai to Horsley Hills.
Best time to visit: December-March
Ideal Duration: 1-2 days
Best experiences: Bird watching, hiking, photography
Distance from Chennai: 276 Kms
Places to stay: Horsley Hills Haritha Hill Resort, Horsley Hills Holiday Homes, JNR Grand

16. Kodaikanal: Princess Of Hill Stations

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If you are looking for cold places near Chennai, then Kodaikanal is an amazing option. Also known as the “Gift of the Forests”, Kodaikanal boasts of enduring views of the Western Ghats. The lush greenery will reinvigorate your senses and leave you happy and hearty. Its quiet and tranquil environs were the reason why Britishers made it their summer retreat. Because of its ethereal beauty, Kodaikanal is often denoted as the “Princess of hill stations”. Cover all the places to visit in Kodaikanal on your vacation.

How to reach: You can take a direct train from Chennai to Kodaikanal.
Best time to visit: Throughout the year
Ideal Duration: 2-3 days
Best experiences: Boating, caving, driving to Berijam Lake
Distance from Chennai: 529 Kms
Places to stay: Town Country Guest House, Kodai Drizzle, Clouds And Mist Cottage

17. Chikmagalur: For Picturesque Waterfalls

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Chikmagalur may not be the nearest hill station near Chennai but it is definitely worth a visit. This place has everything a hill station should have to provide you with a relaxing holiday. Enjoy the scintillating views of nature and visit the picturesque waterfalls on your vacation. The best thing about this place is that the weather is nice all around the year. So, you can visit here anytime you want.

How to reach: Take a train from Chennai to Bangalore and another train to Kadur, 40 km from Chikmagalur.
Best time to visit: September-May
Ideal Duration: 1-2 days
Best experiences: Trekking, camping, tea plantation walk
Distance from Chennai: 596 Kms
Places to stay: Trivik Hotels & Resorts, Hotel Aadrika, Java Rain Resorts

18. Sakleshpur: For Verdant Greenery

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Nestled amidst the Western Ghats, Sakleshpur is a popular hill station in the state of Karnataka. It is famous for its sweeping mountain views and rice plantations. But more importantly, it is the 28th-century star-shaped Manjarabad Fort that steals the show. One of the cool places near Chennai, this town is also abundant with rich flora and fauna. One can spot deers, cobras, and birds at Bisle Reserve Forest. Catch a glimpse of Jenukallu Gudda Peak while you are at it. There are myriad places to visit in Sakleshpur.

How to reach: Take a flight from Chennai to Bangalore and hire a cab to Sakleshpur.
Best time to visit: October-March
Ideal Duration: 1-2 days
Best experiences: Camping, sightseeing, visiting waterfalls
Distance from Chennai: 574 Kms
Places to stay: Kaanana Home Stay, Nyrit Villa Homestay, Misty Mountains Homestay

19. Wayanad: For The Love Of Lakes

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Wayanad is one of the cold places near Chennai where you can enjoy a romantic getaway with your spouse. Book a homestay and wake up to the lush green views of the mountains from your window. Known for its rich flora and fauna and coffee plantations, you will return from Wayanad rejuvenated and refreshed. It may be far from Chennai but it is one of the best places to unwind and relax. There are plenty of tourist places in Wayanad for sightseeing.

How to reach: Fly to Kozhikode from Chennai and take a cab to Thekkady.
Best time to visit: October-May
Ideal Duration: 2-3 days
Best experiences: Caving, boating, camping
Distance from Chennai: 610 Kms
Places to stay: Wayanad Wild, Mount Xanadu, Wayanad Village Hotel

20. Thekkady: For Wildlife

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Thekkady is not the nearest hill station from Chennai, but it definitely is one of the most sought after places to visit. The verdant greenery really does a number on you and leaves your senses reinvigorated. It is also known for the largest tiger bio reserve in India apart from other places to visit in Thekkady. Its dense, thick forests are home to a variety of wild animals. You could even enjoy an array of activities like bamboo rafting, wildlife safari, etc.

How to reach: Take a train from Chennai to Kottayam and then a cab to Thekkady.
Best time to visit: October-February
Ideal Duration: 2-3 days
Best experiences: Elephant safari, hiking, bamboo rafting, spice plantation tour
Distance from Chennai: 592 Kms
Places to stay: Kairali Palace Homestay, Able Homestay, Thekkady Homestay

Further Read: 25 Mesmerizing Hill Stations in South India

So, where do you want to go this summer? Enticed by these beautiful hill stations near Chennai? If yes then apply those leaves, get packed and plan your vacation in Chennai right away. Do let us know how your trip turned out to be in the comment section below.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Hill Stations Near Chennai

Is Pondicherry a hill station?

No, Pondicherry is not a hill station. It is a beautiful place with beaches and French colonies.

Which all hill stations are located in Tamil Nadu?

There are a number of tourist places near Chennai. Here are some of the most beautiful and lush green hill stations located in Tamil Nadu:
1. Yercaud
2. Coonoor
3. Kodaikanal
4. Kotagiri
5. Kolli Hills

In which district the hill station of Annamalai is situated?

Anamalai Hills are a mountain range located in the western portion of Western Ghats spanning the border of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

How do I get from Chennai to Horsley Hills?

The best way to reach Horsley Hills from Chennai is by road since there is no direct connectivity. The distance between the two places in 259 km and it takes about 7 hours for the journey to complete.

How can I go to Kolli Hills from Chennai?

The best way to reach Kolli Hills from Chennai is by car. The road trip takes about 8 hours as the distance between the two places is approximately 360 km.

How can I go from Chennai to Yelagiri?

There are no direct trains between Chennai and Yelagiri. You could either take a road trip or take a train to Jolarpettai and then take a cab to Yelagiri.

Which is better Yelagiri or Yercaud?

Both of them are beautiful places to visit where you will get to enjoy the lush greenery. However, Yercaud is located at a higher altitude than Yelagiri and is lesser-known than Yelagiri. So, not only you get a lesser crowd but also get better climatic conditions.

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