The scenic landscape of South India is blessed with beautiful hill stations where holidaying becomes a rejuvenating and fun-filled experience. The Hill Stations in South India takes you to the majestic Nilgiris and Malabar mountain ranges which offer a delightful ambiance with lush green valleys, waterfalls, lakes and exotic flora and fauna.
The hill stations of South India are dominated by the Western Ghats and the landscape showcases the lush greenery. Kerala is one of the perfect hill station getaways in South India. When the summer hits the nearby region, the hill station of South India comes to the rescue from the scorching heat. These hill areas are a paradise for the family tour, friends, solo travelers, and honeymooners. South India is also home to some of the best places for honeymoon in India.
Here, you can enjoy the sunset, have the most amazing weekend and take long walks capturing the delightful beauty of these hill stations. The pleasant weather conditions, greenery all around and fascinating accommodation options make South India as one of the most sought after destination. In India, right from the northern region to southern, you can find several beautiful hill stations. In the following articles, we have mentioned some of the best hill stations in South India.
Listed below are some of the Famous Hill Stations in South India:
Most Popular Hill Stations in Kerala, South India
1. Munnar Hill Station South India
Munnar is a hill station in South India and is an integral part of Kerala tourism circuit. The magnificent tea gardens of Munnar and delightful ambiance of the Malabar ranges attracts a large number of visitors every year from all over the world. Just imagine yourself putting hand-in-hand with your special someone, walking through never-ending carpets of greenery.
Plan a holiday in Munnar and experience the majestic beauty of this place with your loved ones. As you walk through the plentiful green tea estates and breathe in the refreshing air that might want you to stay here forever! So, you must consider making a journey to Munnar, which is one of the most beautiful hill stations in South India. This hill station is situated in the state of Kerala. This place is picturesque, peaceful and offers good availability of accommodations with scrumptious food. This all makes it a perfect romantic getaway in South India.
Things to do in Munnar:
- Treehouse stay
- Camping and trekking to Echo Point
- Spot rare species in Eravikulam National Park
- Mountain biking in Suryanelli
- Have a picnic in Cheeyappara Waterfalls
- Indulge in rock climbing and rappelling
- Enjoy shikara ride in Kundala Lake
2. Wayanad Hill Station – South India
Wayanad is a quaint little hill station in northeast Kerala known for its delightful surroundings. Wayanad is one of the popular tourist attractions in Kerala and it is gaining popularity among the travelers who come here to explore the pristine beauty of the region. Planning a Wayanad tour is a perfect weekend idea as it is an ideal getaway from the chaos of the crowd.
Things to do in Wayanad:
- Mountain Hike
- Walkthrough the natural trails in Peringoda
- Ziplining in Meppadi
- Explore the tea estates of Wayanad
- Boating in Pookode Lake
- Trek to Chembra Peak
- Visit Edakkal Caves
- Stay at Treehouse
- Trek to Neelimala viewpoint
3. Ponmudi- Second Highest Hill in South India
Ponmudi is second highest hill station in south india and it is a small and peaceful retreat 55 km away from Trivandrum in Kerala. It is situated at the southern stretch of Western Ghats mountain range running parallel to the Arabian Sea. Ponmudi (1100m from the sea level) is an ideal weekend getaway and famous destination in Kerala. It is a paradise for nature lovers wanting to escape the noisy cities for a breath of fresh air.
The Golden Peak of Kerala, Ponmundi gets its name in the list of one of the top honeymoon destinations in South India. Plan a Kerala holiday and explore the luxurious tea manors, turned trails, a showcase of mountains and a myriad of butterflies, it is one of the spots you ought to be at for your special trip. The whole scene is overwhelmingly charged with thick woodlands, waterfalls, and different trekking trails.
Things to do in Ponmudi:
- Explore the Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary
- Visit the enchanting Golden Valley
- Visit to the Mini Zoo
- Enjoy the trails at Varayattumotta, Chinnappulle, and Braemoo
Explore Trivandrum Tour Packages
4. Devikulam
Situated near Munnar in Kerala, Devikulam gets its name from a lake wherein Goddess Sita washed. Plan a hill station tour to Devikulam and experience the spiritual vibes of this place. The lake is consequently held holy and is accepted to have corrective forces. The tea ranches and waterfalls that encompass this little hill station add to the picturesque excellence of Devikulam.
Things to do in Devikulam:
- Take a dip in the sacred Devi Lake
- Visit to the picturesque Pallivasal Falls
- Get a sight of Thoovanam Falls
- Visit to the delightful tea and spice plantations
5. Thenmala
Situated in Kollam district of Kerala, Thenmala is a small hill station that addresses adventure seekers with a host of attractions like mountaineering, trekking, biking, and boating. It is a famous location for the shooting of Malayalam and Tamil movies. Kerala is among the best places for spa Ayurveda in India. Nestled in between the dense forests of Western Ghats. Dotted with winding roads, tea plantations, and lush greenery.
Things to do in Thenmala:
- Enjoy the Butterfly Safari
- Indulge in rock climbing, mountain biking, and rappelling
- Cycling on the riverine biking trail route
Best Highlands in South India in Karnataka
6. Coorg
Coorg is one of the famous hill stations in India. It is snuggled in the picturesque valley and hills of the Western Ghats of Karnataka. This place is blessed with nature’s bounty. The peaceful ambiance and serene surroundings of Coorg attract a large number of visitors every year who come here to experience the mystic charm of Nilgiris.
Things to do in Coorg:
- Trek through the hills and jungles
- Take a walk in a coffee plantation
- Experience the Tibetan Culture
- Enjoy river rafting in Bara pole
- Go for fishing in the lake and river of Coorg
7. Dandeli
The small hill station of Dandeli in Karnataka is known for its biodiversity and has emerged as an adventure sports destination for white water rafting. Adventure seekers from all parts of the country come to Dandeli to experience the thrill of rafting. It is one of the best places to visit in December. This quaint little town is a paradise for nature lovers.
Things to do in Dandeli:
- River rafting in Kali River
- Wildlife Safari in Dandeli Wildlife Safari
- Kayaking in Supa Reservoir or River Kali
- Mountain biking in the forest
- Coracle Boat Ride
- Trekking in Kulgi – Nagzari Valley
- Natural Jacuzzi Bath
- Explore Kavala Caves
Explore karnataka Tour Packages
Top Hill Stations in South India in Tamil Nadu
8. Ooty South India
A popular hill station of Tamil Nadu, Ooty is known for its beautiful lush green surroundings, magnificent lakes and gardens. Ooty sees a huge rush of visitors from all over India during the summer months. Ooty is the amongst the broadly known hill stations in India, which falls on the Nilgiri slopes of Tamil Nadu. It is the best destination for family holidays in India. Whether you need to unwind, restore or need to appreciate the beautiful excellence, Ooty has every bit of it. The liberality of nature in Ooty can be very transparently seen in the lofty waterfalls, wonderful natural sceneries, spiraling water streams, and amazing tranquility.
The best places to visit in Ooty are Rose Garden, Lake Park, Deer Park, Ooty Lake, and Government Museum. In case, you aren’t much of an explorer and like to have what is being served on the platter, then go for the Ooty tour packages available in the travel market. These will do the needful to a great extent. Summer is the best time to visit Ooty as winters here are colder than the rest of South India. Summers offer pleasant and comfortable weather.
Things to do in Ooty:
- Ride in Nilgiri mountain toy train
- Visit to the Dolphin nose viewpoint
- Live in Toda huts
- Speedboat ride in Pykara Lake
- Camping, fishing, and rafting in Avalanche Lake
- Visit Emerald Lake
- Seek blessing at Mariamman Temple
9. Coonoor Hill Station South India
Coonoor hill stations in South India are situated at just 15 km above Ooty where you can enjoy the pristine ambiance of Nilgiris. They are many tea gardens in Coonoor which is known for the production of Nilgiri tea. Another favorite romantic hill station of the state of Tamil Nadu is Coonoor. It is an emerging location chosen by people apart from hill stations such as Ooty. Coonoor is located at a distance from Ooty. The place is green, un-polluted and provides picturesque views as you drive down through its downy winding roads. The staying options are just great for instance, the Colonial bungalows that have been double up as homestays and unique resorts proving couples a wonderful experience.
Things to do in Coonoor:
- Family picnic at Sim’s park
- Buy home-made chocolates (for back home)
- Go for bird-watching
- Road trip to Lamb’s Rock
- Hike to the Law’s Fall
- Explore the High Field Tea Factor
10. Kodaikanal Hill Station South India
Kodaikanal is a famous destination in Tamil Nadu often referred to as the ‘Princess of Hill Stations’. It offers panoramic views of the Nilgiri mountain ranges and is the ideal getaway for nature lovers. Situated in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal is one of the best destinations for winter holidays in India. It is the next most famous hill station in the region. This destination is majorly famous as a honeymoon destination due to nature trails, charming lakes, quaint resorts, and interesting activities like cycling, exclusive plantation tours, and bird-watching. Here, you can also take your spouse or lover for candle-lit dinners and indulge in the home-made chocolates as you enjoy the pleasant weather together!
Things to do in Kodaikanal:
- Walk on Coaker’s Walk
- Boating in Kodaikanal Lake
- Explore the haunting Guna Caves
- Take the scenic drive to Berijam Lake
Explore Kodaikanal Tour Packages
11. Yelagiri South India
Situated in Vellore district of Tamil Nadu, Yelagiri is a quaint hill station surrounded by lush green valleys, orchards and rose gardens. It is becoming a popular destination in South India for adventure sports such as rock climbing and paragliding. This place is spread over 30 sq. km and snuggled at an altitude of 1,100 meters above the sea level.
Things to do in Yelagiri:
- Relish nature’s beauty at Jalagamparai Falls
- Take a tour to Telescope Observatory
- Wallow in adventure sports
- Boating in Punganoor Lake
- Trekking in Swamimalai Hills
12. Kotagiri
Kotagiri is an offbeat destination in South India. This is the smallest and the oldest hill station. This picturesque place is surrounded by tea estates in the lush green valleys of Nilgiris. Nature lovers can explore the diverse flora of the region and adventure seekers can enjoy activities like rock climbing and trekking in Kotagiri.
Things to do in Kotagiri:
- Trekking and Camping in Kotagiri
- Stay amidst organic farms
- Trek in the Nilgiris
- Cottage stay in the tea estate
- Camping in the lap of Western Ghats
Hill Stations in South India in Andhra Pradesh
13. Araku Valley
A less explored but beating in natural beauty destination in South India is Araku Valley. Araku Valley hill station in Andhra Pradesh is one of the most stunning places. This beautiful valley is located in the district of Visakhapatnam and houses a few native tribes. It is lush green heaven that is most suitable to be visited in the post-monsoon or winter season when the greenery will look at its best. The couples can visit many attractions, go for trekking trails, visit waterfalls and caves.
This spot draws in travelers with a charming climate, slopes, and valleys. This gorgeous valley expands to some 36 km and the elevation is somewhere around 600 to 900 m above the sea level. Plan a trip to India and visit this valley to experience the enthralling beauty of famous attractions of the valley. Spot on Ghat Street with thick woods on either side is in itself intriguing and charming. Borra Caves found 29 km from Araku Valley, is one of the well-known close-by attraction spots.
Things to do in Araku Valley:
- Explore the Borra Caves
- Visit to the Araku Waterfalls
- Explore the tribal culture in Tribal Museum
- Visit to the magnificent Katiki Waterfalls
- Shop for the locally made wooden handicrafts.
Also check out hill stations tour packages in India
Top Hill Stations in South India in Telangana
14. Ananthagiri Hills
Aside from being one of the main three hill stations of Telangana, Ananthagiri Hills give the vista of slopes joshing with the mists. It is an amazing summer retreat in Andhra and one of the cleanest and greenest hill stations in India. It is one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in South India. Rich in minerals and salubrious environment, it vouches for enthralling scenes that just stops everything and charms a spell of romance, especially on the couples.
Things to do in Ananthagiri Hills:
- Trekking in Ananthagiri Hills
- Enjoy camping in Ananthagiri Hills
- Enjoy the visit to Tyda Park
- Take a dip in Bhavanasi Lake
Plan a Trip to India and go through the huge list of things to do in the hill stations of South India. Experience the majestic beauty of these famous hill stations with your family, friends, and spouse. Book a tour with us and enjoy the enthralling beauty of South India.
Planning to Visit Hill Stations, Check This Link also for Hill Resorts Hill Resorts in IndiaExplore South India Tour Packages
