9 Must-visit Hill Stations Near Coimbatore
Table of Contents
Introduction
“Vanagame, ilaiveyile, maracherive, neengalallam kaanalin neero? Verum katchi pizhai thaano?” – quotes Mahakavi Bharathiyar, a famous poet and freedom fighter. He wonders: about the majestic looks of the sky, tender sun rays, and dense woods; are they a mirage or an illusion?
This quote, painted on the walls of GRD Layout near RS Puram, Coimbatore, served as a profound inspiration. It prompted me to experience nature’s beauty just as Mahakavi did. What will inspire us on this journey? Will it be the captivating allure of nature or the profound words of Mahakavi? Join me on this trip and let’s find out. And to make your exploration even more convenient, consider opting to rent a car in Coimbatore. By choosing to rent a car in Coimbatore, you can effortlessly traverse the region and visit the top 9 must-visit hill stations near Coimbatore, immersing yourself in their serene beauty.
Top 9 Must-Visit Hill Stations Near Coimbatore
Kothagiri
Kothagiri, one of the oldest and third-largest hill stations in Nilgiris hills, is a beautiful hill station located sixty-eight kilometres from Coimbatore. While speaking with the locals, I learned the actual meaning of this name. This hill is home to a tribe named ‘Kota’, and ‘giri’ refers to hills, hence the name.
Where to Stay?
Our team found various accommodations to suit various budget ranges. My choice was the Hanging Huts, a quaint cottage resort set on a tea plantation in Aracode, outskirts of Kothagiri. You can also find several other accommodations, from budget hotels to luxury resorts.
Average Expenses
Travelling from Coimbatore by bus or car may cost around ₹4,499 per person for a weekend trip, including accommodation, food, and sightseeing. But if you choose to stay on a budget trip, it may cost you around ₹2,400 per person.
How to Reach?
Kothagiri is well connected by road with many cities and towns in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. You can drive your vehicle or take a bus or taxi to Kothagiri. From Coimbatore, it is around sixty-three kilometres to reach Kothagiri by road.
Touristy Things You Can Try
Catherine falls: This 250 feet high waterfall can be reached by trekking 8km from Kothagiri.
Kodanad viewpoint: This stunning point offers a panoramic view of Rangasamy Peak, Dolphin’s Nose, Catherine falls, and Rangasamy Pillar.
Longwood Shola: This dense evergreen forest is home to a wide variety of wildlife, such as flying foxes and Indian bison.
Personal Review
For the scenic views, lush greenery, fresh air, and accessibility, I would rate Kothagiri three out of five. This rating has dropped due to a few drawbacks, including zero nightlife, crowds during peak seasons, and lower medical facilities.
Valparai
Valparai, a hill station in the Coimbatore district, is located near the Anamalai tiger reserve, a protected area for wildlife and biodiversity. Valparai is the perfect spot to enjoy nature’s beauty and serenity.
Where to Stay?
We would suggest Stanmore Garden Bungalow, Wintel Wild, and Mellow Mist. The accommodation here begins from ₹1,700. You can also choose to sacrifice the view from these resorts for cheaper hotels nearby. These resorts are located near attraction points, so you can easily access them.
Average Expenses
During our stay, we spent approx ₹1,600 for accommodation, ₹790 for transportation, ₹1,800 for food, and the activities ranged from free to ₹300. Therefore the total average expenses for two persons should range from ₹4,190 to ₹10,870.
How to Reach?
The nearest airport is the Coimbatore International Airport, about 120km away. You can take a bus or a taxi to reach Valparai. The bus fare ranges from ₹80 to ₹150. You can also take a taxi which costs around ₹2,500.
Touristy Things You Can Try
You can trek at Shinto’s peak, bird watching within the lush evergreen plantation, and roam around the tea estate garden. Moreover, you will find a variety of photography points around waterfalls, Nirar dam, Nallamudi Viewpoint and more.
Personal Review
With all the evergreen plantations and waterfalls, Valparai deserves 3.5 out of five.
Topslip
At 800 feet above sea level, Topslip stands majestically with the green spread plantation, unique teak forest, and bamboo forest. This elegant hill station near Coimbatore is a part of the Anamalai tiger reserve, home to exotic wild species, such as tigers, elephants, leopards, gaurs, sloths and more. If you are an adventure lover, this spot calls you.
Where to Stay?
Some of the best resorts in Topslip are Cotsvilla Resort Topslip and Western Ghats Villas. These resorts offer comfortable accommodations, scenic views and various amenities such as wifi, parking and more. If you want something on a budget, you can choose between Coco Lagoon by Great Mount, Ambrra River Resort, and Vasu Resorts.
Average Expenses
The average expenses may vary depending on the mode of transportation, accommodation, and activities. On average, you may spend around ₹3,480 to ₹7,640, including the entry fee for the Anamalai Tiger reserve, activities, food, and accommodations.
How to Reach?
If you are travelling from Coimbatore, take a bus to Pollachi and then take a bus or hire a cab to reach Topslip. The prices may vary depending on your mode of transportation.
Touristy Things You Can Try
Safari: You can take a vehicle or elephant safari and enjoy the exotic wildlife in their natural habitat.
Trekking: Trekking through the forest trails will allow you to enjoy the scenic beauty of grasslands and shola forests.
Bird watching: Topslip is home to 250 species of birds, some rare and colourful. You can lie on the banks of the lake and enjoy the birds.
A night in a tree house: You will get a unique stay experience in a tree house built inside the forest.
Personal Review
With all the adventure and uniqueness, Topslip deserves a rating of four out of five.
Bellikal
Bellikal, a small village in Nilgiris, is an ideal location for peace. This beautiful hill station, surrounded by Nilgiris, is home to a wide spectrum of wild species, such as elephants, deer, bison and more.
Where to Stay?
Bellikal, a hidden tourist attraction, offers little choice regarding staying, yet a peaceful stay. You could choose between La Niebla Farm resort, the Hermitage, and the Bowlers Chalet.
Average Expenses
Bellikal will be the most budget travel sight you have ever visited unless your hometown is a hill station. Your average expenses in Bellikal will stay within a couple of thousand rupees in Bellikal.
How to Reach?
If you travel from Coimbatore, you can take a bus to Bellikal. You can also use your car or hire a taxi to reach Bellikal.
Touristy Things You Can Try
As said, Bellikal is ideal for relaxation; subsequently, you will only find a few tourist attractions here. You can visit Bison valley and Bellikal lake for a peaceful relaxation session.
Personal Review
To rate Bellikal as an adventure destination will be unjust. Considering the peaceful environment, five out of five for peace lovers is no surprise. But as a general tourist, I will give a three-star rating for this village.
Coonoor
Coonoor, the second largest hill station of the Western Ghats, is at an altitude of 1930 meters above sea level. If you want to escape the crowd towards the Ooty toy train, Coonoor is the ideal destination to enjoy the toy train ride.
Where to Stay?
You will get a broad option to choose your stay. We want to suggest Tea nest, Kurumba village resort, and Glenwood holiday home.
Average Expenses
With all the activities into account, along with food, travel and accommodation, the average expenses for a couple in Coonoor for a week-long stay (a week is needed to enjoy Coonoor to its fullest) will be ₹ 14,080 (assuming minimum expenses), and the maximum can go upto ₹40,000.
How to Reach?
Unlike Belikal, Coonoor is well-connected with nearby cities like Ooty, Coimbatore, Bangalore and more. You can book a toy train ride from Mettupalayam to reach Coonoor.
Touristy Things You Can Try
Sim’s park: You can enjoy the scenic beauty of botanical gardens with more than 1000 species of plants.
Droog Fort: This is an ancient fort used by Tipu Sultan and later by the British.
Toy train: You can experience a UNESCO World Heritage train ride by the Nilgiri Mountain Railway.
Law’s Falls: A 32-meter-high waterfall surrounded by dense forest will give you an exceptional view.
Ketti Valley: This is one of the largest valleys in Asia and is home to many tribes and wildlife.
There are a lot more things and fun activities to do in Coonoor. Trust me, and you will definitely be okay with planning a week’s trip here.
Personal Review
With all the adventurous activities and elegant nature, I will give 4.5 out of 5.
Vythiri
Vythiri, a nature surrounded by lush green hills, valleys, waterfalls, and streams, is a famous village in the district of Wayanad, Kerala. It is known for its old wood charm of cottages, log huts, and tree house accommodations nestled in the forest of Wayanad.
Where to Stay?
There are so many good resorts in Vythiri, and you will have many choices, ranging in different budgets. We recommend Vythiri valley resort, Wayanad resort, The Wildflower resort, and Mabbit resort.
Average Expenses
Based on the activity, food, accommodation, and travel expenses, the average expenses in Vythiri for a couple will be around ₹4,900. (assuming minimum payments)
How to Reach?
The nearest airport to Vythiri is Calicut International Airport (CCJ). By train, you can reach Vythiri from Kozhikode Railway Station. If you travel from Coimbatore, take a train or flight to Kozhikode Railway Station or Calicut International Airport and then take a bus or cab to Vythiri.
Touristy Things You Can Try
Pookot Lake: A scenic freshwater lake surrounded by evergreen forests and hills.
Chembara Peak: The highest peak in Wayanad offers a majestic view of the entire city.
Soochipara Falls: This three-tired waterfall cascades from a height of 200 meters.
Banasura Dam: Situated at the foothills of Banasura hills, this is the largest dam in India and the second largest in Asia.
Personal Review :
Elivai Malai
Elivai Malai, a beautiful mountain peak with a panoramic view, is covered with lush green forests and grasslands and has many streams and waterfalls nearby. This peak is often shrouded in mist and clouds, creating a mystical atmosphere.
Where to Stay?
Our recommendations will be Shiruvani Wilde Wadi Resort and Casa Lucio Resorts. Both resorts offer various amenities and spectacular views.
Average Expenses
The average expense for a day trip to Elivai malai can be around ₹1,780 (assuming minimum expenses).
How to Reach?
Palakkad is the nearest town to Elivai Malai. You can take a bus or hire a cab from Palakkad to Elivai Malai.
Touristy Things You Can Try
Elivai Malai View Point: The mountain looks like a mouth of a rat; hence the name, and you can admire this nature’s beauty amidst mist and clouds.
Muthiulam Waterfalls: A risky 7km trek through the elephant track will take you to this beautiful waterfall surrounded by dense forest.
Kanjirapuzha Dam: Enjoy the neat and cosy environment, and take advantage of the fountain dance show here.
Personal Review
My rating will is 4.5 for 5, considering the peaceful and adventurous trek spot and the majestic viewpoints.
Avilanji
Avalanche, or Avilanji, one of the best hill stations near Coimbatore, is a beautiful place surrounded by hills, meadows, and forests. Due to a landslide that occurred more than 150 years ago, this place got this name. Avalanche receives heavy rainfall and houses many dams and powerhouses.
Also Check : 10 Hill Stations Near Chennai For The Perfect Summer Vacation
Where to Stay?
I strongly suggest Destiny- the farm resort and NR cottage. These resorts are located closer to tourist attractions and offer various amenities.
Average Expenses
Depending on the mode of transport, accommodation, food and activities, you may end up spending around ₹4,150 for a couple.
How to Reach?
The nearest airport and railway station is Coimbatore, and then you can take a car or hire a taxi which would cost you around ₹100 to ₹2,500, depending on the mode of travel.
Touristy Things You Can Try
Trout fishing: Fishing in Avalanche lake is the most popular tourist attraction.
Emerald lake: This iconic lake is surrounded by hills and forests and is ideal for picnics, boating and bird watching.
Avalanche Sanctuary: This nature reserve hosts a variety of flora and fauna. You can also trek through the forest trails and spot bison, deer, leopards and more.
Personal Review
With the mesmerising view and fun activities, Avalanchi is worth 4.5 out of 5.
Idukki
Idukki, a district in Kerala, houses Anamudi peak, the largest peak outside the Himalayas in India, Idukki dam, Periyar national park, and the famous Munnar. This is one of the most popular hill stations near Coimbatore and is popular for trekking and camping.
Where to Stay?
Hotel Treetop, Anemoi, BestMist Home, and Lauren Heights are our recommendations for your stay. Each resort will give you a different experience, view, and ease of access to various attractions.
Average Expenses
You can expect to spend around ₹10,400 to ₹18,600 for a week’s trip to Idukki, and you will not regret it. This figure includes transportation, food, accommodation, activities, entry and guide charges.
How to Reach?
The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport. You can also take a train to Kottayam railway station and then change to a bus or cab to reach Idukki.
Touristy Things You Can Try
Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary: You can enjoy a wildlife safari or a boat ride on the picturesque lake around the sanctuary.
Idukki Arch dam: A massive arch dam that spans across two mountains and forms a large reservoir that supplies power to Kerala.
Calvary Mount: A scenic hill station offering a charismatic landscape view that stretches from the Idukki Reservoir to Ayyappancoil.
Munnar: A famous hill station that is famous for its tea plantations, misty mountains and pleasant climate. You can also plan an individual trip to Munnar to explore it.
Periyar National Park: One of the largest and most diverse wildlife reserves in India that host various animals such as elephants, tigers, leopards, bison, deer and monkeys.
Personal Review
Idukki is the most beautiful hill station near Coimbatore, so it deserves five out of five.
Wrapping Up
I agree with the poetic description of Mahakavi. At every destination, we travelled between dense forests, plantations, waterfalls, and more. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway or an adventure-filled holiday, these hill stations will surely provide an unforgettable experience. So, if you plan to visit Coimbatore soon, explore these fantastic hill stations!
FAQs
1. Does Coimbatore have hills?
Lush green mountain ranges and picturesque hill stations surround Coimbatore. These hill stations are a scenic paradise tucked away from city life..
2. Is Valparai worth visiting?
If you love roaming around tea plantations and bathing in waterfalls and dams, Valparai is for you.
3. Which is the queen of hills in Coimbatore?
Ooty has earned the name ‘queen of hills’ for its lush green forests, waterfalls and mesmerising viewpoints.
4. Which is the highest peak in Coimbatore?
Peak Anamudi is the highest peak towering 2,695 meters above sea level. This peak is a part of the Anaimalai mountain range and is situated in Kerala.
5. Which is the coldest hill station near Coimbatore?
Ooty is considered one of the coldest hill stations near Coimbatore and the most popular hill station near Coimbatore. Kodaikanal is also considered one of the coldest hill stations near Coimbatore.
About The Author
Gulshan Bafna
Gulshan Bafna is one of the luxury travelers in India. He, along with his wife, has traveled to many exotic places that one could dream. With their travel journey, they bring us the best face of those places. He compiles all of his travel journeys to give the taste of traveling to his readers. In his writing, he jots down the best things to do in all those places that he has visited. Reading these would help one know better about the place. He is also a seeker who loves exploring and discovering new places and share his experiences with everyone.