North India is renowned for its breathtaking hill stations that have captivated travelers for generations. From the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas to the lush green valleys of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, these destinations have always been favorites among nature enthusiasts. Little did people know that South India has equally majestic mountains that can provide tourists with a lifetime of experiences. In this article, we will mention the reasons and hill stations for true travelers.

Why must one explore the hill stations of South India?

There are plenty of reasons, but foremost is the different landscape. While the north has towering mountains and icy landscapes, the south is filled with rolling hills, verdant tea estates, and cascading waterfalls. The lush greenery and serenity of these southern destinations provide a refreshing change of scenery, where one can enjoy the cool misty mornings and pleasant evenings. The best thing about these hill stations is that they are not as crowded as those in North India. Whether it's the picturesque tea gardens of Ooty and Munnar, the aromatic coffee plantations of Coorg, or the tranquil lakes of Kodaikanal, the south offers a serene and unspoiled environment. These destinations are havens for nature enthusiasts, offering opportunities for trekking, wildlife spotting, birdwatching, and simply basking in the serenity of the surroundings.

If all these things can't compel you to pack your bags, then the food will definitely do. No trip is complete without tasting the local cuisine. In this category, South India offers lots of options that can delight even non-foodies. Thus, exploring all these hill stations in the southern states of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka will not only expose you to their unique traditions, cuisines, but also architecture and culture of these regions.

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Hill station you must visit in South India

Ooty, Tamilnadu

Situated in the Nilgiri district of Tamil Nadu, Ooty is often referred to as the Queen of Hill Stations. Established by the British in the 19th century, this hill station is renowned for its picturesque tea estates, aromatic eucalyptus forests, and the enchanting Nilgiri Mountain Railway. Visitors can take a joyride on the UNESCO World Heritage toy train that chugs along the steep slopes, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys. Don't miss a visit to the Government Botanical Gardens, Ooty Lake, and Doddabetta Peak. Ooty offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses.

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How to reach Ooty from Delhi

The most convenient way to reach Ooty from Delhi is by air. You can take a flight from Delhi to Coimbatore, which is the nearest airport to Ooty. From Coimbatore, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Ooty, which is approximately 85 kilometers away.

Munnar, Kerala 

Located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, Munnar is a haven for nature lovers and tea connoisseurs. This breathtaking hill station is famous for its sprawling tea plantations, misty mountains, and cascading waterfalls. The Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, is a must-visit destination. For a unique experience, take a tea factory tour to witness the process of tea production from plucking to packaging. Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in trekking, rock climbing, and paragliding. Munnar offers a range of accommodations, including luxurious resorts and cozy homestays.

How to reach Munnar from Delhi

The easiest way to reach Munnar from Delhi is by air. Fly from Delhi to Kochi, the nearest airport to Munnar. From Kochi, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Munnar, which is approximately 130 kilometers away.

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Coorg, Karnataka

Nestled in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is a mesmerizing hill station blessed with lush greenery and coffee plantations. Coorg is renowned for its natural beauty, including Abbey Falls, Dubare Elephant Camp, and Raja's Seat, a scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills. Coffee lovers can explore the coffee estates and learn about the coffee-making process. Coorg provides a range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly homestays.

How to reach Coorg from Delhi

To reach Coorg from Delhi, you can take a flight from Delhi to Mangalore, the nearest airport to Coorg. From Mangalore, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Coorg, which is approximately 140 kilometers away.

Kodaikanal, Tamilnadu

Located in the Dindigul district of Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal is often referred to as the princess of hill stations. This picturesque hill station is known for its mist-covered mountains, pristine lakes, and beautiful waterfalls. Take a boat ride on the serene Kodaikanal Lake, visit the magnificent Pillar Rocks, or explore the mystical Bear Shola Falls. The Coaker's Walk offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and hills. Kodaikanal offers a wide range of accommodations, including resorts, hotels, and guesthouses.

How to reach Kodaikanal from Delhi

The most convenient way to reach Kodaikanal from Delhi is by air. Fly from Delhi to Madurai, the nearest airport to Kodaikanal. From Madurai, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Kodaikanal, which is approximately 120 kilometers away.

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