Need to get out of the Chennai heat? You are not alone. Summer in the city can be too hot. That is exactly when the hill stations near Chennai come to the rescue. They are perfect for a short break due to cool weather, fresh air and green views. Chennai has numerous beautiful hill stations which are reachable by road or rail. Some are great to be visited on weekends and others are perfect for longer vacations. Be it the misty hills or the peaceful lakes- there is something everywhere for people to see. This guide covers all the top hill stations that are located around Chennai where you can visit to enjoy a refreshing and relaxing break.
Top 10 Hill Stations Near Chennai
Need to get out of the city and relax amidst some cool weather? Below are some of the prettiest hill stations among places to visit in Chennai that would make a great and relaxing visit
1. Yelagiri
Yelagiri is one of the most peaceful hill stations near Chennai within 300 kms. It is ideal when one wants to take a quick and easy trip away from the chaos of the city. Tourists really love this location for its peaceful atmosphere with green hills and a simple village lifestyle. It is not too busy or crowded and it is couple and family-friendly as well. Some of the best things to do in Yelagiri include boating, light trekking and enjoying peaceful sunsets. It is a good weekend getaway because the weather here is pleasant throughout most of the year.
Distance from Chennai: 230 km
Top Attractions: Punganoor Lake, Nature Park, Swamimalai Hills
Average Cost: ₹3,000 - ₹5,000 per person
2. Yercaud
Yercaud is said to be the best hill stations near Chennai that is perfect for a visit if you are on low budget. It is situated in Shevaroy Hills and has cool weather, scenic views and tranquil environment. The roads are quite smooth and the journey to the place itself is quite pleasant. It is surrounded by coffee plantations and is known for the beautiful lake views and the places to visit in Yercaud. It is not as busy as Ooty, thus making it ideal for one to take a peaceful and relaxing vacation.
Distance from Chennai: 360 km
Top Attractions: Yercaud Lake, Lady’s Seat, Pagoda Point
Average Cost: ₹4,000 - ₹7,000 per person
3. Horsley Hills
Horsley Hills is an attractive chennai near by hill station which is ideal to run away to. It is characterized by its cool weather, thick trees and peaceful scenery. It is not a very commercial place, thus it is calmer and less crowded. It is an excellent place to visit when you need a natural recess. Take a few brief walks, enjoy the landscapes and feel the crisp and fresh air all around.
Distance from Chennai: 270 km
Top Attractions: View Point, Mallamma Temple, Gali Bandalu
Average Cost: ₹3,500 - ₹6,000 per person
4. Tirupati Hills
Tirupati is not only a religious site but one of the best hill stations near Chennai within 200 kms. It has a spiritual atmosphere as well as the beauty of nature. The landscape around the temple is beautiful and green. The serene environment is also a relaxing experience as many visit to pay darshan. The experience is enhanced by the ride up the hills.
Distance from Chennai: 135 km
Top Attractions: Tirumala Hills, Talakona Waterfall, Silathoranam
Average Cost: around ₹2,500 - ₹5,000 per person
5. Nagari Hills
One of the lesser known hill stations near Chennai within 100 kms is Nagari Hills. It is ideal when you are planning a one-day trip. The spot is known from the Nagari Nose viewpoint that resembles a human nose when viewed from afar. It is an excellent place for hiking and for taking photographs. The region remains untouched and quiet and so is best suited for nature enthusiasts.
Distance from Chennai: 90 km
Top Attractions: Nagari Nose, Trekking Trails, Forest Views
Average Cost: around ₹1,500 - ₹3,000 per person
6. Tada Hills
One of the prettiest hill stations near Chennai is Tada Hills where people can travel to if they want a quick escape to nature. It boasts of the renowned Tada waterfalls also referred to as Ubbalamadugu Falls. It is also ideal for trekking enthusiasts, since the road leading to the waterfall is kind of adventurous and fun to trek. It is a refreshing relief, with rocky walks and green lawns around it. It is best for a one-day outing with friends or family. It is better to visit in the early mornings so that one can have a peaceful time there and escape the heat of the day.
Distance from Chennai: 95 km
Top Attractions: Tada Falls, Trekking Trail, Forest Area
Average Cost: around ₹1,500 - ₹3,000 per person
7. Pulicat Lake Hills
Pulicat Lake is one of the unknown areas in comparison to other hill stations near Chennai. Although it is generally referred to by its lake, the surrounding elevated terrain and the natural environment make it look like a hill. It is an excellent location to unwind, appreciate the birds and go on healing strolls. The fresh air along with the open views make it perfect for a short break. It is particularly common in the flamingo season where migratory birds come to visit the lake.
Distance from Chennai: 60 km
Top Attractions: Pulicat Lake, Bird Sanctuary, Dutch Fort
Average Cost: around ₹1,500 - ₹2,500 per person
8. Kailasakona Hills
Kailasakona is one of the most beautiful and picturesque hill stations near Chennai that is ideal for a quick and relaxing getaway. It has a beautiful waterfall which flows all year round. It is a quiet place to visit due to the hills and trees surrounding it. The location is serene and perfect to have a peaceful day out in nature. It is also regarded as a spiritual place and there is a temple located near the falls. It is preferable to be visited during the monsoon or post-monsoon season in order to see the real beauty of the waterfalls.
Distance from Chennai: 95 km
Top Attractions: Kailasakona Waterfalls, Lord Shiva Temple, Forest Views
Average Cost: around ₹1,500 - ₹3,000 per person
9. Gingee Hills
Gingee Hills is among the unique hill stations near Chennai with historic forts and rocky terrain. It is no ordinary green hill station but is a beautiful place with breathtaking landscapes that has a touch of adventure. The Gingee Fort is spread across three hilltops and it takes a little climbing which makes it one of the most exciting places for trekking in Chennai. The site is historic and the views from the top are superb. It is best for those who enjoy trekking as well as exploring historical sites.
Distance from Chennai: 95 km
Top Attractions: Gingee Fort, Rajagiri Hill, Krishnagiri Hill
Average Cost: ₹1,500 - ₹3,000 per person
10. Araku Valley Viewpoint (near border stretch)
It is an offbeat location and one of the less crowded hill stations near Chennai, perfect for people who love visiting hidden gems. It lies close to the Andhra border stretch and has beautiful scenery, greenery and fresh air. It is not a very popular tourist destination and that is why it is quiet, peaceful and a perfect place to go to for a relaxing trip.
Distance from Chennai: Around 100 km
Top Attractions: Scenic Viewpoints, Local Villages, Green Landscapes
Average Cost: ₹1,500 - ₹3,000 per person
Conclusion
A brief break from the busy and hectic urban life can feel very refreshing and these hill stations near Chennai would make it easy to plan one. Be it the calm lakes, green hills, easy walks and beautiful sceneries- there is a touch of uniqueness in every location. Most of these destinations are close enough for a quick weekend or even a one-day trip and thus travelling is easy and hassle-free.
Choose a place depending on your time and mode of travel. The best thing is to start early and get out of the traffic and have time to enjoy the trip. Bring the necessities and keep yourself hydrated on your way. These nearby hill stations can provide a pleasant and relaxing break out of the daily life of Chennai with the right plan.
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