Top 20 Hill Stations Near Chennai

The hot and muggy weather in Chennai is among the things that most citizens of Chennai detest. So, if you are willing to spend some time in a tranquil and pleasant atmosphere, there are plenty of hills near Chennai. These surrounding hill stations are popular with both locals and visitors and are one of the most visited places by the Chennai people. Moreover, due to their stunning vistas, these places also attract tourists from around the country.

Some of these hill stations are located in proximity to Chennai, and over time they have gained popularity as weekend escape locations for Chennai residents.

These hill stations near Chennai can satiate your wanderlust, provide relief from the quotidian stress and will captivate you with their scenery. In this regard, the best hill stations near Chennai are –

1. Horsley Hills | Approx. 275.7 kms

The name Horsley Hills was given by British collector WD Horsley and is located at a distance of 275 km from Chennai. The atmosphere and the pleasing nature of this place are so alluring that you will fall in love with it right away.

Moreover, if you want to reach Horsley Hills, you have to drive through a picturesque road, which is covered with thriving greenery on both sides. Also, Sambars and other wild animals can occasionally be seen here, which makes it a perfect place for a jaunt.

• Best Time to Visit: November to May
• Top Things to Do: Photography and nature exploration.
• Top Places to Visit: Horsley Hill Zoo, Lake Gangotri, Viewpoints, Horsley Hills Museum, Gali Banda, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 5,000 per person (2 Days/1 Night)
• How to Reach:  By air, rail and road

2. Yelagiri | Approx. 303.7 kms

Yelagiri is well-known and is the nearest hill station from Chennai, situated about 303 kilometres away. This place is adorned with lakes, valleys, hills, orchards, and rose gardens, giving a tranquil vibe.

Moreover, it is also one of the most sought-after locations for adventure seekers as this place provides the opportunity to participate in climbing and trekking. Additionally, Yelagiri is renowned for its summer celebration as well.

• Best Time to Visit: November to February
• Top Things to Do: Photography, trekking, and nature exploration.
• Top Places to Visit: Punganoor Lake, Jalagamparai waterfalls, Perumal Temple, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 6,500 per person (3 Days/2 Nights)
• How to Reach:  By air, rail and road

3. Yercaud | Approx. 365.6 kms

One of India's least expensive hill station vacation spots in Yercaud. This little hill station is located in the Eastern Ghats' Shevaroy Hills at a distance of 365 kilometres from Chennai.

Yercaud is a fantastic outlier since, in contrast to the more verdant Western Ghats, the Eastern Ghats are often arid and have low, stony slopes. Moreover, Yercaud is only 383 sq. km in size, making it neither too tiny nor too large to offer you a sense of placidness.

• Best Time to Visit: October to June
• Top Things to Do: Photography, birdwatching, and nature exploration.
• Top Places to Visit: Kiliyur Waterfall, 32 Loop Road, Bear’s Cave, etc. 
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 10,000 per person (3 Days/2 Nights)
• How to Reach:  By air, rail and road

4. Kolli Hills | Approx. 371.1 kms

Kolli Hills, which are part of the Eastern Ghats, are one of Tamil Nadu's undiscovered gems. This destination is located around 371 kilometres from Chennai and is sometimes referred to as the new Ooty because of the beautiful scenery and pleasing temperature. Here, you can always lay out your yoga mat and do some exercises while listening to birds tweeting.

Additionally, Kolli hills are a favourite destination for nature enthusiasts, hikers, meditators, and trekkers as this place is kept aloof from commercial tourism.

• Best Time to Visit: February to December
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, birdwatching, biking and nature exploration.
• Top Places to Visit: Arappaleeswar Temple, Agaya Gangai Waterfalls, Boat House, Botanical Garden, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 4,500 per person (2 Days/1 Nights)
• How to Reach:  By air, rail and road

5. Sirumalai | Approx. 460.2 kms

Sirumalai is renowned for its stunning terrain and diverse flora and wildlife and occupies 60,000 acres of land. It is a densely forested location with a serene vibe all year round. Here, you will experience a variety of flora and fauna, which is perfect for tickling your adventurous side.

Moreover, Sirumalai is located at a distance of 460 kilometres from Chennai and can be reached within 9 hours by car.

• Best Time to Visit: February to December
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, birdwatching, and wildlife exploration.
• Top Places to Visit: Sirumalai Lake, Sanjeevani Hills, Saathiyar Basin, Vellimalai Murugan Temple etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 2,500 per person (1 Day)
• How to Reach:  By air, rail and road

6. Kodaikanal | Approx. 525.3 kms

Among other places in India, Kodaikanal the called the princess of hill stations and is best known as a honeymoon destination. Due to its breathtaking natural beauty, this is often sorted as the most suitable and tranquil location in the southern part of India.

Since Kodaikanal is located in Tamil Nadu, which is known as the queen of South India, it only serves to increase the splendour of that state. Also, Kodaikanal is located at a distance of 525 km from Chennai; hence, it is also easily accessible by public and private transportation.

• Best Time to Visit: December to February
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, wildlife exploration, etc.
• Top Places to Visit: Coakers Walk, Mannavanur Lake, Kodaikanal Lake, Berijam Lake, Pine Forest, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 10,000 per person (3 Days/2 Nights)
• How to Reach:  By air, rail and road

7. Palani Hills| Approx. 526.2 kms

Palani Hills is located approximately 526 kilometres from Chennai in the Western Ghats, where it meets the Annamalai Range to the west. The Palani Hills Wildlife Sanctuary's thick woods represents a large portion of the area's perimeter that encircles it.

• Best Time to Visit: September to March
• Top Things to Do: Adventure sports and nature exploration.
• Top Places to Visit: Palani, Periyanayaki Amman Temple, Palani Murugan Temple, Idumban Temple, Thiru Avinankudi Temple, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 3000-7000 for two people (3 Days/2 Nights)
• How to Reach:  By air, rail and road

8. Kotagiri | Approx. 537.0 kms

One of the top hilly destinations close to Chennai is Kotagiri. Kotagiri is located in the Nigiri district of Tamil Nadu, which is around 537 kilometres from Chennai and is perfect for a two to three days trip. Most importantly, this place is surrounded by exotic tea trees and thriving greenery, making it perfect for trekking.

• Best Time to Visit: February to May
• Top Things to Do: Trekking and nature exploration.
• Top Places to Visit: Rangaswamy Peak and Pillar, Kodanad View Point, John Sullivan Memorial, Catherine Falls, Longwood Shola etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 10,000 per person (3 Days/2 Nights)
• How to Reach:  By air, rail and road

9. Coonoor | Approx. 538.9 kms

Coonoor is located in the Nilgiri highlands and is the second-largest hill station in the state of Tamil Nadu. Coonoor is located about 538 kilometres from Chennai, and its picturesque landscape captivates tourists of all ages. Due to its small population, it also provides a tranquil and pleasant atmosphere.

Moreover, this destination has a subtropical highland climate, implying that the summers are mild and the winters are cool but not freezing.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Top Things to Do: Photography, nature exploration, etc.
• Top Places to Visit: Sim’s Park, Catherine waterfalls, Dolphin Nose, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 9,000 per person (3 Days/2 Nights)
• How to Reach:  By air, rail and road

10. Meghamalai | Approx. 550.2 kms

In Meghamalai, tea plantations are crammed into the troughs of hills, making it clothed in lush green, which captivates tourists of all ages. The fauna at the Meghamalai Wildlife Sanctuary is diverse and is ideal for kids to enjoy.

So, if you are looking for a family-friendly destination near Chennai, Meghamalai is the one. Moreover, located just 550 km from Chennai, making this place an easily accessible destination.

• Best Time to Visit: October to May
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, photography, shopping, wildlife exploration, etc.
• Top Places to Visit: Manalar Dam, Cloudland Falls, Megamalai Wildlife Sanctuary, Megamalai Viewpoint etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1,000 per person (1 Day)
• How to Reach:  By air, rail and road

11. Sakleshpur | Approx. 553.1 kms

Sakleshpur is a well-known hill station in the state of Karnataka that lies in the Western Ghats, at around 553 kilometres from Chennai. It is renowned for its expansive mountain vistas and rice fields. But the star-shaped Manjarabad Fort, built in the 28th century, steals the show. Sakleshpur is one of the cool locations in Karnataka, located at a distance of 574 kilometres from Chennai; it is also rich in flora and wildlife.

• Best Time to Visit: November to February
• Top Things to Do: Photography, trekking, wildlife exploration, etc.
• Top Places to Visit:  Manjarabad Fort, Bisle View Point, Sakleshwara Temple, Agni Gudda Hill, Manjehalli Waterfalls, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 5,000 per person (2 Days/1 Night)
• How to Reach:  By air, rail and road

12. Ooty | Approx. 555.5 kms

It is reasonable to say that Ooty, which served as the Madras Presidency's summer capital during the British era, is "India's Switzerland." The attractions in Ooty can revive the soul that has been sapped of its spiritual reserves by the stress of daily life.

Ooty has myriad things to offer, from nature walks in gardens to exquisite botanical and rose gardens; all are endowed with picturesque vistas. Also, it is located around 555 km from Chennai and can be an exciting destination for short trips.

• Best Time to Visit: March to June
• Top Things to Do: Boat riding, trekking, shopping, wildlife exploration, etc.
• Top Places to Visit:  Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Pykara Falls, Upper Bhavani Lake, Pykara Lake, Doddabetta Peak, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 8,000 per person (2 Days/1 Night)
• How to Reach:  By air, rail and road

13. Thekkady | Approx. 567 kms

One of the hill stations that can be accessed easily from Chennai is undoubtedly Thekkady. Located at a distance of approximately 567 kilometres from Chennai, this is a place bustling with wildlife. In addition to popular sites to visit in Thekkady, it is famous for having the largest tiger ecological reserve in India.

Here you can see numerous wild creatures live in its deep, impenetrable woodlands. Furthermore, you might also take part in a variety of activities like a safari or bamboo rafting, for an adventurous experience.

• Best Time to Visit: October to February
• Top Things to Do: Elephant safari, bamboo rafting, hiking, spice plantation tour, etc.
• Top Places to Visit: Gavi Forest, Green Park Ayurvedic & Spices Plantation, Elephant Junction, Periyar Lake, Periyar Tiger Reserve etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 5,000 per person (1 Day including sightseeing)
• How to Reach: By air, road, and train

14. Munnar | Approx. 582.4 kms

Munnar is a charming destination in Kerala's Western Ghats, located at a distance of about 582 kilometres from Chennai. It is renowned for its endless stretch of tea farms and green belt of dense woods and is also home to certain endangered species such as the Nilgiri Tahr and Neelakurinji.

Furthermore, due to its beautiful valleys, mountains, and unusual species of flora and wildlife, it is often regarded as one of South India's most popular tourist attractions. Moreover, Munnar experiences pleasant weather throughout the year, but in the summer, tourists flock here to escape the scorching heat in other areas of the state.

• Best Time to Visit: December to February
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, photography, shopping, wildlife exploration, etc.
• Top Places to Visit: Manalar Dam, Cloudland Falls, Megamalai Wildlife Sanctuary, Megamalai Viewpoint etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1,000 per person (1 Day)
• How to Reach:  By air, rail and road

15. Madikeri | Approx. 585.7 kms

Madikeri is a charming hill town located about 585 kilometres from Chennai and is well-known for its lush green valleys and alluring scent of coffee. Also, tourists are inspired by Madikeri's lovely surroundings and comfortable environment, which is difficult to obtain elsewhere.

With its pollution-free, peaceful, and quiet atmosphere, Madikeri draws hundreds of travellers daily and transforms even the most routine vacations into a blissful jaunt.

• Best Time to Visit: February to April and October to December.
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, wildlife safari, wildlife exploration, etc.
• Top Places to Visit: Madikeri Fort, Raja's Tomb, Omkareshwara temple, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1,500 per person (1 Day)
• How to Reach:  By air, rail and road

16. Coorg | Approx. 587.7 kms

At Coorg, you can enjoy the picturesque grandeur of this foggy area along with the scent of calming coffee. Coorg, sometimes referred to as the Scotland of India, lives up to its nickname with an alluring combination of history, elegance, adventure, and luscious food.

This well-known coffee-producing hill station is recognised for its breathtaking landscape and pleasing zephyr. Moreover, it is located at a distance of approximately 587 kilometres from Chennai, and the communication is also swift.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, jeep safari, rafting, etc.
• Top Places to Visit:  Honey Valley, Abbey Falls, Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, Madikeri Fort, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1000 per person (1 Day)
• How to Reach: By air, road, and train

17. Mullayanagiri Hills | Approx. 594.3 kms

The Mullayanagiri Hill is one of the most well-known destinations close to Chennai and is situated around 594 kilometres from Chennai. It is the fourth highest mountain in the nation and is 1,930 metres above sea level. In addition, it is the highest mountain in Karnataka. These hills are known for their diverse topography, lush meadows, and scabrous rock paths.

• Best Time to Visit: September to April
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, sightseeing, camping, etc.
• Top Places to Visit: Jharji Waterfall, Baba Bundagiri, Hirekolale Lake, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1,000 per person (1 Day)
• How to Reach: By air, road, and train

18. Chikmagalur| Approx. 597 kms

Chikmagalur is one of the closest hill stations to Chennai, located at a distance of 597 kilometres from it. Here, you can have a pleasing vacation because Chikmagalur offers everything a hill station should have. Experience the breathtaking views of nature and see the charming waterfalls, which will leave you awe-struck.

Additionally, the weather is pleasant year-round, and this makes it an ideal place to minimise the effect of scorching summer heat.

• Best Time to Visit: September to May
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, tea plantation walk, camping, etc.
• Top Places to Visit: Hebbe Falls, Jhari Waterfalls, Sringeri Mutt, Z Point, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 5,000 per person (1 Day including sightseeing)
• How to Reach: By air, road, and train

19. Wayanad | Approx. 599.5 kms

Wayanad is renowned for having pleasant weather all year long and is one of the best places to escape the heat of South India. This location offers moderate temperatures and includes unspoiled forests, misty mountains, and expansive plantations. Moreover, this place is located about 599 kilometres from Chennai and is known for its diverse flora and wildlife.

• Best Time to Visit: October to May
• Top Things to Do: Caving, camping, boating, etc.
• Top Places to Visit: Banasura Sagar Dam, Kuruva Island, Chembra Peak, Edakkal Caves, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 3,000 per person (3 Days/2 Nights)
• How to Reach: By air, road, and train

20. Valparai | Approx. 604.2 kms

Valparai is located in the Western Ghats' Annamalai Range, approximately 604 kilometres from Chennai. Numerous animal species live in the thriving forests of the Western Ghats, making it a sanctuary for wildlife lovers. Additionally, visiting the waterfall is a great pastime for both kids and adults due to its pleasant vibe and panoramic vistas.

• Best Time to Visit: May to September
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, wildlife exploration, etc.
• Top Places to Visit: Sholayar Dam, Aliyar Dam, Nallamudi Viewpoint, Loam's View Point, Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 5,000 per person (2 Days/1 Night)
• How to Reach:  By air, rail and road