South India Hill Station Tour

South India Hill Station Tour

7 Days / 6 Nights

Scattered throughout the Western Ghats mountain ranges, across Tamil Nadu and Kerala.

There are nestled an array of hill stations- most of them initially established by the British as places to escape the heat of the plains during the hottest parts of the year. Several of the most famous hill stations of the south are included in this itinerary.


Detailed Itineary

  • Day 1 : Madurai - Kodaikanal

    You’ll be met on arrival at Madurai airport and introduced to your driver. Depart immediately and drive up to Kodaikanal - a charming hill station whose name means “gift of the forest” Settle in on arrival and relax in the cool air and tranquillity of this lovely setting. Overnight in Kodaikanal.

  • Day 2 : Kodaikanal

    A relaxed day of sightseeing around Kodaikanal including Bryant Park, Shenbaganur, Pillar Rocks, Coaker's Walk, Silver Cascade, Kodaikanal Lake and the Dolphin's Nose. Overnight in Kodaikanal.

  • Day 3 : Kodaikanal - Thekkady

    Depart after breakfast and drive to Thekkady, popularly known as Periyar -an area famed for its spice plantation and home to one of the largest wildlife reserves in India. Afternoon forest walk or spice plantation tour. Overnight in Thekkady.

  • Day 4 : Thekkady

    A range of nature and wildlife-based activities to choose from today, everything from a full-day of hiking and rafting to a gentle stroll in the woods, or you can make this a day to relax in a beautiful environment. Overnight in Thekkady.

  • Day 5 : Thekkady - Munnar

    Depart in the morning and drive to Munnar - a famous hill station with a climate ideal for tea-growing, but also pretty idyllic for humans too. En route visit Valera and Cheeyappara waterfalls. Munnar appears to be carpeted with an endless vista of tea plantations stretching away to the further visible point in most directions. Overnight in Munnar.

  • Day 6 : Munnar

    Sightseeing here can include Eravikulam National Park- the home of endangered Nilgiri Thar (mountain goat), Rajamala- the highest peak in Munnar, Devikulam – an area with exotic flora and fauna and plenty more besides. There is also superb trekking around here for the energetic and adventurous. Overnight in Munnar.

  • Day 7 : Munnar – Cochin- Depart

    Drive down to Cochin and head to the airport for your onward flight.

FAQ

South India is home to several stunning hill stations such as Munnar, Ooty, Kodaikanal, Coorg, Wayanad, and Coonoor. These destinations offer lush landscapes, cool climates, and abundant natural beauty, making them perfect for vacations, honeymoons, or adventure trips.

Munnar is famous for its vast tea plantations, cool climate, Eravikulam National Park, and picturesque waterfalls like Cheeyappara and Valara. It is also known for its trekking opportunities and luxury stays.

Munnar, Ooty, and Kodaikanal are among the most popular honeymoon destinations in South India. They offer romantic settings with misty hills, serene lakes, and cosy resorts.

For a quieter experience, consider visiting Coonoor, Kotagiri, Yercaud, and Yelagiri in Tamilnadu, Kudremukh in Karnataka, Ananthagiri Hills in Telangana, Ponmudi Hills & Gavi in Kerala, as well as Horsley Hills and Lambasingi in Andhra Pradesh. These places are less crowded yet equally scenic, with pristine landscapes and peaceful retreats.

Eco-tourism in hill stations like Wayanad, Munnar, and Coorg includes sustainable stays, guided nature treks, bamboo rafting, and spice tours. Activities aim to preserve the local ecosystem while offering immersive experiences.

The ideal time to visit South Indian hill stations is during the summer months (March to May) to escape the heat or the post-monsoon season (October to February) for pleasant weather and clear skies.

Yes, the Nilgiri Mountain Railway in Ooty is a UNESCO-listed heritage train that offers breathtaking views of tea estates, tunnels, and dense forests. It’s a must-try for travellers.