Must Visit Cold Places in South India
Here is the list of 14 Must Visit Cold Places in South India
1. Ooty, Tamil Nadu - Queen of the Nilgiris
Known For : Nilgiri Mountain Railway Ooty Lake Emerald Lake, Ooty
Known as the "Queen of Hill Stations," Ooty is a perennial favorite among travelers seeking cooler climes. Situated in the Nilgiri Hills, this charming town boasts lush tea plantations, sprawling botanical gardens, and scenic viewpoints that offer panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
Best Time: Throughout the year
2. Munnar, Kerala - Kashmir of South India
Known For : Echo Point, Munnar Atukkad Waterfalls Munnar Tea Plantations
Situated in the Western Ghats, Munnar is renowned for its sprawling tea estates, cascading waterfalls, and cool mountain air. Visitors can explore the Eravikulam National Park, witness the beauty of Mattupetty Dam, and enjoy breathtaking views from Top Station.
Best Time: September to May
3. Coorg, Karnataka - The Scotland of India
Known For : Abbey Falls Mandalpatti Raja's Seat
Also known as Kodagu, Coorg is famous for its lush coffee plantations, misty hills, and cool climate. Trekking through the verdant forests of Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, exploring the ancient Madikeri Fort, and visiting the serene Abbey Falls are popular activities here.
Best Time: October to March
4. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu - The Princess of Hill Stations
Known For : Green Valley View (Suicide Point) Kodaikanal Lake Bear Shola Falls
Dubbed as the "Princess of Hill Stations," Kodaikanal boasts of verdant valleys, serene lakes, and misty mountains. Boating on Kodaikanal Lake, trekking to Dolphin's Nose viewpoint, and exploring the lush Bryant Park are popular activities here.
Best Time: September to May
5. Wayanad, Kerala - Nature's Abode
Known For : Banasura Sagar Dam Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary Chembra Peak
Nestled amidst the Western Ghats, Wayanad is known for its picturesque landscapes, dense forests, and pleasant climate. Exploring the ancient Edakkal Caves, trekking to Chembra Peak, and visiting the scenic Soochipara Falls are must-do experiences.
Best Time: Throughout the year
6. Yercaud, Tamil Nadu - The Land of Seven Forests.
Known For : Emerald Lake, Yercaud Pagoda Point Botanical Garden, Yercaud
Perched atop the Shevaroy Hills, Yercaud is a charming hill station known for its scenic beauty and tranquil ambiance. Visitors can enjoy boating on Yercaud Lake, trekking to Lady's Seat viewpoint, and exploring the lush Rose Garden.
Best Time: October to June
7. Valparai - The Seventh Heaven
Tucked away in the Anaimalai Hills, Valparai is a lesser-known gem blessed with lush greenery, mist-covered mountains, and a cool climate. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot exotic species at the Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary, while adventure seekers can trek to the stunning Nallamudi Viewpoint.
Best Time: December to January
8. Agumbe, Shimoga
Known as the "Cherrapunji of the South," Agumbe is famous for its lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and cool climate. Visitors can explore the Agumbe Rainforest Research Station, trek to the mesmerizing Barkana Falls, and witness breathtaking sunsets from the Sunset View Point.
9. Lambasingi, Visakhapatnam
Dubbed as the "Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh," Lambasingi is a quaint hill station known for its sub-zero temperatures during winter. Visitors can experience frost-covered landscapes, enjoy bonfires under starry skies, and explore nearby attractions like the Araku Valley and Borra Caves.
10. Kotagiri, Karnataka - Queen of the Nilgiri Hills
Known For : Elk Falls Longwood Shola Trekking
Situated in the Nilgiris, Kotagiri is a quaint hill station known for its serene atmosphere and panoramic vistas. Trekking to the scenic Catherine Falls, exploring the picturesque Kodanad View Point, and visiting the historic Rangaswamy Pillar are popular activities here.
Best Time: December to May
11. Chikmagalur, Karnataka - The coffee land of Karnataka
Known For : Baba Budangiri Mullayanagiri Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
Surrounded by the Baba Budangiri and Mullayanagiri ranges, Chikmagalur is a paradise for nature lovers and coffee enthusiasts alike. Trekking to the highest peak in Karnataka, Mullayanagiri, exploring the coffee plantations, and visiting the serene Hebbe Falls are popular activities here.
Best Time: Throughout the year
12. Nandi Hills, Karnataka - Hillocks borrowed from heaven
Known For : Tipu's Drop Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple Tipu's Summer Residence
Just a short drive from Bangalore, Nandi Hills is a popular weekend getaway known for its cool climate and panoramic views. Watching the sunrise from Tipu's Drop, exploring the ancient Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple, and paragliding are popular activities here.
Best Time: October to June
13. Araku Valley - Hill Station of Andhra Pradesh
Known For : Borra Caves Katiki Waterfalls Chaparai Waterfalls
Nestled amidst the Eastern Ghats, Araku Valley is known for its breathtaking landscapes, coffee plantations, and pleasant climate. Visitors can ride the scenic Araku Valley Train, explore the tribal villages, and enjoy stunning views from the Anantagiri Hills.
Best Time: September to February
14. Idukki, Kerala - Spice Garden of Kerala
Known For : Hill View Park Idukki Arch Dam Kulamavu Dam
Home to the picturesque Idukki Dam and the tranquil hill station of Munnar, Idukki is a scenic destination blessed with misty mountains, lush forests, and cool weather throughout the year.
Best Time: Throughout the year
From misty hill stations to verdant valleys, South India is home to a diverse array of cold places that offer respite from the sweltering heat. Whether you're seeking adventure in the mountains or tranquility amidst nature, these destinations promise an unforgettable getaway amidst the cool embrace of the hills.