10 Offbeat Destinations in South India to Visit During MonsoonPosted by HumRaahii Travels on June 21st, 2019 OOTY:Perched on an elevation of 2,240 m, Ooty the ‘Queen of Hill stations” is one of the most popular and picturesque hill station south in Tamil Nadu. Ooty (Udagamund also known as Ootacmand) is 86 Km far from Coimbatore and 128 km from Mysuru by car in Niligiri (blue)mountains. You can book Coimbatore to Ooty Taxi. Both Coimbatore and Mysuru are linked with Rail and Air. Complete with lush tea plantations, quaint red-roofed cottages, beautifully landscaped gardens, scenic lakes, thick forests, misty mountain ranges, and colonial charm at every nook and corner .It has many tourist spots. Dodddabetta Peak at the height 8606” is the highest point which gives breathtaking view of Nilgiri mountain range .Equipped with a telescope this peak provides spectacular panoramic vista. The beautiful outdoors of Ooty will enthrall not only adventure enthusiasts with its many activities, including trekking, hand gliding and boating, but also photography, as every turn reveals spectacular beauty. Other must-visit places include Botanical Garden that is famed for its 20 million year old fossilised tree trunk along with a variety of exotic and indigenous plants, flowers and shrubs, St.Stephen Church which is perhaps the oldest church in the region, dating back to the 19th century and boasts Gothic architectural style. Besides Ooty has Tea Estate , Thunder World (theme park),Pykra lake, Thread Garden, Emerald Lake ,Wax Museum and the most beautiful Rose Garden which is a treat to eyes with nearly 2000 variety of roses. Don’t miss riding the world heritage Toy Train that abounds with picturesque hamlets and Tee gardens on way. KODAIKANAL:Kodaikanal(TamilNadu) in Tamil means gift of the forest is a perfect retreat for those looking to be one with nature – in solitude. Located at an elevation of 2133 m, it’s linked with Madurai(115 kms), Coimbtore(170kms), Tiruchpalli(197 kms)Tutikorin(262 kms). All these cities are linked with Rail and by air. From scenic lakes and waterfalls to lush forests, the hill station boasts diverse scenery that will appeal to photographers and nature lovers alike. The location also provides lots of recreational activities, from trekking to rock-climbing, horse riding, boating, forest walks, and more for those who like to enjoy the open air. Must-visit attractions include Kodai lake (an artificial lake), dolphin’s nose (a flat rock at an altitude of 2,000 by car. Coaker’s walk, Berijam lake, Siver Cascade Falls, Kuriniji Andavar Temple, Bear Shola falls and Kodiakanal Solar observatory. YERCAUD:Yercaud in Talimnadu perched at a height of 1,623m in the Shevaroys range of hills is often referred to as the ‘Jewel of the South’ 35 Kms by road is nearest Rail head and airport is Salem. Yercaud is an idyllic hill station, typified by its evergreen forests, sprawling coffee plantations and diverse flora and fauna. A typical tourist itinerary will be a boat ride on the Emerald Lake, which is surrounded by lush greens and cloud-peaked hills, visit to Shevaroy Temple, Anna Park. Ladys seat, Pagoda Point, trekking to Shevroy hills. YELAGIRI HILLS:Yelagiri is a charming hill station located at an elevation of 1,111 meters, 178 kms from Bangluru, abounds with a spectacular landscape, picturesque mountains, cascading waterfalls, pristine lakes, flower orchids and rugged terrains. Tourist activities comprise of boating at the Lake Punganoor, Nilavoor Lake, trekking to the Jalagamparai Waterfalls, where water plunges 15 meters down through rocky cliffs and visitors can soak and bath under falling water. Besides, it is worth meandering through the spectacular Yelgiri Nature park, which features 12 acres of tranquil beauty. Another unmissable activity is trekking to Swamimalai hills, which is the highest point in the region. These hills are cake shaped forming a sturdy base at the bottom as well as a high peak that offers a bird’s eye view of the area. There are several ancient temples also in the area that are worthy of a visit and biggest among them is colourful Murugan Temple. Another point of interest is Government Silk farm. KOLLI HILLS(Kolli Malai):At the elevation of 1300m and nestled in the Eastern Ghats of Tamilnadu, Kolli Hills is a tiny hill station unspoilt by mass tourism. It is well connected with Bengaluru(294km), Trichy(128 Km), Madurai(250 Km), Coimbatore(229 Km) Salem(84Km) by road. Nearest airport is Trichinapally(133 Kms). Nearest Rail head is Salem (84Km) the area is surprisingly majestically beautiful brimming with lush greenery, diverse flora and fauna, and ancient temples. One has to visit Agasaganai waterfalls nearby Arapaleeswarar Temple in Koli hills which dates back to 1st century CE and stands as a testimony to the stunning Dravidian architectural style. Other temple is Kolli Pavai temple(Named after Godess Ettukai Amman). While those seeking peace and serenity may explore the centuries-old Siddhar Caves, which is said to be the abode of sages while those liking adventures can partake in trekking or hiking to Nainamalai hills and Kolli Hill forest, One of the highest point in the hills is Selur point. HORSLEY HILLS:Horsley Hills In Andhra Pradesh perched at a height of 1,290 m is 150 km from Bengaluru . For those who want to be enchanted picturesque scenery encompassing lofty hills, mighty rocks, and thick vegetation of exotic trees and a variety of plant species, this is an ideal place. For those who love adventure it can engage them in activities, such as trekking, zorbing, rappelling and hiking. For those desiring laid-back experience can get soaked in the unparalleled beauty at the Gangotri Lake, which is encircled by dense eucalyptus trees, or take a leisurely stroll along the Gali Bandalu, a rocky hill that offers majestic vistas of the valleys around. Nearby this area is rich Koudinya wild life sanctuary ,Other attractions are Environment park, Mallama Temple. WAYANAD:Located at a lofty altitude of 700 to 2100 m from the sea level, at the southern end of the Deccan Plateau, Wayanad in God’s Own Place Kerala which has a varying topography which includes hilly areas, valleys as well as meadows. The climate also changes drastically depending on the geography and altitude. Wayanad is at a distance of 110 km by road from Kozhikode which is connected by train with Trivandrum, Kochi, Chennai. You can also hire Bangalore to Wayanad taxi services for making your journey comfortable. Nearest Airport is Calicut International Airport Kozhikode. It’s an enduringly popular hill station with nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.The paddy fields, scenic waterfalls, lofty ridges, dense forests, diverse wildlife and Western Ghats make it a visually appealing destination. From places with wonderful views to sanctuaries that host many an endemic species to dams with picturesque picnic spots, the options never cease to amaze tourists. Some of the finest destinations are: Soochipara waterfall, which is perfect for rock climbing; Chembra Peak, especially notable for its heart-shaped lake atop the hill; Banasura Dam that is famed for its picturesque vistas of the mountains in the backdrop; Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary and Ekkedal caves known for the prehistoric carvings of human figures. On way to Wayanad, you should also visit Lakkidi a picturesque scenic spot. VYTHIRI:Near by Wayanad (at a distance of 110 km by road from Kozhikode) at the height of – 1100 m to 1300 m ,there is a tranquil hill station Vythiri , exclusive and in its essence a state of mind, the Vythiri an exquisite jungle getaway to a largely mountainous district in northern Kerala, Situated beneath an enormous canopy of a lush tropical rainforest, journey into nature's wonderland - in the company of amphibians, birds, fish, mammals, reptiles, flowering plants and butterflies that inhabit the dense Vythiri rainforest. You will be seduced by the promise of discovery, bliss and exaltation - body, mind and soul located at the high ranges, at an altitude of 4000 feet above sea level, the climate here is pleasantly cool throughout the year. Vythiri is known for its pleasant climate and unparalleled beauty, bestowed with natural wonders like hilly terrain, lush green forests, meandering streams and beautiful waterfalls. MUNNAR:At the elevation of 1532m Munnar is another beautiful and popular hill station in God’s Own Country Kerala. Munnar is believed to mean "three rivers", referring to its location at the confluence of the Mudhirapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundaly rivers. Munnar is about 130 km by road from Cochin, which is well connected by both Air and Rail Situated in the Western Ghats, Munnar has captured the hearts of travellers from across the world with its salubrious weather, peaceful atmosphere, fresh air and abundant natural beauty. For Wild life Tourist, attractions are a plenty. In and around are Kurinjimala sanctuary, Chinar Wild life Santuary, Amaravati reserve forest of Indira Gandhi Wildlife Santuary, the Eravikulam National Park, Anamudi Shola National Park, Pampadum Shola National Park, Palani Hills National Park. Besides these parks Munnar has Subramanya Temple, Rose Garden, Sigmal view point, Oldly hill view point, Lock hart Gap view point, Pothmedu view point , Anamudi Peak(2,695 m) offering unbeatable views of the rolling hills and valleys. Periyakanal ,Cheeyapara , Lakkan waterfall on three different sides of Munnar. Then there are Mattupetty ,Kundla and Anayirangal(Boating) Dams on different locations . One must visit Tea Parks and Tea Museums in and around Munnar besides visiting Marayur Sandle forest and Thankaiah caves. At any time of the year, this hill station is a great place to explore with plethora of recreational activities in and around the area, including trekking, parasailing, camping, boating and rock climbing.
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