Elevate Your Soul in Yelagiri , A Scenic Retreat in Southern India
Yelagiri Hills
Yelagiri is a hill station located in the newly formed Tirupathur district of Tamil Nadu, India, situated off the Vaniyambadi-Tirupattur road. Located at an altitude of 1,110.6 meters above Mean Sea Level, Yelagiri Hill is surrounded by orchards, rose gardens, and green valleys. Yelagiri is a branch of Annamalai Hills. The Yelagiri hill station is not as developed as other hill stations in Tamil Nadu like Ooty or Kodaikanal. However, it is considering developing a tourist destination by promoting adventure sports such as paragliding and rock climbing.
Yelagiri hills is one of the famous places for trekkers in India. The hill station is located at a height of 1410.6 meters above sea level. It comprises 14 hamlets and several temples spread over several hills. The highest point in Yelagiri is Swamimalai Hill, standing tall at 1332 m. Swamimalai is a destination and viewpoint for trekkers. The hill provides several trekking trails through thick reserved forests. Mangalam, a small village, is at the base of this hill. Other trekking options include smaller peaks like Javadi Hills and Palamathi Hills.
Yelagiri weather
The weather in Yelagiri generally remains pleasant throughout the year due to its hill station location. However, there are variations in temperature and rainfall during different seasons. Here’s a general overview of the Yelagiri weather.
Summer (March to June)
Temperature: During the summer months, the temperature in Yelagiri ranges from 20°C to 35°C. Summer is considered a good time to visit as the weather is relatively mild, making it suitable for outdoor activities. The evenings can be cool and refreshing.
Monsoon (July to September)
Yelagiri Hills experiences moderate to heavy rainfall during the monsoon season. The lush greenery becomes even more vibrant during this time. However, heavy rainfall may impact outdoor activities.
Autumn (October to November)
Post-monsoon, the weather becomes pleasant again, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C. This period is a good time to visit as the weather is mild, and the surroundings are still lush and green from the monsoon.
Winter (December to February)
Yelagiri hills experiences a cool and crisp winter season. Temperatures can drop to around 10°C to 20°C during winter. Winter is another popular time to visit Yelagiri, especially for those who enjoy cooler temperatures.
Also read- Off the Beaten Path-The Enchanting Charm of Meghamalai
Yelagiri Places to visit
Yelagiri offers a variety of scenic spots and attractions for visitors. Here are some popular places to visit in Yelagiri Hills.
Punganur Lake
A serene artificial lake surrounded by hills and greenery. Boating facilities are available, providing a peaceful experience.
Yelagiri Forest Hill
Explore the reserved forest area, go trekking, and enjoy the natural beauty. Swamimalai Hill, the highest point in Yelagiri, offers panoramic views.
Jalagamparai Waterfalls
Located amidst the hills, these waterfalls are a must-visit, especially during the monsoon season when the water flow is at its peak.
Nature Park
This park is a great place for families, featuring well-maintained gardens, a play area for children, and a musical fountain. It’s an ideal spot for a stroll.
Velavan Temple
Dedicated to Lord Murugan, this temple is an important religious site in Yelagiri Hills. The temple architecture and surroundings add to its spiritual ambiance.
Telescope Observatory
Located at the top of Swamimalai Hill, the telescope observatory provides an opportunity for stargazing and enjoying panoramic views of the night sky.
Nilavoor Lake
A small and picturesque lake surrounded by greenery. It’s a serene spot where visitors can relax and enjoy the natural beauty.
Swamimalai Hill
The highest point in Yelagiri, Swamimalai Hill offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Trekking to the summit is a popular activity for adventure enthusiasts.
Things to do in Yelagiri Hills
Yelagiri offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy its natural beauty and serene surroundings.
Trekking
Yelagiri is known for its trekking trails, offering opportunities for both beginners and experienced trekkers. Swamimalai Hill trek is a popular choice, providing stunning views from the summit.
Boating at Punganur Lake
Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on Punganur Lake. Rowboats and pedal boats are available, allowing visitors to soak in the scenic beauty surrounding the lake.
Visit Jalagamparai Waterfalls
Explore the beautiful Jalagamparai Waterfalls, especially during the monsoon season when the water flow is at its peak. The trek to the falls adds an adventurous element.
Nature Walks
Take leisurely walks through the lush greenery and explore the natural beauty of Yelagiri. The hill station is home to diverse flora and fauna.
Stargazing at Telescope Observatory
Visit the telescope observatory on Swamimalai Hill for stargazing. The clear skies at this elevation make it an ideal spot for observing celestial bodies.
Religious Exploration
Visit the Velavan Temple dedicated to Lord Murugan and the Perumal Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu for a spiritual experience. Explore the local markets to buy handmade crafts, souvenirs, and traditional items. Yelagiri is known for its tribal handicrafts and silk products. Rent a bicycle and explore the scenic landscapes of Yelagiri at your own pace. It’s a great way to enjoy the cool breeze and the natural surroundings. Yelagiri hills is home to a variety of bird species. Nature enthusiasts can engage in bird watching, especially in the forested areas.
Yelagiri Resorts
Yelagiri had several resorts offering comfortable accommodations with scenic views. However, keep in mind that the availability of resorts may change, and new ones may have opened since then. It’s advisable to check online booking platforms or contact the resorts directly for the most up-to-date information.
Sterling Yelagiri
Located on the foothills of Swamimalai Hill, Sterling Yelagiri offers a range of rooms and amenities. The resort provides a comfortable stay and beautiful views of the surrounding hills.
Zeeston Residency
Zeeston Residency is a budget-friendly resort with basic amenities. It is situated close to the Yelagiri Forest Hill, making it convenient for trekking enthusiasts.
Hotel Hills Yelagiri
Hotel Hills is a well-known resort in Yelagiri, offering comfortable rooms and various recreational facilities. It is located near the Yelagiri Nature Park.
Green Fields Resort
Situated amidst lush greenery, Green Fields Resort provides a peaceful retreat. The resort offers well-appointed rooms and facilities for a comfortable stay.
Kumararraja Palace
Known for its colonial architecture, Kumararraja Palace offers a unique stay experience. It has spacious rooms and is located near the Yelagiri Forest Hill.
Marigold Ridge
Marigold Ridge is a boutique resort in Yelagiri that combines modern amenities with a natural setting. It is known for its personalized service and comfortable accommodations.
Hotel Landmark
Hotel Landmark is a budget-friendly option with basic amenities. It is located in the heart of Yelagiri, making it convenient for exploring nearby attractions.
How to Reach Yelagiri
Yelagiri Hills does not have an airport. The nearest major airport is Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) in Bangalore, which is approximately 180 km away. After reaching the airport, you can hire a taxi or use other ground transportation to reach Yelagiri. The nearest major railway station to Yelagiri is Jolarpettai Junction (approximately 21 km away). Trains from Chennai, Bengaluru, and other cities connect to Jolarpettai. After reaching the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Yelagiri.
Chennai to Yelagiri
Chennai to Yelagiri is a distance of approximately 230 to 250 kilometers, depending on the specific route taken. The journey can be covered by various modes of transportation, including by road. Several buses operate from Chennai to Yelagiri. State-owned buses as well as private operators provide regular services. There is no direct train connectivity to Yelagiri. The nearest major railway station is Jolarpettai Junction (approximately 21 kilometers from Yelagiri).
From Bengaluru (Approximately 160-180 km)
If you are coming from Bengaluru, you can drive via National Highway 75 (NH75) towards Hosur and Krishnagiri. From Krishnagiri, take State Highway 60 to reach Yelagiri hills. The journey takes around 3 to 4 hours by car.
Bus Services
Regular bus services operate from major cities like Chennai and Bengaluru to Yelagiri hills. Both state-owned and private bus operators provide services. The journey by bus may take around 5 to 6 hours.
