6 Beautiful Hill Stations To Visit Near Kerala

Hill stations are generally more popular during summers as they alleviate you from the scorching heat and soothe the traveller in you. Hill stations in Kerala have a lot of peachy examples to back up this observation. The tropical climate in the state keeps the ambience calm and welcoming. You have coffee plantations, seashores, forests, and wildlife which are great add-ons to the tour, making you wish for a neverending holiday. If this has convinced you to spend your next vacation in the hill stations of the south, especially Kerala, it is time to research the Kerala tour packages on offer to make your holiday a memorable one!

# Munnar

Munnar hill station is one of the coolest places to be in Kerala if you are a fan of lush greenery. The coffee plantations and the uneven mountains here call for an unforgettable family holiday. It has a pleasant atmosphere and a calm environment with breathtaking scenery. It can also be a classic experience for the newlyweds. It is located in the southeast state of Kerala, 1600 metres above sea level. Munnar is sprinkled with reservoirs, mountain streams, rocks, wooded valley and wavy grass hills.

You can camp and trek at Echo Point. Munnar is also famous for elephant safaris along with picnics at Lakkham waterfalls. Besides these, mountain Biking at Suryanelli is something you can indulge in if you are the adventurous kind.

# Ponmudi

Ponmudi means the golden peak which is situated in the western ghats. This hill station has all the qualities a nature lover would prefer to have in his tour itinerary. There are many popular places to visit here like Golden Valley, Meenmutty Falls, Agasthyakoodam, and more. There are a number of places where you can make memories with your loved ones.

Ponmudi hill station has a thick layer of lush green carpet that reaches down the foot of the hill range. Never will you find such unrestricted peacefulness which contributes to the unique experience in Ponmudi. As far as travelling here is concerned, one can take their own vehicle or take a KSRTC bus from Tampanoor Bus Stand, Trivandrum starting from 5:30 am which will again take you to the top near the viewpoint. There are very few restaurants here including a KTDC cafe and restaurant. However, the best time to visit Ponmundi hill station is during the winter season because it is at this time that the mist covers the landscape, making it look magical.

Ponmundi also stands witness to an exotic boat race that attracts several tourists. Catch the grand sight of snake boats racing together while traditional songs are being played in the background. Owing to the diversity of attractions and things to do here, this hill station also serves as one of the best honeymoon places in Kerala.

# Kottapara

Kottapara is also known as the mini Meesapulimala. Just look under your feet to find yourself floating in the dense fog. This hill station in Kerala is best visited during the rainy season especially before 7 am so as to experience the mindblowing view. It is situated in the Idukki district of Kerala, 3 km from Vannapuram town. If you are looking for a solo drive, Kottapara hill station will definitely live up to your expectations. You can go here while on a day trip and also visit nearby tourist places like Thommankuth, Anachadikuth, Kattadikadav, Meenuliyanpara that are located within a 10 km radius of Kottapara.

# Vagamon

Vagamon hill station is surrounded by three peculiar hills – Thangal, Murugan and Kurisumala hills, each of which is famous for trekking, paragliding, mountaineering and rock climbing. To be precise, it is situated in Peerumadetaluk of Idukki district 1100 metres above sea level. The best places to visit when in Vagamon are the meadows, Pine Valley, and many others. If you are planning a two-day trip, it is advisable to book a resort beforehand. This will make your vacation comfortable and save you time. The place offers cool and fresh environs to kick back and relax. The barren hills are a must-visit when in Vagamon as this site provides a mystical view of the surrounding area.

# Wayanad

Ever spotted wild elephants? Keep your lenses ready to witness the gripping view of the elephants when in Wayanad. This hill station is situated at the northeast tip of Kerala, 700 metres above sea level. The dense vegetation, calm surroundings and mist-capped hills bestow an unforgettable experience to the visitors. Its plantations of tea and spices, pristine waterfalls, gorgeous lakes, exotic wildlife and age-old caves make it one of the most celebrated hill stations in Kerala.

The top tourist attraction in Wayanad hill station in Kerala is the Thirunelli temple which is a great architectural masterpiece that is believed to have been constructed over 3000 years ago. If you are also inquisitive about age-old civilisations, then the Edakka caves is a must-visit place that has writings on its walls and stone carvings that will take you back to the centuries gone by.

# Idukki

Idukki hill station in Kerala is one of the most enthralling places to visit in the state. Let your happiness get multiplied amidst the forest covers and rocky terrains. There are manmade amazements here like the Idukki dam that generates hydroelectricity. The hill station also houses a plethora of wildlife as exhibited in the wildlife sanctuary by the same name.

After you do that, it is time to get immersed in the scents and fragrances of the spices and allow them to leave a lasting impression on the minds, haunting and compelling to travel Idukki time and again.