Kerala is dotted with several eye-catching hill stations, which are serene, mystical and misty. No doubt, each one of them is a delight for the eyes of travelers. It is a paradise for them because of its comfortable and cool climate. Besides, hill stations are gifted with picturesque mountains, gorgeous green valleys, dense forests, stunning waterfalls, frothing rivers and azure lakes. The flower-filled meadows of them are a feast to the visitors. Most of the hill stations in Kerala are a part of Western Ghats and an ideal option for your holidays. Contact Kochi Taxi if you wish to get more details on the popular hill stations in Kerala. Log on www.KSU.in in order to reach them to get spellbound by the splendor or the rolling hills and picturesque landscape, which nobody can ignore.
A Great Concept
Hill stations are really marvelous and the concept was made popular among people in India by the British. They looked for attractive packages in the state to get a break from the excessive summer heat to cooler temperatures. Most of the hill stations in Kerala have scenic lakes or dams making them ideal to enjoy boating. Besides, these tourist places have several view points and tourist attractions. People can indulge in different adventure activities also at this place. Here are some of the well-known hill stations in Kerala.
Munnar
Surrounded by the beauty of majestic hills, Munnar is the most popular hill station in Kerala. The green rich nature draws travelers from different parts of the world. They love to explore the destination in order to enjoy its scenic landscapes situated on the verdant slopes of extensive tea plantations. Located at a height of more than 1600 meters, this marvelous hill station offers mind-blowing views of the surrounding hills. It shall be amazing to watch the picturesque hills of Munnar that carpeted with abundant tea plantations.
Munnar is an ideal destination whether you look for a vacation or honeymoon. This hill station is characterized by the confluence of three rivers namely Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala. In the local language Malayalam, Munnar means the ‘three rivers’. This clean and serene tourist destination is also home to Neelakurinji, a plant that blooms only once in 12 years. Travelers can also watch several rare animal and plant species also in Munnar.
Thekkady
Blessed with treasures of tropical flora and fauna, Thekkady is the sole Tiger reserve of India. This destination is also home to many endangered animal and plant species. A rich and unique tribal culture is another attraction of this tourist spot. Thekkady is a paradise for people who love to see nature in its wildest form. The popular Periyar Tiger Reserve in Thekkady is spread more than an area of 777 sq. kms. There is an artificial lake surrounds this sanctuary with an area of more than 25 sq. kms. Some of the main tourist attractions in Thekkady include the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Mangala Devi temple, Periyar Lake, the tribal heritage museum and the Sukri Dam.
Wayanad
Enjoy the panorama of rolling mist-clad hills by planning a trip to Wayanad. Located in North Kerala, this region is surrounded by green lush sloping land of spice plantations. It is a place blessed by nature with undulating slopes and dense tropical forests through which a few smooth flowing rivers run. Pleasant climate is another attraction of this mesmerizing hill station that promises to attract. The eastern part of this hill station is bound by the Nilgiris and the districts of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Wayanad also shares its borders with the Malappuram district on the south and Coorg district of Karnataka on the north and Calicut and Cannanoore districts on the west. One of the great features of Wayanad is that it is not uncorrupted by modernity even today. So, it is considered as one of the best hill stations in the state.
Ponmudi
Ponmudi, popularly known as the Golden Peak is, another great hill station in Kerala with scenic nature. It can be reached within a short drive from Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city. In addition to a wonderful nature with eye-catching mountain flowers, small rivulets and exotic butterflies, this hill station offers amazing opportunities for trekking. The mist-covered valleys and the rich tea plantations make it a fast-growing hill station in the state. This beautiful tourist spot is surrounded by extensive tea gardens, beautiful hills, rich spice plantations, winding streams and natural springs.
It is believed that Ponmudi was founded by Lord Parasuram, a great Indian mythological character. There are several tourist attractions to visit in this hill station. Some of them include the Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary and many excellent trekking spots. The mist-clad valleys of Ponmudi certainly fascinate travelers especially the gorgeous Golden Valley near Kallar River. The stone and wood cottages designed in bright colors also attract travelers besides its deer park.
Vagamon
Located in the Idukki district of Kerala, Vagamon is a virgin hill station that draws many tourists each year. It is among the most beautiful Greenfield hill stations in the country with salubrious climate throughout the year. The winter and monsoon are moderate in this destination make it one of the most preferred hill stations in Kerala. The room temperature in this region usually does not rise more than 220 even during the hottest months.
Perched high among rich tea plantations and gorgeous streams, Vagamon is nearly 1100 meters above sea level. This enchanting hill station is a soothing haven for hikers and trekkers and ensures mind-blowing adventure experience. It is possible to come across elephants frolicking in pools while strolling through the scenic nature. Vagamon is certainly an ideal hill station for those who seek travel experience with a difference. Some of the tourist attractions in this destination include the Kurisumala, Pine Forests, Thangal Hills and Vagamon Meadows.
Vythiri
Situated in Northern Kerala close to Wayanad, Vythiri is a must-visit hill station in Kerala. Located at an altitude of nearly 4000 feet above sea level at the High Ranges, Vythiri enjoys a pleasantly cool climate throughout the year. Aside the cool pleasant climate, this tourist destination is also famous for its unparalleled natural beauty. There are several natural wonders waiting for you at this scenic place such as lush green forests, gorgeous waterfalls, hilly terrains and meandering streams.
Lakkidi
Laddiki is also a part of the Wayanad district of Kerala referred as the ‘Gateway of the Wayanad district’. It is an ideal starting point for those who wish to explore to this panoramic district. The entire district is famous for mesmerizing nature such as dense forests, lovely streams, alluring mountain peaks and several enchanting water features. Lakkidi is one of the highest locations in Wayanad and holds the credit of getting second highest degree of rainfall in the world.
Ramakkalmedu
Located on the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border, Ramakkalmedu is an alluring tourist spot that offers mind-blowing views of the Nedumkandom in Kerala and the Kombai villages in TamilNadu. It is truly a delightful retreat because of its fresh mountain air and rolling green hills. Travelers to Thekkady try to visit Ramakkalmedu as it is very close to this tourist destination. The statue of the Kuravan and Kurathi is one of the most captivating views of this hill station. It is believed that the Hindu mythological characters Rama and Sita visited this region during their exile and rested on the rock. So this region got its name ‘Ramakkalmedu’. Situated nearly 6625 feet above sea level, Ramakkalmedu offers amazing views of some of the Tamil Nadu towns like Theni, Kumbum, Thevaram, Kombe, Bodinayaknoor, Vaiga and Uthamapalayam.
Thenmala
Unlike other hill stations in Kerala, Thenmala located in the southern region of the state. This small village is in the Kollam district at the foothills of Western Ghats, basically a forest area. Thenmala means a ‘hill that yields honey’ and this region is famous for eco-tourism. The 100 sq. km Shenduruney Wildlife Sanctuary is the major ecotourism resource of this hill station which houses many exotic flora and fauna. The honey collected from the forest regions of Thenmala has of high-quality and exceptional medicinal value. The unique floristic composition of the forests in these regions enhances its medicinal quality. March to May is the hottest months in this region with a maximum day time temperature of 390C. December to January is relatively cool months and ideal to visit Thenmala.
In addition to the above hill stations, Kerala also boasts some other hill stations worth visit such as Devikulam, Attappady and Nelliyampathi. Check the hill station packages of Kochi Taxi if you are interested to explore the popular hill stations in this state.