Top 10 hill stations in Kerala

Kerala is famous for its scenic beauty. The greenery, hill stations, and soothing climate altogether make Kerala the traveler’s paradise.

Here are the top ten hill stations in Kerala that you cannot miss.

MUNNAR

Located 1,600 m above sea level, Munnar is a sought-after place for tourists. Also called the ‘Kashmir of South India’, Munnar rests in the Idukki district. Munnar is well connected to the major roads and highways. To reach Munnar is not a tough task. It is only a 150 km drive from Ernakulam, and also is easy to reach via Udumalpet in Tamil Nadu. Munnar is home to misty hills, and one of the most attractive hill station in Kerala. Picturesque tea plantations, and winding lanes. One of the main attractions near Munnar is the Eravikulam National Park, which is the abode of endangered inhabitants - the Nilgiri Tahr. Anamudi peak, the highest peak in South India, is also in Munnar. Mattupetty Dam is another major attraction, which offers boat rides in its beautiful lake. 

IDUKKI

Idukki is blessed with nature’s bounty. Owing to the pleasant weather, Idukki can be visited at any time of the year, apart from monsoons between June and September. It is a three-hour drive from Kochi, you can, of course, enjoy your long drive with IndusGo. The place is known for wildlife sanctuaries, tea factories, sprawling mansions, forests, and rubber plantations. Embrace the serenity of Gavi, a heaven on Earth, which is not far from Idukki. Another attraction is the Hill-view park with its spectacular views of Idukki and Cheruthoni Dams. The place is also a paradise for the lovers of trekking, especially the Kulamavu hill station in Kerala, a place that soothes your eyes. 

WAYANAD

Wayanad is nature’s abode. Covered with the ‘green carpet’, the best time to visit the place is between October and May. Wayanad offers a perfect blend of adventure and sightseeing. Waterfalls, spice plantations, wildlife and trekking to the prehistoric caves like the Edakkal Caves are all that you have to look up to in Wayanad. If you are a lover of river rafting, do not forget to stop by Soochipara Falls. Wayanad is the ideal weekend getaway to go on a road trip. As the hill station of Kerala at an altitude of 800 m from the sea level, Wayanad is home to Chembra peak and Banasura Dam. Tirunelveli temple and Papanashini river are also worth visiting.Book a car for rent in Wayanad at affordable prices.

THEKKADY

September to April is the best time to visit Thekkady. One of the most attractive hill stations in Kerala which is about 165km from Kochi. Thekkady hosts India’s largest Tiger Reserve- Periyar. You can also enjoy river rafting and hiking. Adventure sports are at its best in Thekkady. Night trek in the wilderness of Periyar is the icing on the cake. Enjoy the early morning boat rides while you spot bison and wild elephants enjoying their time in the wilderness. Located about 5 km from the city, Murikaddy is famous for spices and coffee plantations. Picturesque waterfalls also await your arrival.

NELLIYAMPATHY

Nelliyampathy hill station of Kerala is in the Palakkad district, and it is relatively easy to reach via well-connected and well-maintained roads. The months between September and February are the best time to visit Nelliyampathy as the place has very pleasant winters. It is the best place to go on trekking trips. Lying on the Western Ghats, Nelliyampathy hills host orange, cardamom, tea and coffee plantations. Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary is also another paradise of nature that should not be missed. Also, do not forget to stop by Nemmara village that lies in the vicinity of Nelliyampathy, which is famous for its cultural festivals like Nenmara Vela.

PONMUDI

A scenic place, located near Thiruvananthapuram, is the abode of exquisite butterflies, mountain flowers and wild orchids. The temperature is consistent throughout the year, and the place tops the list of the perfect weekend getaway as the most attractive hill stations in Kerala. A ride through the breath-taking Kallar River that flows parallel to the roads and Meenmutty Waterfalls are a feast to the eyes. Trekking trails to Varayadumotta will quench your adrenaline rush. Closest major city to Ponmudi in Thiruvananthapuram, which is just about 61 km away. 

VYTHIRI

A small town, Vythiri is located in the Wayanad district. Vythiri is 700 meters above the sea level and the weather is particularly cooler as compared to other parts of Wayanad. Reaching Vythiri is easier from Kozhikode and Vythiri is just 66 km away from Kozhikode railway station. Greenery, terrain and comfortable weather make Vythiri a favorite amongst tourists.

PAINAVU

Painavu sits in the lap of Idukki. In addition to it being one of the most beautiful hill stations of Kerala, Painavu is also the shopper’s paradise. Lovers of local handicrafts, beautiful clothes and silk will have a wonderful time in the innumerous shops.

VAGAMON

One of the most popular tourist destinations, Vagamon can be explored best during summer and winter. Summer is the best time for paragliding and elephant rides, and winter is ideal for mountain hiking and visiting various plantations. Vagamon is just 75 km from Kochi. An offbeat hill station of Kerala which is away from the busy city, Vagamon welcomes you with its lush greenery and serenity. Pine forest is one of the famous attractions of the place. Other tourist attractions include Marmala Waterfall, Thangalpara, and of course, the Barren Hills. 

SULTHAN BATHERY

Located in the Wayanad district, Sulthan Bathery is a peaceful town. Weather is pleasant and welcomes tourists throughout the year. It is a perfect merging point of historic sites and shopping centers. Located at an altitude of 1000 meters above sea level, the place is the largest town in the Wayanad district. The place is the abode of prehistoric caves,jungle trails, streams, and rivers. While you are at Sulthan Bathery, do not forget to visit the Jain Temple, Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, Ambalavayal Heritage Museum and St. Mary's and Yakoob Church.

So, whether for a family trip or for an adventurous trip, the hill stations in  Kerala provide ample opportunities for an exciting and unforgettable trip.