Pondicherry is located on the southeastern coast of India. It is a haven for beach lovers but also brings you some of the country’s best hill stations. These are perfect destinations for solace from the tropical heat, with lush landscapes, cool climates, and panoramic views. Whether relaxing in the lap of nature or exploring treks, the hill stations near Pondicherry offer a refreshing reprieve from the vibrant coastal life. While planning for a getaway, you shouldn’t miss exploring the beautiful hill stations near Pondicherry.
Top 10 Hill Stations Near Pondicherry
Here are some of the best hill stations near Pondicherry that you can visit with friends and family for an exciting time.
1. Yercaud
Photo: Tamal Das / Wikimedia Commons
Yercaud is also popularly called the ‘Jewel of the Servarayan Hills.’ It is a tranquil and peaceful hill station near Pondicherry that draws visitors in with its lush coffee plantations and scintillating landscape. Yercaud, about 190 km from Pondicherry, offers an escape from the chaos of city life. With its cool climate and gorgeous scenery, Yercaud is ideal for those who love nature and adventure. Trek across numerous trekking trails or lounge around in the lovely setting of this hill station — a place to visit when one needs to revitalise one’s soul.
Entry Fees: Free
Location: 190 km from Pondicherry
Best Time To Visit: October to June
2. Kodaikanal
Photo: M.arunprasad / Wikimedia Commons
Located about 260 km from Pondicherry, Kodaikanal, the Princess of Hill Stations becomes a breathtaking getaway every family, loving couple, or lonely traveller wishes to visit. Famous for its beautiful lake and lush forests, Kodaikanal is an ideal destination for families, lovers, and bachelors. There are also several things to do, like boating at the glittering Kodaikanal Lake or treks that provide specific viewpoints. Kodaikanal, which possesses irresistible charm and cooler temperatures, is one of the best hill stations around Pondicherry and marks the perfect break from city life.
Entry Fees: Free
Location: 260 km from Pondicherry
Best Time To Visit: April to June, September to October
3. Ooty
Photo: Hemant meena / Wikimedia Commons
Ooty, often called the “Queen of Hill Stations,” is a delightful destination about 320 km from Pondicherry. Known for beautiful gardens, charming cottages, and the iconic Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Ooty attracts several tourists worldwide. One would fall in love with the place because of its cool climate and breathtaking surroundings, whether one wants to spend a lazy day inside or go for adventure. Look into the world-famous Botanical Gardens, enjoy the views on a train ride, or enjoy panoramic views.
Entry Fees: Free
Location: 320 km from Pondicherry
Best Time To Visit: April to June and September to November
4. Coonoor
Photo: Shijan Kaakkara / Wikimedia Commons
Coonoor is a charming hill station near Pondicherry, about 310 km from the destination. People love Coonoor because of the sprawling tea gardens and its pleasant weather, which creates a serene atmosphere suitable for a peaceful escapade. Some great views can be seen from the viewpoint, such as Dolphin’s Nose and Lamb’s Rock, or take strolls around the lush tea estates. The quaint charm of Coonoor, coupled with natural beauty, makes it one of the best hill stations near Pondicherry in search of serenity.
Entry Fees: Free
Location: 310 km from Pondicherry
Best Time To Visit: April to June and September to November
5. Chikmagalur
Photo: Gpkp / Wikimedia Commons
Chikmagalur is famous for its coffee plantations and scenic hill surfaces. Known as the cradle of Indian coffee, this hill station offers visitors a perfect mix of culture, nature, and adventure. Picturesque landscapes of rolling hills and lush greenery allow treks and nature walks with coffee plantations. Chikmagalur’s pleasant climate and serene environment are some of the most inviting hill stations near Pondicherry for those seeking respite and rejuvenation.
Entry Fees: Free
Location: 370 km from Pondicherry
Best Time To Visit: September to May
6. Kotagiri
Photo: earnest.edison9 / Wikimedia Commons
Kotagiri, around 300 km from Pondicherry, is one of the oldest hill stations in the Nilgiris. This quaint destination boasts a cool climate, with heaven-beauty tea plantations and eye-catching vistas. Kotagiri provides a tranquil setting compared to its neighbouring hill stations, with less commercial activity. Visitors can explore scenic hiking trails, the beauty of the surrounding hills, or some tea-tasting experiences. Kotagiri is a hidden gem among hill stations near Pondicherry, providing an authentic experience of the Nilgiri Hills.
Entry Fees: Free
Location: 300 km from Pondicherry
Best Time To Visit: March to June
7. Agumbe
Photo: Shashidhara halady / Wikimedia Commons
Agumbe, often called the “Cherrapunji of the South,” lies approximately 350 km from Pondicherry. Rich in thick rainforests and breathtaking sunsets, Agumbe is an Elysium for nature lovers and adventure seekers. This region has different flora and fauna; hence, it is a perfect trekking place for wildlife lovers. People can visit the beautiful waterfalls and engage in adventure activities such as bird watching. Agumbe is one of the smaller hill stations near Pondicherry, but it is still ideal for escaping into nature.
Entry Fees: Free
Location: 350 km from Pondicherry
Best Time To Visit: November to February
8. Mahabaleshwar
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
Mahabaleshwar is a popular hill station located about 390 km from Pondicherry. It is cherished for its cool climate and lovely sceneries, sought after by families and couples. There is boating on the serene Venna Lake or looking at many viewpoints offering scenic views. With lush green surroundings and pleasant weather, Mahabaleshwar is one of the most beautiful hill stations near Pondicherry.
Entry Fees: Free
Location: 390 km from Pondicherry
Best Time To Visit: October to June
9. Munnar
Photo: Gigin Krishnan / Unsplash
Munnar is a hub for tea plantations with acres of rolling hills that go as far as the eye can see. Located 490 kilometres from Pondicherry, the hill station is amidst beautiful tea gardens and meandering hills that attract tourists seeking cooler climates and stunning scenery. The lush green valleys and misty hills make for a perfect spell of a romantic getaway and family vacation. You can visit tea plantations, go trekking on the scenic trails, or spend time amidst the stunning vistas. Undoubtedly, Munnar is one of the most enchanting hill stations near Pondicherry, which is an unforgettable experience of a lifetime.
Entry Fees: Free
Location: 490 km from Pondicherry
Best Time To Visit: September to May
10. Yelagiri
Photo: SingaravelanG / Wikimedia Commons
Yelagiri is one of the lesser-known hill stations near Pondicherry, at a distance of about 230 km. The picturesque landscape and excellent climatic conditions make Yelagiri an ideal weekend getaway. It includes various adventure sports such as trekking, paragliding, and rock climbing. Travellers can also enjoy the peace at Punganoor Lake and explore the beautiful gardens spread across the region. Yelagiri is one of those hill stations near Pondicherry that provides its serenity by embracing natural beauty, making it a delightful choice among the hill stations around Pondicherry.
Entry Fees: Free
Location: 230 km from Pondicherry
Best Time To Visit: November to February
Hill stations near Pondicherry offer a refreshing journey into nature, displaying phenomenal landscapes and a cool climate that not only collides with the coastal scenery but also provides a more beautiful contrast. Starting from the coffee plantation at Yercaud to the serene lakes at Kodaikanal, each one promises a unique experience. The distances vary from 190 to 490 km, making it accessible for a perfect weekend getaway to the hill stations near Pondicherry. Book your trip with TripXL and visit these beautiful hill stations!
Cover Photo: Ambareesh Sridhar Photography / Pexels / Image For Representation Only