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The hill stations in Western Ghats are among the most popular travel destinations in India. They are known to offer comfortable weather, unique landscapes, and a mix of cultural and natural attractions. The Western Ghats stretch across Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu, housing many hill stations perfect for a getaway. This guide covers the best hill stations in the Western Ghats, detailing their attractions, ideal trip duration, and nearest airports. From tea plantations to wildlife reserves, these places have something interesting to offer.
Top 10 Hill Stations In The Western Ghats
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Western Ghats for every nature lover. Here are the top hill stations in Western Ghats:
1. Munnar, Kerala
Photo: zablanca_clicks / Unspalsh
Munnar is one of the most visited Western Ghats hill stations and is known for its tea plantations that stretch across rolling hills. The town attracts tourists with its mild climate, rich biodiversity, and opportunities for trekking. Visitors can explore Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. The tea estates offer guided tours where you can learn about tea production and taste different varieties. Apart from nature, the town has colonial-era bungalows, local markets selling handmade chocolates, and spice gardens where you can experience the aroma of fresh spices.
Major Attractions: Mattupetty Dam, Anamudi Peak, Tea Museum
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport
2. Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Photo: Vishal Anand / Unsplash
Ooty is a town and municipality in the Nilgiris region of Tamil Nadu, India, and is considered one of the best hill stations in the Western Ghats. The Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO-listed heritage train, offers a journey through tunnels, forests, and foggy hills. Ooty Lake is a great spot for boating, while the town’s markets sell homemade chocolates and woollen clothing. The botanical garden has a large collection of plants and flowers. The weather remains comfortable throughout the year, making it a tourist favourite hill station. The town also has several museums and tea estates where visitors can learn about local culture and history.
Major Attractions: Stone House, St. Stephen’s Church, Doddabetta Peak, Rose Garden
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Coimbatore International Airport
3. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
Photo: Abhishek Prasad / Unsplash
Kodaikanal is a well-known Western Ghats hill station, often visited for its lake, viewpoints, and forests. The star-shaped Kodaikanal Lake is a central attraction, offering boating and cycling around its shores. Coaker’s Walk is a narrow pathway that provides a clear view of the valley below. Pillar Rocks, a set of three huge rock formations, is a great photographic place and a must-visit. The town is known for its homemade chocolates and local products, including organic fruits and eucalyptus oil.
Major Attractions: Mannavanur Lake, Bryant Park
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Madurai Airport
4. Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra
Photo: Janhavi Parmar / Wikimedia Commons
Mahabaleshwar is among the best hill stations in Western Ghats, with viewpoints, strawberry farms, and old temples that every traveller admires. The town has a long history and was once a summer capital during the British era. Venna Lake is a popular spot for boating, while Mapro Garden offers fresh strawberries and fruit-based products. Several viewpoints, like Arthur’s Seat, view deep valleys and nearby rivers. The town is also known for its local honey, corn-based snacks, and mulberries, which are sold at small stalls across the region.
Major Attractions: Panchganga Temple, Lingmala Waterfall, Elephant’s Head Point
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Pune International Airport
5. Lonavala, Maharashtra
Lonavala is a famous Western Ghats hill station mainly known for its caves, forts, and waterfalls. It is a popular weekend destination for people from Mumbai and Pune. The Karla Caves and Bhaja Caves have ancient Buddhist rock-cut structures that date centuries ago. Lohagad Fort, a historical site, offers trekking opportunities. The town is also known for its chikki, a traditional Indian sweet made with jaggery and nuts. During the monsoon season, several waterfalls emerge in and around Lonavala, making it a great time to visit.
Major Attractions: Rajmachi Fort, Lohagad Fort, Bhushi Dam, Duke’s Nose Trail
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Pune International Airport
6. Coorg, Karnataka
Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is one of the best hill stations in Western Ghats, widely known for its coffee plantations and spice estates. The region is famous for its distinct coffee flavour and offers guided estate tours where visitors can understand the coffee-making process. Abbey Falls is a popular attraction and a short drive from the main town. Dubare Elephant Camp allows visitors to watch and interact with elephants in their natural habitat. The town also has historical sites, such as Madikeri Fort, which is famous for its two-level structure with a tortoise sculpture.
Major Attractions: Honnamana Kere Lake, Mallalli Falls, Golden Temple (Namdroling Monastery)
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Kannur International Airport
7. Chikmagalur, Karnataka
Photo: Mallikarjuna Sarvala / Wikimedia Commons
Chikmagalur is a well-loved Western Ghats hill station, especially known for its coffee estates and trekking routes. The highest peak in Karnataka, Mullayanagiri, is present in this town, one of the most famous trekking destinations. Several waterfalls, including Hebbe Falls and Kallathigiri Falls, are close to the town. The region’s coffee estates, like Nagojanahalli Estate, provide a chance to taste freshly brewed coffee. Baba Budangiri is another significant attraction and pilgrimage place for Hindus and Muslims. The town remains a peaceful destination and attracts visitors throughout the year.
Major Attractions: Jhari Waterfalls, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, Kudremukh Peak.
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport
8. Wayanad, Kerala
Photo: RAJEEVrk246 / Wikimedia Commons
Wayanad is one of the best hill stations in Western Ghats, with forests, waterfalls, and plenty of wildlife to explore. The region is known for its trekking paths, with Chembra Peak being a popular hiking destination. Edakkal Caves have ancient carvings that provide historical information about early human settlements. Nature enthusiasts can visit Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary to spot elephants and other animals. Banasura Sagar Dam, which is situated in the Karamanathodu River, is another major attraction, offering boat rides with a view of the surrounding hills.
Major Attractions: Soochipara Falls, Pookode Lake, Karlad Lake
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Calicut International Airport
9. Yercaud, Tamil Nadu
Photo: Sathish Ganesh / Unsplash
Yercaud is a lovely hill station in the Western Ghats, perfect for those who enjoy nature and quiet getaways. The main attraction here is Yercaud Lake, where couples and families can enjoy a boat ride and have an amazing view of the surrounding hills. A visit to Pagoda Point is a must as this spot offers a wide landscape view of the valley, making it a great place to relax and take photos. Yercaud is also known for its coffee and spice plantations, and visitors can take guided tours to learn about how coffee is grown and processed.
Major Attractions: Bhavani Singh’s Perfumery, Peeku Park, Kiliyur Falls
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 days
Nearest Airport: Salem Airport
10. Agumbe, Karnataka
Photo: Shashidhara halady / Wikimedia Commons
Agumbe is a small hill station in the Western Ghats, famous for its heavy rainfall and beautiful sunsets. It is often called the “Cherrapunji of the South” because it receives some of the highest rainfall in India. The area is covered with thick rainforests and is home to many waterfalls like Jogigundi and Onake Abbi Falls, which are great for short treks. Agumbe is also known for its role in wildlife conservation, especially for the king cobra. Exploring nature and seeing one of the best sunset views in the Western Ghats, Agumbe is a great place to visit.
Major Attractions: Sunset View Point, Barkana Falls, Onake Abbi Falls
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport
The hill stations in Western Ghats offer a mix of history, adventure, and natural attractions. Some places have ancient temples and forts, while others have lakes, waterfalls, and tea plantations. A quick weekend getaway or a long vacation, these destinations have something for everyone. Plan your next trip with TripXL and explore the best hill stations in the Western Ghats for a fun and refreshing experience.
