14 Best Hill Stations Near Tenkasi For A Perfect Vacay

A picture of scenic beauty in the charming hill station near Tenkasi.

Hill stations near Tenkasi are perfect for tourists who want to relax and breathe fresh mountain air. Tenkasi, a famous town situated in Tamil Nadu, has become popular because of its beautiful hillock stations. It also has magnificent greenish views, a cool climate, and spirituous leisure. Ideal for those who can’t afford to spare several weeks in a year for travel, these places offer a break from the boring drudgery. If you love strolling through tea gardens or admiring the mountain mist, the hill stations around Tenkasi are a must-visit for you.

Top 14 Hill Stations Near Tenkasi

Some of the most serene hill stations near Tenkasi which offer a serene and panoramic bliss to tourists are listed below.

1. Courtallam

A picture of the mist mountains of Courtallam, one of the popular hill stations near Tenkasi.

Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons

Courtallam is a hill station closer to Tenkasi, known as the ‘Spa of South India’ for its beautiful waterfalls and extensive greenery. Located in the Western Ghats, this is a serene destination with many waterfalls. During monsoon, it assumes its beauty particularly the Main Falls and Five Falls. The weather of Courtallam is very cool and the atmosphere is dry and foggy. The water of this place is supposed to possess curative properties, ideal for tourists who want to have the touch of nature. Main Falls, Old Falls, Five Falls, Courtallam Aruvi are some of the quaint places to visit in Courtallam.

Top Tourist Attractions: Main Falls, Old Falls, Five Falls, Courtallam Aruvi
Nearest Railway Station: Tenkasi Junction (7 km away)
Distance From Tenkasi: 35 km

Suggested Read: Water Sports In Pondicherry

2. Papanasam

An image of Papanasam Falls, surrounded by lush greenery

Photo: L.vivian.richard / Wikimedia Commons

Papanasam is a beautiful hillock near Tenkasi which has become famous for its natural view and religious importance. Located in the Western Ghats bio-diverse region, it houses well-known Papanasam Falls and Agasthiyar Falls known for their therapeutic benefits. The area is in the Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve area, a place of joy as far as nature and wildlife conservation is concerned. Papanasam is one of the most relaxing destinations that could serve as spiritual and adventure tourism.

Top Tourist Attractions: Papanasam Falls, Agasthiyar Falls, Sivasailam Temple
Nearest Railway Station: Ambasamudram Railway Station (15 km away)
Distance From Tenkasi: 15 km

3. Manjolai

A picture of tea plantations, which is one of the most serene hill stations near Tenkasi.

Photo: Archana Venkatraj / Wikimedia Commons

Manjolai, a beautiful travel destination near Tenkasi, is famous for its tea gardens and greenery. Located amidst the Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Preservation Forest, it provides relatively low temperatures and the scenic beauty of the western ghats. Tourists can go for nature walks or take up a trek or visit nearby sites like the Manimuthar Dam. With its pristine views and calmness all over, Manjolai would suit nature lovers who are in search of a quiet and serene place.

Top Tourist Attractions: Manimuthar Dam, Tea Plantations, Upper Kodayar
Nearest Railway Station: Tirunelveli Junction (65 km away)
Distance From Tenkasi: 30 km

Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Dhanushkodi

4. Achankovil

A lush green picture of Achankovil River, one of the peaceful spots.

Photo: Challiyan / Wikimedia Commons

Achankovil is a sleepy hill station near Tenkasi and is well-known for its forests’ lush green forests, rivers, and the divine Achankovil Sastha Temple. It’s a calm area located in the Western Ghats biome that reveals an opportunity for treks, wildlife, and riverine experiences. The region is further accentuated by the Achankovil River. Achankovil serves as a boon for believers and those interested in spirituality along with nature lovers.

Top Tourist Attractions: Achankovil Temple, Achankovil River, Trekking trails in the forest
Nearest Railway Station: Shenkottai Railway Station (35 km away)
Distance From Tenkasi: 35 km

5. Ponmudi

 A picture of misty hills and golden valleys of Ponmudi.

Photo: Ingo Mehling / Wikimedia Commons

Ponmudi is a beautiful, calm hill station located near Tenkasi in the Western Ghat mountain range. Famous for its crisp and pristine climate, lush hillocks, and golden valleys, Ponmudi attracts travellers. Meenmutty Waterfalls, Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, and many trekking places are tourist destinations to explore in all seasons. The presence of thick mist over the hills, and the scenic beauty add to the tourist attractions of Ponmudi as a great place to relax during a hot afternoon. Golden Valley, Meenmutty Waterfalls, Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary are some of the top places to visit in Ponmudi promising an astonishing getaway.

Top Tourist Attractions: Golden Valley, Meenmutty Waterfalls, Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary
Nearest Railway Station: Trivandrum Central (55 km away)
Distance From Tenkasi: 55 km

Suggested Read: Bеst Placеs To Visit In Ponmudi For An Idеal Trip

6. Aryankavu

A picture of the surroundings of Aryankavu with a scenic sky.

Photo: Vimalnair9744 / Wikimedia Commons

Aryankavu is a beautiful hill station located near Tenkasi that also has a spiritual significance. It is an old temple in the town frequented by devotees where they come and worship. Nestled in the lap of green hills, Aryankavu is a perfect place for the ones on nature trails and trekkers. The nearby attraction is the Palaruvi Waterfalls, a beautiful waterfall with its magnificent waterfall amidst the forest. Aryankavu is known for its calm landscape and history which makes it the best for spending time in solitude.

Top Tourist Attractions: Aryankavu Ayyappa Temple, Palaruvi Waterfalls, Thenmala Dam
Nearest Railway Station: Aryankavu Railway Station (2 km away)
Distance From Tenkasi: 25 km

7. Kudremukh

 A picture of Kudremukh, makes it ideal for a picturesque spot.

Photo: Dhruvaraj S / Wikimedia Commons

Kudremukh is a beautiful hill station located in the Western Ghats. It is well known for its lush green sceneries, the hills veiled with mist, and the abundant biodiversity. The region falls under the Kudremukh National Park, which harbours different wildlife. One of the ideal treks, Kudremukh Peak is among the fascinating trek destinations. The scenery and climate of Hanuman Gundi Falls give Kudremukh a natural look suitable for tourists. It allows visitors a chance to have a look at tea farms and be at one with nature.

Top Tourist Attractions: Kudremukh Peak, Hanuman Gundi Falls, Kudremukh National Park
Nearest Railway Station: Mangalore Central Railway Station (100 km away)
Distance From Tenkasi: 100 km

Suggested Read: Ultimate Places To Visit In Kudremukh For An Incredible Trip

8. Sengottai

A picture of Sengottai, which is one of the best hill stations near Tenkasi.

Photo: Planemad / Wikimedia Commons

Sengottai, near Tenkasi, is one of the famous hill stations in the region, well-famed for the greenery around and rocking environment. They are located in the quiet part of the Western Ghats foothills creating calm surroundings. Usually with a picturesque railway station linking beautiful routes namely Punalur-Sengottai, this town has become a famous site. Other tourist attractions around Sengottai include the Aryankavu Pass and Palaruvi Falls, a perfect destination for nature lovers in the countryside of Tamil Nadu.

Top Tourist Attractions: Sengottai Railway Station, Aryankavu Pass, Palaruvi Falls
Nearest Railway Station: Sengottai Railway Station (15 km)
Distance From Tenkasi: 24 km

9. Munnar

 A picture of Munnar, a famous hill station near Tenkasi known for tea gardens.

Photo: BinoBose / Wikimedia Commons

Munnar is another famous hill station of Kerala for its vast stretches of tea gardens, rolling hills, and peaceful climate. Located in the Western Ghats, it provides tranquillity for tourists and the athletically inclined. Besides, visitors can take hikes on the territory, discover beautiful views, and enjoy the aroma of tea. Some of the scenic places to visit in Munnar include the Eravikulam National Park, the highest peak Anamudi, Mattupetty Dam, and many more. Munnar is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in Kerala for complete solitude.

Nearest Railway Station: Ernakulam Junction (approximately 130 km away)
Top Tourist Attractions: Tea Gardens, Mattupetty Dam, Anamudi Peak
Distance From Tenkasi: 100 km

Suggested Read: Your Ultimate Munnar Travel Guide To Kerala’s Emerald Paradise

10. Kalakad

A picture of Kalakad, featuring green mountains.

Photo: A. J. T. Johnsingh, WWF-India and NCF / Wikimedia Commons

Kalakad is a quiet hill station located at Tenkasi and falls under the Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve. It supports a huge variety of plant and animal species while providing visitors with a quiet opportunity to admire nature. Tourists can tour several green areas, see different types of animals, and engage in things such as hiking and bird-watching. Covered and blessed with beautiful scenery and cool weather, Kalakad offers a perfect holiday with adventure. Kalakad Tiger Reserve, as well as the Manimuthar Dam make it a tourist hotspot.

Top Tourist Attractions: Kalakad Tiger Reserve, Manimuthar Dam, Kattalagar Falls
Nearest Railway Station: Tirunelveli Junction (65 km away)
Distance From Tenkasi: 40 km

11. Thekkady

A serene view of Thekkady, one of the mesmerising hill stations near Tenkasi.

Photo: Rishi Sreekar / Unsplash

Thekkady, one of the serene tourist places near Tenkasi, is blessed with nature’s unrivalled beauty. It is home to the renowned Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Here, you can enjoy bamboo rafting on the tranquil waters, sit on the lush banks of the Periyar Lake, and stroll through the sprawling green spice plantations. For travellers seeking a peaceful retreat in the wilderness of nature, Thekkady is the perfect place.

Top Tourist Attractions: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Periyar Lake, and spice plantations
Nearest Railway Station: Ramnagar Railway Station (12 km)
Distance From Tenkasi: 194 km

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Thekkady With Family

12. Ramakkalmedu

A glimpse of the iconic Kuravan & Kurathi Statue in Ramakkalmedu, Tamil Nadu.

Photo: Augustus Binu / Wikimedia Commons

Ramakkalmedu is a tiny hamlet in the Idukki district close to the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border. Perched at around 3,500 feet in the lush Western Ghats, this location boasts verdant valleys, majestic peaks, and rugged terrain. Here, you can witness the footprint of Lord Rama and many other ancient temples, adding a layer of spirituality to your getaway. The major attractions here include Kuravan & Kurathi Statue, Wind Farm Viewpoint, Tortoise Rock, Chathurangapara Viewpoint, and more.

Top Tourist Attractions: Kuravan & Kurathi Statue, Windmill Farm, and scenic viewpoints
Nearest Railway Station: Chengannur Railway Station (90 km)
Distance From Tenkasi: 242 km

13. Oothu Hills

A breathtaking view of the lush Oothu Hills, one of the top hill stations near Tenkasi.

Photo: Sreehari Devadas / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Oothu Hills is a serene and secluded hamlet nestled in Tamil Nadu’s Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve. Housing a cluster of Hindu temples, it is one of the awe-inspiring hill stations near Tenkasi. Here, you can explore gushing waterfalls like Manimuthar or Agastyar Falls, traverse through villages, tea estates, and serene forest paths, and catch glimpses of elephants, deer, and endemic birdlife. Tucked away from the bustling city life, Oothu Hills is a must-visit destination in Tamil Nadu.

Top Tourist Attractions: Oothu Tea Estate, Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve, and Manimutha & Agastyar Falls
Nearest Railway Station: Mettupalayam Railway Station (50 km)
Distance From Tenkasi: 83 km

Suggested Read: Explore Popular Hill Stations Near Ooty

14. Meghamalai

A mesmerising view of the Meghamalai featuring majestic peaks and lush greenery.

Photo: Sivaraj.mathi / Wikimedia Commons

Meghamalai, often known as the “High Wavy Mountains”, is a quaint destination located in the Western Ghats in the state of Tamil Nadu. Sitting roughly 1,500 m above sea level, this is a serene and unspoiled hill station decked with tea estates, wildlife sanctuary, waterfalls, and winding vistas. Here, you can explore Srivilliputhur‑Meghamalai Tiger Reserve, home to tigers, elephants, gaurs, grizzled giant squirrels, rare primates, hornbills, and unique reptiles. The top attractions here include Suruli Falls, Six Scenic Dams, Maharajamettu View Point, Vellamalai, and more.

Top Tourist Attractions: Highwavys Dam, Vellimalai, and Meghamalai Wildlife Sanctuary
Nearest Railway Station: Madurai Railway Station (126 km)
Distance From Tenkasi: 184 km

Hill station near Tenkasi attracts those who love the natural atmosphere, beauty, and adventure. Being places of natural beauty, greenery, and constitutional climate, Courtallam, Papanasam, Manjolai, etc., ensure visitors a peaceful vacation. All the hill stations have their attractions and activities, be it waterfalls, or temples that ever help the visitors to make their moments memorable. These hill stations are suitable for leisure, hiking or nature, and pilgrimage depending on one’s desire. Plan your trip with TripXL and explore hill stations near Tenkasi seamlessly.

Cover Photo: Wolfgang Moroder / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

The food here is a mixture of Tamil Nadu and Kerala food which includes dosa, idly, fish curry, etc.
Yes, there are different classes or categories of accommodation, from the budgeted hotels or guest houses to the more expensive class of hotels or resorts. Some are Chellai Resort, Suhasini Hotel, and Pine Tree Hill Resort.
Yes, it is quite feasible to plan a day sightseeing to these hill stations from Tenkasi. However, it will be possible to have more time with activities involving leisure in case you decide to spend a night there.
Casual wear, boots, a raincoat or an umbrella, and basic personal things such as a toothbrush or shaving gear should be carried along. Don't forget to pack warm clothing for the cooler evenings.
Yes, one can easily commute by local buses and taxis from Tenkasi to the different hill stations that do not always require an independent car.
Yes, Achankovil, a stunning hill station, offer excellent trekking trails through forests and along waterfalls.
Ponmudi, with its serene landscapes, cloud-kissed peaks, and winding roads, is a romantic escape just a few hours from Tenkasi.
The best time to visit is from October to March, when the weather is cool and perfect for sightseeing and nature walks.

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