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This Yelagiri travel guide is your perfect companion for exploring this serene hill station nestled in the picturesque hills of Tamil Nadu. Yelagiri is a hidden gem that offers a retreat for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and those seeking peace away from the city hustle. Known for its lush greenery, cool climate, and scenic landscapes, this hill station is an excellent destination for a weekend getaway. Whether you want to trek through misty trails, relax by tranquil lakes, or enjoy panoramic views, our Yelagiri tourist guide will help you make the most of your visit.
Location
Photo: Sayowais / Wikimedia Commons
Located in the Vellore District of Tamil Nadu, Yelagiri is about 225 km from Chennai and 155 km from Bangalore. Yelagiri, perched at an altitude of 1,410 meters, boasts pleasant weather and serves as a lesser-known alternative to hill stations like Ooty and Kodaikanal. The drive to Yelagiri takes you through winding roads, offering breathtaking views of the hills and valleys surrounding the town.
Suggested Read: Prominent Places To Visit In Yelagiri For A Memorable Experience
How To Reach
Photo: Ank Kumar / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: The nearest airport is Kempegowda International Airport, approximately 195 km from Yelagiri. From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to reach the hill station.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Jolarpettai, located about 19.5 km from Yelagiri. Regular trains from Chennai, Bangalore, and other nearby cities connect to Jolarpettai. You can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Yelagiri from the station.
By Road: Roads connect Yelagiri well, and you can easily reach it from major cities such as Chennai, Bangalore, and Vellore. Regular buses and private taxis operate on this route.
Popular Places To Visit In Yelagiri
Yelagiri’s top attractions, from scenic viewpoints to tranquil lakes and adventure spots. Here are 5 places you must add to your Yelagiri travel guide.
1. Punganoor Lake
Photo: Ashwin Kumar / Wikimedia Commons
Punganoor Lake, a popular addition to Yelagiri travel guides, is a tranquil spot perfect for boating and picnics. Surrounded by picturesque gardens, this artificial lake is a favourite among visitors who want to relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere. You can rent a pedal boat or take a leisurely stroll along the walking path around the lake. It’s a great spot to spend a peaceful afternoon with family or friends.
Location: In the heart of Yelagiri
Timings: 7 AM – 7 PM
Suggested Read: Artificial Lakes In Tamil Nadu
2. Swamimalai Hill
Photo: Greg O’Beirne / Wikimedia Commons
If you’re an adventure seeker, Swamimalai Hill offers an exciting trekking experience. The trek to the summit is about 3 km long and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. At the top, you’ll find a small temple dedicated to Lord Murugan. The trek is moderate and takes around 2–3 hours to complete, making it perfect for nature lovers and trekkers alike.
Location: Swamimalai Hill, Yelagiri, Vellore District, Tamil Nadu
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
3. Jalagamparai Waterfalls
Photo: Ashwin Kumar / Wikimedia Commons
If you’re a nature lover, the Jalagamparai Waterfalls are a must-visit! Tucked away in dense forests, the easy trek to the falls offers a peaceful journey through untouched nature. Once you reach it, the sight of water cascading from a great height is truly refreshing. It’s the perfect spot to relax and capture stunning photos. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or just love the outdoors, this place won’t disappoint.
Location: 39 km from Yelagiri
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Suggested Read: Top Waterfalls In Tamil Nadu
4. Yelagiri Nature Park
Photo: Ashwin Kumar / Wikimedia Commons
If you are after a relaxed outing, Yelagiri Nature Park is the place to be. The park is home to a variety of plants and bird species, offering a peaceful escape. With a small children’s play area, it’s perfect for families. Take a leisurely stroll, enjoy the fresh air, and soak in the natural beauty of Yelagiri. It’s a wonderful spot to unwind and connect with nature.
Location: In the heart of Yelagiri, Near Punganoor Lake, Yelagiri, Tamil Nadu
Timings: 7 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: ₹5 ($0.058) for children; ₹15 ($0.18) for adults
5. Vainu Bappu Observatory
Photo: Prateek Karandikar / Wikimedia Commons
For star enthusiasts, the Vainu Bappu Observatory is a must-visit. Though it’s not open year-round, the observatory hosts special astronomy sessions for tourists from time to time. During your visit, you’ll have the chance to look through a powerful telescope and explore the night sky, uncovering the mysteries of the stars and planets. It’s an exciting experience for anyone interested in the cosmos!
Location: Kavalur, Javadi Hills, Tamil Nadu
Timings: 2 PM – 4 PM (open on Saturday only)
Entry Fee: ₹50 ($0.58)
Suggested Read: Top Things To Do In Yelagiri For A Memorable Experience
Things To Do In Yelagiri
1. Boating On Yelagiri Lake
Photo: Nancy Anburaj / Wikimedia Commons
Boating on Yelagiri Lake is one of the quintessential activities for visitors to this charming hill station. Nestled amid gently undulating hills and verdant expanses, the man‑made lake offers a serene backdrop ideal for a leisurely boat ride. Whether you choose a pedal or motorboat, you can glide along the calm waters while admiring the surrounding natural beauty and crisp mountain air. This soothing experience provides a welcome escape from the bustle of everyday life, inviting quiet reflection and a chance to immerse yourself in nature. For any discerning traveller, boating on Yelagiri Lake is a must‐do excursion that truly captures the spirit of the region.
Ideal Duration: 30 mins – 1 hour
2. Enjoy Adventure Activities
Photo: Zkarapatlak / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Yelagiri is an adventure enthusiast’s haven, offering a plethora of activities that complement its tranquil landscapes. Start with an exhilarating zipline ride that lets you glide over lush treetops while admiring sweeping panoramic views of the rolling hills. For those who seek further thrills, rugged ATV rides, rock climbing, and rappelling add a dose of adrenaline, each experience designed for both novices and seasoned adventurers. These activities, safely guided and well‐organised, perfectly capture the spirit of adventure in Yelagiri, ensuring every moment spent in this charming hill station is a truly memorable escapade.
Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Suggested Read: Adventure Sports In Yelagiri
3. Hike To Scenic Waterfalls
Photo: Ashwin Kumar / Wikimedia Commons
Hiking to the scenic Jalagamparai Falls is a must-do activity for any visitor to Yelagiri. The well-marked trail winds its way through dense, verdant forests and across gentle slopes, offering hikers a refreshing escape into nature’s untouched splendour. Upon reaching Jalagamparai Falls, the sight of water cascading over rugged rocks into a crystal-clear pool is truly breathtaking, providing both a visual feast and a moment to pause and reflect. This invigorating trek not only lends a sense of adventure and accomplishment but also allows you to fully embrace the natural beauty that defines Yelagiri, making it one of the best things to do in Yelagiri Hills.
Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 hours
4. Explore A Herbal Farm
Photo: Challiyan / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Exploring a herbal farm in Yelagiri is a unique experience that marries nature, tradition and education. The Government Herbal Farm, situated near Punganoor Lake, is a peaceful retreat where a diverse array of medicinal herbs is diligently cultivated following age‑old Ayurvedic practices. Visitors can meander through well‑maintained garden beds, learn about the healing properties of various plants and appreciate sustainable farming methods that have been practised for generations. This immersive journey into the world of natural remedies not only offers a refreshing diversion from typical hill station activities but also enriches one’s understanding of local heritage, making it a must‑visit destination in Yelagiri.
Ideal Duration: 1 hour
Suggested Read: Hill Stations In Tamil Nadu
Where To Stay
Photo: Eddie Maloney / Wikimedia Commons
Yelagiri offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly homestay or a luxurious resort, there’s something for everyone. Consider staying at the charming Hill Breeze Resort, the cosy Yelagiri Inn, or the scenic Pine Tree Resort. For a more unique experience, try the eco-friendly Vibe Yelagiri or the treehouse stay at Royal Ridge. Velan Hotel and Nature’s Abode are also popular for their relaxing ambience and stunning views.
Where To Eat
Photo: SwatiGupta1986 / Wikimedia Commons
Yelagiri offers a variety of eateries serving delightful local and South Indian dishes. For an authentic meal, head to Aaryas Restaurant for crispy dosas, or try The Orange Café for a refreshing cup of filter coffee. Don’t miss out on the delicious vadas at Shree Cafe or the biryani at Vasantha Bhavan. For something sweet, visit Sree Saravana Bhavan for a perfect dessert. Many resorts, such as Velan and Pine Tree, also offer delicious meals.
Suggested Read: Best Food In Tamil Nadu
Best Time To Visit
Photo: SingaravelanG / Wikimedia Commons
The best time to visit Yelagiri is from October to March, as the weather is cool and pleasant, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as trekking, boating, and sightseeing. The summer months (April to June) can get a bit warm, but still, evenings are pleasant. Avoid the monsoon season (July to September), as heavy rainfall in the region may disrupt travel plans and trekking activities.
Other Things To Consider
Photo: Jędrzej Koralewski / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost Of Travel
A Yelagiri trip costs between ₹3,000 to ₹8,000 ($35-$93.55) per person for a 2-3 day visit, depending on your choice of accommodation, meals, and activities. Opting for Yelagiri travel packages can help you manage costs efficiently while ensuring you visit all major attractions.
Tips For Travellers
- Wear comfortable shoes for trekking and outdoor activities. Also, bring a light jacket, as evenings can get chilly.
- During peak season, accommodations and transportation may fill up quickly, so it’s best to book in advance.
- Carry water and stay hydrated, especially while trekking.
- Avoid littering and help preserve the natural beauty of Yelagiri.
Suggested Read: Yelagiri Trekking
This Yelagiri travel guide will help you discover the best of this charming hill station. Yelagiri is an ideal destination for those looking for a peaceful retreat, a dose of adventure, or simply a chance to reconnect with nature. Whether you are hiking up to Swamimalai Hill, boating at Punganoor Lake, or enjoying the tranquillity of the Jalagamparai Waterfalls, Yelagiri offers something for everyone. Book your next getaway with TripXL and embark on an unforgettable adventure in Yelagiri’s serene surroundings.
Cover Photo: Pranav s / Unsplash
