Top Kerala Hill Stations

Hill stations in India are popular vacation destinations, particularly during the hot summer months. These high-altitude towns offer a cooler climate and a chance to escape the heat and humidity of many parts of the country. Many people visit hill stations to spend quality time with their families and partners during summer breaks. Because much of India has a continental climate with hot summers, these hill stations provide a refreshing retreat from the heat.
Just like other parts of India, Kerala also has many magnificent hill stations. Kerala is a beautiful state that offers a variety of landscapes and experiences for its visitors. Among these are charming hill stations, featuring expansive tea and coffee plantations, spice gardens, and breathtaking views of misty hills. Whether you’re planning a family vacation or a romantic getaway, the hill stations in Kerala provide ample opportunities for an exciting and unforgettable trip. If you’re visiting the state, be sure to take a break from the backwaters and beaches to explore one of these hill stations, where you can enjoy the fresh mountain air and stunning views. You won’t be disappointed.

Major Hill Stations in Kerala

Now let’s dive into two of the most famous hill stations in Kerala: Munnar and Wayanad

Munnar Hill Station

Munnar is a hill station located in the Idukki district of Kerala, India. It is situated at an altitude of around 1,600 meters above sea level in the Western Ghats mountain range. Known as the “Kashmir of South India,” Munnar is a popular honeymoon destination. Munnar is believed to get its name from its location at the intersection of the Mudhirapuzha, Nallathanni, and Kundali rivers, which translates to “three rivers” in the local language.

Image by KumarPrem on Freepik

Munnar is popular not only for its romantic setting but also for its thriving tea gardens. If you plan your visit carefully, you can witness the valley turn blue during the blooming of the Neelakurinji, which flowers only once every twelve years. The best time to visit Munnar is from October to November and from January to May.

The elevation in the Munnar region ranges from 1,450 meters (4,760 ft) to 2,695 meters (8,842 ft) above sea level. The temperature in winter ranges from 5 °C (41 °F) to 25 °C (77 °F), and in summer it ranges from 15 °C (59 °F) to 25 °C (77 °F). Temperatures as low as −4 °C (25 °F) have been recorded in the Sevenmallay region of Munnar. To get to Munnar, the nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (119 km) and the nearest railhead is Ernakulam Junction (120 km). There are several attractions in and around Munnar that are worth visiting:

• Eravikulam National Park: This park is a great place to hold hands with your loved one and stare at Anamudi, the highest peak in South India. You can also see rare epiphytic orchids, wild balsams, and the famous Nilgiri Tahr. The park is open from 8 am to 4:30 pm and is closed from February to March.
• KTDC Tea County: Nestled between two hills, Tea County offers mesmerizing views and luxury accommodations for its guests.
• Mattupetty Dam and Lake: This is a peaceful place to enjoy nature and possibly spot some wild elephants.
• TATA Tea Museum: Here, you can learn about the process of tea production and taste a variety of teas. The museum is open from 9 am to 4 pm and is closed on Mondays.
• Windermere Estate: Set in bungalows that are a throwback to the past, this place combines old-world charm with incredible natural beauty.

Watch the video and learn more about Kolukkumalai, Munnar

Wayanad Hill Station

Wayanad is a district in northeastern Kerala with its administrative headquarters located in the municipality of Kalpetta. It is the only plateau in the state and is part of the Mysore Plateau, a continuation of the Deccan Plateau in the southern region. The Wayanad Plateau is situated at high altitudes in the Western Ghats, ranging from 700 to 2100 meters. The highest peak in the district is Vellari Mala, a 2,240-meter-high mountain located at the junction of Wayanad, Malappuram, and Kozhikode districts.

Wayanad is a green paradise located among the mountains of the Western Ghats, forming the border between the greener parts of Kerala. This clean, pristine, and mesmerizing land is rich in history and culture and is full of plantations, forests, and wildlife. Located about 76 km from the coast of Kozhikode, Wayanad is home to the majestic Western Ghats, with lofty ridges and rugged terrain interspersed with dense forests, tangled jungles, and deep valleys. This region is also strategically located near other popular tourist destinations in South India, such as Ooty, Mysore, Bangalore, Coorg, and Kannur. To get to Wayanad, the nearest railhead is Kozhikode railway station (110 km) and the nearest airport is Karipur international airport (100 km). The best time to visit Wayanad is from October to May. Some of the must-see attractions in the region include:

• Chembra Peak: Climb to the top of the tallest peak in the area and enjoy the breathtaking view from the summit.
• Soochippara Waterfalls: These lesser-known falls are a sight to behold and offer the opportunity for rock climbing for tourists.
• Pakshipathalam: Explore the deep caves here, which are home to a wide variety of birds, animals, and unique plant species.
• Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary: Visit the largest home of elephants in India with your family and spot various species of deer, bison, tiger, and wild bear. The sanctuary is open from 6 to 9 am and 3 to 6 pm.
• Kuruva Island: This evergreen forest on the tributaries of the Kabani River is home to rare species of birds, orchids, and herbs, making it a perfect spot for a laid-back picnic.
• Banasura Hill Resort: Spread across 15 acres of land amidst the lush greenery of Banasura Sagar Island, this resort is blessed with a natural stream that adds to its beauty.
• Vythiri Village Resort: This resort offers a peaceful setting with luxurious villas and tree houses, as well as the opportunity to camp on Chembra Peak.

Watch the video and learn more about Wayanad and its adventures

Stay tuned to Kerala Scapes for more interesting facts!