Western Ghats Travel: 5 Best Hill Stations For Nature Lovers

5 Best Hill Stations To Visit In Western Ghats

1. Munnar, Kerala

Munnar is often hailed as one of the top hill stations in India. Famous for its sprawling tea gardens, rolling hills, and pleasant climate, Munnar is an ideal destination for those looking to unwind. You can visit Tea Gardens, Eravikulam National Park, Pothamedu Viewpoint, and Chokramudi Peak as per Tripadvisor. According to Kerala Tourism, Munnar is known for its “Sprawling tea plantations, picturesque towns, winding lanes, and holiday facilities. Among the exotic flora found in the forests and grasslands here is the Neelakurinji. This flower which bathes the hills in blue once every twelve years, will bloom next in 2030.”

2. Ooty, Tamil Nadu

Known as the "Queen of Hill Stations," Ooty boasts a cool climate and beautiful landscapes. The Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-experience, offering a scenic ride through lush hills. Stroll through the charming Botanical Gardens, or take a boat ride on Ooty Lake. The stunning views from Doddabetta Peak, the highest point in the Nilgiris, are worth the trek. “An erstwhile summer resort of the British Raj in India, Ooty has transformed over the years into one of the most sought-after tourism destinations in Tamil Nadu. With a cool and soothing climate almost all year round, Ooty welcomes tourists from far and wide”, according to the Tamil Nadu Tourism portal.

3. Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra

Situated in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, Mahabaleshwar is famous for its strawberry farms and stunning viewpoints. The sprawling hills and valleys offer a perfect backdrop for hiking and exploring nature. District Satara, Government of Maharashtra portal states that, “The tourists are enthralled by Mahableshwar exotic greenery, beautiful gardens & breath-taking scenery. Numerous majestic mansions built during the British days still stand as monuments of the Raj.” Don't miss to visit Venna Lake, Mahabaleshwar Temple, Pratapgarh Fort and Dhobi Waterfall, Connaught Peak.

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4. Coorg, Karnataka

Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is a picturesque hill station famous for its coffee plantations and scenic beauty. With its lush greenery and pleasant weather, Coorg is perfect for trekking, bird-watching, and exploring waterfalls like Abbey Falls. The Government of Karnataka, Kodagu District states that, “Coorg, the thickly wooded grandeur on the Western Ghats, is the most beautiful hill station of Karnataka. It occupies an area of 4,102 square kilometres in the Western Ghats of southwestern Karnataka.” Coffee lovers should not miss a plantation tour to learn about the coffee-making process.

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5. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

Known as the ‘Gift of the Forest’, Kodaikanal is famous for its serene lakes and beautiful valleys. “The cool and misty weather, the scenic beauty of the rolling hills, and the wooded forest of Kodaikanal and its surroundings will mesmerise any visitor throughout the year”, states Dindigul District, Government of Tamil Nadu. Some of the best places that you can visit here include Coakers Walk, Guna Cave, Green Valley View, and Dolphin's Nose (MakeMyTrip).

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