Yelagiri is a serene hill station in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Well-known for its pleasant weather and lush greenery, it is a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking to relax amidst nature, explore historical sites and local cuisine, or indulge in adrenaline sports—this hill station has something to offer. You can book a convenient car rental in Yelagiri with Savaari and explore all the tourist attractions here. Our definitive guide to things to do in Yelagiri will cover it all and help you plan your next vacation here.
Table of Contents
- Things to do in Yelagiri
- About Yelagiri
- How to Plan a Trip to Yelagiri
- Hotels and Resorts in Yelagiri
- Road trips from Yelagiri
- Useful links
Things to Do in Yelagiri
The Yelagiri hill station offers a diverse range of activities for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts, whether it is trekking through panoramic trails or preferring serene boat rides.
Trekking
Trekking at Swamimalai Hill and to the Jalagamparai Waterfalls or hiking through Mangalam Village offers stunning views of hills, valleys, and green covers. The trails lead through dense forests with rich flora and fauna. If you are lucky, you might spot wildlife. It doesn’t matter if you are a beginner or a seasoned trekker, for Yelagiri’s nature trails are perfect for nature bathing.
- Timings: 7 AM–3 PM
- Open Days: 7 days a week
- Ticket Price: INR 350-500/person
Boating
Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on Punganoor Lake, surrounded by calming greens. Or you can even go bird-watching in its environs. It is a great way to unwind for families, couples, and solo travelers.
- Timings: 8 AM–7 PM
- Open Days: 7 days a week
- Ticket Price: INR 75/person (rowing boat) and INR 50/person (pedal boat, 4 seater)
Paragliding
Enjoy an unparalleled paragliding experience in Yelagiri, starting from Ramakrishna Mutt. This spot hosts an annual paragliding festival, attracting participants nationwide. Begin your adventure early in the morning, glide for 20–30 minutes amidst stunning views, and make memorable adventures in the hills.
- Timings: Early Mornings
- Open Days: 7 days a week
- Ticket Price: INR 1000/person
Other Adventure Sports
You can also choose from a wide variety of adventurous activities, like ziplining, bungee jumping, rappelling, or riding on giant swings. The hill station’s adventure and nature parks also provide provisions for adventure camps and advanced cricket stimulation. Head here for some adrenaline rush, frivolous risk-taking, and a great time!
- Timings: 10 AM–6 PM
- Open Days: 7 days a week
- Ticket Prices: Depend on packages (INR 699/person for 5 activities, INR 949/person for 7 activities, and INR 1699/person for 10 activities).
Basking in Local Culture
Yelagiri is noted for its tribal culture, art forms, music, and performances. Visit the Punganoor Art Village to get a glimpse of the region’s artistic soul. Do not miss local delicacies from both roadside eateries and upscale restaurants. You can also go temple hopping for fascinating folklore, blessings, and majestic temple architecture.
Shopping in Yelagiri
The hill station offers several local markets where you can buy attractive souvenirs and artifacts from local craftsmen.
Athanavur Market: This market is known for its fresh local produce, particularly jackfruits and locally sourced honey. It is a weekly market, held every friday.
Punganur Lake Market: Near Punganur Lake, this market offers a variety of hand-woven textiles and local crafts. It’s a wonderful location for shopping in Yelagiri to support its cottage industries and local artisans.
Yelagiri Hilltop Market: Located in the tourist hotspot of the Yelagiri Hills, this small market is ideal for buying souvenirs, local handicrafts, and agricultural products.
Nightlife in Yelagiri
Nightlife in Yelagiri is miles away from the chaotic and neon nightlife of cities. Though subdued in scale, the nightlife here is slow, tranquil, and infused with mindfulness. Popular options include:
- Bonfires at resorts: In this hill station, many resorts organize bonfires at night. You can sit around the fire, chat with others, and enjoy the calm mountain air. It’s a relaxing and enjoyable way to spend the evening.
- Stargazing experiences: Yelagiri’s clear skies are perfect for stargazing. Without city lights, you can see many stars and constellations. Some places even provide telescopes and guides to help you enjoy the view and learn more about the night sky.
- Night treks for adventure enthusiasts: If you love adventure, try a night trek in Yelagiri. These guided walks take you through quiet, moonlit trails, letting you experience the beauty of the hills at night. It’s an exciting way to connect with nature.
Places to Visit in Yelagiri
There are several places to visit in Yelagiri for great adventure, rejuvenating relaxation, and spiritual exploration:
- Punganoor Lake Park
Punganoor Lake Park is one of the best places to visit in Yelagiri because of its calm, lush green environment. You can rent pedal boats and rowboats to explore the lake. The park around the lake has well-maintained gardens and walking paths, ideal for a stroll or a picnic. There are also play areas for children, ensuring fun for all ages.
Entry Fee: INR 10/person, Boating charges: INR 75 (rowing boat) and INR 50/person (pedal boat, 4 seater)
Timings: 7 AM–7 PM
Days Open- 7 days a week
- Swamimalai Hill
Swamimalai Hill, the highest point in Yelagiri, is a favorite destination for trekkers, photography enthusiasts, and nature lovers. The trek to the top takes about 3–4 hours and is moderately challenging. Once you reach the top, the panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys steal your heart. The fresh mountain air and the breathtaking scenery make the trek worthwhile.
Entry Fee: INR 350/person for trek.
Timings: 7 AM–3 PM
Days Open- 7 days a week
- Jalagamparai Waterfalls
The Jalagamparai Waterfalls is one of the must-see places in Yelagiri. The sparkling waterfalls are formed by the Attaru River cascading down from a height, creating a beautiful, serene environment. The best time to visit the falls is during the monsoons when the water flow is at its peak. The area around the falls is the best picnic spot in Yelagiri. It is also perfect for a hiking trip. You can wrap up your day trip by taking a refreshing dip in the cool waters.
Entry Fee- INR 10/person
Timings- 7 AM – 6 PM
Days Open: 7 days a week
- Nilavoor Lake
Nilavoor Lake, a serene lake here, is ideal for those seeking to escape the crowds. Encircled by lush greenery, it offers a peaceful setting for slow and quiet picnics and leisurely boat rides. The tranquil environment is indeed a peaceful natural retreat for relaxation and nature appreciation.
Entry Fee- INR 10/person and INR 50/10 minutes for boating.
Timings- 7 AM – 7 PM
Days Open: 7 days a week
- Yelagiri Nature Park
The Yelagiri Nature Park is famous for its vast gardens, artificial waterfall, and musical fountain that operates in the evening. There are also designated play areas for kids, making it a great place for families. The serene ambiance of the park makes it a popular picnic spot here.
Entry Fee- INR 30/person
Timings: 9 AM – 7 PM
Days Open: 7 days a week
- Fundera Park
Fundera Park is one of the best places to visit if you have kids or if you are visiting with family. It is a small zoo where you can see the local fauna up close and participate in fun activities, such as feeding the birds and interacting with small animals like rabbits and guinea pigs. Guided tours are also available to make the experience educational for both children and adults.
Entry Fee- INR 300/person
Timings- 9:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Days Open: 7 days a week
- Velavan Temple
The Velavan Temple is a popular temple in the hill station dedicated to Lord Murugan. Located atop one of Yelagiri’s seven hills, the spot offers beautiful views of the surrounding areas. The temple environs make it an ideal spot for meditation and prayer.
- Perumal Temple
The Perumal Temple is a notable temple in Yelagiri dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple is known for its stunning architecture and serene surroundings, and attracts devotees and tourists from far and wide. The intricate carvings and design on the temple walls exemplify traditional South Indian craftsmanship.
- Yelagiri Herbal Garden
Explore the state government-established Herbal Garden to learn about medicinal plants and herbs from the surrounding hills. Engage with farmers who share insights into herbal remedies, sustainable practices, and the historical importance of these plants. It’s an educational and enlightening experience that blends nature appreciation with cultural discovery.
Entry Fee: INR 10/person
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Days Open: 7 days a week
Places to Visit Near Yelagiri
The hill station is a plentiful location in itself, but there are also several noteworthy places to visit near Yelagiri.
Vainu Bappu Observatory, Kavalur
The Vainu Bappu Observatory, located in Kavalur near Yelagiri, is one of Asia’s largest observatories. Named after Indian astronomer Vainu Bappu, it houses an impressive 93-inch telescope ideal for stargazing due to the area’s minimal light pollution. The observatory offers guided tours and educational programs—making it a significant destination for science enthusiasts.
Jalagandeeswarar Temple, Vellore Fort
The Jalagandeeswarar Temple at Vellore Fort, located about 90 kilometers from Yelagiri, is renowned for its intricate Dravidian architecture. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it was built in the 16th century by the Vijayanagara kings. The fort also features strong granite walls, a moat, a mosque, and a church.
Shri Lakshmi Narayani Golden Temple, Sripuram
In Sripuram, near Vellore, the Shri Lakshmi Narayani Golden Temple is a spiritual and architectural wonder. Covered in gold, the temple is built on a star-shaped path called “Sri Chakra” and is surrounded by lush greenery. It is both a place of worship and a popular tourist attraction.
Places to Eat in Yelagiri
Be it delicious South Indian cuisine, other Indian cuisine, or Continental dishes—there are diverse places to eat in Yelagiri:
- Hotel Hills
Hotel Hills, famous for its authentic Tamil meals, is one of the best places to eat here. The restaurant offers a traditional dining experience with dishes like dosas, idlis, vadas, spicy curries, and rice dishes.
The highlight is the thali, which includes a generous serving of multiple dishes—giving you a taste of the region’s culinary diversity. The ambiance is cozy, and the service is prompt, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
- Peter’s Park
Peter’s Park in Yelagiri is popular for its breakfast options, including omelets, sandwiches, and pancakes. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it one of the best places to eat in Yelagiri after a day out with family or friends.
- Nilgress Restaurant
The restaurant prides itself on using fresh ingredients and authentic spices, ensuring a flavorful dining experience. The cuisine includes both North and South Indian delicacies.
- Food Corner Pure Veg
Food Corner Pure Veg is a multi-cuisine restaurant offering a variety of vegetarian dishes from South Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisines. The casual setting and affordable prices make it one of the best places to eat here.
About Yelagiri
The Yelagiri hill station is located 1410 meters (4,630 feet) above sea level. Nestled in Tamil Nadu’s Tirupathur district, it is home to the Eastern Ghats, green valleys, calm waterfalls and lakes, and gardens and orchards. It is also popular for its lively cultural festivals, particularly the Yelagiri Summer Festival, held in May.
Sustainable tourism forms the major industry, and the Government of Tamil Nadu has vamped up facilities to attract tourists. Boating and similar water sports can be availed at the Jalagamparai Waterfalls, Punganoor Lake, and the Attaru River. This natural heritage is combined with adventurous sports like trekking, paragliding, and rock climbing at the Swamimalai hills, thereby making this hill destination an ideal back-to-nature destination.
Yelagiri History
The beautiful hill station was developed by the British Raj in the 19th century as a summer retreat for the Madras presidency. However, the hills have an ancient past.
The area surrounding this hill station is mentioned in 12th-century Tamil literature. Before the British annexation, it was ruled by the Cheras, the Pandyas, the Cholas, the Nayakas of the Vijayanagara Empire, and the Kingdom of Mysore.
Over 200 years ago, the Malai Vellalar (or Malaiyali hill tribes) settled in the upper Nillavur region of this hill station. The region also houses the indigenous Irulas tribe, which is known for its red loam clay huts. Today, these tribes and their heritage are included in the Government of India’s Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs).
The blend of history, tribal culture, and natural beauty continues to draw visitors eager to explore Yelagiri’s scenic hills and immerse themselves in its rustic charm and vibrant cultural tapestry.
Lesser-Known Facts About Yelagiri
Here are a few surprising yet unknown facts about Yelagiri:
- Yelagiri comprises 14 hamlets, covering an area of 72 square kilometers.
- The hill station is lovingly known as “Yezhaigalin Ooty” (or “Poor people’s Ooty”) because of its budget-friendliness.
- The hill station enjoys a moderate climate throughout the year, making it a year-round destination.
How to Plan a Trip to Yelagiri
To plan your trip to the scenic hill station, start by checking the best time to visit Yelagiri and the attractions that make it famous. Make a list of places you want to see and book your stay early in one of its resorts, hotels, or guesthouses. You can plan a road trip with Savaari cabs from Bangalore to Yelagiri or even from Chennai or Selam.
Check the travel options available. Plan your budget for travel, food, and activities. Pack clothes and medicines suitable for the weather. Always carry the gear you need for adventure sports like trekking, hiking, or boating.
How to Reach Yelagiri
By Train
The nearest railway station to Yelagiri is 21 km away, in Jolarpettai. Jolarpettai Junction is connected to major cities like Bangalore and Chennai. Book a Savaari taxi from Jolarpettai station in Chennai to this quintessential hill station and enjoy the bliss of the road trip.
By Road
Yelagiri is accessible via well-maintained roads. You can drive from nearby cities like Bangalore (160 km) and Chennai (230 km). For the most convenient and hassle-free travel experience, book a taxi service in Yelagiri with Savaari Car Rentals.
By Flight
The closest airports are Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (160 km) and Madras International Meenambakkam Airport (230 km). From the airport, you can book an airport taxi with Savaari from Chennai to Yelagiri or use public transport to get there.
Best Time to Visit Yelagiri
This hill station enjoys a moderate climate throughout the year. However, the best time to visit Yelagiri is either during the monsoons or from November to February (when the weather is cool and pleasant). The Yelagiri Summer Festival in May is also a popular time to visit, as it features cultural programs, musical events, and handicraft fairs.
Hotels and Resorts in Yelagiri
Yelagiri offers diverse places to stay, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses and campsites. We recommend the following places for accommodation for a seamless holiday:
| Hotel Name | Address | Phone Number |
| Sterling Yelagiri | Nilavoor Main Road, Near Murugan Temple, Yelagiri Hills, Tirupattur Taluk, Yelagiri, Tamil Nadu – 635853 | 08069670927 |
| Hotel Hills | 3-12, Yelagiri Road, Athanavur, Tamil Nadu – 635853 | 08940244567 |
| Peter’s Park | 3-510, Manjankollai Pudur, Yelagiri Hills, Nagalathu Extension R F, Tamil Nadu – 635853 | 09842357711 |
| Kumararraja Palace | Kottur Road, Athanavoor, Yelagiri, Tamil Nadu – 635853 | 09841055422 |
Highest Road Trips from Yelagiri
Taking a road trip from Yelagiri to different cities in Tamil Nadu can be an exciting experience. You can enjoy the beautiful scenery, experience the rich Tamil culture, and explore some amazing spots along the way. If you enjoy traveling via road, here are some of the best places for a road trip from Yelagiri:
| Destination | Distance by Road (approx.) | Starting price |
| Yelagiri to Bangalore | 157 km | ₹3044 |
| Yelagiri to Pondicherry | 230 km | ₹7707 |
| Yelagiri to Chennai | 231 km | ₹3993 |
| Yelagiri to Coimbatore | 337 km | ₹4833 |
| Yelagiri to Ooty | 346 km | ₹10382 |
| Yelagiri to Madurai | 407 km | ₹9151 |
Download our Savaari android outstation cab booking app now and book a reliable taxi service to Yelagiri. So, there you go, our guide to the best things to do in Yelagiri. Whether you’re seeking adventure, peace, or a blend of both, this hill station offers a delightful experience for all types of travelers. Escape the hectic city life and immerse yourself in nature’s tranquility. Plan your trip, pack your bags, and get ready to explore this beautiful hill station.
Last Updated on December 16, 2024 by V Subhadra
