Tamil Nadu is a land of diverse landscapes, ranging from lush green valleys to soaring mountain ranges. The state is home to several tourist destinations that offer breathtaking views, pleasant weather, and a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. If you’re looking for an adventure-packed day trip, Tamil Nadu’s beautiful hills are a great place to start! From scenic trekking trails to breathtaking panoramic views, these hills offer a variety of exciting activities that will leave you feeling invigorated and refreshed. To make things easier, Top 10s Only has compiled a list of the Top 10 Best Hills in Tamil Nadu For One Day Adventure Trips! Whether you’re an avid trekker or a nature lover seeking a peaceful getaway, our list has something for everyone.
Top 10 Best Hills in Tamil Nadu For One Day Adventure Trips
Tamil Nadu’s scenic hills are the perfect destination for a rejuvenating one-day adventure trip. Exploring the top ten best hills in Tamil Nadu is the ideal way to unwind, breathe in the fresh air, and experience nature at its best. With stunning vistas, verdant landscapes, and thrilling activities, these hills have become the perfect getaway for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. So, without further ado, here is the list of the best 10 hills for one-day trips in Tamil Nadu for an unforgettable one-day adventure trip.
1. Samanar Hills (Samanar Malai), Madurai District
Samanar Hills, also called Samanar Malai, is a must-visit destination on the list of the top 10 hills to visit in Tamil Nadu for one-day family trips and excursions. This popular destination is well-known for its cultural and historical significance and is situated in the village of Keelakuyilkudi, which is about 15 kilometres from Madurai city. It is easily accessible from Madurai and can be covered in a day’s trip. Samanar Hills is a sacred site for Jains, with numerous caves and rock-cut sculptures. There are two caves – Settipodavu and Pecipallam. While Settipodavu is easily accessible, the Pecipallam cave requires a more challenging climb to reach. The Pecipallam cave is home to a few very ancient relics, making it a unique and rewarding destination for those willing to undertake the climb. The site offers stunning views of the city and its surroundings, making it a popular spot for picnics and family outings. Visitors can explore the caves and marvel at the intricate carvings while learning about the history and culture of the region. A trip to Samanar Hills is a perfect way to combine history, nature, and adventure in a single-day trip.
Best Time To Visit Samanar Hills (Samanar Malai)
The hill complex is open for visitors throughout the year, except during the monsoon season when climbing becomes difficult due to rainfall. It’s best to plan a visit during the months from November to June.
2. Sanjeevi Hills, Virudhunagar district
Sanjeevi Hills is a hidden gem nestled in Rajapalayam, located in the Virudhunagar district of Tamil Nadu. It is one of the best places for a one-day trip to the hills in Tamil Nadu. The serene surroundings and breathtaking views of the lush green forests make it an ideal destination for nature lovers. The hill is named after Sanjeevi, the magical herb mentioned in the Indian epic Ramayana. The hill’s stunning natural beauty provides a perfect setting for trekking and hiking, while its peaceful surroundings are ideal for meditation and introspection. The hill is also home to several medicinal plants, making it a popular destination for those seeking Ayurvedic remedies. Sanjeevi Hills is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a refreshing and rejuvenating one-day trip to the hills in Tamil Nadu. It’s a perfect blend of adventure, nature, and spirituality that will leave you feeling invigorated and refreshed.
Best Time To Visit Sanjeevi Hills
Sanjeevi Hills is open all year and is the ideal destination for tourists who love spur-of-the-moment trips.
3. Palamathi Hills, Vellore District
Palamathi Hills, also known as Balamathi Hills, is a popular destination that’s best for one-day hill treks in Tamil Nadu. Located in the Eastern Ghats, the hills offer breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and the nearby city of Vellore. Otteri Lake, a well-known attraction among tourists, is situated at the base of the Palamathi Hills. The hills are home to a variety of flora and fauna, making it a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts. Some of the most frequently spotted bird species in the Palamathi Hills include the Red-vented Bulbul, White-throated Kingfisher, Black Drongo, etc. The trek to the top of the hill is moderately challenging and takes a few hours to complete. Along the way, trekkers can explore the stunning forests, which are home to a staggering array of flora and fauna. The summit offers panoramic views of the city below and is the perfect spot to relax and soak in the serene surroundings. Also, on top of the hill, there is a temple dedicated to Lord Muruga. A trip to Palamathi Hills is perfect for travellers who want to experience the serenity of nature.
Best Time To Visit Palamathi Hills
The months of October to March are very pleasant for tourists to visit Palamathi Hills. It is advised to plan day trips during these months.
4. Sitheri Hills, Dharmapuri district
Located in the Harur taluk in the Dharmapuri district of Tamil Nadu, Sitheri Hills is a hidden gem that offers the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. It is one of Tamil Nadu’s most top-rated scenic hills for adventure, attracting nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers from all over the region. Sitheri Hills boasts of picturesque landscapes, lush green forests, and breathtaking panoramic views. The trek to the hilltop is a must-do activity for adventure seekers because it provides breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and hills. These hills are renowned for their biodiversity and the wide variety of flora and fauna that can be found here. Sitheri Hills is an excellent destination for those seeking an adventure-filled and peaceful one-day trip in Tamil Nadu. It offers a perfect blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural richness, making it a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the region.
Best Time To Visit Sitheri Hills
The ideal time to plan a trip to Sitheri Hills is during the months of August to March when the weather is pleasant.
5. Topslip, Coimbatore District
Looking for the perfect one-day trip hill destination in Tamil Nadu for a family trip? Look no further than Topslip! Located on the Anamalai mountain range, Topslip is a beautiful tourist centre in the Indira Gandhi National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary. With its diverse landscape, altitude, rainfall, and temperature, Topslip is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species.
Adventurers can go on forest treks, hoping to spot an elusive species or two. Wildlife enthusiasts will be delighted to know that the Karian Shola area is home to nearly 250 species of birds, but beware, the dreaded King Cobra is never far off! For those seeking a more leisurely experience, the elephant safari is a must-try. As you meander through the forest, keep an eye out for the Nilgiri langurs! And don’t miss the elephant training camp, which is also worth a visit.
To reach Topslip, take the road from Pollachi or Valparai and enjoy the scenic views of the Anamalai Tiger Reserve Sanctuary along the way. With so much to offer, Topslip is the perfect hill destination for a one-day family trip in Tamil Nadu.
Best Time To Visit Topslip
The best time to visit Topslip is from November to April.
6. Alavaimalai, Namakkal District
Looking for a serene hill destination for a one-day trip with friends in Tamil Nadu? Alavaimalai, located in the Namakkal district, is the perfect spot to unwind and reconnect with nature.
The hill’s name is derived from Tamil meaning “Half-Way Hill,” and it is part of the eastern ghats. The Alavaimalai Subrayar Murugan Temple, located on the western side of the hill, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
For those interested in exploring the area’s flora and fauna, the Forest Extension Center is located near the District Major Road in Athanur. Additionally, the Sidhar Kovil is another must-visit spot in Alavaimalai.
With Vennandur to the west, Athanur to the north, Vaiyappamalai to the south, and Rasipuram to the east, Alavai Malai is easily accessible and an excellent choice for a one-day trip with friends. Add Alavai Malai to your list of the top 10 hills best for one-day trips in Tamil Nadu with friends, and experience the beauty of this hidden gem for yourself.
Best Time To Visit Alavaimalai
This destination is apt for one-day trips throughout the year.
7. Velliangiri Hills, Coimbatore District
If you’re looking for a unique destination in Tamil Nadu, Velliangiri Hill, also called the 6th Hill Waypoint Shelter, should definitely be on your list. Situated just 40 kilometres from Coimbatore city, this hill station offers a combination of scenic beauty and spiritual significance. Known as the Kailash of the South, Velliangiri Hill is a sacred destination for those who worship Lord Shiva. It’s one of the five hills that symbolically represent the five different faces of God.
But it’s not just the spiritual aspect that makes Velliangiri Hill worth a visit. The hills are also part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, offering a chance to experience nature and wildlife up close. The River Noyyal originates from here, and you’ll find a forest check post at the base camp during the season.
To fully enjoy your trek, wear comfortable shoes and make sure you have prior permission for the Jungle Safari from the local forest officer. Remember to leave the place clean and green by not throwing anything here and there, and consider supporting the forest people by checking and collecting thrown-away plastics from the hills. Velliangiri Hill is definitely one of the ten best hills in Tamil Nadu for one-day trips.
Best Time To Visit Velliangiri
If you’re planning to visit Velliangiri Hills, the ideal time to go would be between October and March. During this period, the weather is pleasantly cool and perfect for a refreshing winter vacation. Though the weather remains pleasant all year round, the months of October to April are particularly scenic, unlike the summers. However, if you’re looking to escape the heat during the summer, Velliangiri Hills is still a great option for a summer getaway. It’s recommended that you avoid visiting during the monsoons, as exploring the hills during this time can be challenging.
8. Pothigai Hills (Agasthiyar Mountain or Agasthyarkoodam), Thirunelveli District
Looking for the best Tamil Nadu hills for scenic one-day trips? Look no further than Pothigai Hills, also known as Agasthiyar Mountain or Agasthyarkoodam. This peak in the Western Ghats of South India offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area, as well as important natural habitats for conservation. Birdwatchers flock to the area to catch sight of exotic avian species, while those interested in flora and fauna can discover over 2,000 species of plants and rare fauna. The peak is also a popular pilgrimage site, with a shrine dedicated to the sage Agasthya located here. The air itself is said to have medicinal qualities, making it a perfect destination for those seeking both natural beauty and health benefits.
Visitors can drive to Bonacaud, the last motorable spot, and then obtain a forest pass from the wildlife office in Thiruvananthapuram to hike up the peak. Along the way, be sure to visit other important sites such as the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Manimuthar Waterfalls, and the Kalakkad Mundanthurai Wildlife Reserve. Whether you’re a hiker, a birdwatcher, or simply seeking natural beauty and tranquillity, Pothigai Hills is not to be missed.
Best Time To Visit Pothigai Hills (Agasthiyar Mountain or Agasthyarkoodam)
To experience the trekking adventure in Agasthya Koodam, plan your visit between December and March.
9. Bodha Malai, Namakkal District
Bodhamalai, a hill destination in Tamil Nadu, is a perfect escape from bustling city life. It is an offshoot of Kolli Hills and is located in the Namakkal district. Bodhamalai is known for its picturesque views. The hill is surrounded by several villages, including Keelur, Melur, and Gedamalai. The area is known for its herbal plants, and locals sell leaves, roots, tubers, stems, and crusts of these plants. The hill is also home to tribal communities who make a living through agriculture and livestock rearing. The trek to the hilltop is worth it for those seeking memorable one-day trips to the top 10 best hills in Tamil Nadu.
Best Time To Visit Bodha Malai Hills
Bodhamalai is a great place to visit between mid-October and the beginning of March, which is considered the early months of winter to the early months of summer. During this time, the weather is pleasant and suitable for exploring the hills.
10. Sirumalai, Dindigul District
Looking for the best one-day trips to hill destinations in Tamil Nadu? Look no further than Sirumalai! This awesome Tamil Nadu hill station is located near Madurai, Dindigul and Trichy. Spread across 60,000 acres of land, Sirumalai is an ecologically vulnerable area that boasts breathtaking views and a plethora of rare and endangered species of flora and fauna. The journey itself to Sirumalai is an adventure, with a road featuring 18 hairpin bends!
Upon arrival, visitors can partake in an array of activities including bird watching, trekking, boating, and hiking. Additionally, the area is famous for the Sirumalai Hill Banana, a variety of bananas used in making prasadam at the Muruga temple in Palani. An artificially created lake known as Sirumalai Lake is a must-see, offering boating facilities. Don’t forget to hike to the tallest hill, Silver Hill, believed to be made of silver and featuring a 500-year-old Sivalinga. Sirumalai is the perfect destination for those seeking a serene getaway and a chance to immerse themselves in nature.
Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, Sirumalai is the perfect one-day trip to a hill destination in Tamil Nadu.
Best Time To Visit Sirumalai
Sirumalai provides an enchanting winter experience that is best enjoyed between October and March. Although the weather in this region is generally pleasant year-round, the period from October to March is more picturesque than the summers. It can still be an enjoyable summer escape to visit between April to June. However, it’s recommended to avoid visiting Sirumalai during the monsoon season.
Still unsure where to go for your next vacation? If you have more than a day or two, consider taking a trip to the beautiful hill station of Kodaikanal. You can even check out our article about the Top 10 Best Places To Visit In Yercaud, Tamil Nadu, which lists the best scenic spots to visit there.