Kolli hills

Kolli Hills or Kolli Malai is a range of hills in the central region of Tamil Nadu. Kolli Hills are a relatively tall range with an average height of about 1370 m. Its height and ranges gives it an encapsulating effect.The route to Kolli Hills has about 75 narrow turns which makes the journey extremely thrilling.It gives a spike to your adrenaline.This is considered a very soulful place and it engages thought as Chanakya, writer of Arthashastra was born here. The famous Arapaleeswarar Temple is located here. Hence, Kolli hills are actually a site of pilgrimage. People come here to visit the various temples without being harassed by crowds as well as enjoy the scenic beauty. 

There are two viewpoints present here from where you can see a divine panoramic view of the surrounding area. Many waterfalls are also present, including, Akash Ganga waterfall. It is called so because the water falls from such great height and with such a high speed that it almost appears white. The waterfalls is a true beauty of nature.Many nearby towns are also often frequented by tourists. Kolli Malai also boasts of rich biodiversity. In short, Kolli Hills is an ideal location for a weekend getaway full of natural beauty. It is best to visit it during monsoon or winter since it is pleasant at that time.

PANCHAMALAI HILLS

Pachamalai Hills or Pachais is a hill range in the Eastern Ghats, Tamil Nadu.It has the most abundant landscapes of greenery. As far as the horizon all you can see is the lush greenery surrounding everything. Pachai literally means green. By its name, it is very clear that Pachamalai Hills is covered with forests. It has varied forms of flora and fauna and will leave you surprised at its uniqueness as well ass rarity .The vegetation is actually richer than most of the hill stations. Many policies are being made to build Pachais as a proper tourist destination. It is a lesser known location and hence is perfect for those who do not wish to see crowds on their holidays.

The reason for its lush flora and fauna is that river Kallar and River Sweata flow through this area. A good spot for tourists is that there are many waterfalls present here too. Some of them are Mayil Uthu Falls, Koraiyar Falls and Mangalam Aruvi falls. All these falls can be visited for picnics. For the adventurer in other people this is an ideal place for adventure sports like trekking and hiking. Pachamalai Hills are an ideal getaway if you are looking for a peaceful weekend amidst surreal natural beauty. Accommodation facilities are easily available and this region can be easily accessed by roadways. Hence it is a good get away with family and friends.

JAVADI

Javadi or Javadhu hills are a part of Eastern Ghats in Tamil Nadu. They are about 55 miles wide and 23 miles long. They are considered one of the cutest hills to view at because of their scenery and views from various places.They are separated into two parts by River Cheyyar and River Agaram. They are made of greyish blue granites. This gives the hills a magical appearance. And a wonder to look at. The average height of these hills is approximately 3070 feet. The population is very less which means you can have a peaceful trip here. 

Only some tribesmen live in this area. These hills as all the other major hill stations have awe inspiring natural beauty to boast of. However, not many tourist attractions are located here. Although, there are quite a few places nearby which one can visit. Beemanmadavu Falls are one of them. It's quite and peace is what people come looking for.It is a common picnic spot. Javadi Hills can be visited throughout the year. Accommodation is also not a big problem because some hotels have come up and this place never gets very crowded.Mostly people visit this place in the winter as it is much more pleasant.

THENI

Theni is located near Kerala in Tamil Nadu. It is often called “Earth's Hidden Paradise”. It has the most amazing view and scenery you can find in the locality,It is a major trading centre with markets for Chilli, Cardamom, Garlic, Grapes and Cotton. People come from all over the place to buy and trade goods. It is in this way that they earn their lively hood.It is well connected by roadways and railways. The main economy of this city is dependent on agriculture and it hosts a very large weekly market. 

The major tourist attractions is the abundant scenery and beautiful views along with rivers and waterfalls.River Vaigai also flows through this area. Suruliavuri Falls is located nearby which is a famous tourist attraction. Vellimalai and Meghamallai Hill stations are also located nearby. Many other waterfalls and dams are also present. Overall, Theni has surreal natural beauty and should be visited by all the nature and photography buffs especially during monsoon season.

KALRAYAN HILLS

Kalrayan Hills are a hill range located in Eastern Ghats in Tamil Nadu. They divide Kaveri River basin from Palar River basin. It is a beautiful phenomena to view and see such discipline in nature. The average height of this range is about 2500 feet. It is not difficult to reach Kalrayan as it is well connected by roads. Many English vegetables are grown here in a large orchard. There is a wide variety of fresh and green vegetables that are the centre of attraction for many tourists.They love the variety they get there.

Abundant greenery can be seen here as the land is not very rocky or uneven. Pappanaikan Patti Dam is 55 feet high and is frequented by many tourists. There are many falls here some of which are Periyar Falls and Megam Falls . Both of them are favoured picnic spots and remain very crowded during the monsoon season. 20 feet high Manimukhthnadi Dam is another tourist attraction in this area and is visited by many people throughout the year. Kalrayan Hills is rich in natural beauty and should be visited during the monsoon season.

VALPARAI

Valparai is located in the Anamalai region of Tamil Nadu. It is at a height of about 3500 feet from the mean sea level. This very fact gives it a huge advantages as from this height beautiful views and spectacular scenery can be viewed .Valparai is surrounded by green hills and forests from all sides. From Azhiyar Dam, there are about 40 narrow turns on the way to Valparai. This isolated area is perfect for some alone time as well as some peace to the mind and soul.

It is a thrilling journey and is a must for all the adventure buffs.The journey will raise your adrenaline levels and give the excitement you were anticipating. There are many tourist attractions in Valparsi.Some of the main tourist attractions in this area are – Solaiyar Dam, Balaji Temple, Koolangal Aaru, Pancha Mugha Vinayak Temple, Nallamudi Poonjolai, Monkey Falls, Chinnakallar Dam, Aaliyar Dam and Athirampalli Falls. A major portion of Valparai is covered with hotels and shops. Therefore, Valparai is an ideal location if you are looking for a peaceful weekend amidst natural beauty and some shopping sprees. It can be visited all around the year but monsoon and winter season are preferred.

SIRUMALAI

Sirumalai is located in Tamil Nadu and is at a distance of 39 km from Madurai. It is a dense forest area and has a moderate weather throughout the year.The scenery and the lush greenery is overwhelming and enchanting. It is located at a height of about 1600 m above the mean sea level. Many unique flora and fauna can be spotted here. There are a total of 18 narrow turns and on the last turn; you can see a peaceful church and a panoramic view of Dindigul city. The photographers have a paradise for them in this location.

 Sirumalai has a small waterfall too. The main occupation of locals is agriculture. Therefore, most of the land is covered with farms. Sirumalai has significance in Hindu mythology too. It is believed that while Lord Hanuman was carrying the Sanjeevani Mountain, a piece of it fell in this area and Sirumalai was formed. There is an artificial lake named Sirumalai Lake where  boating facilities are available. Another attraction is the 500 year old Shiv Linga located in Agastya Puram.All this make this location a must visit because of its beauty.

POLLACHI

Pollachi is a large town near Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu. It is basically a marketing centre. Many goods like jaggery, vegetables and cattle are sold here. It is well connected by roadways and railways. Therefore, reaching Pollachi will not be a problem. It has an exceptional scenic beauty, many movies are shot here. 

Azhiyar Dam is nearby which is frequented by many monkeys and is often visited by tourists for its surreal beauty. Anamalai Wildlife Sanctuary is also locate near this place and can be easily reached from Pollachi. Parambikulam Dam and National Park is another favoured tourist attraction. There are also many temples including Maasani Amman Temple. Pollachi is rich in natural beauty and should be given a short visit during winters.

KOTAGIRI

Kotagiri is a small hill town in Tamil Nadu not far from Ooty. Situated at a height of 1800 m, it is one of the most popular hill-station in the Nilgiri area. Due to the beautiful vegetation here, nature and photography buffs must visit this place. There is a wide variety of flora and fauna which is a treat to smell and look at. Wild boars and Gaurs can also be spotted here. 

The famous Kodanad View Point is nearby and can be easily accessed from Kotagiri. Kotagiri itself can be easily reached as it is well connected by roadways. The Rangaswamyb Pillar is also a site of attraction. It is about 500 feet tall. Though there is not much to see around this place but the scenic beauty will surely attract and rejuvenate you. Accommodation is also easily available. A short visit in the weekend is ideal for Kotagiri.. It is an ideal getaway to relax the mind after a hectic weak.

THARANGAMBADI

Tharangambadi is a small town situated in Tamil Nadu. It is also sometimes known as Trankebar/ Alapur. It is one of the most scenic tourist destinations in Tamil Nadu. The most common tourist attractions here are the Danish Museum, Danish Fort and the Sri Masilamaniswara Temple. One of the major destination is Fort Dansborg was built near the sea in 1620 by Ove Gjedde, a Danish Captain. It had two storeys. The lower one was used as a prison and the upper one was the captain's residence. The fort has been slightly ruined but has been well kept by the officials. 

Another locations the Danish Museum has quite a few artefacts to be seen. The Masilamaniswara Temple, due to the effects of the sea is disintegrating and hence, a new temple is being built in its place. This tow is also called “Village of the Dancing Waves” because it is a flood prone area and once a tsunami killed nearly 800 fishermen living here. A 150 year old building has also been converted to a heritage hotel. Therefore, there is no problem of accommodation in this place. This place can be visited all around the year because it is equally beautiful always.

St. MARY'S ISLANDS

St Mary's Islands is a set of four islands off the coast of Malpe, Udupi. They are among the last few unexplored beaches in India. Known for their famous hexagonal basalt rocks which are formed due to volcanic lava drying up, these islands have been declared as an important site for Geo tourism in Karnataka. The beaches and surrounding waters are unbelievably pristine and taking those two boat rides from Malpe to reach here is definitely worth it.

This island of St. Mark is included into the UNESCO World Heritage Site territory. This is the biggest island of the Krtolj archipelago. Aside from the beautiful 4 km long beach, the island is decorated with incredible natural beauty - olive groves, cypress trees and other Mediterranean vegetation.

SOMANATHPURA

Somanathpura is located at a distance of just 40 km from the Mysore city. It is a peaceful town, which is a standing evidence of Hoysala artistry. The place is extremely popular for being home to the ancient Keshava and Chennakeshava temples. These temples are masterpieces of the Hoysala style of architecture. Do not miss noticing carvings and the sculptures made on the walls and ceilings.

The most famous torist spot is the Chennakesava Temple, also referred to as Chennakeshava Temple, Keshava Temple or Kesava Temple, is a Vaishnava Hindu temple on the banks of River Kaveri at Somanathapura, Karnataka, India. The ornate temple is a model illustration of the Hoysala architecture. Somanathpura is a treat to the eyes and is a wonder to the eyes.

MARAVANTHE

Maravanthe is located on the Panvel-Eddapally highway. It is a serene village with a beautiful beach, enveloped by calm surroundings. It is a perfect escape from the hustle-bustle of the city. Maravanthe has the most beautiful views and scenery. It is famously known as the Virgin beach. It is because of its clean beach has white sands and wonderful natural splendor. Do not forget to binge on local delicacies, prepared using authentic recipes. Maravanthe beach has the most memorable sunset views.

Maravanthe is filled with a number of places that can be explored. They include Padukone village, Kodi beach and Bijadi village. Kodachadri Hills in the backdrop of the village look striking. Arabian Sea on one side and River Sauparnika on the other, looks breathtaking. The tranquil surroundings are simply charming. Do not miss visiting Maraswamy temple.

HAMPI

 Hampi is the home to architectural wonders and awe. It is listed underUNESCO World Heritage Site in India. Hampi is the best place to relax and soothe the mind and eyes and savor the beauty of architecture. It is a perfect escape from routine work. Hampi is replete with archeology and history, which can be best be explored between November and February. It is the former seat of the Vjayanagar Empire. Hence it is no surprise that everything about Hampi is grand.

Hampi has over 100 monuments, built during the reign of various rulers. Though most of these temples and other structures are in ruins but there grandeur is less in no way. The place looks like an open museum. Virupaksha temple is the major attraction here.

HONNEMARDU

Honnemardu is blessed with abundant natural scenery and quaint surroundings filled with beautiful plantations. It is a tiny village that offers water sports adventures activities. The village is also quite close to Jog falls and its splendid scenery makes it an ideal location to plan picnic, along with loved ones. It is ideal for day trips to relax the mind and body. The already lush and cool ambiance becomes all the more inviting in the monsoon season. Its perfect weather is ever inviting. Overlooking the backwaters of River Sharavathi, this village offers opportunities for bird watching, trekking and camping.

Honnemardu is also a heaven for bird watching enthusiasts. The photographers also take out their talent here. On the banks of the river, camping can also be arranged. The place boasts of varied exotic flora and fauna, camping and exciting trekking trails.

KARIGHATTA

Karighatta is located at a distance of around 25 km from Mysore. It is a small hill station, which translated to ‘Black hill’. The place is packed with tranquil lakes and hilly topography at an altitude of 2697 feet above the sea level. This place is perfect for the ever enthusiastic photographers and their models.This place is perfect for bird watching enthusiasts, trekkers and nature lovers. It is a perfect combination of sports and scenery. Making it it perfect for the mind and body/ Two of the attractions here are River Lokapavanir and Karigirivasa Temple. Other allures are hill trekking, and varied natural flora and fauna.

As Karighatta is quite close to Mysore and Srirangapatnam, it becomes a weekend getaway for the locals and thus is otherwise not very crowded. It is usually isolated and is perfect for people who like to be away from the crowds. Karighatta temple is the prime attractions of this place. As the temple is placed on a high-altitude, the views from here are stunning.