Jawadhu Hills: A Must-Visit Spot for Your Next Short Trip

Hidden away in the Eastern Ghats, Jawadhu Hills is one of Tamil Nadu's best-kept secrets, a breath of fresh air amidst the city's chaos. Whether you're trekking, breathing in nature, or just looking for some time off from the city's hustle, this serene hill station has something for all. Nestled around misty mountains and greens of forests, it's the type of destination where you will be able to let your hair down. And if you’re already visiting nearby spots like Vellore or Tiruvannamalai, it’s definitely worth adding to your travel list.

Why Visit Jawadhu Hills?

Jawadhu Hills has more to offer than scenic beauty. It's a place where you can experience heritage, indulge in rich ecology, and enjoy outdoor activities such as trekking and nature walks. The hills are famous for their varied wildlife, clean rivers, and peaceful atmosphere, making it a must-visit for those looking for peace.

Jawadhu Hills lies in the Tiruvannamalai district, offering proximity to famous destinations like the Kavalur Observatory—a spot that stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts will appreciate.

Top 10 Things to Do in Jawadhu Hills

Whether you're hiking in dense forests, relaxing near serene lakes, or immersing in local culture, there is something here for all. Its virgin beauty and peaceful atmosphere make it so unique. Following are the top 10 things to do in Jawadhu Hills for a memorable holiday.

1. Camping & Stargazing

Jawadhu Hills is renowned for its stargazing, thanks to its zero light pollution—making it a haven for astronomy enthusiasts. Spend your nights under a blanket of stars, using apps like Spyview or Sky Map to identify constellations and planets.

For a complete astro camping experience, set up camp with Exoticamp’s Jawadhu Camping offering, where you can enjoy luxury tents, guided activities, and unforgettable nights immersed in the wonders of the night sky.

2. Visit the Kavalur Observatory

Located in the scenic village of Kavalur within the Jawadhu Hills, the Vainu Bappu Observatory is one of India’s premier astronomical research centers. Famous for its powerful telescopes and clear night skies, the observatory offers a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of the universe. Public visits are typically allowed only on Saturdays, with entry permitted after 2:00 PM and observation sessions running until 05:00 PM.  The observatory is an inspiring destination for astronomy enthusiasts and anyone curious about the cosmos.

3. Trekking in Jawadhu Hills

For adventure and nature lovers, Jawadhu Hills offers some of the finest trekking experiences in Tamil Nadu. The mountains and hills contain different levels of trekking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging treks. Some of the most sought-after treks are:

• Kundukal Waterfall Trek: A moderately challenging trek that takes trekkers through awe-inspiring views of waterfalls amidst forests.
• Javadhu Hills Peak Trek: This is ideal for those who want a more challenging trek. The peak provides a view of the entire surrounding valleys and hills.
• Vellore Hills Trek: Located near Vellore, this trek affords a glimpse of the distant skyline of the city, and trekkers can come across various species of flora and fauna on the way.

Explore the scenic valleys, vibrant flora, and serene streams amidst stunning landscapes. Trekking here offers a chance to move away from city life and experience the splendor of nature in Tamil Nadu.

4.  Relax at Komutteri Lake

Komutteri Lake, the largest in the Jawadhu Hills region, offers a serene escape surrounded by rolling hills and dense forests. Boating at Komutteri Lake is one of the most soothing and memorable things to do in Jawadhu Hills. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful boat ride across the calm waters, surrounded by nature's beauty, making it an ideal spot for relaxation.

The surroundings of the lake are ideal for picnics, nature walks, or just relaxing by the lakeside. If you're in need of some quiet time or want to connect with nature, Komutteri Lake is a place that you must visit in Jawadhu Hills.

5. Explore Amirthi Forest

Amirthi Forest, along the Amirthi River, is an ecologist's dream destination. Covering 25 hectares, the forest comprises diverse species of wildlife and colorful flora, which makes it perfect for ecology study. The Amirthi Wildlife Sanctuary provides scopes to sight wildlife like wild boars, deer, and different species of birds.

The forest is an important location for naturalists and ecologists that gives a glimpse into the richness of biodiversity in the Eastern Ghats. There are paths all over the forest where you can have a nature walk or participate in guided tours. The sanctuary even has a small zoo, making it a perfect family destination.

6. Visit the Historic Arunachaleswarar Temple

Situated in Tiruvannamalai, the Arunachaleswarar Temple is an ancient site of profound religious importance. The temple is a shrine to Lord Shiva and is one of the biggest temples in Tamil Nadu and one of the heritage treasures of the place. The temple is located at the foot of Annamalai Hills, which are thought to be holy in Hindu legend.

Temple visitors can explore the temple's intricately sculpted architecture and soak in the spiritual ambiance of the site. The temple takes on special significance during the yearly Karthigai Deepam festival, when thousands of pilgrims visit the temple. Temple visitors interested in history and culture can gain a glimpse into the religious heritage of Tamil Nadu.

7. Trekking to Beemanmadavu Waterfall

An ideal combination of adventure and tranquility, trekking to Beemanmadavu Waterfall is among the best things to do in Jawadhu Hills. The falls can be reached through a short but picturesque trek, which makes it a favorite among nature walkers. Nestled in dense forests and lush hills, the falls is a rejuvenating experience with its cool waters flowing down amidst lush greenery.

The hike itself is easy and accessible to families and people of all ages, who can take in the majesty of Jawadhu Hills. The payoff of the trail is a breathtaking vista of the waterfall, and this makes it an ideal photo point for nature photographers and adventure-seekers.

8. Explore Local Heritage Sites

Jawadhu Hills has scattered all along its expanse of historical monuments and heritage places in the form of ancient temples and tribal villages. These places afford a glimpse of the rich past and culture of the area. Some of the prominent places are:

• The Parvati Hill Temple: A peaceful and historic temple at the base of a hill, providing both spiritual comfort and stunning views of the surrounding area.
• Tribal Villages: The resident tribal people provide a unique chance to experience traditional way of life and traditional cultures that have not changed much for hundreds of years.

9. Bird Watching in the Hills

With its rich flora and fauna, Jawadhu Hills is blessed with some different bird species. Be a professional birdwatcher or an amateur one, the hills provide an excellent chance to see some of the area's special birds in their natural setting. The area is especially famous for birds such as the Indian Peafowl, Crested Serpent Eagle, and Indian Roller. Nature walks and treks will offer great chances to see these bird delights.

10. Enjoy the Quiet of Kottur Lake

Nestled amidst Jawadhu Hills, Kottur Lake is a peaceful retreat from the throngs. Blessed with mountains and greenery surrounding it, this peaceful lake is the perfect picnic spot or place for a peaceful afternoon of contemplation. The peaceful waters mirror the abundant surroundings, making it a very good place for photography or even relaxation.

Best Time to Visit Jawadhu Hills

The best time to visit Jawadhu Hills is during the winter months (October to March), when the weather is cool and pleasant. This is also the ideal time for outdoor activities like trekking, camping, and wildlife exploration. The summer months can get quite hot, but the hills remain cooler than the plains, making it a great escape for a short weekend getaway.

How to Reach Jawadhu Hills

• By Road: Jawadhu Hills is easily accessible from major cities in Tamil Nadu. The town of Tiruvannamalai is around 45 km away, and you can easily hire a taxi or take a bus.
• By Rail: The nearest railway station is in Tiruvannamalai, which is well-connected by trains from Chennai and other major cities.
• By Air: The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, approximately 160 km from Jawadhu Hills. From there, you can hire a cab or use public transport.

Conclusion

Jawadhu Hills is a treasure in Tamil Nadu, offering an ideal blend of nature, ecology, heritage, and adventure. Whether you trek the hills, go to heritage sites, or simply relax by the lakes, Jawadhu Hills promises an unforgettable and rewarding experience.

For those who desire to experience the beauty of Jawadhu Hills to the fullest, Exoticamp's Jawadhu Hills Camping is the best choice, providing an opportunity to connect with nature in all its essence.

Then, what are you waiting for?

Add it to your bucket list, and start planning your visit to this serene destination now!