Kolli Hill Station – A must-visit beautiful hill station 

About Kolli Hills

The Kollimalai Hills is situated within the Eastern Ghats at an elevation of 1300 meters in Namakkal District, The hill station lies approximately 45 kilometers away from Namakkal town. It is a famous road trip destination known for its 70 hairpin bends .These hills are renowned for their rich abundance of medicinal plants that flourish on their slopes. 

Visitors interested in exploring the area can enjoy attractions such as the Arapaleswarar Temple, the Horticulture Farm, the Herbal Farm, Agaya Gangai waterfalls, the Boat House, Peryaswamy Temple, Ettukai Amman Temple, Pineapple farms, View Point, and the Telescope House. 

 Additionally, one can relish specialties like Attukalkilangu soup which is known for its taste and medicinal properties, particularly beneficial for alleviating knee pain. The Valvil Ori festival is celebrated annually in August, adding to the cultural vibrancy of the region.

Best time to Visit Kolli Hills

During summers, Kolli Hill town in Tamil Nadu enjoy cool and temperate weather, with temperatures seldom exceeding 30°C. In contrast, winters (December-February) bring about a chilly climate, with temperatures ranging between 13°C to 18°C, making it cooler compared to many other regions in Tamil Nadu.

Kolli Hills can be visited year-round, except for January when temperatures drop due to its elevated location. The weather remains pleasant in Kolli Hills throughout the rest of the year. Therefore, the optimal time to visit is from February to December. Given the relatively limited number of attractions, a recommended duration of 2 to 3 days is sufficient to fully explore the beauty of Kolli Hills.

Places to visit near Kolli hill station

 Agaya Gangai Waterfalls

 Agaya Gangai Waterfalls, a renowned attraction in Kolli Hills, gracefully cascades from a height of 300 feet. Originating from Panchanathi, a forest stream, it finds its home nestled within a canyon, surrounded by mountains on all sides. To fully experience the beauty of the falls, visitors must walk through approximately 1000 steps. This waterfalls in Kolli hills is a famous spot for trekking enthusiasts in Kollimalai. 

Timings: 06:00am to 12:00pm and 04:00pm to 07:00pm

Arapaleeshwarar Temple

 Constructed by Valvil Ori in the first century CE, the Arapaleeshwara Temple stands as a prominent religious site in Kolli Hills. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple showcases his divine presence along with his entire family. Adorned with numerous Tamil inscriptions dating back to the Chola era, the temple walls depict historical significance. 

Among devotees, there is a belief in a concealed pathway within the temple premises that leads to the Rasipuram Shiva Temple. The temple is open for darshan from 06:00am to 12:00pm and from 04:00pm to 07:00pm.

 Botanical Gardens

 The Botanical Garden stands out as a premier attraction in Kolli Hills, offering visitors an exceptional experience. Known as a popular picnic destination in Kollimalai, it features various attractions including a vibrant rose garden, a picturesque viewpoint, a Herbal Park showcasing diverse plant species, eco-friendly cottages for accommodation, and a well-equipped children's park. For nature enthusiasts, the annual Flower Show is a must-see event. The Botanical Garden welcomes visitors from 08:00am to 08:00pm, providing ample time to explore its beauty and tranquillity.

 Boat House

 The Kollimalai Boat House offers a serene experience on an artificial lake situated in Vasalurpatty, surrounded by lush greenery. At the heart of the lake lies a quaint natural island adorned with massive boulders, adding to the scenic beauty. The lake maintains its water level throughout the year, providing an ideal setting for boating enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the beauty of the surroundings. Operating hours are from 06:00am to 06:00pm.

 Siddhar Caves

 The Siddhar Caves, nestled within Kolli Hills, has a rich history spanning centuries and were once inhabited by revered sadhus who practiced traditional medicines. These caves offer a glimpse into ancient spiritual practices. Due to their size, only one or two individuals can explore them at a time. Additionally, nearby caves such as Bogar, Agastya, and Korakka Siddha caves present further opportunities for exploration. For adventurous souls, the trek to Siddhar Caves promises an exhilarating experience. Opening hours are from 09:00am to 05:00pm.

How to reach Kolli Hills?

Kolli Hills isn't directly accessible by air or train, it presents an ideal destination for a memorable bike trip or a scenic long drive. Reaching Kolli Hills is convenient from nearby cities like Chennai and Salem.

By Air: The nearest airport to Kolli Hills is in Trichy, approximately 90 kilometers away. From cities such as Chennai, Bangalore, and Madurai, travelers can reach Kolli Hills by flying to Trichy airport and then continuing their journey via road.

By Train: The railway station in Salem serves as the nearest railway station to Kolli Hills, located just 90 kilometers away. Travelers can easily reach Kolli Hills from Salem by road.

By Road: State-run buses operate from Salem, providing connectivity to Kolli Hills from nearby cities like Chennai and Madurai. Additionally, travelers can hire a taxi from the nearest airport or railway station.

Indulge in Kolli Hills Trekking

The trek to Agaya Gangai waterfalls begins at the charming village of Puliyancholai, situated at the foothills of Kolli Hills. The journey culminates at the breathtaking views at Agaya Gangai waterfalls. This two-day water fall trek offers a rewarding experience, with the Arapaleeswarar Temple serving as the pit stop for day one.

The trek is moderately challenging, suitable for individuals with prior trekking experience. However, beginners may find it tougher. While it's possible to complete the trek in a single day, it's advisable to split it into two days to fully enjoy the experience and ensure ample time at the waterfall.

Please note that the last entry to Agaya Gangai waterfalls is at 3:00 pm, so planning for a two-day trek allows for a more leisurely pace and sufficient time to explore the falls.

Stay or Hotels in Kolli Hills

There are several resorts offering comfortable stays amidst the serene surroundings of Kolli Hills. These resorts often provide modern amenities, dining options, and recreational activities.

For those seeking a more adventurous stay, camping options are also available in Kolli Hills. There are designated camping areas where visitors can pitch tents and enjoy a night under the stars.

It's recommended to book accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability and a hassle-free stay experience.

Visit Exoticamp’s Kolli Hills Camping

Experience the enchanting charm of Kolli Hills by camping on a picturesque farm nestled amidst rolling hillocks and lush woods. This idyllic campsite offers a serene retreat, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the lesser-known beauty of the region.

The campsite is thoughtfully equipped with clean and tidy restrooms, ensuring a comfortable stay for all guests. Additionally, a fully functional kitchen is available, allowing campers to prepare meals and enjoy dining amidst nature's splendour. For added convenience, there's a backup cottage on-site, providing a secure and cozy accommodation option for solo women travelers & families.

Mystic Kolli Hill Camping @ Exoticamp: 

https://www.exoticamp.com/site/camp/mystic-kolli-hill-camping

FAQs

Is it safe to trek in Kolli Hills?

Trekking in Kolli Hills is generally safe, but it's essential to take necessary precautions, follow designated trails, carry essentials like water and snacks, and be mindful of weather conditions.

Can I visit Kolli Hills for a day trip?

Yes, it's possible to visit Kolli Hills for a day trip, but to fully explore the area and enjoy its attractions, it's recommended to plan for at least a weekend getaway.

What activities can I do in Kolli Hills?

Visitors to Kolli Hills can enjoy trekking, hiking, boating, birdwatching, exploring caves, visiting temples, camping and indulging in local cuisine.

What is Kolli Hills famous for?

Kolli Hills is renowned for its natural beauty, lush greenery, picturesque landscapes, and serene environment. It's also known for its medicinal herbs, waterfalls, trekking trails, and cultural heritage.

What should I pack for a trip to Kolli Hills?

It's recommended to pack appropriate clothing, trekking gear (if planning to trek), sunscreen, insect repellent, basic first-aid kit, water bottle, camera, and any other personal essentials.