Not in the mood to ring in the New Year with beach parties? Don't waste the holiday indoors. 

South India's hill stations offer the perfect, peaceful escape. Why not plan a refreshing getaway to one of the hill stations in South India?

The chilly breeze, the fresh air, the scent of tea plantations and coffee estates, and the sound of birds echoing across the rolling hills make for a refreshing escape from hectic city life.

Ready to trade the city life for peaceful landscapes, cool weather, and nature at its best this New Year? Here's a list of some of the best hill stations in South India where you are sure to have a memorable start to the year.

Top Hill Stations in South India for New Year Trips

1. Kodaikanal

Fondly called the “Princess of Hill Stations,” Kodaikanal is one of the most famous hill stations you can visit during the winter season. The area's mist-covered hills, serene lakes, and stunning Western Ghat views offer an ideal backdrop for New Year's celebrations.

What makes Kodaikanal special? The mix of lush greenery, sparkling lakes, and pleasant climate draws in both couples and nature lovers.

Top Attractions in Kodaikanal

• Coaker’s Walk: A peaceful walking trail along the cliffside offering breathtaking views of misty valleys and rolling hills.
• Pillar Rocks: Three massive vertical rock pillars that make a dramatic natural landmark and a favourite photography spot.
• Bryant Park: A colourful botanical garden filled with vibrant flowers, landscaped lawns, and lovely spaces for relaxing strolls.
• Kodaikanal Lake: A serene star-shaped lake perfect for boating, cycling, and enjoying the cool mountain breeze.

Unlock the best of Kodaikanal with our all-inclusive Adventure Package. It delivers everything: adventurous off-road trails, guided visits to famous sights, a breathtaking sunrise hike, and a relaxing night of camping under the stars. It’s the perfect blend of excitement and serenity.

2. Munnar

If you adore tea plantations, emerald slopes, and cool breezes, Munnar is calling your name! 

Often counted among the most beautiful hill stations, Munnar is surrounded by sprawling tea gardens, dense forests, and wildlife-rich landscapes.

The stunning vistas from Anamudi Peak are unmatched, and the endless carpet of lush greenery will soothe any stressed soul. It’s undoubtedly one of the best hill stations to begin your New Year in peace.

Apart from its beautiful hill station charm, Munnar also offers incredible trekking trails, spice shops, waterfalls, and breathtaking sunrise points. The scenic charm here easily rivals that of some destinations in North India.

Places to Visit in Munnar

• Eravikulam National Park: A stunning wildlife sanctuary known for rare Nilgiri Thar sightings and breathtaking high-altitude landscapes.
• Tea Museum: A fascinating spot where you can explore the rich history of tea-making and taste fresh brews straight from Munnar’s tea estates.
• Mattupetty Dam: A beautiful lakeside dam surrounded by misty mountains, perfect for boating and peaceful nature moments.
• Top Station: Munnar’s highest viewpoint offering unforgettable panoramas of the Western Ghats and the valley wrapped in clouds.
• Pothamedu Viewpoint: A scenic lookout known for its emerald plantations, dreamy sunsets, and sweeping views of lush green valleys.

Dive into the wilds of Munnar with our Glamping Trip! This New Year's adventure package immerses you in nature, featuring an off-road Jeep Safari with river crossing, a visit to the Anakulam Elephant View Point, and exploration of the Tiger Cave and 33 Waterfalls. You'll relax at night in eco-friendly wooden camps with modern amenities.

3. Vagamon

Looking for a calm, peaceful hill station that is not crowded during the holidays? Vagamon might just be the perfect choice. This quaint hill station in Kerala is famous for its velvety green meadows, pine forests, and gentle slopes that make great picnic spots.

Its quiet charm makes it a favourite among travellers who want to escape the usual tourist rush of other hill stations.

Must-Visit Places in Vagamon

• Pine Valley: A dreamy stretch of tall pine trees creating a cool, peaceful forest perfect for quiet walks and photography.
• Vagamon Meadows: Endless green meadows that look like velvet carpets, ideal for picnics, strolls, and soaking in scenic beauty.
• Thangalpara: A unique rock formation and spiritual spot offering panoramic views of Vagamon’s rolling hills.
• Adventure Parks: Fun-filled spaces offering paragliding, ziplining, and other exciting activities for adventure lovers.

Our Vagamon New Year Camping Trip is your ticket to a memorable holiday! This curated package includes comfortable tent accommodation, a thrilling sunset hike, picturesque sightseeing at the Pine Forest and Vagamon Meadows, and a festive night under the stars with a campfire and music. It’s the easiest way to experience Vagamon’s magic.

4. Yercaud

Yercaud, located in Tamil Nadu’s eastern ghats, is known as a small hill station with great charm. While it’s quieter than most other hill stations, it has plenty to offer—coffee plantations, cool breezes, and stunning viewpoints surrounded by lush green forests.

Popular Places to Visit in Yercaud

• Yercaud Lake: A calm, scenic lake surrounded by trees—perfect for boating and relaxing by the water.
• Pagoda Point: A peaceful vantage point offering sweeping views of the Eastern Ghats and Yercaud’s charming valleys.
• Kiliyur Falls: A refreshing cascade surrounded by lush greenery, especially beautiful after the monsoon.
• Anna Park: A well-maintained botanical garden filled with colourful flowers and a lovely space for leisurely walks.

If you're planning a laid-back New Year break, Yercaud’s tranquil ambience and pleasant climate make it a wonderful choice among hill stations in the south.

5. Ooty

No list of stations in South India is complete without Ooty, one of the oldest hill stations and certainly the largest hill station in Tamil Nadu. Whether you're travelling with friends, family, or your partner, Ooty has something for everyone.

Famous for its Nilgiri Hills, cool weather, and scenic tea plantations, Ooty attracts thousands of travellers every December.

Must-Visit Attractions in Ooty

• Nilgiri Mountain Railway: A charming UNESCO-listed toy train ride that takes you through tunnels, tea gardens, and misty hills.
• Ooty Lake: A lively lake perfect for boating, cycling, and enjoying the cool Ooty breeze.
• Government Rose Garden: A vibrant garden with hundreds of rose varieties blooming in stunning colours and patterns.
• Dolphin’s Nose: A dramatic viewpoint offering sweeping valley views and some of the most picturesque scenery in the Nilgiris.

For an unforgettable Christmas or New Year in the Nilgiris, choose the Ooty Adventure Camping package. It promises both relaxation and thrills, with days spent on the zipline and wall climbing and serene moments during a nature walk and evening campfire.

6. Wayanad

If you're drawn to natural beauty and love exploring dense forests, Wayanad may be your perfect New Year destination. It's a favourite among both nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike because of its cascading waterfalls, ancient caves, and flourishing coffee estates.

What to Visit in Wayanad?

• Edakkal Caves: Ancient rock shelters featuring fascinating prehistoric carvings and stunning hilltop views.
• Chembra Peak: Wayanad’s highest peak, famous for its heart-shaped lake and rewarding trekking experience.
• Abbey Falls: A beautiful, cascading waterfall surrounded by dense forests—perfect for nature lovers.
• Soochipara Falls: A majestic three-tier waterfall ideal for photography, picnics, and enjoying Wayanad’s lush greenery.

For wildlife enthusiasts, a trip to the nearby Nagarhole National Park adds even more adventure. If you want a mix of peace and thrill, Wayanad is one of the most beautiful hill stations in South India to celebrate your New Year.

7. Yelagiri

Yelagiri is a quaint little hill station located between Chennai and Bangalore, making it an easily accessible getaway for the New Year holidays. Its calm atmosphere, lush greenery, and friendly local culture make it ideal for travellers seeking a low-key holiday.

What to Explore in Yelagiri

• Swamimalai Hill: A popular trekking spot offering panoramic views of Yelagiri’s misty mountains and lush valleys.
• Punganoor Lake: A peaceful man-made lake perfect for boating and enjoying calm moments by the water.
• Nature Park: A beautifully designed park with musical fountains, gardens, and relaxing walking paths.
• Adventure Park: A fun-filled zone offering ziplining, rock climbing, and exciting activities for thrill-seekers.

If you want a cosy New Year weekend filled with scenic beauty and fun, Yelagiri is a lovely option.

8. Chikmagalur

Often celebrated as the “Coffee Land of Karnataka,” Chikmagalur is one of those beautiful hill stations that instantly relaxes your senses. Its sprawling coffee plantations and misty high-altitude viewpoints make it a magical retreat during the winter season. 

Top Attractions in Chikmagalur

• Mullayanagiri: The highest peak in Karnataka offers sweeping panoramas of mist-covered hills, rugged cliffs, and serene valleys.  
• Baba Budangiri: A sacred mountain range known for its unique trekking routes, mysterious caves, and a tranquil environment that blends spiritual stories with breathtaking landscapes.
• Hebbe Falls: A stunning waterfall tucked deep inside the forests, accessible through a mix of jeep rides and short treks.  
• Coffee Museum: A fascinating stop where you can learn about the history of coffee in India, the process of cultivation, and Chikmagalur’s deep-rooted relationship with its flourishing coffee estates.
• Kudremukh National Park: A paradise for wildlife lovers, hikers, and mountain admirers. Known for its iconic horse-face peak, rich biodiversity, and spectacular trekking trails, this is one of the gems that elevate Chikmagalur charm.

Unwind in the Coffee Land of Karnataka with our Chikmagalur Camping Adventure. Enjoy a refreshing New Year trip packed with fun, including an off-road Jeep experience, a comfortable tent stay, and spectacular views of the region's famous peaks. It’s the ideal escape for nature and coffee lovers.

Ring in the New Year Amidst South India's Misty Peaks

There is no better way to begin the year than by surrounding yourself with natural beauty, crisp, fresh air, and the calming embrace of majestic hills. South India’s beautiful hill stations offer everything from culture and comfort to wilderness and adventure.

Regardless of what you choose, you’ll find countless experiences that will stay with you long after your trip ends. So, pack your sweaters, choose one of these mountain destinations, and get ready for a refreshing, memorable, and completely magical start to the New Year!