Kolli Hills – The Serene Escape of Tamil Nadu’s Eastern Ghats
Nestled in the Eastern Ghats of Tamil Nadu’s Namakkal district, Kolli Hills (also called Kollimalai) is a mystical and lesser-known hill station that boasts an untouched charm. Known for its 70 hairpin bends, misty mountain air, spice plantations, waterfalls, and ancient temples, this hill station is perfect for those looking to escape the touristy crowds and embrace raw nature. 9 Underraged Hill Stations In South India
At an altitude of about 1,300 meters above sea level, Kolli Hills offers a rejuvenating retreat with cool weather, lush forests, and breathtaking views. The name “Kolli” means “mountain of death,” rooted in local legends involving a guardian deity, Kolli Paavai. Today, it’s not danger but tranquility that awaits travelers.
Whether you’re a biker seeking twisty roads, a trekker yearning for forest trails, or a spiritual seeker visiting ancient shrines, Kolli Hills offers something for everyone. Unlike Ooty or Kodaikanal, it’s not over-commercialized—making it perfect for nature lovers, backpackers, and photographers. You can read Kemmanagundi – The Untouched Paradise of Karnataka
If you crave serene landscapes, gurgling waterfalls, and unexplored trails, The Hills is the place to be. It’s one of Tamil Nadu’s best-kept secrets, ideal for weekend getaways or offbeat vacations.
📅 Best Time to Visit Kolli Hills
- October to March – Cool, pleasant climate perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
- July to September – Ideal for experiencing lush greenery and waterfalls post-monsoon.
- Avoid April to June – Summers can be warm and humid.
👉 Winter is the best season for treks, temple visits, and nature walks.
🚗 How to Reach Kolli Hills
- By Air: Nearest airport – Tiruchirappalli International Airport (90 km).
- By Train: Nearest station – Namakkal (45 km) or Salem (90 km) with good rail connectivity.
- By Road: Well-connected from Chennai (360 km), Bangalore (270 km), and Salem via public buses and private taxis.
🛣️ The 70 hairpin bends en route make for a thrilling road trip, especially for bikers and adventure lovers.
📍 Top Tourist Attractions in Kolli Hills
⛰️ Agaya Gangai Waterfalls
A majestic 300-foot waterfall located inside a forest valley, accessible via 1,000 steep steps. Best visited after the monsoon.
🛕 Arappaleeswarar Temple
An ancient Shiva temple believed to be built by Valmiki, located near the waterfalls and known for its spiritual vibes and Dravidian architecture.
🌲 Botanical Garden
A peaceful garden showcasing medicinal plants, exotic flowers, and a mini children’s park.
🌅 Seekuparai and View Points
Panoramic spots ideal for sunrise and sunset views, with wide valley scenes and misty backdrops.
🛣️ Hairpin Bend View
Drive through all 70 bends, each offering thrilling curves and captivating mountain views.
🧗 Top Things to Do in Kolli Hills
- 🥾 Trek to Agaya Gangai Falls
- 🧘 Visit ancient temples and spiritual sites
- 📸 Photography at sunrise/sunset viewpoints
- 🌿 Explore medicinal herb farms and spice plantations
- 🏍️ Biking or road tripping the 70 hairpin bends
- 🎒 Picnic at botanical gardens or eco-parks
💡 Travel Tips for Kolli Hills
- 👟 Carry comfortable footwear for trekking and temple stairs.
- 🍱 Pack light snacks and water; limited restaurants available.
- 🧴 Carry mosquito repellent and essential medications.
- ☁️ Fog is common—drive cautiously on hairpin bends.
- 🏨 Book your stay in advance during weekends and holidays.
- 📶 Mobile signal may be weak—download offline maps.
❓ FAQs About Kolli Hills
Q1: Is Kolli Hills suitable for a family trip?
✅ Yes, it’s ideal for families, with safe sightseeing and serene surroundings.
Q2: How many hairpin bends are there in Kolli Hills?
⛰️ There are 70 hairpin bends, offering a thrilling road experience.
Q3: Are there good places to stay in Kolli Hills?
🏨 Yes, there are government lodges and private resorts. Booking ahead is advisable.
Q4: Is trekking safe in Kolli Hills?
🥾 Yes, the treks are safe but moderately challenging. Avoid during heavy rain.
