The Western Ghats is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in India and it is also an incredibly accessible region of the country. From Coonoor to Yercaud, we have curated a list of the best places to visit in Western Ghats which are perfect for a weekend adventure.
Agumbe, Shimoga
Located in the Shimoga district of Karnataka, Agumbe is a small village often referred to as the “Cherrapunji of South India”. This biodiversity-rich region has the highest rainfall in south India and the second-highest annual rainfall in India. Agumbe is an enriching experience as this hill station is blessed with picturesque beauty and trekking trails. It is one of the last surviving lowland rainforests. Agumbe served as the setting for India’s very famous fictional town Malgudi in the TV serial Malgudi Days. It is home to some rare species of medicinal plants like Myristica, Listsaea, Garcinia, Diospyros, Eugenia and more, hence it got the nickname “Hasiru Honnu” which means green is gold. Being home to an extensive rainforest and the wide variety of flora and fauna, Agumbe houses the Agumbe Rainforest Research Station. This is India’s oldest weather station which exclusively monitors any changes made in the rainforest areas. Interestingly, Agumbe is also called as the “Cobra Capital” because of the high number of Cobras found here. Agumbe provides great options for trekking, beckoning the adventure enthusiasts to visit this offbeat destination hidden in the lap of nature.
Dandeli
Located on the Western Ghats of Uttara Karnataka, Dandeli is bestowed with the lush green forests and lies on the banks of the Kali river. Known for its many fantastic adventure opportunities, Dandeli is a hub for river rafting on river kali . Adventure seekers have many options such as mountain biking, trekking, cycling, kayaking and canoeing. The Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary is another exciting element that Dandeli has to offer. This is perfect for nature lovers too as they can spot Bisons and Black Panthers here as well as be amidst beautiful flora as well.
Dandeli has famous attractions here like the Kavla Caves, Ulavi Temple, Satholi Falls and the famous Sykes Point which gives tourists a breathtaking view of Dandeli. Camping is a popular activity here and there are plenty of operators here that provide fantastic services and memorable experiences to the guests.
Coonoor
One of the three beautiful Nilgiri hill stations, Coonoor is the second largest hill station of the Western Ghats. It is situated at an altitude of 1930 meters and just 19 km from Ooty. With slopes of tea plantations, dotted with many attractions and blessed with chilly weather throughout the year, this place is a perfect summer retreat.
Coonoor is a delightful location to have a panoramic view of the Nilgiri Hills and Catherine Falls. It is a dreamy destination for its rich greenery, the manicured hills, the Colonial culture and amazing sceneries. Coonoor also has some heritage homes and guesthouses admits the hills that’s perfect for a vacation or a staycation.
Yercaud
Nestled in the Shivaroy Hills of Tamil Nadu, Yercaud is a hill station in the Eastern Ghats steeped in abundant greenery. Commonly called ‘Ooty of the Poor’, this region has a history dating back to the time of the British. Located at an altitude of 4970 feet, Yercaud is known for its vast expanses of coffee plantations and great weather.
Yercaud lake is the main point of attraction of the region.One of the many highlights is the summer festival that takes place in May. It is dedicated to Lord Servarayan, the supreme god of the ranges and gives visitors a glimpse into the rich heritage of this region.
Kalpetta
Kalpetta is a quaint town with a backdrop of majestic hills lurking in the shadows, lush green surroundings, fresh air and picturesque beauty. Housed in the Wayanad District of Kerala, at a height of 780 m above the sea level, Kalpetta is a perfect place for nature lovers as well as honeymooners. Encompassed with a mild fragrance of coffee and rustic lanes, the town is blessed with beautiful nature with scenic landscapes. It is also one of the major trading centres in Wayanad. Dotted ith ancient temples, Kalpetta has a stronghold on Jain communities with over 500 settlements in and around the region. Blessed with all the necessary elements of beauty, nature and charming romanticism, this sleepy town is a must on your Kerala itinerary.
Idukki
Idukki, a landlocked district of Kerala, is one of the most nature-rich areas in Kerala with more than half of the area covered with forest. This rugged hill resort is known for its wildlife sanctuaries, beautiful bungalows, tea factories, rubber plantations and forests. Idukki’s speciality lies in 650 feet long and 550 feet high arch dam across the Kuravan Kurathi mountain, which is the largest in the country. Anamudi, which is the highest peak in India, south of the Himalayas, is also located in Idukki. Idukki is one of the districts in the state that has abundant scope for promotion of eco-tourism if proper infrastructure and promotional activities are provided.
Source: Holidify