Nestled in the Shivaroy Hills of Tamil Nadu, Yercaud is a hill station in the Eastern Ghats steeped in abundant greenery This town is also called as the land of seven forests. This hill town is famous for its unique vegetation, pleasing climate, plantation and interesting viewpoint. 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.
Emerald Lake
The most alluring aspect of Yercaud is its big yet natural lake very popularly known as the Emerald Lake. Surrounded by some wonderful cloud-peaked hills and a well persevered garden on its banks, this lake is a feast for the eyes.
There is a floating fountain in the lake and boating facilities are available at a reasonable rate. Self-driven as well as rowing boats can be chosen according to your comfort and intersts. A nominal amount is collected as caution fee before issuing the boats and austere safety measures are followed by the authorities.
Pagoda Point
Located in the eastern part of the Yercaud Hills, Pagoda point is a beautiful viewpoint where one is treated to a panoramic view of the entire town of Salem as well as the neighbouring village of Kakambadi. The twists and turns of the 21 hairpin bends of Yercaud can be seen from this spot as they envelop themselves around the hills. The mysterious piles of stones arranged in the form of a pyramid resembling a Pagoda give the location its unique name. These stones are believed to be placed here by local tribes. Between the Pagodas here lies a temple devoted to Lord Rama. One can indulge in the amazing natural beauty of the spot and the scenery of the Eastern Ghats, with the greenery growing within the rugged terrains of the hills, entwined with sights of the craggy cliffs. The sunrise and sunsets at this viewpoint are quite lovely, and late evenings allow visitors to view the magnificent panoramic view of a lit-up Salem. The weather and tranquillity of this spot make the visit worth the trouble.
Botanical Garden
Any tourist who is interested in gods gift to this planet, the wondrous flora, and in knowing about various species of plants must make it a point to visit the orchid garden and the green house in the Botanical garden. Yercaud is the place where the famous Kurinji flower blooms in plenty and the specialty of this flower is that it will bloom only once in twelve years. The National Orchidarium which is located 2 km from the Emerald Lake has a wide variety of orchids which includes 30 orchid species that are exclusively found here. Many endangered species of orchids are persevered in this orchidarium which is ranked the third largest of all the orchidariums in India.
Anna Park
Another important place of visit in Yercaud is the Anna Park which is located near the lake. This park has a collection of the natural species of plants and trees seen around Shevaroy hills. Flower shows are conducted in this park during summer months. There is a spine-tingling Japanese garden inside this park in where everything is grown and constructed in Japanese style. Children can enjoy playing in the garden. It is a well maintained garden and is worth a visit.
Lady’s Seat
Lady’s Seat is a viewpoint that overlooks the winding ghat road and offers a spectacular view of Mettur Dam and Salem town. Besides, the place also houses a viewing tower, which is equipped with a telescope to enjoy the beautiful view. This viewing tower is open for visitors only during the daytime. Lady’s Seat, Gent’s Seat and Children’s Seat, located to the south-west of Shevaroy Hill, are the names given to a group of rocks located on the Yercaud Hills. It is believed that an English lady used to spend her evenings at this place watching the beautiful view of this rock. For those interested in a closer view, there’s a mounted telescope. Swing it to your extreme right to see the Mettur Dam on the Cauvery River. Great shots of the river can be had from this spot in the late afternoon when the sun’s rays are reflected in its waters.
Killiyur Falls
The Kiliyur Falls drops from a height of 300 feet and are a popular tourist attraction near Salem. They also offer boating and swimming activities in their vicinity. These waterfalls are a part of the Shervaroyan hill range of the Eastern Ghats. The water from the Yercaud Lake drops 300 feet into the Kiliyur Valley, thus forming these falls. Travellers have to walk down 200-250 steps to reach the point of waterfalls. There are adequate seating and resting areas near the stairs for elderly people who might be visiting the place. Kiliyur falls a good choice for a family or group excursion. The pristine water combined with the cold weather makes it a lucrative getaway.
Source: Holidify.com
Yercaud: The land of seven forests
