About Yelagiri Hills
The Yelagiri Hills is not only marked for its beauty but also for the plethora of fun-filled adventurous activities it provides. These hills house many lakes and historical landmarks that draw tourists globally. Having a pleasant and refreshing climate, this place is renowned for its outdoor activities, making it a perfect getaway for weekend trips. The captivating landscapes and tranquil setting fill the place with awe, creating an ideal environment for visitors to immerse themselves in nature.
Historical Significance
During the reign of the British, Yelagiri Hills became a private property of a zamindari family until India’s independence in 1947. The family played a significant role in developing this area, and its roots date back to colonial times, adding a historical charm to these scenic hills.
Distance from Bangalore and Reaching Time
Yelagiri Hills is approximately 155 kilometers away from Bangalore. It takes around 4 to 5 hours by car, depending on the traffic conditions.
Best Season and Time to Visit
October to February is the best time to visit Yelagiri Hills to enjoy its various outdoor activities. While the monsoon enhances the beauty of the waterfalls, the terrain becomes muddy and slippery, so it’s best to avoid trekking during this period.
Local Attractions
- Punganoor Lake – This manmade lake is one of the top Yelagiri hills sightseeing places. Surrounded by lush greenery, the crystal-clear waters and soothing environment offer the perfect setting for a peaceful boat ride. The lake is ideal for families, couples, and friends to unwind and enjoy nature.
- Swamimalai Hill – The highest peak in Yelagiri hills is an awe-inspiring sight with an elevation of 4,338 feet. The view from the top provides a panoramic glimpse of the forests and valleys, and the temple dedicated to Lord Murugan makes the summit a peaceful retreat.
- Jalagamparai Waterfalls – Formed by the Attaru River, this majestic waterfall is one of the most stunning Yelagiri hills places to visit. The monsoon season enhances the waterfall’s flow, making it an impressive sight for visitors.
- Vainu Bappu Observatory – Known as one of Asia’s largest observatories, this facility offers educational tours where visitors can learn about stars and space. The observatory features the renowned 2.3-meter Vainu Bappu Telescope, making it one of the must-visit Yelagiri hills sightseeing places.
Key Facts
- Elevation: 1,410 meters above sea level
- Location: Vellore district, Tamil Nadu
- Trek Difficulty: Moderate
- Historical Significance: Former property of the Yelagiri Zamindar family
Travel Tips
- Preparation: Comfortable clothes, sports shoes, sunscreen, first aid kit, hats and other essentials. Rainwear if visiting during monsoon.
- Guides: Supervision is crucial for adventure sports and local guides are advisable to enhance your experience.
- Permits: No special permits are required for visiting Yelagiri Hills.
- Respect Nature: Do not litter, follow eco friendly practices and conserve the environment.
Activities
- Trekking:Among the popular activities, the Yelagiri hills trekking experience is highly sought after. Swamimalai Hill is a favored spot for trekking enthusiasts, offering moderate difficulty and scenic trails. The trek to Jalagamparai Waterfalls is also a popular choice.Among the Yelagiri hills, the Swamimalai Hill is one of the most popular Yelagiri Hills trekking destination with an intermediate difficulty. Followed by this, the other trekking trails to the Jalagamparai Waterfalls are more on the fun side. The treks offer fascinating views alongside the forests and rock terrain.
- Boating: A boat ride on Punganoor Lake is another famous activity in this region. The vibrant hue of nature coupled with the tranquil restoration of the lake is mind boggling. Rental paddle boats and row boats are available for these rides, making it a perfect spot to unwind.
- Adventure Sports: There are a bunch of adventure sports in this region such as paragliding, rock climbing and zip-lining. These are perfect for adventure buffs giving them a perfect adrenaline rush. The terrain and surroundings add to the thrill, making it one of the top things to do in Yelagiri.
Itinerary
- Morning: Depart from Bangalore and reach Yelagiri, devoting time to conquer the trek.
- Afternoon: Relax by the Punganoor lake after the trek.
- Evening: Enjoy the sunset and have dinner at a local eatery.
- Morning: Start your day by exploring the Vainu Bappu Observatory, learning about space and astronomy.
- Afternoon: Trek to the Jalagamparai Waterfalls for some scenic views.
- Evening: Leave for Bangalore after exploring the local cultural heritage.
Location Map
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