Are you looking for a serene and scenic destination to escape the hustle and bustle of the city? Do you want to explore the rich history and culture of a place that is shrouded in mystery and legends? If yes, then you should consider visiting Kolli Hills, a hidden paradise in Tamil Nadu.
Kolli Hills, also known as Kollimalai, is a range of hills in the Namakkal district of Tamil Nadu. It is situated at an altitude of about 1300 meters above sea level and covers an area of about 280 square kilometers. Kolli Hills is one of the oldest hill stations in India and has a history that dates back to the Sangam period. It is also a place of religious and spiritual significance, as it is home to many ancient temples and shrines.
Kolli Hills is a perfect destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and culture enthusiasts. It offers a variety of attractions and activities that will make your trip memorable and enjoyable. Here are some of the main reasons why you should visit Kolli Hills:
Attractions in Kolli Hills
Kolli Hills has many attractions and places to visit that will captivate your senses and imagination. Some of the most popular ones are:
Agaya Gangai Waterfalls
Agaya Gangai Waterfalls is one of the most spectacular sights in Kolli Hills. It is a 300-feet high waterfall that cascades down from the hills into a deep gorge. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and rocky cliffs, creating a stunning contrast. The waterfall can be reached by trekking down about 1000 steps from the Arapaleeswarar Temple.
The trek is challenging but rewarding, as you will get to see the breathtaking views of the valley and the river below. The waterfall is also considered sacred by the locals, as it is believed to be the source of the River Aiyaru.
Arapaleeswarar Temple
Arapaleeswarar Temple is one of the oldest and most revered temples in Kolli Hills. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is worshipped as Arapaleeswarar or the Lord of the Hills. The temple was built by King Valvil Ori in the 1st century CE and has a rich history and architecture. The temple has many intricate carvings and sculptures that depict various scenes from Hindu mythology.
The temple also has a secret passage that leads to the Agaya Gangai Waterfalls. The temple is a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience the spiritual and cultural essence of Kolli Hills.
Ettukkai Amman Temple
Ettukkai Amman Temple is another important temple in Kolli Hills that attracts many devotees and tourists. It is dedicated to Goddess Ettukkai Amman or the Eight-Handed Goddess, who is believed to be the protector of Kolli Hills.
The temple is located on top of a hill and offers a panoramic view of the surroundings. The temple is also famous for its annual festival that takes place in August or September. During this festival, thousands of people flock to the temple to witness the ritual of sacrificing goats and chickens to appease the Goddess.
Botanical Garden
Botanical Garden is a place where you can enjoy the beauty and diversity of nature in Kolli Hills. It is a well-maintained garden that has a variety of plants, flowers, herbs, and trees. Some of the rare and exotic species that you can find here are orchids, roses, lilies, medicinal plants, etc.
The garden also has a children’s park, a boating lake, a viewpoint, and a museum. The garden is ideal for relaxing, picnicking, boating, and learning about the flora and fauna of Kolli Hills.
Activities in Kolli Hills
Kolli Hills has many activities and things to do that will make your trip exciting and adventurous. Some of the most popular ones are:
Trekking
Trekking is one of the best ways to explore the natural beauty and terrain of Kolli Hills. There are many trekking trails that range from easy to difficult levels. Some of the most famous ones are:
Agaya Gangai Waterfalls Trek: This trek takes you from the Arapaleeswarar Temple to the Agaya Gangai Waterfalls through a steep and narrow path. The trek is challenging but rewarding, as you will get to see the magnificent waterfall and its surroundings.
Selur Nadu Trek: This trek takes you from Selur Nadu village to Nallathambi Viewpoint through a scenic route that passes through forests, fields, streams, and waterfalls. The trek is moderate but enjoyable, as you will get to see the rural life and culture of Kolli Hills.
Seekuparai Trek: This trek takes you from Seekuparai village to the Seekuparai Viewpoint through a rugged and rocky path. The trek is difficult but thrilling, as you will get to see the panoramic view of the Kolli Hills and the Eastern Ghats.
Boating
Boating is another activity that you can enjoy in Kolli Hills. There are two lakes where you can go boating: the Botanical Garden Lake and the Vasalurpatti Lake. Both lakes are surrounded by greenery and hills, creating a serene and picturesque atmosphere. You can choose from different types of boats, such as pedal boats, row boats, or motor boats. Boating is a fun and relaxing way to spend some time with your family and friends in Kolli Hills.
Camping
Camping is another activity that you can try in Kolli Hills. There are many camping sites where you can pitch your tents and stay overnight. Some of the best ones are:
Nallathambi Resort: This resort offers camping facilities along with cottages and rooms. It is located near the Selur Nadu village and has a beautiful view of the hills and the valley. The resort also provides food, bonfire, music, and games for the campers.
Seekuparai Camp: This camp is located near the Seekuparai Viewpoint and has a stunning view of the Eastern Ghats. The camp provides tents, sleeping bags, food, bonfire, and guides for the campers. The camp also organizes trekking, birdwatching, and sightseeing tours for the campers.
Masila Falls Camp: This camp is located near the Masila Falls, which is a small but scenic waterfall in Kolli Hills. The camp provides tents, food, bonfire, and entertainment for the campers. The camp also arranges visits to nearby attractions, such as Ettukkai Amman Temple, Botanical Garden, etc.
You may also like to read: Kolli Hills Is The Scenic Road Trip You Must Take From Bangalore
Accommodation in Kolli Hills
Kolli Hills has many accommodation options and places to stay that suit different budgets and preferences. Some of the best ones are:
Namma Ooru Resort:
This resort offers cottages along with villas. It is located near the Botanical Garden and has a lush and green landscape. The cottages are elegant and well-maintained with amenities such as TV, AC, geyser, etc. The resort also provides food, swimming pool, spa, gym, and conference hall for the guests.
Hotel Nallathambi International
Hotel Nallathambi International is one of the most economical and comfortable hotels in Kolli Hills. It is located near the bus stand and has easy access to the main attractions and places in Kolli Hills. The hotel offers rooms that are clean and well-equipped with amenities such as TV, fan, geyser, etc. The hotel also provides food, parking, laundry, and travel assistance for the guests.
Hotel Silverline
Hotel Silverline is another budget-friendly and cozy hotel in Kolli Hills. It is located near the Arapaleeswarar Temple and has a peaceful and pleasant environment. The hotel offers rooms that are cozy and well-furnished with amenities such as TV, fan, heater, etc. The hotel also provides food, parking, laundry, and travel assistance for the guests.
Hotel Vasantham
Hotel Vasantham is another cheap and decent hotel in Kolli Hills. It is located near the Botanical Garden and has a lush and green landscape. The hotel offers rooms that are neat and well-maintained with amenities such as TV, fan, geyser, etc. The hotel also provides food, parking, laundry, and travel assistance for the guests.
Shopping in Kolli Hills
Kolli Hills has many products and souvenirs that travelers can buy from the local markets and shops. Some of the best ones are:
Honey
Honey is one of the most famous and sought-after products from Kolli Hills. It is produced by the native tribes who collect it from the wild bees in the forests. The honey is pure, natural, and organic, and has many health benefits. It is also used in many rituals and ceremonies by the locals. You can buy honey from various shops and stalls in Kolli Hills at reasonable prices.
Coffee
Coffee is another popular and delicious product from Kolli Hills. It is grown in the plantations that dot the hillsides and valleys. The coffee beans are roasted and ground to produce a rich and aromatic brew that will refresh your senses. You can buy coffee from various shops and outlets in Kolli Hills at affordable prices.
Tea
Tea is another refreshing and soothing product from Kolli Hills. It is cultivated in the estates that cover the slopes and terraces of the hills. The tea leaves are plucked and processed to produce a fine and flavorful infusion that will calm your mind. You can buy tea from various shops and stores in Kolli Hills at reasonable prices.
Spices
Spices are another fragrant and tasty product from Kolli Hills. They are grown in the gardens and farms that surround the villages and towns. The spices include pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, etc., that will enhance your dishes and cuisines. You can buy spices from various shops and markets in Kolli Hills at cheap prices.
Handicrafts
Handicrafts are another unique and attractive product from Kolli Hills. They are made by the skilled artisans who use natural materials such as wood, bamboo, cane, clay, etc., to create beautiful and artistic items. The handicrafts include baskets, pots, dolls, masks, paintings, etc., that will adorn your home and office. You can buy handicrafts from various shops and galleries in Kolli Hills at fair prices.
Travel Tips for Kolli Hills
Kolli Hills is a wonderful destination that will make your trip unforgettable and enjoyable. However, there are some tips and advice that you need to know before visiting or planning a trip to Kolli Hills. Some of them are:
How to reach Kolli Hills
Kolli Hills can be reached by various modes of transportation from different cities. Some of them are:
By Air: The nearest airport to Kolli Hills is Tiruchirappalli International Airport, which is about 90 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Kolli Hills.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Kolli Hills is Namakkal Railway Station, which is about 55 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Kolli Hills.
By Road: Kolli Hills is well-connected by road to various cities such as Chennai, Coimbatore, Salem etc. You can take a car or a bus to reach Kolli Hills.
When is the best time to visit Kolli Hills
The best time to visit Kolli Hills is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and cool. This is also the peak season for tourism and festivals in Kolli Hills. You can also visit Kolli Hills between June and September when the weather is rainy and misty. This is also the off-season for tourism and offers discounts and deals on accommodation and travel.
What are the essential items to pack for a trip to Kolli Hills
Some of the essential items that you need to pack for a trip to Kolli Hills are:
1. Warm and comfortable clothes, as the temperature can drop at night and during the rainy season.
2. Raincoat and umbrella, as the rainfall can be unpredictable and heavy in Kolli Hills.
3. Trekking shoes and gear, as there are many trekking trails and routes in Kolli Hills.
4. Camera and binoculars, as there are many scenic and picturesque views and sights in Kolli Hills.
5. Medicines and first-aid kit, as there are no major hospitals or clinics in Kolli Hills.
What are the safety precautions and measures to take while traveling to Kolli Hills
Some of the safety precautions and measures that you need to take while traveling to Kolli Hills are:
- Be careful while driving or riding on the hairpin bends and curves that lead to Kolli Hills, as they can be steep and narrow.
- Be respectful of the local customs and traditions, as Kolli Hills is a place of religious and cultural importance.
- Be aware of the wildlife and insects, as Kolli Hills is a place of natural diversity and habitat.
- Be prepared for the power cuts and network issues, as Kolli Hills is a remote and rural area.
What are the local customs and traditions to respect and follow while visiting Kolli Hills
Some of the local customs and traditions that you need to respect and follow while visiting Kolli Hills are:
- Dress modestly and appropriately, especially when visiting the temples and shrines in Kolli Hills.
- Seek permission before taking photos or videos of the people or places in Kolli Hills, as some of them may be sensitive or private.
- Do not litter or pollute the environment, as Kolli Hills is a place of natural beauty and conservation.
- Do not harm or disturb the animals or plants, as Kolli Hills is a place of ecological balance and harmony.
Also check out: KOLLI HILLS - A HIDDEN GEM!
Kolli Hills is a hidden paradise in Tamil Nadu that will make you fall in love with its charm and grace. It has many attractions and activities that will cater to your interests and preferences.
It also has many accommodation options and places to stay that will suit your budget and comfort. It also has many products and souvenirs that will remind you of your trip and experience. It also has many tips and advice that will help you plan your trip and travel.
So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip now and visit Kolli Hills, a destination that will make your dreams come true.
