Besides the sprawling Backwaters in east, Kerala boasts an inventory of great hill stations along its eastern ridge. The same geography that gave birth to the brackish water of the backwaters is the kingmaker of the many splendid hill stations. A visit to its hill stations justifies Kerala’s nickname as ‘God’s own country’.

The hill stations of Kerala are perched among the Nilgiri Mountains and the magnificent Western Ghats. These high points overlook and are even nestled in dense tropical forests with a cooler air. Bathed in sunlight and filled with the fragrances from the tea and coffee gardens, the hillsides of Kerala are truly, apiece cut out of paradise. The fabled spice gardens of India call the same slopes, seen from the hill stations of Kerala their home.

Popular Hill Stations of Kerala

Covered with shades of green, from the foliage of ambiance of Kerala’s hill stations is simply divine. When visiting the area, a trip to these relaxing retreats is a must for everyone. Some of the more popular hill stations, among locals and tourists are outlined below

Munnar

The Munnar hill station is in the Idduki district, with its high mountain ranges and peaceful valleys. It is the tea country of Kerala because of the sprawling tea gardens on the slopes of Munnar. The Eravikulam National Park compliments its greenery, which is a wonderful excuse for a long drive through the winding roads.

The best time to visit Munnar is between September and May and is easily accessible via Cochin. It is particularly popular as a honeymoon destination in India.

Wayanad

Wayanad is home to many historic and ancient heritage sites in Kerala that are a delightful experience. For example, the pre-historic caves in Edakkal, which are from the Neolithic era, are a great way to spend the day. Many gardens of cardamom and tea abound in this region and can be the most laid-back places. Like the ‘Tree House’ at Vythiri, a village just outside Wayanad

Idukki

One may even call this the Hill station district of Kerala. Many popular tourist destinations are located in this district, like Devikulam, Ponmudi and Peeramade hill stations. It is also spotted with some well-known temples like Sri Krishnaswamy Temple, Annamalai Temple, Nainar Masjid, St. Thomas Church, and the Karikodu Bhagawathy. Natural attractions like the Kuthumkal Waterfalls, Marayoor Sandal Forest and the man-made Idukki Arch Dam have some amazing views. Adventure sports like rappelling, trekking, mountaineering and paragliding are fast becoming the mainstream activities in this district.

All the hill stations are easily commutable from any of the major cities and towns in Kerala. The cool altitude of the Western Ghats and Nilgiris, the tropical greenery and romantic environment of the tea and coffee fields makes a visit to Kerala’s hill stations unforgettable. Hill stations of Vandanmedu, Vandiperiyar, Chellarkovil, Vagamon Pattumala and Vagamon are some of the other popular sites with breathtaking views and that are famous for their spice gardens.