Yelagiri Hill is one of the popular hill stations of Tamil Nadu. Situated amidst four mountains well known for its salubrious climate prevail throughout the year. Tribal people live in villages in these hills.
If you travel the winding Ghat road that has 14 hairpin bends you can reach the Yelagiri hilltop. The hairpin bends offer panoramic, breath taking views of the hills and its surroundings. The seventh bend is significant, since it offer the view of the slopes of the mountain and the green forests that carpet the hill.
Yelagiri comprises 14 small villages. The tribal people who live here are engaged in agriculture, horticulture, forestry, etc. Their customs, habits, and the structure if their houses are very unique and attract tourists.
The hill station of Yelagiri in Tamil Nadu is a cluster of 14 hamlets or villages spread across 29 square kilometres, 3,460 feet above sea level. The drive to the picturesque idyll winds through 14 hairpin bends that open up to spectacular mountain landscapes; after every twist and turn, the city seems to fade away a little more.
The first thing that hits you on arrival in Yelagiri is the lack of noise. The beautiful rustic surroundings are extraordinarily quiet and when someone rings a temple bell somewhere on the hill, you can hear it as clearly as if you were right there. The smells of mango and jackfruit plantations are diluted by the subtle fragrances of fresh foliage. You suddenly realize how close you are to nature.
The most popular landmark of Yelagiri is the centrally-located Lake Punganoor. Pedal and manned rowing boats offer a chance to watch the beauty of the surrounding hills during a leisurely curise.
The hills of Yelagiri are also very popular among adventure enthusiasts in Tamil Nadu for trekking. Swamimalai, the highest peak in the Yelagiri hills at 4338 feet, is a breathtakingly beautiful 1-hour trek from Yelagiri. Paragliding is another sport that's drawing visitors. The hill station was recently chosen the second best natural spot in India for the sport, next only to Panchgani in Maharashtra.
But apart from all of this, it is the morning walks, the evening strolls, and guided jungle sojourns at night that epitomise the true charm of Yelagiri. As you gradually slow down to match the pace of the surroundings, a sense of wellbeing settles over you.