Arani to Yelagiri Hills - Tamil Nadu Best Kept Secret Hill Station
Yelagiri Hills is a peaceful and relatively unexplored hill station located approximately 120 km from Arani in the Vellore district of Tamil Nadu. Perched at 1,100 metres altitude, this hidden gem with rolling hills, rose gardens, fruit orchards, and serene lakes is perfect for a quick weekend escape from the city. With only 14 villages and a small resident population, Yelagiri offers tranquility that the more popular hill stations have long lost.
Distance and Travel Time
- Distance: Approximately 120 km via NH-44 (Krishnagiri)
- Travel Time: 2 to 2.5 hours
- Best Route: Arani to Vellore to Ambur to Vaniyambadi to Yelagiri (via 14 hairpin bends from Jolarpettai)
Top Attractions in Yelagiri Hills
- Nilavoor Lake - A serene lake at the heart of Yelagiri; boating and morning walks around the lake are a joy
- Swamimalai Hill - A 1-hour trek to the highest point in Yelagiri (1,411 metres) with a Murugan shrine; the panoramic view of the plains is spectacular
- Velavan Temple (Yelagiri Murugan) - The presiding deity of Yelagiri; a beautifully situated temple on the hilltop
- Punganur Lake - A picturesque lake surrounded by eucalyptus trees; perfect for quiet walks
- Paragliding - Yelagiri is one of the most popular paragliding destinations in South India; the wind conditions are ideal from October to May
- Jalagamparai Waterfalls - A 60-foot seasonal waterfall accessible via a 3 km trek through the forest
- Fruit Orchards - Pick fresh plums, guava, and mulberries from local orchards during season
Best Time to Visit Yelagiri from Arani
November to June is ideal. The hill is cool year-round (15 to 26 degrees Celsius). Monsoon (July to September) has heavy downpours but the greenery is magnificent. Weekdays are far less crowded than weekends.
Taxi Fare from Arani to Yelagiri Hills
- Sedan: Starting from Rs 1,600 one way
- SUV: Starting from Rs 2,600 one way
Book your Arani to Yelagiri Hills taxi with Varun One Way Taxi and discover Tamil Nadu most peaceful hill retreat!
