The third largest city in India,Bangalore is often described as the silicon valley of India due to its rapidly growing information technology sector. The city is located 914, kilometers above sea level and is known for its perennially pleasant climate. The region that comprises the metropolitan town has known to be inhabited since 4000 BCE and came under the subsequent rule of several south Indian kingdoms such as the Western Ganga Dynasty, Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, later Cholas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagara Empire, Mughals, Mysore kingdom and finally the British. Bangalore became a major trade town under the British and developed as a metropolitan giving rise to several technological advancements in India. Today despite of being a well frequented tourist location, Bangalore is not without the ills of a metropolis life. The pollution and the traffic laden streets and roads make it essential for the people of Bangalore to find refuge. Here’s the list of some of the most popular hill stations near Bangalore.
Horsley Hills
Located in the state of Andhra Pradesh,Horsley hills is a picturesque hill town situated 1,290 meters above mean sea level. The town is in close proximity to the Koundinya Wildlife Sanctuary and one can also spot the sambhar deer early morning if you’re lucky. The town was discovered by the British in the mid-nineteenth century and was then turned into a summer retreat. Horsley hills are famous for its picturesque surroundings and dense vegetation. One can also enjoy adventure sports activities like Zorbing in Horsley hills.
Coonoor
Coonoor is a picturesque hill town located in the state of Tamil Nadu, and is situated at an average elevation of 1,850 meters above sea level. Coonoor is the second largest hill station after Ooty and is ideal for hiking and trekking into the picturesque Nilgiri hills. The town’s major sources of income are its tea and tourism industry and the UNESCO world heritage attraction, the Nilgiri Mountain Railways. The climate in Coonoor stays relatively cool compared to the low lying areas and can be visited all year round. Sim’s park, Dolphin’s nose, Lamb’s rock, Droog fort, Law’s falls, Katary Falls etc. are the various attractions that can be visited in the picturesque town of Coonoor.
Yelagiri
Situated at an elevation of 1,410 meters above sea level, Yelagiri is located in the state of Tamil Nadu. Unlike the neighboring hill stations of Ooty and Kodaikanal, Yelagiri is not developed as a proper hill resort, but is famous for its un-commercialized nature destination with enchanting hills, valleys and flower orchards. The government has recently started promoting the place as an adventure sport hotspot, offering adventure sports like paragliding, rock climbing and hiking. Yelagiri is best visited during the end of May when the state government organizes the Yelagiri summer festival which features flower exhibitions, cultural programs and dog shows.
Yercaud
Nestled amidst the Shevaroys hills of the Eastern Ghats in the state of Tamil nadu,Yercaud is situated at an elevation of 1,515 meters above sea level. The name Yercaud literally translates to seven forests and is known for its serene surroundings and a huge variety of flora and fauna. Eco-tourism, coffee and hospitality are the major sources of the town’s economy and due to its favorable climate throughout the year is visited perennially by tourists. Yercud Lake, Lady’s seat, the Grange, Silk Farm, Rose Garden, Kiliyur Falls and Karadiyur view points are the not to be missed attractions in Yercud.