Here’s a crisp travel guide to 9 stunning yet lesser-known hill stations in South India, each with a quick budget plan to help you plan your escape without breaking the bank! 🧳🌿
🌄 1. Agumbe, Karnataka
Known for: Rainforests, sunsets, waterfalls
Budget (2 Days): ₹3,500–₹5,000
Stay: Homestays ₹800–₹1,200/night
Food & Travel: ₹1,000–₹1,500
Tip: Visit post-monsoon; pack light rain gear.
🌳 2. Yercaud, Tamil Nadu
Known for: Yercaud Lake, gardens, coffee estates
Budget (2 Days): ₹2,500–₹4,500
Stay: Budget hotels ₹700–₹1,000
Food & Travel: ₹1,000–₹1,500
Tip: Great weekend trip from Salem or Chennai.
☕ 3. Araku Valley, Andhra Pradesh
Known for: Coffee plantations, tribal culture
Budget (2–3 Days): ₹4,000–₹6,000
Stay: Guesthouses ₹1,000–₹1,500/night
Food & Travel: ₹1,500–₹2,000
Tip: Take the scenic Vizag–Araku train!
🍂 4. Kotagiri, Tamil Nadu
Known for: Tea estates, nature trails
Budget (2 Days): ₹3,000–₹5,000
Stay: Cottages ₹1,000–₹1,500
Food & Travel: ₹1,000–₹1,500
Tip: Less crowded than Ooty, great for treks.
🏞️ 5. Kalpetta, Kerala
Known for: Wayanad’s natural beauty, caves, waterfalls
Budget (2–3 Days): ₹4,000–₹6,000
Stay: Homestays ₹1,000–₹1,800
Food & Travel: ₹1,500–₹2,000
Tip: Try Kerala sadhya and visit Edakkal Caves.
🌫️ 6. Valparai, Tamil Nadu
Known for: Wildlife, tea plantations, cool climate
Budget (2 Days): ₹3,500–₹6,000
Stay: Eco-lodges ₹1,200–₹2,000
Food & Travel: ₹1,200–₹1,800
Tip: Ideal for nature lovers and wildlife spotting.
🌧️ 7. Vythiri, Kerala
Known for: Treehouses, spice gardens, waterfalls
Budget (2–3 Days): ₹4,500–₹7,000
Stay: Treehouse ₹2,000–₹3,500 (book early!)
Food & Travel: ₹1,500–₹2,000
Tip: Carry a jacket — evenings can be cool.
🌿 8. Kolli Hills, Tamil Nadu
Known for: Agaya Gangai falls, hairpin bends
Budget (2 Days): ₹3,000–₹5,000
Stay: Budget lodges ₹800–₹1,200
Food & Travel: ₹1,200–₹1,800
Tip: Avoid night drives; roads are curvy and steep.
🌼 9. Peermade, Kerala
Known for: Spice plantations, misty valleys
Budget (2 Days): ₹3,500–₹6,000
Stay: Homestays ₹1,000–₹1,500
Food & Travel: ₹1,500–₹2,000
Tip: Great spot for a peaceful, slow-paced break.
✨ Quick Tips for Budget Travel:
- Use trains or shared cabs
- Travel off-season for cheaper stays
- Eat at local restaurants or homestays
- Book accommodations in advance
