Kolli Hill Station: Popular Tourist Attraction In Tamilnadu

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Kolli Hills

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Kolli Hills

About:

Kolli Hills is a serene mountain range located in the central part of Tamil Nadu, India. These hills range from 1000 to 1300 meters above sea level and stretch over an area of 280 km². The climb to Kolli Hills is famous for its 72 hairpin bends, offering a thrilling journey to the top. Part of the ancient Eastern Ghats, Kolli Hills remains relatively untouched by mass tourism, preserving its natural charm.

In ancient times, Kolli Hills was referred to as "Kolli Malai," meaning "Mountains of Death," due to its mysterious folklore. Today, it is a peaceful hill station known for its refreshing climate, where temperatures never exceed 30°C or drop below 13°C. The hills are often shrouded in mist and clouds, creating picturesque scenes throughout the year.

Situated in the Eastern Namakkal district, Kolli Hills belongs to the Trichy & Namakkal Forest Division. Its pristine environment, along with hiking trails, herbal medicine resources, and historical sites like the Arappaleeswarar Temple, make it a remarkable tourist spot in Tamil Nadu.

Location Info:

Address: Kolli Hills, Namakkal, Tamil Nadu, India

District: Namakkal

Nearest City: Salem (100 km), Trichy (120 km)

Best time to visit: November to March

Climate/Weather:

Summer (March to May): Warm temperatures ranging between 18°C and 30°C. Ideal for exploring the region's flora and fauna, though it can be slightly warm during the day.
Monsoon (June to October): Heavy rainfall with temperatures between 20°C and 28°C. The region becomes lush and green, offering beautiful views, but outdoor activities may be limited due to rain.
Winter (November to February): Cool and pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from 13°C to 25°C. This is the best time to visit, with perfect conditions for trekking and sightseeing.

The best time to visit Kolli Hills is from November to March when the weather is most comfortable for outdoor activities.

History:

Kolli Hills has a rich history that dates back over 2,000 years, with references found in ancient Tamil literature such as the works of poets from the Sangam era. The hills were a significant cultural and religious site, believed to be inhabited by sages who practiced herbal medicine. Kolli Hills was also mentioned in connection to ancient folklore, where it was known as "Kolli Malai" or the "Mountains of Death," due to the presence of a mythical demon named Kollipavai who was believed to guard the hills. Historically, these hills have been important for their medicinal herbs, which were used in traditional Siddha medicine. Several South Indian dynasties, including the Cholas, Pandyas, and Pallavas, ruled over this region, utilizing its natural resources and treating it as a place of spiritual retreat. Today, Kolli Hills continues to be known for its ancient temples, particularly the Arappaleeswarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, which remains a pilgrimage site for devotees.

Interesting Places to Visit:

Agaya Gangai Waterfalls: A breathtaking 300-foot waterfall located near the Arappaleeswarar Temple. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery, and it’s a popular spot for trekking and nature photography.
Arappaleeswarar Temple: An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is a must-visit for its religious significance and stunning architecture. It is located near the Agaya Gangai Waterfalls.
Botanical Garden: A serene garden home to various species of medicinal plants and trees. It's perfect for a peaceful stroll and offers insights into the region’s rich biodiversity.
Siddhar Caves: These ancient caves are believed to have been the meditation spots of sages (Siddhars). The caves are located on the hills and offer a mystical and historical exploration.
Viewpoints: Kolli Hills has several viewpoints, including Selur Nadu and Seekuparai, which provide panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys, making them ideal for nature lovers and photographers.
Masila Falls: A smaller yet beautiful waterfall located amidst the hills. It’s a perfect spot for a quiet picnic and a refreshing dip in the natural pool below the falls.

How to Reach:

By Air: The nearest airport is in Trichy, located approximately 120 kilometers away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kolli Hills.
By Train: The nearest railway station is in Namakkal, about 46 kilometers from Kolli Hills. Namakkal is well connected to major cities like Chennai and Bangalore. Taxis and buses are available from the station to the hills.
By Road: Kolli Hills is well connected by road. You can drive from nearby cities such as Salem (100 km) and Namakkal (46 km). Buses run frequently from these cities to Kolli Hills, and private taxis are also available.
By Bus: Government and private buses run from major cities like Chennai, Salem, and Namakkal to Kolli Hills. These buses make the journey comfortable and affordable for travelers.

Nearest Visiting Places:

Namakkal Fort: Located about 46 kilometers from Kolli Hills, this historic fort is known for its rock-cut architecture and offers a glimpse into the region's rich history.
Pachamalai Hills: Situated approximately 80 kilometers away, this hill station is known for its beautiful trekking trails and serene surroundings, perfect for nature lovers.
Salem: About 100 kilometers from Kolli Hills, Salem is a bustling city known for its temples, shopping centers, and the Yercaud hill station nearby.
Trichy: Located 120 kilometers from Kolli Hills, Trichy is famous for its historic temples such as the Rockfort Temple and Srirangam Temple. It's a significant cultural and religious destination in Tamil Nadu.
Yercaud: A popular hill station located around 100 kilometers from Kolli Hills, Yercaud is known for its beautiful lakes, viewpoints, and coffee plantations, offering a cool respite for visitors.

Nearest Petrol Pump:

Namakkal: The nearest petrol pump is located in Namakkal, about 46 kilometers from Kolli Hills. It is a convenient stop for refueling before you begin the climb up the hills.
Semmedu: There is also a petrol pump in Semmedu, which is closer to Kolli Hills, approximately 20 kilometers away. It’s useful for last-minute refueling needs when you're already near the hills.
Rasipuram: Another option is in Rasipuram, about 42 kilometers away, offering refueling services before you enter the mountain roads to Kolli Hills.