Explore Velliangiri Hills – The Complete Travel Experience
Introduction
Velliangiri Hills, often referred to as the “Kailash of the South,” is a pristine and spiritual destination located in Tamil Nadu. Part of the Western Ghats, this sacred site is known for its lush greenery, tranquil trails, and religious significance. A two-day trip here offers a mix of adventure and peace, with visits to places like the Isha Yoga Center, the breathtaking Seven Hills trek, and natural spots like Siruvani Waterfalls. Ideal for nature lovers, pilgrims, and adventure seekers, the Velliangiri Hills provide an unforgettable experience.
History
Velliangiri Hills holds immense spiritual significance and is often associated with Lord Shiva. Legend has it that Shiva performed his cosmic dance here, and the hills are considered sacred by devotees. It is also part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, home to rare flora and fauna. Pilgrims believe that climbing the seven hills leads to spiritual enlightenment, making it a vital spot for both history and faith.
Time to Schedule
Day 1: Spirituality and Nature Exploration
- 6:00 AM – 7:00 AM: Breakfast at Shree Annapurna or Adayar Ananda Bhavan. Enjoy local favorites like idlis, dosas, or Pongal. (~₹150/person).
- 7:30 AM – 10:30 AM: Isha Yoga Center – Begin your trip with a visit to this serene spiritual hub. Explore the Adiyogi Shiva statue, meditate in the Dhyanalinga, and experience tranquility.
- 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Siruvani Waterfalls – Take a short hike to reach the falls, known for their pristine waters. Enjoy the scenic surroundings and refresh yourself.
- 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM: Lunch at Annalakshmi or Hari Bhavanam. Try a traditional Tamil Nadu thali (~₹300/person).
- 3:00 PM – 5:30 PM: Anaikatti Hills – Spend your afternoon exploring the lush green landscapes of Anaikatti. Enjoy birdwatching and short nature walks.
- 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Dinner at Hari Bhavanam or a local eatery offering Kongu-style biryani (~₹400/person). Relax at a nearby hotel for the night.
Day 2: Trekking and Cultural Immersion
- 4:30 AM – 11:00 AM: Seven Hills Trek – Start early to experience the breathtaking views and spiritual significance of climbing these sacred hills. The trek is moderately challenging and takes about 5-6 hours round trip.
- 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM: Breakfast and Rest – Recharge at a local eatery near the foothills with a hearty South Indian breakfast (~₹150/person).
- 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM: Poondi Temple – Visit this serene temple for a spiritual experience and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
- 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM: Lunch at Shree Annapurna or Annalakshmi. Enjoy light meals like lemon rice or curd rice (~₹250/person).
- 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Shopping and Relaxation – Explore local markets near Coimbatore for souvenirs like spices, brass lamps, and handmade textiles.
- 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM: Dinner at a high-rated restaurant like Kovai Kitchen (~₹500/person).
Street Food Guides
- Sri Annapurna Sweets – Famous for their samosas and sweets.
- Achi Mess – Authentic Tamil snacks and dosas.
- RS Street Food Corner – Known for crispy vada pav.
- Bhavan Tiffin Center – Steaming idlis and vadas.
- Ponni Bajji Stall – Delicious banana bajjis.
- Ganesh Chaat House – Spicy chaats and pani puri.
- Murugan Bhavan – Parottas with curry.
- Malli Street Corner – Tasty roasted peanuts.
Vegan/Vegetarian Travel Tips
Velliangiri Hills and the surrounding regions offer a variety of vegan and vegetarian-friendly options that are both delicious and culturally authentic. Here are some tips for plant-based travelers:
- Research Local Cuisine: Tamil Nadu cuisine is inherently vegetarian-friendly. Staples like idli, dosa, Pongal, vada, sambhar, and coconut chutney are plant-based and widely available.
- Ask for Clarifications: When ordering meals, confirm with restaurant staff to ensure dishes like curries or desserts are made without ghee, milk, or butter if you are vegan. Use the local phrase “Paal illa” (no milk) to communicate dietary preferences.
- Visit Vegan-Friendly Restaurants: Look for eateries like Shree Annapurna, A2B Veg, and Annalakshmi, which cater extensively to vegetarian and vegan diets.
- Fruit and Vegetable Stalls: Local markets and street vendors in Coimbatore and around the hills sell fresh fruits and vegetables, perfect for snacks or quick meals.
- Stay at Vegan-Friendly Hotels: Choose accommodations that offer vegan breakfast options or allow cooking to prepare your meals.
Recommended Vegan/Vegetarian Eateries:
- Kovai Kitchen – Offers modern twists on traditional Tamil vegetarian dishes.
- Annalakshmi – Renowned for its vegetarian thalis.
- Hari Bhavanam – Customizable options for vegans and vegetarians.
- A2B Veg (Adyar Ananda Bhavan) – Great for vegan dosas and filter coffee alternatives.
Top Local Foods to Try
- Kongu-style biryani
- Kaara kuzhambu (spicy curry)
- Filter coffee
- Banana leaf thali
- Coconut barfi
- Vellai Paniyaram (steamed rice cakes)
- Tapioca chips
- Pongal
- Kozhukattai (sweet dumplings)
- Payasam (milk dessert)
Meal Timings and Costs
- Breakfast (7:30 AM – 8:30 AM): Try the Pongal or idli at Shree Annapurna (~₹150/person).
- Lunch (1:00 PM – 2:00 PM): Enjoy a Tamil Nadu thali at Annalakshmi (~₹300/person).
- Dinner (7:00 PM – 8:00 PM): Try Kongu-style biryani at Hari Bhavanam (~₹400/person).
Best Hotels to Stay
- 3-Star Hotels: Hotel Gowtham, ZIBE Coimbatore, FabHotel Royal Castle.
- 4-Star Hotels: The Residency Towers, Gokulam Park, Fairfield by Marriott.
- 5-Star Hotels: Vivanta Coimbatore, Radisson Blu, Le Méridien.
Top Best Cafes
- Café Totaram – Known for its chic ambiance (~₹300/person).
- That’s Y Café – Offers artisan coffee (~₹400/person).
- The French Door – Fusion food options (~₹500/person).
- Café Jumpin Beans – Great for quick bites (~₹250/person).
- Hiflier Café – Budget-friendly (~₹200/person).
- Café Deja Vu – Popular for desserts (~₹350/person).
- The Brew Room – Renowned for its brews (~₹450/person).
- Beanstock – Excellent breakfast options (~₹400/person).
- Aroma Café – Family-friendly (~₹300/person).
- Brown Bear Café – Casual and affordable (~₹250/person).
Best Ways to Reach
- By Train: Coimbatore Junction (~₹300).
- By Bus: Coimbatore Central Bus Stand (~₹200).
- By Air: Coimbatore International Airport (~₹2,000 from major cities).
- By Car: Accessible via NH544 (~₹1,500 for a one-way trip).
Cultural Tourism
- Thai Pongal Festival: Held in January, this harvest festival is celebrated with traditional kolams, cultural dances, and feasts.
- Natyanjali Dance Festival: A unique classical dance event near temples in Tamil Nadu, including those near Coimbatore.
- Mahashivratri at Isha Yoga Center: A spiritual event with performances and meditation sessions.
Adventure Tourism
- Trekking at Velliangiri Hills: A challenging yet rewarding trek across seven hills, surrounded by nature.
- Paragliding at Pollachi: Experience the thrill of flying over lush landscapes.
- Camping at Siruvani Hills: Stay overnight in eco-friendly camps and enjoy the serenity of the wilderness.
Travel Photography Tips
Capture stunning shots at:
- Isha Yoga Center (Adiyogi Statue)
- Siruvani Waterfalls
- Seven Hills Trek viewpoints
- Poondi Temple
- Anaikatti Wildlife Reserve
- Marudhamalai Temple
- Aliyar Dam
Use wide-angle lenses for landscapes and polarizers to enhance colors in your photographs.
Best Times to Visit
- Peak Season: November to February (Cool weather, perfect for treks).
- Moderate Season: March to May (Warm but manageable).
- Off-Season: June to October (Monsoon, risky for trekking but scenic).
Nightlife
Although the Velliangiri region is primarily serene, Coimbatore offers nightlife options like 10 Downing Street, Bike and Barrel, and Tease Bar. These spots are great for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Destination Guides
Hidden gems and top attractions include:
- Hidden waterfalls at Anaikatti for nature lovers.
- Valparai Hill Station for coffee plantations and scenic views.
- Perur Pateeswarar Temple, an architectural marvel.
Packing Tips
- For Treks: Lightweight backpack, sturdy trekking shoes, reusable water bottles, and energy snacks.
- For Monsoon: Waterproof gear and quick-dry clothes.
- For Cultural Visits: Comfortable cotton wear and a scarf or shawl for temples.
Budget Travel Tips
- Accommodations: Opt for budget stays like ZIBE or local homestays (~₹1,500/night).
- Transport: Share autos or buses (~₹30-₹100/trip).
- Food: Stick to local eateries for affordable yet delicious meals (~₹300/day).
Estimated total trip cost:
- Family: ₹10,000 – ₹15,000
- Groups: ₹7,000 – ₹10,000
- Single: ₹5,000 – ₹7,000
Travel Safety Tips
- Stay hydrated and carry basic first-aid kits during treks.
- Beware of overcharging; research standard fares for transport.
- Inform someone about your itinerary if exploring remote areas.
Eco-Tourism
Explore eco-friendly stays like Anaikatti Resorts and Siruvani Eco Lodges. Use biodegradable products, avoid littering, and support local artisans by purchasing handmade souvenirs.
Luxury Travel
For a high-end experience, consider:
- Vivanta Coimbatore – Spa and fine dining.
- Radisson Blu Coimbatore – Luxury rooms and facilities.
- Tamara Kodai – Premium hill station retreat.
- Le Méridien Coimbatore – Poolside luxury.
- Kurumba Village Resort – In Valparai, with plantation views.
- Great Trails Kodaikanal – Nestled in nature.
- Sterling Ooty Elk Hill – Panoramic views.
- The Gateway Hotel Pasumalai – Heritage property.
Best Shopping Suggestions
- Handwoven silk sarees.
- Traditional brass lamps.
- Spices and herbal oils.
- Local handicrafts.
- Bamboo furniture.
- Organic tea and coffee.
- Eco-friendly artifacts.
- Tamil Nadu pottery.
Local Transportation Options
- Auto-Rickshaws: (~₹50-₹200).
- Bike Rentals: (~₹400/day).
- Cabs: (~₹1,000/day).
- Local Buses: (~₹10-₹50/trip).
Cultural Etiquette
Respect the dress code when visiting temples; opt for traditional wear like kurtas or sarees. Avoid shorts or sleeveless tops, as these are considered disrespectful in sacred spaces.
Emergency Contacts
| Service | Contact Number |
|---|---|
| Police | 100 |
| Ambulance | 108 |
| Tourist Helpline | 1363 |
| Nearest Hospital | Kovai Medical Center & Hospital (+91 422 4323800) |
Local Language Phrases
| Tamil Phrase | English Translation | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Vanakkam | Hello | Vah-nah-kkam |
| Eppadi irukkirirgal? | How are you? | Ep-pah-dee ir-oo-kir-ir-gal |
| Nandri | Thank you | Nan-dree |
| Thanni venum | I need water | Thuh-nee vay-num |
| Enakku udavi venum | I need help | Eh-nah-kuh oo-dah-vee vay-num |
Photography Restrictions
Photography is restricted in certain temples, such as Perur Pateeswarar Temple and inside meditation halls at Isha Yoga Center. Look for signboards to avoid issues.
Sustainability Tips
Carry reusable water bottles, avoid plastic bags, and shop locally to support artisans. Opt for eco-friendly lodging to minimize your environmental impact.
Weather Considerations
The region enjoys moderate weather throughout the year, with cooler months from November to February. Summers can be warm, and monsoons are rainy yet scenic. Carry layers for treks and rain gear in monsoon.
Question to Users
What excites you the most about visiting Velliangiri Hills? Share your thoughts or suggestions below!