A lively holiday amidst the Shivaroy range of Yercaud

Yercaud, located in the Salem district of Tamil Nadu is a charming hill station. Untouched natural beauty and the scenic view of the landscape will amaze you. Yercaud is a popular hill station and is often tagged as ' poor man's Ooty'. But 'smart man's Ooty' would be a good term to use. If you want a budget tour to a wonderful hill station then Yercaud is the right choice.

Being situated in the Eastern Ghats, the whole region of Yercaud is commonly known as the Shivaroy Hills. The intriguing view of the mountain range and the whole landscape is magnificent. The Eastern Ghat beholds a unique image, but it is also covered with few exotic flora and fauna. While meandering in the town, you will see the lush greens and the bamboo trees on both the side of the road. Also known as the Jewel of South, Yercaud is a must visit place. Sandalwood, Oak and Teak are mainly seen here. Blessed with different charm, Yercaud is a perfect place for nature lovers and photo fanatics. A perfect getaway with family, friends or solo, Yercaud offers a rejuvenating trip to all kind of travellers.

The 31 km uphill ride to Yercaud from the town of Salem takes about an hour. You have to face around 20 hairpin bends on your way. As you slowly approach to Yercaud, the sight of coffee plantations and orange groves is a treat. You can easily move from Salem to Yercaud by car.

After reaching the town, at first, visit the Shivaroy Temple, which is one of the major attractions of Yercaud. The Shivaroy Temple is located at the highest point of the Shivaroy Hills (an average altitude of 1515 metres). A modern structured temple and exciting part are you have to walk bend down to enter the temple. Shivaroy Temple is a cave temple. Lord Shivaroy and Goddess Cauvery is the main deity. This is also the starting point of River Cauvery. The cave is wet and water is there almost everywhere, so, be careful while entering the temple. Emerald Lake is the big Lake of Yercaud and Killiyur Falls is a small beautiful stream running between the hill. It is a delight to watch. Ladies Seat, Pagoda Point, the Grange and the Bear's cave are some popular spots to visit in Yercaud.

Yercaud is also considered as Lover's paradise. Every year couples from across the country ply to this hill town for spending a tranquil and romantic vacation. It is a year-round destination. Salem Airport is 40 km away from Yercaud. Check Salem to Yercaud by car route for a hassle free tour. Thiruchirapalli is the nearest international airport. Regular domestic and international flights fly to Tiruchirapalli. The nearest rail station is in Salem. So, both from Salem airport and railway station you will get state-buses, taxis and cabs which will take you to Yercaud. Salem district is well-accessible by road and local vehicles are easily available.

Pratima is a travel writer and loves to visit different places India. She is an avid traveler herself, and whenever she has the opportunity she flews to the destinations that she has listed in her travel log.