Yercaud

The Quieter Cousin of Ooty

Peaceful Hills, Coffee Trails, and Waterfalls in Tamil Nadu’s Eastern Ghats.

Journey from Chennai to Yercaud

I had been craving a hill escape that wasn’t crowded like Ooty or Kodaikanal. That’s when I decided to explore Yercaud, a small, serene hill station nestled in the Shevaroy Hills of Tamil Nadu. I started from Chennai, took a morning train to Salem Junction, and then hired a cab for the uphill journey—around 32 km of ghat roads with 20+ hairpin bends and mesmerizing views. The cooler air hit the moment we began ascending.

Places to Visit in Yercaud

1. Yercaud Lake (Emerald Lake)

A man-made lake surrounded by gardens and boat houses.
Activities: Pedal/row boating, lakeside walking, and photography.
Best time: Early morning or late afternoon for cool breeze and light crowds.

2. Lady’s Seat, Gent’s Seat & Children’s Seat

Set of viewpoints offering panoramic views of the plains, ghat roads, and Salem city.
Best for: Sunset views and valley photography.
Tip: Carry binoculars—there’s an old telescope observatory here.

3. Kiliyur Falls

A 300-ft waterfall located at the end of a forest trail and staircase descent (~250 steps).
Monsoon and post-monsoon visits are ideal when the falls are in full flow.
Tip: Wear proper shoes—trail can be slippery.

4. Shevaroy Temple

The highest point in Yercaud (~5,326 ft).
A cave temple dedicated to Lord Servarayan and Goddess Kaveri.
Offers panoramic views of surrounding forests.

5. Botanical Garden & Orchidarium

Maintained by the Botanical Survey of India.
Known for rare orchid varieties and medicinal plants.
Peaceful for a quiet walk or plant photography.

6. Deer Park

Small park near the lake—good for kids and birdwatchers.
Includes deer, rabbits, and basic play areas.

7. Pagoda Point

Another viewpoint offering tranquil vibes and scenic beauty.
Legend says ancient stone pagodas were built by local tribes here.
Ideal for early mornings or foggy views.

8. Bear’s Cave

Located near Norton’s Bungalow on the way to Shevaroy Temple.
Said to have been used by Tipu Sultan as a secret hideout.
Semi-natural formation—worth a quick stop for history lovers.

9. 32-km Loop Road

Scenic drive or ride through forest, plantations, and tribal villages.
Stops include coffee estates, viewpoints, and fruit sellers.
Best experienced with a local or early morning ride.

10. Sri Raja Rajeswari Temple

Visited for blessings and its peaceful temple surroundings.
Known as one of the powerful Shakti Peethas in the region.

What to Eat in Yercaud

Yercaud doesn’t have a huge food scene like Ooty or Kodaikanal, but what it offers is fresh, local, and comforting—perfect for hill weather. Most of the food is influenced by Tamil cuisine, along with a few cozy cafes and plantation-style restaurants.

Must-Try Local Dishes

1. South Indian Breakfast

Idli, Vadai, Pongal, Dosa, and Upma—served with coconut chutney and sambar.
Try these at:
- Sri Saravana Bhavan Elite
- Hotel Shevaroys (on-the-go breakfast option)

2. Filter Coffee

Strong, fragrant South Indian-style filter coffee made from locally grown beans.
Best sipped at roadside stalls or homestays—it’s warm and grounding after a walk.

3. Tamil Nadu-Style Meals

Traditional lunch thali: Rice, sambar, rasam, poriyal, kootu, curd, papad, pickle.
Try at:
- Green Park Restaurant
- Malar Restaurant (vegetarian)

4. Pepper Chicken / Mutton Sukka

If you’re a non-vegetarian, don’t miss spicy dry-fried meats cooked with fresh black pepper and curry leaves.

5. Homemade Chocolates & Spices

Local shops sell homemade dark and milk chocolates.
Pick up fresh pepper, coffee beans, and cloves grown in nearby plantations.

Cafes & Restaurants Worth Visiting

Sweet Rascal Café

A quirky café with vintage decor and a relaxed vibe. Known for continental dishes, burgers, and pizzas. Great for brunch or dinner.

Eggetarian Café

Fun egg-based menu—omelets, sandwiches, wraps.

The Orange Restaurant at Hotel Shevaroys

Extensive menu: Indian, Chinese, and South Indian dishes.
Good ambiance, especially in the evening.

Grange Restaurant

Inside Grange Resort—ideal for a quiet meal with plantation views. Try their coffee-based desserts and grilled items.

Seasonal Specials

Fresh Oranges, Jackfruit, and Guavas from local farms.
Don’t miss the small fruit vendors on the 32-km loop road—you can taste and buy directly.

Things to Do in Yercaud

Trekking:
- There are numerous trekking trails around Yercaud, including the trek to Kiliyur Falls and the scenic hills surrounding the lake.
Boating at Yercaud Lake:
- Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the lake surrounded by lush greenery.
Nature Walks and Birdwatching:
- Yercaud’s flora and fauna make it perfect for nature walks and birdwatching, especially around the lake and forested areas.
Visit Coffee Plantations:
- Explore the coffee plantations and enjoy the aroma of freshly ground coffee beans.

Where to Stay in Yercaud

Whether you’re seeking peace in a coffee estate or looking for a luxury spa escape, Yercaud has something for every kind of traveler. Most accommodations are nestled amid hills, gardens, or overlooking the valley—perfect for a healing and rejuvenating stay.

Budget-Friendly Stays (INR800–INR2,000 per night)

Coffee Nest Cottage

Cozy, affordable homestay near plantations.
Clean rooms, friendly hosts, basic amenities.
Great for solo travelers and nature lovers.

Misty Meadows Homestay

Located a bit away from the market, surrounded by greenery.
Simple Tamil-style home with delicious home-cooked meals.

GRT Nature Trails – Yercaud (Off-season discounts)

Mid-range rooms available if booked early or during off-season.
Includes bonfire and plantation walks.

Mid-Range Comfort (INR2,000–INR4,000 per night)

Hotel Shevaroys

Centrally located, spacious rooms.
In-house restaurant (The Orange) with great food options.
Ideal for families and couples.

Grand Palace Hotel & Spa

Gorgeous hill views, infinity pool, and spa services.
Perfect for those who want comfort without splurging.
Known for its breakfast and peaceful ambiance.

TGI Star Holidays

Near the lake, well-maintained rooms.
Includes games area, children’s park, and short trekking trails.

Premium/Luxury Escapes (INR4,000+ per night)

Sterling Yercaud

Scenic views of the valley, multi-cuisine restaurant, spa.
Known for its hospitality and comfortable villas.
Ideal for couples and long weekend stays.

Grange Resort

Rustic cottages inside a coffee plantation.
Organic food, heritage vibe, and serene surroundings.
Great for digital detox and nature retreats.

How to Reach Yercaud from Chennai

By Road:
- Distance: Approximately 350 km, taking about 6 to 7 hours by car.
- Route: Take the NH 45 and drive through scenic landscapes to reach Yercaud via Salem.
- Transport Options:
  - Private Cabs: Convenient for families and groups.
  - Buses: Both government and private buses run between Chennai and Yercaud.
  - Self-Drive: A peaceful and scenic drive via the Salem route is a popular choice for road trip enthusiasts.
By Train:
- The nearest railway station is Salem Junction (35 km from Yercaud). You can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Yercaud from Salem.

2-Day Yercaud Itinerary

Slow down, breathe in the hills, and let nature do the healing.

Day 0 – Arrival in Salem / Travel from Chennai

Evening train or bus from Chennai to Salem
- Overnight journey (approximately 6 hours by train or 7–8 hours by bus)
- From Salem Junction, hire a cab to Yercaud (32 km via ghat road – around 1.5 hours)

Day 1 – Lake, Views, and Sunset Calm

Morning (8:00 AM – 11:00 AM)

Arrive in Yercaud and check in to your stay
Freshen up and enjoy a hot cup of filter coffee with a traditional South Indian breakfast

Late Morning (11:00 AM – 1:00 PM)

Visit Yercaud Lake
- Try boating or enjoy a peaceful walk around the lake
- Optional: Visit Deer Park and Anna Park nearby

Lunch (1:00 PM – 2:00 PM)

Lunch at Sweet Rascal Café or Orange Restaurant (Hotel Shevaroys)

Afternoon (2:30 PM – 4:00 PM)

Explore the Botanical Garden and Orchidarium
Ideal for nature walks and plant photography

Evening (4:30 PM – 6:30 PM)

Visit Lady’s Seat, Gent’s Seat, and Children’s Seat
Stay for the panoramic sunset view over Salem and the valley

Night (7:30 PM – 9:00 PM)

Dinner at your stay or Grange Restaurant
Optional: Enjoy a bonfire or plantation night walk if your accommodation offers it

Day 2 – Waterfalls, Temples, and Scenic Drive

Early Morning (6:00 AM – 8:00 AM)

Drive to Pagoda Point for a peaceful sunrise experience

Breakfast (8:30 AM – 9:30 AM)

Breakfast at your stay or try a local tiffin center

Mid-Morning (10:00 AM – 12:00 PM)

Trek to Kiliyur Falls (~250 steps)
Best visited post-monsoon; wear proper footwear

Afternoon (12:30 PM – 2:00 PM)

Visit Shevaroy Temple, the highest point in Yercaud
Calm atmosphere and sweeping views of the forested hills

Lunch and Souvenirs (2:30 PM – 4:00 PM)

Lunch at Green Park Restaurant
Shop for homemade chocolates, fresh coffee beans, and local spices

Checkout and Return (4:00 PM – 6:00 PM)

Check out from your stay and travel back to Salem
Board your return train or bus to Chennai

Optional Day 3 – If You Extend Your Stay

Drive the 32-km Loop Road through coffee plantations and tribal villages
Visit Sri Raja Rajeswari Temple
Book a coffee estate tour or farm-to-table organic lunch

Budget Breakdown

Category	Approx. Cost (INR)
Train (Chennai to Salem)	INR400 (sleeper)
Taxi from Salem to Yercaud	INR1,200 (one way)
Stay (2 nights)	INR2,000–INR4,000
Food & Entry Fees	INR1,000–INR1,500
Total	INR4,500–INR7,000

Travel Tips for Yercaud

Best time to visit: October to June (avoid monsoon unless you love misty landscapes).
Carry a light jacket—it gets chilly in the mornings and evenings.
The roads are narrow, so drive slow or hire a local driver from Salem.
Mobile network is patchy at high altitudes—enjoy the digital detox!
Don’t miss sunrise or sunset views from any of the viewpoints.

Why Yercaud Fits “Travel and Heal”

Yercaud isn’t just a getaway—it’s a pause button. The fresh air, slow pace, green canopy, and friendly locals gave me a sense of calm I had been craving. Whether you’re solo, with friends, or a partner, Yercaud lets you breathe, walk, and heal—exactly what this blog stands for.

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