Places to visit in Yercaud

Yercaud – The Place You Might Fall In Love With

TwinsOnToes Disclaimer

Being one of the go-to hill stations in Tamil Nadu, we planned an impromptu weekend trip to Yercaud. You can start and end your days with sunrises and sunsets at Yercaud which makes it exceptional.

Nestled in the Shevaroy hills in the Eastern Ghats, Yercaud is located in the Salem district at an altitude of 1515 m (4970 feet) above sea level. The name is derived from “Yeri Kaadu” which means lake forest. Also known as the Poor Man’s Ooty since it’s easier on the pockets, Yercaud is popular for orange groves, coffee, fruit, and spice plantations.

Touristy Places To Visit In Yercaud

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit Yercaud is during Winter, between October and February. You can also visit the place during the summer festival in May when the flower show takes place. However, it is usually crowded at this time.

Languages Spoken

Tamil is the widely spoken language in Yercaud. However, you can manage with English.

Network Availability

In the main parts of Yercaud, you can expect a fair signal from all network providers. In some places, there is little to no signal. So, inform your friends or family about your whereabouts beforehand in case of any emergency.

ATM Availability

Although a few ATMs are available they may run out of cash during the weekends. Most of the shops and hotels expect payments in cash, so carry enough cash with you.

How To Reach?

By Air

The nearest Airport to Yercaud is the Salem Airport (38 Km, Airport Code – SXV). You can hire a taxi to Yercaud which is merely an hour’s drive.

By Train

Salem Junction (38 Km, Station code – SA) is the nearest railway station from Yercaud. It is well connected to several Indian cities like Bangalore, Vijayawada, Patna, and New Delhi.

By Bus

From Salem, buses depart at scheduled timings to reach the hills of Yercaud. Salem is well connected by road to other cities and nearby towns.

To Roam Around

As the buses operate at a scheduled time, it is hard to roam around in Yercaud by bus. The preferred mode of transport is either by hiring a bike or car of your choice for local sightseeing. A bike ride would be great to enjoy 20 hairpin bends that lead to the hill station.

Note: Ola/Uber is not available in Yercaud.

Where To Eat?

You can find a few restaurants near the main bus stand and the Yercaud lake. We recommend you have breakfast and dinner in the place you stay because of the limited options available.

Note: Swiggy or Zomato is not available

Where To Stay?

Although there are many places to stay, from budget hotels to luxury resorts, we recommend staying at a place near the Yercaud bus stand or the Yercaud lake since it is at the center of the hill station. Here are a few recommendations.

 

Places To Visit In Yercaud

Yercaud Lake

Yercaud emerald Lake

Popularly known as the Emerald Lake, Yercaud Lake is the only naturally formed lake across all the hill stations in Tamil Nadu. Surrounded by high hills, parks, and gardens, this lake offers a picturesque view and is a great spot for people with families to relax. Since the lake is at the center of the town, you can find many shops and eateries here. 

  • Timing: 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Parking: Available 
  • Entry fee: Free for the Lake. Extra charges for boating. Various options include pedal boats, rowing boats, motorboats, and speed boats. Visitors have to pay a caution deposit before taking the boat rides. Additional charges for a camera.

Anna Park and Deer Park

Located near the Lake, Anna Park hosts a large variety of floral species. The annual flower show takes place here. There is also an exclusive Japanese park enclosure that employs the Japanese style of horticulture. Connected by a small bridge, Deer Park is another place where children can have a good time.

  • Timing: 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Entry Fee for Anna Park: The entrance fee is Rs. 15 for adults and Rs. 10 for children.
  • Entry fee for Deer Park: The entrance fee is Rs. 10 for adults and Rs. 5 for children.

Manjakuttai Viewpoint

Manjakuttai Viewpoint, Yercaud Hills

From the Manjakuttai viewpoint, you can see the first rays of the sun splash across the sky beneath the evergreen mountains and valleys. You can stand here gazing endlessly at the horizon that’s lit with a golden lining. It was one of the most memorable experiences we took back home, and this wonder is a must-visit place in Yercaud.

  • Distance: 7 Km from Yercaud Lake
  • Timing: Open all time 
  • Parking: Available 
  • Entry fee: Free

Kiliyur Falls

Kiliyur Waterfall, Yercaud Hills

Falling from a massive height of 300 feet, Kiliyur waterfall is a seasonal waterfall and the best time to visit is post-monsoon since there will be scarce or no water in the summer. During the rainy season, the water overflows and you can enjoy it by taking a dip in the cold water. This place gives the perfect vibe for adventure and serenity.

  • Distance: 3 Km from Yercaud Lake
  • Trek distance: 250 steps approx.
  • Timing: 6 AM to 6 PM
  • Parking: Available 
  • Entry fee: Free

The Shevaroy Temple

Shevaroyan Temple, Yercaud

The highest point in Yercaud is the Servarayan temple, at 5,326 feet above sea level. This holy temple has a narrow cave temple where the idols of Lord Shervarayan and Goddess Kaveri are present. Beyond the temple is a viewpoint from where you can see the Eastern ghats. The people of this region gather together to celebrate an Annual Festival in May. 

  • Distance: 7 Km from Yercaud Lake
  • Timing: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
  • Parking: Available 
  • Entry fee: Free

Karadiyur Viewpoint

Karadiyur Viewpoint Yercaud, Tamil Nadu

This place offers a panoramic view of the landscape from the watchtower during the day. This place was named Karadiyur (the place of the bear) because of the large number of bears found then, although you can’t find any now.

  • Distance: 4 Km  from Yercaud Lake
  • Timing: Open 24*7
  • Parking: Available near the viewpoint. 
  • Entry fee: Free

Pagoda Viewpoint

Pagoda Viewpoint, Yercaud Tamil Nadu

Overlooking Salem city and nearby villages, the Pagoda viewpoint offers beautiful sunrise and sunset. There is also a temple dedicated to Lord Rama nearby. This place, also known as the pyramid viewpoint, got its name due to the pile of stones arranged in the shape of a pyramid resembling the temple.

  • Distance: 4 Km from Yercaud Lake
  • Timing: 
  • Parking: Available 
  • Entry fee: Free

Lady’s Seat, Gent’s Seat, and Children’s Seat

View from Lady's Seat, Yercaud
View From Lady’s Seat

Known for the mesmerizing sunset view, Lady’s Seat viewpoint overlooks the serpent-like road and Salem city which also has a viewing tower with a telescope. It is said that the natural rock formation looks a lot like a seat where an English woman used to sit during the evening hours to enjoy the picturesque view beneath. Near to the Lady’s Seat, are the Gent’s Seat and Children’s Seat. The names are given based on the group of rocks located here. There is also a park nearby which is a good spot for a quick photoshoot.

  • Distance: 2 Km from Yercaud Lake
  • Timing: 7 AM to 4.30 PM
  • Parking: Available 
  • Entry fee: Free for Lady’s Seat and Children’s Seat. Rs. 30 collected for Gent’s Seat and the park nearby.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days are enough for Yercaud?

Yercaud is perfect for a weekend getaway. All of the scenic spots can be covered in two days.

Is Yercaud worth visiting?

Yes, without a doubt. Each viewpoint offers a unique view surrounded by mountain ranges and valleys which makes it a compelling visit.

Are there any Adventure Sports in Yercaud?

Few private organizations like Poppy Hills Adventure offer outdoor activities for both kids and adults such as Zipline, ATV rides, Bungee Ejection, Rope Walk, and Paintball. It costs Rs. 600 per head for any 4 activities.

Is camping allowed in Yercaud?

Although camping is allowed in Yercaud, we don’t recommend it, as it is a remote place and gets pretty dark at night. We advise you to check with the hotel for camping options.

We hope this blog answers most if not all of the questions that you have, however, reach out to us for more information.

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4 comments

Johnny Franklin Jose 01/28/2021 - 10:23 PM

Thanks for the detailed information. Congrats for your future destinations. Expecting more from you 😊

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Twins - Agalya And Atchaya
Twins 02/01/2021 - 3:23 PM

Thanks for the love and support!

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Annie 03/19/2021 - 2:33 PM

This is the blog i exactly looked for ..km details from city – i used to check them one by one using maps and devise the plan . This has made by work more simpler . Thanks guys.

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Twins - Agalya And Atchaya
Twins 03/27/2021 - 7:43 PM

Anytime! We are here to help you 🙂

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