🇮🇳 A night in Yercaud | Weekend getaway from Bangalore
About Yercaud
Yercaud is a scenic hill station in Tamil Nadu, India. It is located in the Shevaroy Hills of the Eastern Ghats. At an altitude of around 1500m, it offers a pleasant climate, and is known for coffee, fruit and spice plantations.
The nearest major city is Salem, Tamil Nadu. The nearest airport is Salem airport.
How to reach
The best way to reach is by car, it's only a 4-5 hour drive along a scenic highway route. Make sure to take the route that goes via Krishnagiri and Dharmapuri towards Salem.
After you cross Salem, you'll encounter a series of 20 hairpin bends as you climb to Yercaud. The ride is picturesque and delightful.
Try to leave early in the morning to avoid Bangalore traffic.
Other ways to reach Yercaud are by first taking a bus, flight or train to Salem, and then renting a car from Salem to Yercaud. Use any of the apps mentioned below to book your preferred transport option.
Where to Stay
We highly suggest you stay a bit farther away from the main Yercaud town as it can get noisy and congested near the Lake and tourist spots.
Our recommendation
We stayed at Blue Valley Estate, about 10km away, and it was serene, beautiful and covered with green all around.
The property offers breakfast, lunch and dinner on demand for very reasonable prices - as well as a kitchen setup for you to cook your own meals.
They'll also make you a bonfire in the evening if you want (at a nominal added charge).
The best part is of course the expansive terrace with a view of the valley, as well as the spacious and clean rooms, both equipped with private terraces and views.
Note: You may not get good network here. Don't worry, the WiFi is good in the dining area, although it does not reach the rooms.
As of 2023, the property is well maintained, spotlessly clean, and the service by the caretaker is excellent. They'll make you feel right at home.
What to do
To be honest, Yercaud is perfect for a relaxing getaway from the city - not so much for a holiday full of activities or attractions.
Nonetheless, here are a few things you can spend time on:
Some highly touristy spots here are Ladies Seat & Gents Seat, which are viewpoints that offers decent views of the scenery. If you're going during holiday season, it may be crowded though.
What to Eat
Even though it's known for coffee plantations, our honest opinion is that the coffee here sucked. I believe it is due to simply a failure to make good coffee, rather than the quality of the coffee itself.
❌ Not recommended although its popular
A place that is mentioned in most vlogs is the Sky Rocca Diner. We felt it was overhyped, as the only thing noteworthy was the view, and even that was off limits to non-residents of the hotel. The prices are too expensive and not worth it.
✅ Our recommendation
Go for this instead.
Another wise thing to do would be to taste the local food at any local eatery. These would be way better and cheaper than the tourist spots, and you would get authentic South Indian meals.
If you decide to stay at the Blue Valley Estate, their home-cooked meals are also very tasty.
Have a great weekend in Yercaud!
Important Apps & Links
For booking buses, trains or cabs
The home for unique & authentic travel
