Things To Do
in Meru
Meru, India is a picturesque town located in the foothills of the Himalayas. Known for its tranquil atmosphere and stunning scenery, Meru is a popular destination for nature lovers and trekking enthusiasts. The town is dotted with ancient temples and monasteries, adding to its cultural charm.
Visitors can also enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and lush green valleys from various viewpoints in Meru.
- "kiddan" - How are you?
- "shukriya" - Thank you
- "tuhada naa ki hai" - What is your name?
- "ki haal chaal" - How are things?
- "chalo" - Let's go
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.25 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to local temples and witness early morning rituals. Interact with the locals to understand their traditions.
Head to a nearby village for lunch and immerse yourself in the rural lifestyle. Explore handicraft shops and local markets.
Enjoy a sunset view from a hilltop, capturing the beauty of the landscape. Dine at a local restaurant, sampling authentic Meru cuisine.
Kick off with a trek in the nearby hills, enjoying the fresh morning air and scenic views. Keep an eye out for local wildlife along the trails.
After trekking, relax at a scenic spot for a picnic lunch. Later, try some local adventure sports or visit a nature reserve.
Return to town and unwind at a cozy café while enjoying local snacks. Join a campfire gathering and share stories with fellow travelers.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty, including scenic landscapes and mountains.
- Rich cultural heritage and tradition, reflected in local festivals and customs.
- Peaceful environment, making it a great destination for relaxation and nature lovers.
- Growing tourism infrastructure, making it increasingly accessible for visitors.
- Opportunities for outdoor activities like trekking, camping, and exploring wildlife.
- Limited availability of modern amenities and services compared to larger cities.
- Transportation can be challenging, especially during monsoon season.
- Wildlife encounters may pose a risk, especially in certain areas.
- Potential for infrastructure issues, such as road maintenance and public facilities.
- Economic opportunities may be limited, impacting job availability for residents.
Best Activities in Meru
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful trails of the Meru Hills, offering picturesque views and a chance to experience the local flora and fauna.
Meru is home to various bird species; enjoy a tranquil day spotting birds in their natural habitat.
Spend a night under the stars at Naroon Camp, enjoying the serene surroundings and the tranquility of nature.
Embark on an exciting mountain biking adventure through the hilly terrains and scenic landscapes of Meru.
Capture the stunning vistas and diverse wildlife in Meru, making it a perfect destination for photography enthusiasts.
Take guided tours of local villages to learn about the culture, traditions, and lifestyles of the people in the Meru region.
Places to Visit in Meru
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountain ranges, ideal for capturing stunning photographs.
A historical temple that provides a beautiful backdrop for photos, especially during sunrise and sunset.
An iconic landmark in Meru that lights up beautifully at night, perfect for night photography.
The valleys surrounding Meru are lush and vibrant, offering excellent opportunities for nature photography.
A short drive from Meru, this hill station features sprawling views of the landscape, great for both sunrise and landscape photography.
A suspension bridge that presents perfect vantage points for cityscape photography, especially at dusk.
Explore old colonial architecture in the town, providing a unique historical perspective to your photographs.
Food in Meru
Meru Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Coorgi dish featuring spicy pork curry, best enjoyed with Akki roti. Highly recommended at Coorg Cuisinette.
Must-Try!
A flavorful rice dish cooked with lentils, assorted vegetables, and aromatic spices. Not to be missed at Shanthi Sagar.
A type of Indian bread made with rice flour, often paired with spicy meat or vegetable curries. Find authentic Akki roti at Oota Bangalore.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore a bustling market offering a wide array of fresh produce, local snacks, and street food delicacies like Bonda and Churmuri.
Indulge in an array of local street food such as Masala Dosa, Paddu, and Pani Puri in this lively food district.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Meru, it's customary to greet people with a respectful 'Namaste,' accompanied by a slight bow and hands pressed together. This shows respect and acknowledgment.
Dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas. Women should consider wearing long skirts or dresses, while men should avoid shorts.
When dining with locals, it is polite to use your right hand for eating. If offered food, it is respectful to accept it, even if you are not entirely hungry, as it honors the host's hospitality.
Safety
Tipping in Meru
Ensure a smooth experience
In Meru, India, tipping is a common practice in the hospitality industry, particularly in restaurants, hotels, and for tour guides. While tipping is not mandatory, it is generally appreciated for good service. It is customary to tip around 10-15% of the bill amount. However, in some cases, service charges may already be included in the bill, and customers should check before adding an additional tip.
Payment methods in Meru include cash, debit/credit cards, and increasingly, mobile payment options. While cash remains widely accepted, many establishments also accept cards, especially in urban areas. Mobile wallets and digital payment platforms are becoming more popular, allowing for quick and convenient transactions. It is advisable for visitors to carry some cash, as not all places may accept cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Meru is during winter, from November to February. The weather is cool and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 7°C to 20°C. Visitors can expect clear skies and stunning views of the surrounding hills.
Spring, from March to April, is another great time to visit. The temperatures start rising, ranging from 12°C to 25°C, and the flora begins to bloom. This season offers a vibrant atmosphere with favorable trekking conditions.
Summer lasts from May to June, with temperatures varying from 15°C to 30°C. While it's warm, it is still manageable. This season is good for outdoor activities and enjoying nature. However, it can get crowded as many tourists flock to cooler hill stations.
The monsoon season occurs from July to September, bringing heavy rainfall and cooler temperatures between 10°C and 25°C. While the landscape becomes lush and green, travel can be challenging due to slippery roads and landslides, making it less ideal for tourism.
Autumn, from October to early November, presents a pleasant time to visit. The weather is moderate, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C. The post-monsoon season offers breathtaking landscapes and is perfect for sightseeing and trekking.
Meru at Night
Hiking in Meru
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful trek near Meru, offering scenic views and a moderate trail suitable for beginners and experienced hikers.
This trek leads to the historic Kangra Fort, blending history with nature as hikers enjoy majestic views of the surrounding landscape.
One of the most popular treks in the region, Triund offers stunning views of the Dhauladhar mountains and is ideal for a weekend getaway.
A scenic trek that connects Mcleodganj and Bhagsunag temple, featuring lush greenery and a refreshing waterfall en route.
An enchanting trek that leads to the pristine Bhrigu Lake, famous for its breathtaking landscapes and meadows.
Aiports
How to reach Meru by plane.
Located in Delhi, approximately 250 km from Meru, this is the primary international airport serving the Northern region of India.
Located in Mumbai, about 330 km from Meru, this airport is one of the busiest in India and serves as a major international gateway.
Located in Ahmedabad, approximately 600 km from Meru, this airport provides international flights and is one of the key airports in Western India.
Located in Pune, around 290 km from Meru, this airport serves both domestic and international flights.
Located in Bangalore, approximately 600 km from Meru, this airport serves as a major international hub in South India.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority religious group in Meru, practicing various traditions and rituals.
A significant religious minority, with a rich cultural heritage and community structure.
A smaller religious community, involved in various social and educational initiatives.
A minority group, known for their contributions to the local economy and culture.
A small but influential community, recognized for their emphasis on non-violence and business.
A very small community primarily practicing traditional beliefs.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is extremely popular in Meru and is played by many at both local and national levels. The sport brings communities together and is often played in streets, parks, and fields.
Kabaddi is a traditional sport that is very popular in rural areas of Meru. It is known for its physical intensity and is played in schools and local competitions.
Football has a growing fanbase in Meru, with many local clubs and schools encouraging youth participation. There are often community tournaments held.
Field hockey has historical significance in India and is played among various age groups in Meru. There are local teams that participate in regional competitions.
Track and field events are popular in schools and colleges in Meru, with many students participating at district and state levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Meru.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While the local cuisine prominently features vegetarian dishes, it's advisable to confirm the absence of meat-based broths or garnishes. Restaurants like Dasaprakash and Purohit Lunch Home offer extensive vegetarian menus.
Vegan options are available at select establishments such as Gufha Restaurant and Green Leaf Restaurant, specializing in plant-based dishes and Jain cuisine.
Though traditional dishes are wheat-based, some restaurants like The Old House and Green Mystique cater to gluten-free requirements with rice-based dishes and millet-based preparations.