Things To Do
in Yercaud
Yercaud is a hill station located in the Shevaroy Hills of the Eastern Ghats in Tamil Nadu, India. It is known for its cool climate, lush greenery, and scenic beauty. Yercaud is a popular tourist destination famous for its orange and coffee plantations, as well as for attractions like the Yercaud Lake and the Kiliyur Falls.
Visitors can enjoy trekking, boating, and exploring the town's charming colonial architecture.
- "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): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $75
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk at the Yercaud Lake. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and the beautiful views of the surrounding hills.
Visit the Shevaroys Temple to experience the local culture and stunning architecture. Take some time to explore the nearby coffee plantations.
Wind down your day at the Lady's Seat viewpoint to catch a breathtaking sunset. Capture memorable photos of the panoramic landscape.
Begin your day with a trek to the lush greenery of Kiliyur Falls. The early morning sounds of nature will invigorate your spirit.
Have a picnic at the scenic spot near the falls. Enjoy the serenity and take in the natural beauty that surrounds you.
Return to Yercaud and enjoy local cuisine at a cozy restaurant. Embrace the cool evening air as you relax and reflect on your day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic beauty with lush green forests and coffee plantations
- Pleasant climate throughout the year
- Less commercialized compared to other hill stations
- Rich in flora and fauna, offering biodiversity
- Various viewpoints and trekking opportunities
- Cultural heritage with local festivals and cuisine
- Proximity to major cities like Salem
- Limited public transport options
- Can get crowded during peak tourist season
- Lack of modern amenities in some areas
- Possibility of landslides during monsoon season
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
- Accessibility issues due to narrow and winding roads
- Some attractions may require entry fees
Best Activities in Yercaud
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic beauty of Yercaud by trekking through its lush forests and hill trails. Popular trekking routes include the Yercaud Lake trek and the Servarayan Temple trek.
Enjoy a serene boating experience in Yercaud Lake, surrounded by picturesque landscapes. You can rent paddle boats or row boats for a tranquil time on the water.
Stroll through the famous Botanical Garden in Yercaud, which boasts a variety of exotic and native plants, beautiful flowers, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Visit popular viewpoints like Pagoda Point and Lady's Seat to witness breathtaking views of the hills and valleys, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Experience the great outdoors by camping at designated spots in Yercaud. Enjoy a night under the stars and soak in the tranquility of nature.
Take a guided tour of the local coffee plantations, learn about the coffee-making process, and enjoy fresh coffee while taking in the scenic views.
Places to Visit in Yercaud
Visit one of these nice places.
A popular viewpoint that offers stunning panoramic views of the valley and the surrounding hills, especially during sunset.
Known for its beautiful views and a glistening lake, Pagoda Point is surrounded by tall trees and is a great spot for photography.
Famous for its picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, it's an ideal location for nature photography.
A serene place with scenic views of the plantation and hills, perfect for capturing the beauty of Yercaud’s landscape.
Home to a variety of flora, this garden offers beautiful views and great spots for capturing colorful floral shots.
Renowned for its tranquil ambiance and picturesque surroundings, this lake provides excellent opportunities for stunning nature photography.
It not only features exotic reptiles but also offers a unique perspective on the lush greenery of the region, perfect for adventurous photography.
A family-friendly park that allows you to capture stunning images of deer amid the scenic landscapes of Yercaud.
Food in Yercaud
Yercaud Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A local specialty, this dish features tender chicken seasoned with the unique Yercaud black peppers, giving it a distinct and flavorful taste. Best enjoyed at the Grand Palace Hotel's restaurant.
Must-Try!
Made with locally sourced bamboo shoots, this curry is a must-try for its earthy and comforting flavors. It's commonly found at the Shevroy Restaurant, known for its authentic regional cuisine.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in the heart of Yercaud, Anna Park is a hotspot for street food enthusiasts. Here, you can savor a variety of local treats like steaming hot idlis, dosas, and bondas, alongside refreshing coconut water.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Yercaud, as in many parts of India, showing respect for elders is a significant cultural norm. Always greet older individuals first, use polite language, and offer them your seat if needed.
While Yercaud is a tourist destination, it is essential to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Opt for outfits that cover shoulders and knees to show respect for local customs.
When invited to a local home, it is polite to wait for the host to start the meal. Additionally, it is common to eat with your right hand, as the left hand is considered unclean in many Indian cultures.
Safety
Tipping in Yercaud
Ensure a smooth experience
In Yercaud, a popular hill station in India, tipping practices are generally similar to other parts of India. It is common to tip service staff such as restaurant waiters, hotel staff, and taxi drivers. A tip of around 10% of the bill is customary in restaurants, although rounding up the bill or giving small change is also common. The culture of tipping is gradually gaining acceptance, and tourists are encouraged to tip when they receive good service.
Payment methods in Yercaud include cash and digital options. While cash remains widely accepted, many establishments, especially those catering to tourists, also accept credit and debit cards. Mobile payment apps and e-wallets are becoming increasingly popular, especially post-pandemic. Tourists should carry some cash, as smaller vendors and local markets may not accept cards. It's advisable for visitors to check in advance whether their preferred payment method is accepted at specific locations.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Summer in Yercaud runs from March to June. The weather is pleasant with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C. This is an excellent time for sightseeing, trekking, and enjoying the beautiful landscapes filled with flowers in bloom.
The monsoon season lasts from July to September. Yercaud experiences heavy rainfall, which can lead to landslides. While the landscape becomes lush and green, outdoor activities may be limited due to wet conditions. Travelers can expect cooler temperatures ranging from 13°C to 25°C.
Autumn occurs in October and November. The weather is ideal with comfortable temperatures between 12°C and 28°C. This is a good time for outdoor activities and enjoying the serene beauty of the hills.
Winter spans from December to February. Temperatures can drop to around 10°C during the night, so it’s advisable to carry warm clothing. This season offers clear skies and is perfect for exploring and enjoying breathtaking views.
Yercaud at Night
Hiking in Yercaud
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful hiking spot featuring a natural cave and scenic views, located near Yercaud.
A viewpoint offering panoramic views of the hills and valleys, accessible through a short hike.
A serene hiking destination with stone pagodas and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
A picturesque waterfall that can be accessed via a hiking trail, ideal for nature lovers.
A historic fortified site with a hiking path leading to it, offering insights into local history and stunning views.
Aiports
How to reach Yercaud by plane.
Located in Bengaluru, approximately 200 km from Yercaud, this is one of the busiest airports in India, serving numerous international and domestic flights.
Located around 85 km from Yercaud, this airport serves a number of international destinations, primarily in the Middle East and Southeast Asia.
Situated about 180 km from Yercaud, this airport is one of the major international airports in India and serves several global airlines.
Located approximately 100 km from Yercaud, this airport connects domestic and international destinations including significant traffic to the Middle East.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Yercaud, primarily speaking Tamil and involved in agriculture and local businesses.
A smaller community, contributing to the cultural mosaic of the area with their unique traditions.
Includes various other South Indian ethnic groups that contribute to the local diversity.
A significant demographic that includes domestic and international visitors drawn to Yercaud for its natural beauty.
Indigenous communities that have inhabitated the region for centuries, with distinct cultural practices.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is extremely popular in Yercaud, with many local teams participating in tournaments and informal matches being held in various neighborhoods.
Football enjoys a significant following in Yercaud, with many young enthusiasts playing in local grounds and schools.
Given Yercaud's scenic beauty and hilly terrain, trekking is a favorite activity among locals and tourists alike, with numerous trails available.
Badminton is widely played in community centers and schools, attracting players of all ages.
Basketball is increasingly popular in Yercaud, especially among the youth, with several basketball courts available for practice and competitions.
Table tennis is commonly enjoyed in indoor clubs and schools, with many enthusiasts participating in local tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Yercaud.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Yercaud embraces vegetarianism, and many local eateries offer a wide selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes. Look out for restaurants like Hotel Shevaroys known for their vegetarian specialties.
While traditional South Indian cuisine heavily features bread and wheat-based products, several restaurants in Yercaud now cater to gluten-free diets, offering alternatives like millet-based rotis and rice-based dishes. Cafe Ceylon is popular for its gluten-free menu items.