Yercaud Hill Station: Places to Visit, Boating & Must-See Spots

Yercaud, located in the Shevaroy Hills of Tamil Nadu, is a quiet and beautiful hill station known for its cool climate, forest views, and peaceful atmosphere. It is often called the “Jewel of the South” and is a great choice for a weekend trip or short vacation. Unlike crowded hill stations like Ooty or Kodaikanal, Yercaud is less commercial, more peaceful, and perfect for people who love nature, views, and simple travel.

Why You Should Visit Yercaud Hill Station?

Yercaud is perfect for families, couples, and solo travellers who want to relax, enjoy scenic views, and feel close to nature. The roads are clean, the weather is pleasant all year round, and the place is full of trees, birds, and beautiful viewpoints.

It’s also not too expensive, and you can explore most of the attractions in 1-2 days. Whether you like boating, trekking, sunrise spots, or just enjoying hot tea with a view, Yercaud has something for everyone.

Places to Visit & Things to Do in Yercaud

1. Pagoda View Point

Pagoda View Point is one of the most peaceful and beautiful places in Yercaud. It’s called “Pagoda” because of the four stone towers (that look like small temples) built long ago by local tribal people. From the top, you can see green hills, valleys, and sometimes even clouds floating at eye level. It’s a perfect place for people who love quiet, fresh air, and great views.

There’s no big crowd here, so you can sit on a bench or on the grass, take photos, and just relax. Early morning or late afternoon is the best time to visit, when the weather is cool and the sun isn’t too strong. It’s also a nice spot for couples and families to enjoy some calm time.

2. Yercaud Lake

Yercaud Lake, also called Emerald Lake, is the most popular tourist spot in Yercaud. It’s surrounded by trees, gardens, and even a deer park nearby. The best way to enjoy the lake is by boating, and the Tamil Nadu Tourism department manages the Yercaud Boat House.

Here are the latest charges:

🎟️ Entry Fees at Yercaud Lake:

• Adults: ₹10
• Children: ₹5
• Still Camera: ₹12
• Handy Camera: ₹60
• Big Video Camera: ₹230

Boating Charges at Yercaud Lake

Pedal Boat (for 30 minutes)

• 2 Seater: ₹150
• 4 Seater: ₹200

Row Boat (for 15 minutes)

• 3 Seater: ₹150
• 5 Seater: ₹200 (Note: No self-rowing allowed; staff rows the boat for you)

Motor Boat (for 10 minutes)

• Two Seater: ₹300 Per person including Deposit
• 8 Seater: ₹600

At the boating counter, you can choose what type of boat you want. Life jackets are provided for safety, and it’s a fun experience whether you’re with friends or family. The lake is calm, and you can enjoy watching birds or just float peacefully while clicking pictures.

3. Manjakuttai View Point

Manjakuttai View Point is one of the most peaceful and beautiful places to visit in Yercaud. Located just 7–8 km from Yercaud town, this spot gives you a wide view of green valleys, mountains, and sometimes even clouds floating below your feet! It’s the best place to watch sunrise in Yercaud.

The road to Manjakuttai is smooth and goes through tall trees and villages. Once you reach the viewpoint, you’ll find a small sitting area, railings for safety, and a clear view of the eastern hills.

Best time to visit Manjakuttai View Point:

The best time to visit is early morning between 6:00 AM to 7:00 AM. As the sun slowly rises, the whole sky changes colours — orange, pink, and gold — making it a magical experience.

There’s usually less crowd here compared to other tourist spots, which makes it perfect for couples, families, and photography lovers. The air is fresh, the view is wide, and the silence is peaceful.

If you’re planning a morning in Yercaud, Manjakuttai View Point is a must-visit. Carry a light jacket or shawl as it gets chilly in the early hours, and don’t forget your camera or phone to capture the beautiful sunrise.

4. Lady’s Seat

Lady’s Seat is one of the most famous viewpoints in Yercaud and a favourite spot for watching the sunset. Located just a few kilometres from Yercaud town, this place gives a wide and open view of the hills, deep valleys, and the roads below. On clear days, you can even see Salem city far away, glowing with lights after sunset.

This viewpoint got its name during the British time, as it is said that British women (ladies) used to come here in the evenings to enjoy the cool breeze and the scenic view. Today, it remains a top attraction for tourists who want to enjoy a calm and romantic spot, especially in the evening.

There’s a sitting area with fencing, and it’s quite safe for families and kids too. Next to Lady’s Seat, you’ll also find two more spots — Gent’s Seat and Children’s Seat. All three are close by and offer different angles of the same beautiful landscape.

Best time to visit Lady’s Seat:

The best time to visit Lady’s Seat is between 4:30 PM and 6:30 PM, when the sun starts to go down and the sky changes colours. It’s a perfect time to sit back, relax, and take some lovely photos. If you stay till sunset, you’ll get to see a golden view you’ll never forget.

Must-Visit Place for Food – Sweet Rascal

If you’re a foodie visiting Yercaud, don’t miss Sweet Rascal. It’s one of the most unique and loved restaurants in the hill station. The place has a fun and homely vibe with a quirky menu, serving both South Indian and Continental dishes. People love their pork curry, stuffed mushrooms, handmade desserts, and cocktails. It’s not your typical restaurant – it feels more like a cosy cottage with great food and warm hosts.

Best Time to Visit Yercaud

Yercaud has a pleasant climate all year round, so you can visit anytime. But the best time is from October to June, when the weather is cool and perfect for sightseeing.

• Winter (October to February): This is the best season to visit. The weather is chilly and great for couples, families, and long walks around the lake or viewpoints.
• Summer (March to June): Yercaud remains cooler than cities, so it’s a great escape during school holidays or weekend getaways.
• Monsoon (July to September): The greenery looks fresh, but it may rain often. Some roads and outdoor activities might get affected, so plan accordingly.

How to Reach Yercaud?

Yercaud is well-connected by road and easy to reach from major cities in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.

By Road:

Yercaud is about 30 km from Salem, and you can reach by car, taxi, or TNSTC government buses. The drive is beautiful, especially through the Yercaud Ghat Road with 20+ hairpin bends.

Distances from nearby cities:

• Salem – 30 km
• Coimbatore – 190 km
• Bangalore – 230 km
• Chennai – 360 km

By Train:

The nearest railway station is Salem Junction (SA). From there, taxis and buses are easily available to reach Yercaud in about 45–60 minutes.

By Air:

The nearest airport is Salem Airport (SXV), but flights are limited. Most tourists prefer Coimbatore or Trichy Airport for better connectivity. From there, take a cab or bus to reach Yercaud.

Final Words

If you’re looking for a peaceful hill station with fresh air, green views, and cool weather, Yercaud is a perfect choice. It’s not crowded like other hill stations, yet offers everything — boating, viewpoints, waterfalls, and tasty food. Whether you go with family, friends, or just solo, Yercaud gives you a relaxing break from busy city life.

From sunrise at Manjakuttai to sunset at Lady’s Seat, and boating in the quiet lake — Yercaud will refresh your body and mind. It’s budget-friendly, beautiful, and just a few hours’ drive from major cities. Plan a trip, and let nature take care of the rest!