Things to do in Yercaud

Yercaud, located in the Shevaroys range of hills in Tamilnadu makes for a quiet weekend getaway. Thanks to its diverse landscape and charming locales, the town has been named as Queen of Eastern Ghats. Here are some things you can do at Yercaud this summer.

Yercaud Lake

Renamed as Emerald Lake because of its enchanting green shade, it is the best place in Yercaud to spend the evening for honeymooners, families with kids and nature lovers. Tamil Nadu Tourism Department manages the boat house that offers rowing and self pedaling boats and the duration is usually twenty minutes. Boat rides here mesmerises one with the sights of green forest covered peaks all around. Many parks are located on the banks of this lake which makes it a destination worth visiting. Keep sufficient time in hand to combine the trip to parks and boat ride in the lake.

Parks of Yercaud

Blessed with a pleasant climate almost throughout the year, different kinds of parks have come up depending on the flora and fauna flourishing in the regions especially around the lake. Deer Park is the closest and the favourite of kids. Anna Park located near the lake has a variety of plants specific to Eastern Ghats and of interest to students of botany and horticulture. There is a special enclosure for bonsai collections named the Japanese park. The best month to visit would be May, as the annual flower show is held at this time. The Botanical Garden, Rose Garden and an Orchidarium have a good collection of flowering plants blooming throughout the year.

Kottachedu Teak Forest

For an ideal touring and camping destination in Yercaud, head to Kottachedu teak forest. Here you can take a trip through the lanes of history that showcases how people lived during the stone-age period. Tribal people who once cultivated in the lands here abandoned the place after plague struck the area. The unspoiled forest, located 11km from Yercaud town, is great for quiet long walks that will lead you right up to Vaniyar Dam. Abundant with several species like anteaters, rabbits, mongooses, bison, foxes and more; there is a possibility you will cross paths with some of them.

Off the beaten track

Bears Cave, believed to be made by bears, served as an escape route for Tipu Sultan, ruler of Mysore. A path from inside this cave leads up to the cave of Shevaroyan Temple. Adjacent to this is the Norton’s Bungalow, a private property once owned by a British officer. Take prior permission if you intend to visit.Montfort School established in 1917, is a huge and attractive school. The wall beside the main entrance gate has faces of great personalities sculpted on it.

32km Loop Road

One of the very first thrilling adventurous experiences in Yercaud is the ride through the 32 km stretch of topsy turvy loop road. It veers through the villages of Nagalur, Semmantham and Kaveri Peak giving the glimpses of coffee plantations and bamboo forests. With scenic sights to feast your eyes on, and fresh mountain air to fill your lungs, this ride will remain in your memory for long.

Viewpoints in Yercaud

Once at the top get to the popular viewpoints like the Pagoda Point, Lady’s Seat, Arthur’s Seat and the Tipperary Viewpoint. The view of Emerald Lake, Yercaud Town and Shevaroy Peak is especially enchanting. Besides being known for their unique names and their historical significance these places are ideal destinations for photography and nature lovers. Plan to see the sunrise or sunset from these lofty posts.

How to reach: Tiruchirappalli International Airport in Tamil Nadu is the nearest airport. Yercaud is well connected by road and there is plenty of public and private transport available.

Where to stay: Saffron Villa Yercaud (high end) and Guru Residency (budget hotel) are some good options.