Our road trip from Electronic City, Bangalore to Yercaud was the perfect escape from the city’s chaos. We left early in the morning to beat the traffic, cruising along the NH44 and eventually taking the diversion near Salem that leads up into the Shevaroy Hills. The ascent through 20 hairpin bends was thrilling, with every turn offering sweeping views of the surrounding valleys and forests. By the time we reached Yercaud, the temperature had dropped, and the air carried the unmistakable freshness of the hills.
Home Away from Home: Summer House Resort
After reaching Yercaud, we checked into Summer House Resort, nestled in the serene Green View Valley. The resort’s tranquil setting, surrounded by lush greenery and misty hills, offered a perfect retreat from our adventures. Our room was spacious and well-maintained, featuring a comfortable bed, a private balcony with garden views, and essential amenities like a mini-bar and free Wi-Fi . The in-house restaurant served a variety of dishes, including local Tamil Nadu specialties and North Indian cuisine, which we enjoyed in the cozy dining area . Additional facilities like the kids’ play area and bonfire pit added to the resort’s charm, making it suitable for families and couples alike . The staff were courteous and attentive, ensuring our stay was comfortable and memorable. Overall, Summer House Resort provided a delightful blend of comfort and nature, making it an ideal base for exploring Yercaud.
Yercaud’s Scenic Crown: Pagoda Point
Pagoda Point was our first real brush with the breathtaking beauty of Yercaud. Located on the eastern edge of the hill station, it’s a peaceful viewpoint known for its unique stone structures—four pagoda-like piles of stones believed to have been built by local tribes. As we stood there, surrounded by silence and crisp mountain air, the vast panoramic view opened up in front of us: endless layers of the Eastern Ghats stretching out into the horizon, dotted with green valleys, winding roads, and tiny settlements far below. In the distance, the town of Salem looked like a miniature model, its buildings and streets barely distinguishable in the afternoon haze. The light breeze carried the scent of pine and earth, and the only sounds were birds calling and leaves rustling. It was the kind of place that makes you pause, breathe deeply, and feel completely present in the moment.
Yercaud Lake: The Heart of the Hill Station
After taking in the views from Pagoda Point, we headed to the heart of Yercaud—Yercaud Lake, also known as Emerald Lake. Surrounded by dense woods and a well-kept garden, the lake has an old-world charm that instantly makes you slow down. It’s not very large, but that’s exactly what adds to its coziness. The glassy surface of the water reflected the overhanging trees and drifting clouds above, creating a postcard-perfect scene. We rented a pedal boat and spent some quiet moments drifting across the lake, waving at other travelers and laughing at ducks that occasionally swam past us. The lake is bordered by a walking path, ideal for a slow, scenic stroll. On one side, there are a few small stalls selling roasted corn, tea, and local snacks—which we gladly indulged in while watching families and couples enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The whole place has a laid-back, nostalgic vibe, and it’s the kind of spot where time seems to stretch just a little longer.
Kiliyur Falls – Nature’s Dramatic Display
Our final adventure in Yercaud was Kiliyur Falls, a stunning natural cascade nestled deep within the Shervaroy hills. Located about 3 km from Yercaud Lake, the drive itself was lovely—narrow roads lined with trees and occasional glimpses of the valley below. But the real thrill began when we reached the trail to the falls. Getting there involves a moderately steep descent down a long staircase, which winds through a forested area and offers teasing sounds of the waterfall before you finally see it. The moment we reached the base, it was like stepping into a hidden world—the falls crashed down powerfully over dark rocks into a small pool, surrounded by moss-covered boulders and thick green foliage. The mist from the falls cooled our faces as we stood there, taking in the raw, unfiltered beauty of nature. It’s not a commercialized spot, which makes it all the more special.
As our short but sweet escape to Yercaud came to an end, we packed our bags with a sense of contentment—and a bit of reluctance to leave behind the cool mountain air, misty mornings, and laid-back rhythm of the hills. After one last cup of chai at the resort, we began our descent through the winding ghat roads, the morning sun casting a golden glow over the valleys below.
The return drive to Electronic City, Bangalore was smooth and scenic, giving us time to replay memories of the trip—whether it was the breathtaking view from Pagoda Point, the peaceful moments boating on Yercaud Lake, or the rush of standing near Kiliyur Falls. It’s incredible how just a few hours away from the city, nature can completely reset your mind and soul. As we hit the city limits and traffic slowly crept back into view, we knew one thing for sure—Yercaud wasn’t just a weekend getaway, it was a gentle reminder to pause, breathe, and reconnect with the quieter side of life.
Roadtrippin' with Sagar 