How to Reach Kolli Hills By Train, Flight, Bus or Car?

Kolli Hills, nestled amidst the Eastern Ghats in Tamil Nadu, India, is a pristine hill station that offers breathtaking landscapes and a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. While its natural beauty attracts travellers from far and wide, reaching Kolli Hills requires some planning as it is not directly connected to major cities by air or rail. Rated as one of the best places to visit near Bangalore, many people wish to know how to reach Kolli Hills. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the different modes of transportation available to reach Kolli Hills, whether it’s by train, flight, bus, or car.

How to Reach Kolli Hills by Different Modes?

Reaching Kolli Hills By Train:

Are you wondering how to reach Kolli Hills by train? If so, you should know that the closest railway station to Kolli Hills is Salem Junction, situated around 70 kilometres away. This railway station is well-connected to major cities in Tamil Nadu and neighbouring states. Once you reach Salem Junction, you can opt for various modes of transportation to reach Kolli Hills. The best hotels in Kolli Hills can provide you with a comfortable stay.

Option 1: By Bus from Salem Junction to Kolli Hills:

After arriving at Salem Junction, you can take a direct bus to Kolli Hills. Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) operates regular bus services from Salem to Kolli Hills. The journey takes around 3 to 4 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions.

Option 2: By Taxi or Cab from Salem Junction to Kolli Hills:

Another convenient option is to hire a taxi or cab from Salem Junction to Kolli Hills. This allows you to travel at your own pace and enjoy the scenic drive up the hills. It takes approximately 2 to 3 hours to reach Kolli Hills by road, depending on the chosen route and weather conditions.

If you wish to know how to reach Kolli Hills by train, you can train catches from your city to reach Salem Junction. For instance, if you are from Chennai, you can book tickets to trains that reach Salem Junction. Otherwise, you can also get down en route when you book trains that reach Coimbatore, Mettupalayam and Allepey. As these trains cross the Salem Junction. In the same way, if you are travelling from Bangalore, you can book trains that take you to either Salem Junction or stop at this junction en route to Coimbatore or other places. The same rule applies if you are travelling from Mumbai, Kolkata or any other city.

How to Reach Kolli Hills By Flight?

Unfortunately, Kolli Hills does not have an airport. If you prefer to travel by air, you’ll have to choose the nearest airport and then proceed to Kolli Hills via road. You can book flight tickets to reach either Coimbatore Airport, Salem Airport or Trichy Airport.

From these airports, you can take road trips to reach Kolli Hills as mentioned below:

Option 1: Trichy International Airport (TRZ) to Kolli Hills:

Trichy International Airport, located about 150 kilometres from Kolli Hills, is the closest airport with regular domestic and international flights. From Trichy, you can hire a taxi or use public transport to reach Kolli Hills. The road journey usually takes around 4 to 5 hours.

Option 2: Coimbatore International Airport (CJB) to Kolli Hills:

Coimbatore International Airport is another viable option, situated approximately 210 kilometres from Kolli Hills. Similar to Trichy, you can take a taxi or bus from Coimbatore to reach Kolli Hills. The travel time by road is around 5 to 6 hours.

Option 3: Salem Airport to Kolli Hills:

The distance between Salem Airport and Kolli Hills is around 106 km. From this airport, you can either take the NH44 route or the Darapuram/Srinagar Road and Kanyakumari Highway to reach Kolli Hills. In the former case the distance is 106 km, while in the latter, the distance is 125 km.

Now, you know how to reach Kolli Hills by flight. What if you wish to travel by bus? Here is how to reach Kolli Hills by bus:

Reaching Kolli Hills by Bus:

Kolli Hills is well-connected to major towns and cities in Tamil Nadu through the state-run Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) and private bus services.

Buses from Chennai, Bangalore, and Coimbatore to Kolli Hills:

If you are travelling from major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, or Coimbatore, you can find direct buses to Kolli Hills. Several private bus operators also provide services to the hill station. The travel time varies depending on the distance, but on average, it takes around 6 to 8 hours.

Buses from Salem and Trichy to Kolli Hills:

As mentioned earlier, Salem and Trichy are the closest major towns to Kolli Hills. Both cities have regular bus services plying to Kolli Hills, making it convenient for travellers to reach their destinations.

If you are travelling from other cities like Mumbai or Kolkata, you can enquire about bus services operated by private transportation or even government transportation services to reach Kolli Hills. Otherwise, you can reach one of the major cities mentioned above. From there, you can take private or public bus transportation to reach Kolli Hills.

How to Reach Kolli Hills by Car?

Travelling to Kolli Hills by car offers flexibility, comfort, and the freedom to explore the scenic routes en route to the hill station. Depending on your starting location, you can plan the journey through various routes. When you travel by car, you will have to flexibility to engage in a lot of things to do in Kolli Hills.

From Chennai to Kolli Hills:

If you are starting from Chennai, take the NH38 route towards Krishnagiri, then proceed via the Salem-Coimbatore Highway (NH544). From there, take the Rasipuram-Namakkal Road to reach Kolli Hills. The journey takes around 7 to 8 hours, covering a distance of approximately 350 kilometres.

From Bangalore to Kolli Hills:

For those travelling from Bangalore, the most common route is via the NH44 highway to reach Salem. From Salem, follow the Salem-Coimbatore Highway (NH544) and then the Rasipuram-Namakkal Road to arrive at Kolli Hills. The total distance is approximately 280 kilometres, and the journey typically takes around 6 to 7 hours. Travelling by car is a convenient option as you can explore places during your 5-day Kolli Hills itinerary flexibly.

From Coimbatore to Kolli Hills:

If you’re coming from Coimbatore, you can take the NH81 route towards Salem and then proceed via the Salem-Coimbatore Highway (NH544). From there, take the Rasipuram-Namakkal Road to reach Kolli Hills. The distance is approximately 160 kilometres and the travel time is around 4 to 5 hours.

Now, after knowing how to reach Kolli Hills by different modes of transportation, here are some safety tips to ensure safe travel:

Safety Tips:

• While travelling by road to Kolli Hills, especially during the monsoon season, it’s essential to check weather conditions and road safety advisories.
• Keep necessary supplies, snacks, and water handy for the journey, as some stretches may have limited amenities.
• If you are prone to motion sickness, carry appropriate medications as the roads leading to Kolli Hills can be winding and hilly.

You now know how to reach Kolli Hills by different modes. However, before you start your trip, you will be interested in knowing about Kolli Hills Weather.

Kolli Hills: Where the Weather Whispers Serenity

Image Source: https://www.holidify.com/places/kolli-hills/

Nestled amidst the Eastern Ghats in Tamil Nadu, India, Kolli Hills is a haven for nature lovers seeking respite from the scorching plains. But beyond its verdant landscapes and cascading waterfalls lies a unique weather pattern that adds to the charm of this hill station. Buckle up, weather enthusiasts, as we delve into the fascinating world of weather in Kolli Hills!

A Symphony of Seasons

Unlike the typical tropical climate of Tamil Nadu, Kolli Hills experiences a subtropical highland climate. This translates to distinct seasons, each offering a unique experience.

• Summer (March to May): The warmest months, with temperatures ranging from 22°C to 32°C. While it can get slightly warm during the day, the evenings are angenehm, making it ideal for trekking and outdoor activities.
• Monsoon (June to August): The hills come alive with lush greenery as the monsoon brings moderate rainfall. Temperatures drop slightly, offering a refreshing escape from the summer heat. However, be prepared for occasional landslides and mist-covered roads.
• Post-monsoon (September to November): This is the golden period and ideal weather Kolli Hills, with pleasant temperatures (18°C to 28°C) and clear skies. The waterfalls are at their peak, and the landscape is adorned with vibrant wildflowers, making it a photographer’s paradise.
• Winter (December to February): The coolest months, with temperatures hovering around 12°C to 22°C. The hills are often shrouded in mist, creating a mystical atmosphere. Pack warm clothes and enjoy cosy evenings by the bonfire.

Unveiling the Secrets

The unique Kolli Hills weather pattern can be attributed to several factors:

• Altitude: Located at an average elevation of 1300 meters, the hills naturally experience cooler temperatures than the surrounding plains.
• Northeast Monsoon: The region receives its rainfall from the northeast monsoon, resulting in moderate precipitation during the monsoon months.
• Eastern Ghats Range: The hills act as a barrier, blocking the direct flow of hot winds from the plains, contributing to the cooler climate.

Beyond the Numbers

While temperatures and rainfall paint a picture, the true essence of weather in Kolli Hills lies in its unpredictability. Sudden bursts of rain, followed by sunshine, and mist rolling down the hillsides create a dynamic and ever-changing atmosphere. This adds to the charm of the place, keeping you on your toes and reminding you of nature’s power.

Planning Your Escape

The best time to visit from Chennai to Kolli Hills depends on your preferences:

• For pleasant weather and outdoor activities: Post-monsoon (September to November) is ideal.
• For witnessing waterfalls at their peak: Monsoon (June to August) is the season, but be prepared for rain.
• For a cooler experience with a touch of mystery: Winter (December to February) offers a unique charm.

Remember: Pack layers of clothing as the temperature can fluctuate throughout the day. Carry rain gear during the monsoon and sunscreen year-round.

More Than Just the Weather

While the weather plays a crucial role in shaping your experience, Kolli Hills offers much more when you reach Kolli Hills from Chennai or elsewhere.

• Trekking: Explore the diverse trails, leading to breathtaking waterfalls and panoramic views.
• Waterfalls: Immerse yourself in the cascading beauty of Agaya Gangai, Akash Ganga, and other stunning falls.
• Temples: Discover ancient temples nestled amidst the hills, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich history and culture.
• Wildlife: Spot diverse birdlife, including hornbills and peacocks, and even encounter small mammals like monkeys and squirrels.

Weather Kolli Hills is not just about temperatures and rainfall; it’s an experience that complements the natural beauty of the place. So, pack your bags, embrace the unpredictable charm, and let the whispers of the weather guide you on an unforgettable journey from Chennai to Kolli Hills.

I hope this blog post inspires you to explore the magic of Kolli Hills and its unique weather patterns!

Conclusion:

When you ask how to reach Kolli Hills, you have multiple options to choose from based on your location and preference. Whether you prefer the convenience of air travel or the scenic beauty of a road trip, Kolli Hills promises an enchanting experience that is worth the effort to get there. So, plan your journey, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this hill station, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Happy travelling!