Hey explorer,

I felt ashamed as one of my friends asked me a few days ago, "Which is the largest tourism state in India." Not only was I clueless, but the fact that I travel so much and couldn't answer it yet made me shy away.

Later, I googled it, and to my surprise, I got Tamil Nadu as an answer. Soon, my travel mind hunted for something more from different sources - "Hidden gems in Tamil Nadu." And here's what I found out.

1. Poombarai Village

Poombarai Village, sitting in the Western Ghats near Kodaikanal, can be a perfect point for solo travellers due to its calm landscapes. The village's calm aura and closeness to nature create an ideal environment for self-reflection and a break from the hectic urban lifestyle. 

Although Tamil Nadu is relatively hot in temperatures, nature here is so exciting that stepping in the shoes of simplicity of village life, being thankful for alone time amidst terraced fields, traditional huts, and the surroundings, feels more like a routine than a choice to pick from. 

Top 3 activities to do

- Visit the Poombarai Dam: Walk on the verge of the scenic dam and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding hills.
- Trek to Kodaikanal: Go for a hike from Poombarai to Kodaikanal through beautiful forests and valleys.
- Photography: Capture the village's charm - the terraced fields, traditional houses, and lush environment with chilly and warm breezes.

Safety Tips

- Respect the local culture and environment.
- Inform someone about your travel plans and expected return time.
- Wear appropriate footwear for trekking and carry essential items like water, snacks, and a first aid kit.

How to get there?

The nearest railway station is Kodaikanal Road Railway Station (About 80 km away), and the nearest airport is Madurai Airport (Approximately 150 km away). Poombarai is approximately 15 kilometres from Kodaikanal. You must then hire local transportation to reach Poombarai.

2. Hogenakkal Falls

Hogenakkal Falls, known as the "Niagara of India," is a gorgeous place that invites solo travellers with its raw and majestic beauty. The falls offer you a unique and awe-inspiring experience, making it a perfect point to connect with yourself amidst the forces of nature. 

With the calmness of the beautiful natural surroundings, the adventure spirits near the Hogenakkal Falls, and the best weather, you find this place close to your heart that makes you revisit it. It is also a group destination you and your friends can travel to. 

Top 3 activities to do

- Coracle Ride: Take a coracle boat ride to get up close to the rushing waterfalls.
- Visit Carbonite Hill: Explore the surrounding hills and enjoy panoramic views of the falls.
- Indulge in Local Cuisine: Try the local fish varieties in nearby eateries or restaurants.

Safety Tips 

- Follow guidelines provided by boat operators during coracle rides.
- Be cautious while walking on slippery rocks near the waterfalls.
- Avoid swimming in turbulent areas and adhere to safety instructions.

How to get there?

The nearest railway station is Dharmapuri Railway Station (Approximately 50 km away), and the nearest airport is Salem Airport (Approximately 80 km away). You can also get to Hogenakkal by road from Bangalore and Chennai by bus and taxi or choose other road transport options. 

3. Yelagiri Hills

Two factors make Yelagiri Hills a must-visit solo travel destination - quiet ambience and a less crowded environment. Surrounded by all the natural elements like a lake, distant hills, and a green atmosphere, your journey here will not leave you without giving you the peace you longed for. 

The self-reflection ability at the picturesque Punganur Lake, the calmness of lush green Swamimalai Hills to sprout new ideas, the fresh oxygen from unpolluted terrains to refresh your busy mind and tired body, and above all, the nature walks elevate the essence of this hill station. 

Top 3 activities to do

- Punganur Lake: Enjoy boating in the quiet waters of Punganur Lake.
- Swamimalai Hills: Trek to Swamimalai Hills for scenic views of the valley.
- Nature Walks: Explore the lush greenery and orchards on foot.

Safety Tips

- Stay on fixed trekking paths and avoid venturing into isolated areas alone.
- Check weather conditions before planning outdoor activities.
- Carry a map and inform someone about your trekking plans.

How to get there?

The nearest railway station is Jolarpettai Railway Station (About 21 km away), and the nearest airport is Kempegowda International Airport, Bangalore (Approximately 160 km away). Buses and taxis are also available from nearby towns like Vaniyambadi and Jolarpettai. 

4. Manjolai Hills

Manjolai Hills is an all-in-one nature retreat, whether you want to enjoy it alone or travel with friends. From waterfalls to lakes and channels full of water and mountains to hiking to witness beautiful sunrises and sunsets to misty mornings, you can find it all here - in one place. 

The vast tea estates, refreshing climate, and scenic landscapes create an environment that helps self-discovery. The calmness in the tea ranches, with attractions like Karakorai Waterfall and Dolphins Nose Viewpoint, makes Manjolai Hills an idyllic destination for relaxation.

Top 3 activities to do

- Tea Estate Tour: Explore the vast tea plantations and learn about the tea-making process in the nearby tea factories. 
- Karakorai Waterfall: Hike to Karakorai Waterfall to witness a scenic natural wonder.
- Dolphins Nose Viewpoint: Enjoy panoramic views of the Western Ghats from Dolphins Nose.

Safety Tips

- Wear comfortable trekking shoes and carry essentials like water, snacks, and a first aid kit.
- Stay on designated trails during treks, and do not go into unknown trails. 
- Check weather conditions before planning outdoor activities.

How to get there?

The nearest railway station is Ambasamudram Railway Station (Around 40 km away), and the nearest airport is Tuticorin Airport (Approximately 130 km away). You can also reach Manjolai Hills by road from Tirunelveli, the nearest town to Manjolai Hills. 

5. Valparai

Surrounded by lush green tea estates and dense forests, Valparai is a solo traveller's dream site with its untouched beauty and quiet conditions. This remote hill station offers a peaceful environment to connect deeply with your core, talk to yourself, and get the disturbing things cleared. 

Valparai's closeness to the Sholayar Dam for boat rides, Anaimalai Tiger Reserve to step into wildlife, and Chinnakallar Falls to understand your life provides diverse experiences, from breathtaking views to encounters with nature's wonders. (Click here for a complete destination guide)

Top 3 activities to do

- Sholayar Dam: Visit the Sholayar Dam for breathtaking views of the surrounding terrain.
- Anaimalai Tiger Reserve: Explore the wildlife and diverse flora near Anaimalai Tiger Reserve.
- Chinnakallar Falls: Hike to Chinnakallar Falls for a quiet, less-crowded waterfall experience.

Safety Tips

- Follow guidelines provided by wildlife authorities while visiting the Tiger Reserve.
- Be cautious while exploring the hilly terrain and waterfalls.
- Respect the local wildlife and avoid disturbing the natural habitat.

How to get there?

The nearest railway station is Pollachi Junction (About 65 km away), while the Coimbatore International Airport (Approximately 124 km away) is the nearest airport. You can then take a bus or taxi to this scenic hill station.

Conclusion

According to sources, Tamil Nadu is the largest tourism state in India. It's no wonder that this South Indian state is getting so popular after going through the places listed above. With a new place coming into light daily, the above-hidden gems are unique in their own ways, with nature as the centre. While you can do many things in nature, one thing that remains unchanged ever is SELF-REFLECTION. 

You might also like

• 😮 Top 5 Unexplored Solo Trip Destinations

• ✈️ Your Insider's Guide to Travel News

• 📑 How to Plan Your Travel Itinerary?