Yercaud is a quaint and beautiful hill station in the Shevaroy hills of the Eastern Ghats in Tamil Nadi. At an altitude of 4920 feet above MSL, the town is known for its serene natural beauty, coffee plantations and fruit groves.
The British discovered Yercaud (Yeru means ‘lake’ and Kadu means ‘forest’) in the early 19th century and introduced coffee cultivation. The cool climate attracted Christian missionaries and they established the Sacred Heart Convent for girls and Montfort School for boys. Yercaud is still a laid-back town, unaffected by the busy-ness of the cities, making it a great getaway for the weekend or even better, for a longer, relaxing holiday.
Attractions: Yercaud lake surrounded by forests and gardens, Lady’s seat and Pagoda point for the most stunning views of the landscape, Kiliyur waterfalls, Orchidarium run by the Botanical Survey of India, the Montford school, Shevaroyan temple atop the hill, Silk farm, Horticulture research station and the Salem view between the 16th and 17th hairpin bends. Wildlife in Yercaud’s forests include bison, deer, rabbits, foxes, mongoose, squirrels, partridges, snakes, bulbuls, kites, sparrows, swallows and the birds of paradise. You could cycle around the lake and town or just take leisurely long walks, breathing in the fresh air with a strong scent of coffee, pepper or jackfruit!
Shopping: Coffee, spices, locally grown fruit and fresh vegetables, perfumes, natural oils, honey, flowers and saplings.
Accessibility: Yercaud is easily motorable from Salem town (29 km.) The nearest railway station is Salem while the nearest airport is Trichy (165 km.)
Best time to visit: Through the year owing to its salubrious climate, September – February being winter and April – May being the warmest months of the year.