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The Dream Western Ghats Road Trip in 2024 (With Map)

Last Updated on January 8, 2024

My love for the Western Ghats of India is no secret. The temperate weather all year round, the winding roads along the lush green hills, the magical monsoon, and the wildlife – the Western Ghats are what dreams are made of.

Have you ever thought of embarking on a Western Ghats Road trip spanning the whole stretch of the world’s hottest ecological hotspot?

Thanks to my stay in Bangalore, I have visited the different parts of this UNESCO natural heritage site more times than I can count.

Every time, I fell in love with it a little bit more. So this post is my tribute to the mesmerizing landscape that inspired the travel writer in me.

I have a disclaimer to make if it’s not clear already. I have never been on this week-long road trip or any such long road trip before.

But I have been to many (a lot) of these road trips on an extended weekend, enough to select the best for what I would call the Western Ghats Dream Route.

Related: The list of my personal favorites for the best places to visit in monsoon

The post contains affiliate links for tours, hotels etc. This means if you make any purchase through the links in the post, I may get a commission without any additional cost to you.

Western Ghats of India – an introduction

The Western Ghats is the name given to the Sahyadri Mountain range, which happens to be the oldest mountain range in India. This 1600 km long mountain range runs parallel to the western coast of the Indian peninsula.

With over 300 endangered species of flora and fauna speckled over an area of 14000 square kilometers, the Western Ghats is one of the world’s eight “hottest biodiversity hot spots”. Another name given to the Sahyadri Mountains is “the Great Escarpment of India ”.

Geographically, the Western Ghats start from the Dang region in Maharashtra and end at Kanyakumari, the southern tip of India.

Unfortunately, this amazing region was exploited first by mass deforestation under the British government and later by illegal mining. It was declared an ecological hotspot in 1988 through the efforts of ecologist Norman Myers.

In 2012, 39 sites of Western Ghats across Maharashtra, were awarded the status of UNESCO world heritage site. Following this, there was increased awareness and measures taken by environmentalists to protect the mountains and wildlife.

The ecosystem of the Western Ghats regulates the monsoon pattern of the country and the climate of the Indian peninsula. So next time you plan a trip to the country, do not restrict yourself to the Taj Mahal and palaces, come down south and take a road trip across the Western Ghats of India.

Check out this book by a retired Forest Officer to learn more about it.

Western Ghats Road Trip – 7-day itinerary

So let's chalk out our Western Ghats itinerary covering my favorite spots in 7 days. The problem is, I just have too many favorites and just 7 days.

So this is truly more about the journey than each destination. You can shorten it or extend your stay at one or more places.

• Day 1 – Mollem and Dudhsagar Falls of Goa
• Day 2 – Drive through the Konkan Coast
• Day 3- Explore the Sharavati Valley
• Day 4 – Coorg
• Day 5 – Bandipur/ Mudumalai Tiger Safari
• Day 6– Kodaikanal
• Day 7– Munnar

Though I imagine this as a long drive it could also be a route for the Western Ghats bike trip.

Total distance -1295 km. Route .

The Western Ghats start from Maharashtra and there are some pretty spectacular spots there. However, this itinerary is designed especially for the best 7-day road trip, so I had to exclude them.

I would give a special mention of the Kaas plateau of Satara, Maharashtra which is just one of its kind and still on my bucket list. The plateau is filled with blossoms during monsoon, from June to early September.

Its floral biodiversity makes it one of the 39 heritage sites in the Western Ghats. If you plan to start from Mumbai, you may do a trip to the Kaas Plateau and then take a train to Goa before embarking on this road trip.

This itinerary will take you through two of the tallest waterfalls in India, multiple wildlife reserves, the amazing Konkan coast, grasslands, tea gardens, and spice plantations among the many natural wonders. You will also come across several hill-forts, ancient temples, monasteries, and churches. Are you excited about the drive now?

🚎 Use 12goAsia to book taxis, buses, and other modes of transport for your travels

Day1 – The other side of Goa

Discover a different face of India's most famous hippie destination, the beach paradise called Goa. Mollem is a small town in Goa near two beautiful forests – the Mollem wildlife sanctuary and the Bhagwan Mahavir National Park.

Together they are home to some 722 species of wild plants and a variety of animals and birds. The biggest attraction of the Mahavir National Park is the Dudhsagar Falls, the water of which is considered holy by the locals.

You can see it from the Mumbai-Goa express train that runs on the bridge across the waterfall or take a jeep safari into the forests. If you have time you can go for a private spice plantation tour here or simply save that for the rest of your trip.

Related: 3-day itinerary for Goa

Our Recommended Stay(s):

The Crown Goa for the fantastic location and an amazing breakfast spread 

Check out the best places to stay in Goa .

Day2- Drive through the Konkan Coast

Next morning, have a great Goan breakfast and set off for a drive from Sonalium, Goa to Karwar in coastal Karnataka.

You will come across some beautiful white churches of South Goa on your way to Karnataka. You can drive about 260 km straight to the Sharavati Valley of Karnataka or give in to the temptation to stay at Karwar or Gokarna for one night.

The long drive will take you along the mesmerizing Konkan coast with the Green Mountains on your left and the Arabian Sea on your right.

I would suggest you stay near the Devbagh beach resort to experience the tranquil beauty that inspired the poetic genius Rabindranath Tagore in his youth.

You can visit the Indian Naval Museum and a Shivaji fort during the day and relax at the Tagore beach in the evening.

Sterling Karwa r for location, service and COVID safety measures.

Check other Hotels in Karwar .

Day 3: Drive to Jog Falls and Honnemaradu

It will take you about 4 hours to drive from Karwar to Jog Falls. You will need a little lesser time if you chose to stay at Gokarna instead. If you start at say 10 am after a heavy brunch, you will reach the Jog Falls at 2 pm.

Watch one of the tallest cascades in India from this viewpoint. Take a boat ride in the golden waters of Honnemaradu Lake. Otherwise, you can skip the Honnemaradu Lake and head straight to the Agumbe rainforest which is 147 km away from Jog Falls.

At 825 meters above sea level, Agumbe is an ecological spot famous for sunset. I missed Agumbe on my trip to Shimoga last year, but I can’t stop talking about how beautiful the lakes of Shimoga were.

So if you want to drive a little less and relax at the Honnemaradu Lake, you wouldn’t regret it. This can be your starting point for a 5-day Western Ghats road trip from Bangalore. Just follow the same route from Day 3 to Day 8.

Related: Trip to Shimoga and Jog Falls

Our Recommendation: Royal Orchid, Shimoga f or location and affordable luxury

Check other Hotels in Shimoga .

Day 4 – Drive to Madikeri, Coorg

Coorg is often called the Scotland of South India because of the vast grasslands, misty mountains, and temperate climate. Coorg is a huge district of Karnataka which earlier used to be a separate state. There are two major towns where you can stay in Coorg – Madikeri or Virajpet .

If you have only half a day at Coorg, I will recommend you to stay in Madikeri, as you can see check out some of the best attractions within a small radius. Start with Abbey Falls, then visit the coffee estate and then walk into the Madikeri Fort.

Watch the sunset from Raja’s seat to make up for the sunset point at Agumbe. If you have time, you can drive 35 km to the famous Namdroling Monastery at Bylapkuppe before you retire at the Madikeri Fort. Bylakuppe is a mini-Tibet in South India.

You can also choose Chikmagalur as a stop for the day instead of Coorg.

Our Recommendation: Taj Madikeri f or a luxurious stay in the cradle of nature

Day 5: Drive to Bandipur Tiger Reserve, Karnataka

Waterfalls, hills, and sea are being done, it's time to experience the real wildlife of Western Ghats. Bandipur, Nagarhole (also in Karnataka), Wayanad (Kerala), and Mudumalai (Tamil Nadu) are four interconnected national parks that the largest Tiger Zone of India both by area and by number (an estimated 570 tigers in the zone, most of which is in Karnataka).

In order to protect wildlife, connecting roads are narrow and transport is highly regulated. You can visit any of these national parks and go on a jeep safari to see leopards, black panthers, tigers, spotted deer, sambar, elephants, peafowls, and many more exotic wild creatures.

Related: Bandipur tiger safari

Day 6: Drive to Kodaikanal

From Bandipur, you can visit one of the best hill stations of Tamil Nadu -Ooty, Coonoor or Kodaikanal. I am fortunate to have visited all of them but my favorite is Kodaikanal. Nestled in the Palani hills, Kodaikanal stands at a height of almost 2200 meters above sea level. Due to this elevation, you can enjoy the cool climate and pure air throughout the year at Kodaikanal. It is 314 km away from Bandipur.

Start early so that you can reach Kodaikanal by 5 pm. What you can enjoy now is an evening walk at the famous Coakers Walk and other parks in Kodaikanal. Read more about places to visit in Kodaikanal .

Our Recommendation: The Tamara Kodai for a great location and fantastic ambience.

Day 7: Drive to Munnar, Kerala

Save the best for the last they say. So there is no better way to end the road trip than with a scenic drive along the rolling hills of Munnar. Can I just say once and for all that Munnar is the most beautiful hill station in South India? Wherever you look you can see lush greenery – either forests or tea gardens. stay in Munnar for at least one full day to experience the beauty of nature. Walk into any of the tea gardens, visit the Matupetty dam and go kayaking to watch the elephants at Anairankal Park.

Munnar is beautiful all year round but due to its temperate weather, it is a great summer destination in India .

Our Recommendation: Fort Munnar for budget-friendly stay and Sterling Munnar for affordable luxury. Both these hotels are located away from the main town of Munnar in the Chinnakanal region.

Day 8 (optional): Kolukkumalai

If you have another day in Munnar you can do a half-day trip to the highest tea estate and tea factory in the world, the Kolukkumalai tea estate . Taste the orange pekoe tea at the highest tea estate of the world while watching the clouds at the nose level.

Some Quick Driving Tips for the Western  Ghats

One of the reasons why I recommend the  Western Ghats road trip so much is because the roads are pretty awesome. And remember that you can't say that for the roads of India in general.

In fact, the road to all the places I mentioned here is better than most of the city roads I've seen.  

Having said all that, you will still be driving in the hills, sometimes through really narrow bends, lots of hairpin turns, and high altitudes.

To add to that, you may encounter some of the worst drivers on the way. So here are a few tips you should keep in mind.

• Avoid driving in the hills in the dark.
• It's very important to adjust your seat so that you don't have too much of a blind spot on the right-hand side. In India, you drive on the left.
• Have ample legroom so that you can fully engage the clutch whenever required.
• Maintain your lane in the hills, but always keep about 4ft-5ft space on the left when you are taking a turn.
• Respect the trucks – they are the king of roads. Respect all large commercial vehicles in general. They are usually the most disciplined drivers on the road.
• Most importantly, never drink and drive.
• Save the Road Trip Checklist for hassle-free travel.
• Download your favorite songs on Amazon Music, so that you don't have to depend on internet connectivity for grooving to music on your road trips

Read more about the Bountiful Western Ghats of India

Interested to know more about the world's hottest ecological hotspot? Here are some incredible books that you can read. You can get the Kindle version of these books for Rs. 200 (that's less than a cup of coffee at Starbucks).

• The Western Ghats and the Bounteous Services Showered on the Planet
• The Road to Puthukkad – The Birth of Tea Estate in South written by Gordon Alexander, A British officer who spent 13 years in the Western Ghats of India
• Whispers from the Wild – An invaluable collection of unpublished work and photographs of renowned naturalist ERC Davidar who made remarkable contributions to the studies of the Western Ghats of India.

Western Ghats Road Trip – Some closing thoughts

I hope you enjoyed reading this as much as I loved reliving the moments while I wrote. If you liked it, don't forget to share it with your friends. You can pin the image below to save it for later and subscribe for weekly post alerts.

The Western Ghats of India are truly special. Just like the Himalayas of the north, the Sundarbans of the East, and the Thar Desert in the West.

Personally, I don’t understand this extravagance in creating new landmarks for tourism like the Statue of Unity. There is so much already to preserve.

India is a country loaded with natural and architectural wonders that deserve preservation.

The illegal mining in the forests of Goa has caused great hazards for the rare species that thrived there. Recently there are demands of widening the roads in Bandipur which will lead to further destruction of wildlife.

Irresponsible tourists often cause forest fires in humid forests that are not prone to natural fires. It pains me to see plastic bottles littered in the most beautiful places of the Western Ghats , wherever there are more tourists.

The same reason why I included slightly offbeat places in this itinerary, most of which are highly regulated.

Can we not invest in preserving this glorious gift of God instead? Through this blog, I will continue my endeavor of raising awareness for responsible tourism. Have you been on a road trip in the Western Ghats? What is your favorite place? Tell me in the comment section. 

Additional reading:

Don't forget to check out our epic road trip saga – driving from Bangalore to Kolkata during pandemic . For less adventurous trip ideas you can check out the following articles and more on our website.

• Best Long Weekend Trips in India for this year
• Best places to visit in South India

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51 Comments

Hey Sinjana, this is awesome! I had never thought of a week long road trip on the western ghats. To me it always meant the drive between Pune and Mumbai. I’d love to do this trip sometime and your post perfect for it.

Thanks Jyoti. Yes during my stay in Mumbai, Lonavla, khandala ,malshej ghats etc were the only places that we knew. However, the chain of hill stations in the south are great.

Wow that was quite a drive..I have visited these places individually but never at one go..I love long drives and would love to hit the roads

Thanks Madhu. Glad you liked it.

The Kaas Plateau will its abundance of wildflowers looks magical! Thanks for the itinerary…we’d love to try this route.

Thanks Mohana. I borrowed the picture of Kas plateau from my friend. It’s on my 2019 plans.

I love road trips! Never really considered doing one in India, but it’s definitely on my list now. Such an awesome post!

Your guide has made my road trip through Western Ghats easy. Thanks for the effort and helping fellow travellers. Cheers

I have done this stretch in bits and pieces and yes, loved it too. I want to now do the Konkan side above Goa towards Ratnagiri and further down till Diu. I have heard that it is incredibly beautiful. In the stretch you did, as you hit Honnavar near Jog Falls, there is a place called Apsarakonda that is absolutely gorgeous. The next time if you get here, you should try that. Loved reading through your journey and seeing the lovely pics.

Thanks Ami. I have done all these but on separate shorter road trips and have stayed in those places. Will watch out for Apsarakonda next time we go.

Western Ghats looks amazing. Never heard of it before your post. Love to go, especially to tiger reserve.

Thanks Sue. The Western Ghats are amazing

I am from Maharashtra and am always been in love with the western ghats. Especially in the rains when the greenery comes alive. Jog falls, Coorg, Kodaikanal are magical.. The best trip I ever had was to Coorg.

Your road trip sure sounds like a fruitful one! The scenery is amazing, especially those at Jog falls. The tiger reserve also seems like a wonderful (albeit heart-stopping) experience.

I love the idea that you’ve turned your travels into a road trip, that’s such a great idea. I absolutely love waterfalls, and feel like I could sit and listen to one all day long. Your waterfall recommendations would be on my list for sure. Are these areas family-friendly?

South India in general is very family friendly. Yes, all these areas are perfect for family trips.

I’ve never heard of the western ghats of India until now. There are some incredible places to visit on the way; Jog Falls is particularly beautiful as is Munnar and all that green! I’m also intrigued by Coorg, the Scotland of India, it sounds amazing.

That’s like India in a nutshell! It seems to cover most of the things tourist should see. I think I would love to get an overview of India like that, because I have never been there

Thanks Alexander. This is just a narrow strip of India but yes,it’s very beautiful and has everything for a traveler.

hi, this looks like so much fun. We LOVE a road trip and whenever we can, this is the way we travel. Ho safe is it with kids. Sorry but never have been to India but this looks so beautiful and quite family friendly. Would love to see the tigers for sure.

Thanks Corina. All the regions discussed here are family friendly. Jeep safaris might be problematic if the kids cry or want to move about. Otherwise everything is safe.

In 2017 we made it to Munnar but we should have travelled further. The Western Ghats look beautiful. I enjoy waterfalls and visiting Jog Falls is now high on my list when I next travel to India. Thanks for highlighting this area.

What a great trip! I’d love to see the sunset at the “Scotland of India” and that Tiger reserve seems like an awesome experience too! Although I’m curious if there have been any fatalities there. hehe

Wow, what an incredible adventure! I’m coming to India next month and will definitely consider taking this route

This looks amazing post. I’ve been till Mumbai so far in Southern India but I’m planning to visit Coorg first.

Super cool article. Western ghats are always open for the love of roads and the view that it gives out cannot be surpassed. I have ridden to jog falls, munnar, bandipur and coorg as listed and to be honest it just remembered me my days riding through those ghat sections while reading. Thanks for sharing.

This looks an amazing Indian itinerary. I love it when people do all the hard work for me lol. And if I came as close to a tiger as in that photo, my life would be complete:)

This is a beautiful part of India. I have seen the Dudhsagar Falls from the train and would have loved to have had the time to explore further, they were stunning

I love the Western Ghats and it is good that you shared an amazing itinerary. I did this trip from Gujarat when I was in High school but till Mangalore and till there all was very beautiful. But now I am again thinking to take my kids with all reference points listed in your post. My favorite location is driving through Konkan coast.

I always got through pictures first. Some may call it a bad habit and say that it is unfair to judge a post by the photos. Sorry, I can’t help it. The tiger purposefully moving along the road certainly caught enough of my attention to raise curiosity about what’s going on there. More I read more I realized that sooner or later I have to visit India in general and Goa in particular. Waterfalls are my weakness. Whenever I go, I try to look for them. Hence, the Jog Falls found their way on my virtual bucket list. The only thing that’s left is to actually schedule a trip.

Thanks Elena. The tiger is in her own home. It’s we who visited the place through the dusty road.

This looks and sounds like an epic road trip. We love road trips and this would be right up our streets. The waterfalls look spectacular and ending the trip by the tea plantations would suit me down to the ground.

I have always dreamt of doing this long trip visiting all that the Western Ghats has to offer. Have visited Coorg, Goa and Udupi separately but would love to do this stretch all-together again. Thanks for attaching the road map. This will help a lot in planning out the route

This is definitely one of the most elaborate posts that I have read on Western Ghats. I felt nostalgic too to see some of the places in Goa and Kerala and in Maharashtra. Western Ghats are rightly the hotbed for variety of flora, fauna, adventure activities and more. And road trips are the best way to explore them. I did no know hat Sahyadri Mountains are also called “the Great Escarpment of India”. Thanks for sharing that.

I have had a chance to visit some parts of the Western Ghat when I was based in India and must say a lot on offer here. There is so much to see and do from mountains to beaches and wildlife. I was not aware that the Sahyadri Mountain range is the oldest mountain range in India so some great learning here thanks. I particularly like the Konkan coast and the food around the area as well. Overall it seems to be a great ideas to drive down this route and have a great few days.

A wonderful post…. Ideal for the monsoons to hit the road and visit around.. Maybe you must try out BR Hills, Kolli Hills as well, heard a great deal about them from friends…

Hi Srikanth, sure. I have been to BR hills already. I have just selected te top 15 out of all the places I visited.

India is definatly on my bucketlist, I would love to go there for a month and explore 🙂

That’s a great idea!

I enjoyed reading your article. I have been planning a road trip in Western Ghats for years. I did Indore to Ratnagiri in Nov 2018 by my car and am looking for road status and optimized route now. I have done Indore- Pune -Bangalore-Pondicheri few years ago by car. I have visited Munnar, Kodai etc much before, but not by car. Now I am eager to do Western Ghats. I would appreciate, if you can give more info. Ravi

Thanks Ravi. You can check out the map in this post and plan out an itinerary based on the number of days you have. Mail me at [email protected] with your exact requirements.

Hi! This was a beautiful article. Thanks a lot for the tips. I’m going on a road trip along the Western Ghats this December. But we will be starting from Varkala in Kerala and going towards Goa. Any other suggestions along that route?

Thanks Abhilash for your kind comment. You must certainly stop at Alapuzha and Bekal Fort (Kasargod) in Kerala, Udupi , Gokarna and Karwar in Karnataka on your way to Goa. That’s on the shortest route through the coastline. If you want to enjoy the Western Ghats take a slighlty longer route through Chinnakanal, Munnar , Madikeri and Shimoga or Agumbe.

I m planning to explore western Ghats in the month of Dec will it be good to visit in the month

Hi Bidyarani, it will be great in December. The weather will be nice but most waterfalls will be dry

Have visited some parts of the Western Ghats. Will revert back to your post for the rest, whenver that happens.

Thanks a lot!

In the new pandemic situation, road trips are surely the in thing, and best option for holiday makers. Love the extensive list you have shared in this post.

Wow, this post for a while took me to the virtual tour along the western ghats. this trip is highly recommended to explore Western coastal. Well researched and planned trip. Look forward to a week of the drive, and saving it till I plan this route.

In India we drive on the left. Other than that very informative.

Oops.. that was a silly mistake. Thanks for pointing it out.

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LET’S GO ON A DRIVE TO FEEL ALIVE- THE WESTERN GHATS

Here is one of the most amazing trips planned out for you and your friends to feel alive. Talking about feeling alive, what better place one could visit than the WESTERN GHATS? This 7 day itinerary would make you fall in love with The Western Ghats and will help you experience some things that you never imagined.

It will make you witness a gigantic combination of rivers and waterfalls of The Western Ghats and how it drenches in green during monsoons. Traveling through its terrain is like a traveler’s version of heaven on earth. It has encaptured the states of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala, Goa, and Maharashtra, reaching some remote destinations. It is like a full package, consisting of pristine places, hills, and biodiversity hotspots.

It has one of the most exciting maps, recoiling mountain roads, traversing through jungles, tumbling waterfalls. It is like, every bit of the ghats is calling us to visit it and have the time of one’s life.

• Experience two of the tallest waterfalls in India
• Drive through multiple wildlife reserves
• Drive through the amazing Konkan coast, grasslands, tea gardens and spice plantations
• You will also come across several hill-forts, ancient temples, monasteries, and churches.
• This is a fast paced road trip. The destinations or pace of the trip can be customised as per your preferences. Reach out to our destination experts to get this tailor-made for you.

ITINERARY - 7 Days

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Best season: January - December

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Best Road Trips to Explore The Western Ghats During Monsoon

The Western Ghats are a mountain range which lies almost parallel to the western coastline of India and makes some of the greenest and most adventurous road trips in the country. Set in the Sahyadri range, the lush greenery and dense foliage, it is also home to some of the most exotic flora and fauna in the world. Here are some of the best road trips of the Western Ghats that you can take and experience the magic of these hills firsthand.

10 Best Places to Experience the Western Ghat

• Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra
• Mollem, Goa
• Chorla Ghat, Goa
• Agumbe, Karnataka
• Dandeli, Karnataka
• Madikeri, Karnataka
• Coonoor, Tamil Nadu
• Valparai, Tamil Nadu
• Wayanad, Kerala
• Thekkady, Kerala

1. Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra

Whether you are a history lover or a nature admirer, or just a travel enthusiast, Mahabaleshwar has something to offer to everyone. You can visit Pratapgarh Fort, Parsi Point, Venna Lake when you are here. You can also take a walk through the woods and enjoy the best of nature. From temples to forests, from farms to forests, tourists will find everything here. Mahabaleshwar is one of the best places to visit in the Western Ghats.

2. Mollem, Goa

This part of Goa is not like the usual beaches and parties one. As you visit Mollem, you will be able to see woods and waterfalls in Goa. The village is surrounded by mountains and the perfect place for the adventure aficionados. To make it to the Dudhsagar Falls here, you will have to trek through Mollem National Park and Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary. The best time to travel Mollen is during the summers. Try avoiding the monsoon season while you make your plan to Mollem.

3. Chorla Ghat, Goa

Chorla Ghat shares its borders with Maharashtra, Karnataka and Goa of course. The place is not known to many yet, but you will be mesmerized by its natural beauty and pristine waterfalls. There are numbers of waterfalls in Chorla Ghat and each one of them is beautiful. The forests here are rich in birds and butterflies. You might even spot reptiles here.  If you are not very fond of reptiles, it is better to be a little conscious while you are here.

4. Agumbe, Karnataka

Agumbe is located in the hilly regions of Karnataka. Agumbe came to limelight after RK Narayan’s TV serial Malgudi Days was shot here. There are various monuments and temples in the region. The wild forest in Agumbe is also home to a wide variety of reptiles, especially King Cobra.

5. Dandeli, Karnataka

Explore the adventurous side of yours when you are in Dandeli. While you can go for trekking and white water rafting, you can also opt for wildlife safari here. You can spot some of the big cats like Black Panther and leopards here. The Kali River here is famous for river rafting. So, if you want to try rafting in this state, you must head to Dandeli.

6. Madikeri, Karnataka

Madikeri is a plantation town situated in Coorg. The misty peaks, pristine waterfalls, thick forests, and rivers are some of the attractions in Madikeri. This place is also visited by flora and fauna lovers. Some of the major attractions in Madikeri are Raja’s Seat, Omkareshwara Temple, Madikeri Fort, and Abbey Falls.

7. Coonoor, Tamil Nadu

Located well in the Nilgiri Mountains, Coonoor is one of the most sought after hill stations in not only Tamil Nadu but the entire South India. Nestled into forests, Coonoor has a lot to offer to the adventure lovers. You can drive all the way through the beautiful and smooth roads that will take you to his beautiful hill station. You will also be able to spot various birds in this hill station. Another hill station that is located near Coonoor is Ooty, and the road that connects these two hill stations are the best for a drive or biking.

8. Valparai, Tamil Nadu

Situated in the Anamalai Mountains, Valaparai is known as a plantation town that is also popular as a biodiversity hotspot. The tea plantations and evergreen tropical forests here look absolutely soothing to the eyes. The best route to reach here will be a drive through the dense jungles with 40 hairpin bends. You will easily be able to spot wild animals here such as elephants, leopards, tigers, lion tailed macaques, giant squirrels, to name a few. To take view of the beautiful waterfalls, you can visit Monkey fall and Aliyar falls here.

9. Wayanad, Kerala

If forests fascinate you, then you must visit to Wayanad. You will find some of the densest forests here. Wayanad is one of the destinations in the Western Ghats that is perfect for road trips. The rich vegetation, verdant tea plantations, landscapes, mountains, waterfalls, and even chances of spotting animals here make Wayanad one of the best tourist destinations in Kerala. There are caves in Wayanad which will keep the history lovers glued to the place. You will also be able to find paintings from the ancient times in these caves. Wayanad also boasts of having Banasura Sagar Dam, which is second largest in Asia and the largest Earth Dam in the country.

10. Thekkady, Kerala

Situated in the Cardamom Hills, Thekkady is not only famous for having elephant and tiger reserves but also for the spice plantations. The aroma of tea and spices blankets the town. While you are here, you can also visit Mangala Devi Temple.

The easy availability of self drive car rental from Revv makes the planning even more easier. The wide choice of cars and the pocket-friendly pricing plans have made Revv a popular choice.

The beauty of the Western Ghats is unparalleled and a road trip there is sure to leave a great memory. Filled with engaging activities and spread across many states it provides the tourist a glimpse in the rich cultural and natural heritage of India.

• ← Road Trip from Visakhapatnam to Nallamala Hills
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The official blog of Revv Self Drive Car Rental, was started in November of 2019 with the aim to make leisure travel easy & accessible. The blog covers places to visit in India, new trends in the car rental industry & most importantly how to make your travel/roadtrip easy & memorable.

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The Western Ghats

Welcome to the lush Western Ghats, some of the most precious heat relief in India. Rising like an impassable bulwark of evergreen and deciduous tangle, from north of Mumbai to the tip of Tamil Nadu, the World Heritage–listed Ghats (with an average elevation of 915m) contain 27% of India’s flowering plant species and an incredible array of endemic wildlife. In Tamil Nadu they rise to over 2000m in the Palani Hills around Kodaikanal and the Nilgiris around Ooty. British influence lingers a little stronger up in these hills, where colonialists built 'hill stations' to escape the sweltering plains and covered slopes in neatly trimmed tea plantations. It’s not just the air and (relative) lack of pollution that’s refreshing – there’s a certain acceptance of quirkiness and eccentricity here. Expect organic farms, handlebar-moustached trekking guides and leopard-print earmuffs.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Mudumalai Tiger Reserve

In the foothills of the Nilgiris, this newly enlarged 765-sq-km wildlife reserve is like a classical Indian landscape painting given life, with chital…

Anamalai Tiger Reserve

A pristine 958-sq-km reserve of tropical jungle, shola forest and grassland rising to 2400m in the Western Ghats and spilling over into Kerala between…

Botanical Gardens

Ooty (Udhagamandalam)

Established in 1848, these pretty 22-hectare gardens are a living gallery of the Nilgiris' natural flora. Keep an eye out for a typical Toda mund (village…

Tribal Research Centre Museum

If you're interested in the Nilgiris' tribal communities you'll love this slightly scruffy, erratically open museum, with its fascinating exhibits on…

Sullivan Memorial

Just 2km north of Kotagiri centre, the house built in 1819 by Ooty founder John Sullivan has been refurbished in bright red and filled with fascinating…

Berijam Lake

Kodaikanal (Kodai)

Visiting forest-fringed Berijam Lake, 21km southwest of Kodaikanal, requires a Forest Department permit (₹250). Taxi drivers will organise this, if asked…

Coaker’s Walk

Assuming it isn't cloaked in opaque mist, the views from paved Coaker’s Walk are beautiful, all the way down to the plains 2000m below. The stroll takes…

Pillar Rocks

About 7km west of town, these towering boulders have jaw-dropping views to the Tamil Nadu plains below.

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May 11, 2023 • 8 min read

Straddling the states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala, this mountain range delivers scenic tea plantations, memorable train journeys, amazing wildlife and more.

The Western Ghats and beyond

Trip to western ghats -Gokarna and jog falls

 Day 1

Hyderabad - Hubli - Gokarna

One friday i decided to explore western ghats of Karnataka and visit Gokarna beach and jog falls .

we  started  our journey from hyderabad to hubli by VRL bus. we reached Hubli by 4 a.m where our private bus was waiting ,it was raining so without waiting we resumed our journey to Gokarna which took around 4 hours including tea break. 

we reached Gokarna at 7 a.m .we explored the Gokarna town and visited few temples .After visiting temples we started out trekking from Gokarna beach.there is a small road which goes from Gokarna to ohm beach its a 5 km trek which is easy . you will see number of small hills which is surrounding Gokarna. the view is amazing you will see big rocks getting hit by giant waves .you can find people doing fishing on the bank of Gokarna Beach .

we found a small place at om beach where we decided to put our camps.you see very few people who will be chilling at beach specially in the evening .

We didn't sleep in the night since we have to start at 2 a.m to jog falls .If you love stars and moon you are in the right place the sight is perfect for  star gazing  since the sky becomes very clear during night .

About Gokarna

Gokarna is a beach town located in Northern Karnataka. While being an important pilgrimage town, it is also a global hub attracting travelers from all over the world.  

Don't expect any luxuries here (except for the swanky wellness retreat at Om Beach called Swaswara). Backpacking is the way to explore Gokarna...be simple,connect with the beautiful sea and indulge in some pretty delicious food! 

Getting there

Nearest railway station: Gokarna  

Nearest airport: Goa

By road: Gokarna is a three hour drive from Panjim . You can get regular buses from Madgaon, Panjim and Mapusa in Goa to Karwar . From Karwar you will have to change buses and board the one heading to Gokarna. 

Where to stay?

Lots of shacks and small guest houses on Gokarna, Kudle and Om Beach. I personally love staying at Kudle. So here are some suggestions for shacks and guest houses:

Jasmine Cafe   Shangri-La Guest House Gokarna International

Gokarna-Jog falls 

we woke up at 2 in the morning (most of the people didnt sleep and had amazing time in the night) .we got into our private bus we raeched Jog falls at 6 .it was very foggy in the morning we couldnt see anything .we waited for the fog to get clear ,after waiting 30 mins i couldnt believe my eyes . there was a huge waterfall in front of my eyes plus so many small small waterfalls nearby

Jog fall undoubtly the best waterfall of India .  

Jog Falls on the Sharavathi river is situated in Shimoga district of Karnataka. Cascading from a height of 253 meters, the waterfall consists of four distinct cascades – known locally as Raja, Rani, Rover and Rocket. The four cascades merge to form the huge waterfall.

The waterfall is locally known as Geruoppe Falls, Gersoppa Falls and Jogada Gundi. The word ‘Jog’ is a Kannada word, which means falls. It is said that the world ‘Jog’ is derived from the word Javalu, which means water coming out forming wetlands.

The significance of the waterfall is that the water does not stream down the rocks in a tiered fashion. In contrast, the water thunders down the slope losing contact with the rocks, thus making Jog Falls the tallest un-tiered waterfall in the country. The beauty of the waterfalls is enhanced by the lush green surroundings, which provides a scenic backdrop to the falls.

Visitors can hike down to the base of the falls and can take a plunge in the water. There are several points from where you can view the beauty of the Jog falls. Watkins platform is one of the popular points to view the falls. One can also get scenic look of the falls from the rock outcrop near Bombay Bungalow. The area near the falls is also ideal fortrekking.

Other beautiful areas near the waterfall are the Swarna Nadi riverbank, the Sharavathi valley and the lush green forestaround the waterfalls.

The best time to visit Jog Falls is during the monsoon. It is the ideal time to see the waterfall. The water falls with great force that it creates a cloud of vapour.

Other places to visit near the falls are Dabbe falls, Linganamakki Dam, Tunga Anicut Dam, Thyvare Koppa Lion and Tiger reserve and Sharavati River.

WHERE TO STAY

Karnataka packages.

More Stories For Karnataka

Further Reads

Treks in Western Ghat

Here is the list of 15 treks in western ghat, 1. trekking in kudremukh, kudremukh.

Kudremukh, with its diverse landscapes, provides a wide variety of trekking trails. You have to obtain permission from the forest department for trekking here, but it is well worth the trouble.

2. Kodachadri Trek

Kodachadri Hills serve as a stunning backdrop of evergreen forests to the town of Maravanthe. Located in the Western Ghats at a height of 4411 feet above the sea level, they also proves to be one of the good trekking trails, beginning at the South Kanara Forest.

3. Chembra Peak

Located close to the bumbling town of Meppady and just 8 km south of Kalpetta, stands the highest peak of the Wayanad Hill Range- the Chembra Peak at an altitude of 2000 meters above sea level. The Chembra peak offers a panoramic view of not only the entire Wayanad district but also a large chunk of Kozhikode, Malappuram and Niligiri districts.

4. Ratangad Fort Trek

Ratangad is a 400 year old fort, captured by Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in his time. It is situated in Ratanwadi which is it's base village and overlooks the Bhandardara. The natural rock formation has an emerging tip at the top known as 'Nedhe' or 'the eye of the needle'. There are many wells on the top each near the four gates of the fort - Ganesh, Hanuman, Konkan, Trimbak.

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Mumbai & lonavala dream city package, matheran lonavala & alibaug tour package, shirdi, shani shignapur & jyotirlinga tour package, konkan dream tour package for 6 nights 7 days, tadoba tiger safari tour package, 5. tadiandamol peak, coorg.

Tadiandamol is the highest mountain peak in Coorg, at an elevation of 1748m. Most tourists interested in trekking are drawn to this place as the journey is difficult, but the view from the top, unparalleled. While being the second highest peak in all of Karnataka, Tadiandamol trek is also a very good option for nature lovers who desire scenic surroundings and are beginners in the trekking scene.

6. Dudhsagar Falls, Goa, Goa - The Flowing Cascade of Milk

Dudhsagar falls in Goa are a pleasant change in landscape for a destination that is known for its sunny beaches and inviting waves. The majestic falls are a little farther inland approximately 60 km from Panaji on the Goa - Karnataka Border. As these falls are located inside the Mollem National Park, their vistas of green and verdant forest lands are unparalleled.

7. Meesapulimala, Idukki

The second highest peak in Southern India, Meesapulimala stands elevated at an altitude of 2641 meters (8660 feet ) above sea level. The densely covered terrain has eight peaks that together resemble a moustache and is, therefore, called Meesapulimala. An ideal spot for trekking, the starting point of the trek is either Rhodovalley or Silent Valley which lies 6 km before Rhodovalley.

8. Bhimashankar, Maharashtra

Known For : Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary Bhimashankar Temple Bhimashankar Trek

Bhimashankar, located about 100 km from Pune and 223 km from Mumbai , is a popular temple town. It is among one of the twelve traditional 'Jyotilingam' shrines of Lord Shiva in India. Bhimashankar is located in the village Bhorgiri in the ghat region of the Sahyadri range. Situated at an height of around 3,250 feet, Bhimashankar is surrounded by hills and is covered by thick green rainforests.

Best Time: November to February

5 Bhimashankar Attractions

9. Mullayanagiri, Chikmagalur

Perched at an altitude of 1930 m above the sea level, Mullayanagiri peak is located in the Baba Budan Giri Range of Western Ghats. It serves as the highest peak between the Nilgiris and the Himalayas offering its visitors a relaxed environment with temperature ranging between 20 - 25 degrees Celsius. Known for its peaceful ambience and nature's raw beauty, this peak is adorned with verdant grassland, rugged rocks, and a good trek path is also quite popular among adventure lovers.

10. Kunti Betta, Mysore

Nestled in the town of Pandavapura between two hills, Kunti Betta is a perfect place to get away from the helter skelter of the city. This place is surrounded by sugarcane fields, paddy fields and coconut trees that makes the place look beautiful and mesmerizing. Situated at an elevation of 2882 feet, the picturesque scenic views that this place comprises of will make you feel rejuvenated.

11. Brahmagiri Trek, Coorg

Taking individuals deep inside the Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, the Brahmagiri trek is a delight with its myriad offerings. The route traverses lush forests, green grasslands and countless small streams and rivers. It is located on the border between Wayanad District of Kerala state on the south and Kodagu District in Karnataka on the north side. The peak of the hill is well-forested and is rich in wildlife.

12. Trekking in Kemmanagundi, Kemmanagundi

Trekking in Kemmanagundi is one of the most visually flattering and refreshing experiences, with sparkling green terrains, interspersed with waterfalls and streams. Trek you way to the Hebbe Falls and the Z point to have the most of your trekking experiences in Kemmanagundi.

13. Agumbe, Shimoga

Located in the Shimoga district of Karnataka, Agumbe is a tiny village often referred to as the "Cherrapunji of South India". This biodiversity-rich region highest rainfall in south India and the second highest annual rainfall in India. Visiting Agumbe is an enriching experience as this hill station and picturesque beauty coupled with trekking trails and gushing rainfalls. It is one of the last surviving lowland rainforests.

14. Trekking in Anthargange, Anthargange

The Anthargange mountain is a structure of small and big rocks coupled with natural springs and dense forest at the foot of the hill. This provides to be an excellent place for trekkers. There are also some temples along the way to visit. The trek is of a moderate difficulty starting with staircase up to the temple and then followed by raw natural boulders and rocks, streams and caves.

15. Sakleshpur Trek

Sakleshpur treks is one of the most unique treks of the Western Ghats. If you are a trekking enthusiast, you are bound to experience this one. The trek commences near the village-side of Sakleshpur and runs up to the Kukke Subramanya station. It is known as the green route where one trails through in the lap of nature. One gets to visit innumerable vistas along the way which include pristine Mallalli and Shiradi falls; spectacular rainforests like Bisle Reserve Forest, and attractions like Moodabidri Jain learning center, the Tipu Sultan fort and many others. You might also spot some wild elephants and other creatures on this trek. It's a scenic trek with thick foliage all along.

Magnificent hills, adventurous jungles and exhilarating wilderness of the Western Ghats make for just the perfect destination for trekking. Undertake the meandering routes of the beautiful Ghats and experience an unforgettable trek!

This post was published by Sony Punjabi

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Experience The Serenity Of 9 Beautiful Hill Stations in The Western Ghats

by middha on April 27, 2023

The Western Ghats are the abode of unparalleled natural beauty and hill stations that attract visitors from all across the world. They are the perfect destination for a honeymoon, a planned getaway with friends, or even a solo trip. There’s something that pleases everyone’s taste in this region, and all kinds of folks can feel a sense of belonging once they visit any of these hill stations. We’ve curated the nine best hill stations for your leisure, where you can stay at one of our Treebo Hotels and have the time of your life! 

Top 9 Hill Stations Of Western Ghats

1. matheran.

Matheran is a quaint hill station in the Western Ghats that offers a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of the city. The place is known for its quiet and peaceful atmosphere, which makes it an ideal getaway for all nature lovers who want to skip vehicles and instead explore the place on foot or a horse. The toy train ride is one of its main attractions and the best way to soak in the picturesque views. Moreover, the numerous trails, waterfalls, and lakes are perfect for spending a week-long vacation at one of our Treebo hotels in Matheran.

2. Mahabaleshwar

Mahabaleshwar is another charming hill station renowned for its strawberry farms, scenic valleys, and cultural heritage. Arthur’s Seat is the perfect destination for someone who wants a panoramic view of the Western Ghats mountains and valleys. Visiting Mahabaleshwar during monsoon is like a cherry on top; our hotels in Mahabaleshwar are available all year round, so accommodation will never be a problem for you. The Pratapgad Fort is another tourist attraction, which is a place of historical significance and architectural beauty and a popular spot amongst history buffs and adventure enthusiasts. The hill station is also known for the Panchganga temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, which is built on a sacred spot where five rivers unite.

Coorg is a hill station in Karnataka, famous for its verdant landscapes and coffee plantations. It is titled the “Scotland of India” due to how misty and beautiful the hills appear. If you ever visit Coorg, Abbey Falls is one tourist site that you must not miss out on! You can enjoy the site from a hanging bridge as you get splashed by the wild and turbulent waterfall. For all spiritual seekers, the Namdroling Monastery is a must-visit place. It is the largest teaching center of the Nyingma lineage, prominent in Tibetan Buddhism. Moreover, Coorg offers a tour to visitors to learn in-depth about the coffee-making process.

Visit the 10 Unexplored Hill Stations in Maharashtra to Satisfy Your Wanderlust

4. Chikmagalur

Chikmagalur is nestled in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, and the Chikmagalur Fort, built in the 17th century, is the most famous landmark in town. Mullayanagiri Peak is the highest one in the state and is surrounded by enchanting views of the Western Ghats’ landscapes. Baba Budangiri Hills is another spot that you must check out; it is named after Baba Budan, a Muslim saint who brought the culture of coffee cultivation to India. The pristine waterfalls are another reason that will draw you to the hill station. The best part? You can explore most of these locations within a span of a few days if you opt for our Treebo Hotels, which are close to most landmarks.

Munnar is a hill station in Kerala, and the town is located 1600 meters above sea level amidst rolling hills, dense forests, and glistening waterfalls. The Eravikulam National Park is a famous tourist spot where you’ll find the endangered Nilgiri Tahr grazing on the luscious grass fields. The park’s biodiversity is rich, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts. While you are there, do visit the Attukal and Lakkam Waterfalls to relax and be mesmerized by their beauty. Needless to say, Munnar is the best place for a refreshing break, where you can also catch a glimpse of cultural heritage and tea plantations.

Situated in the northern region of Kerala, Wayanad is a bewitching hill station with forests, waterfalls, and historical monuments. The Chembra Peak offers one of the most ravishing views, where couples can sit by a heart-shaped lake and enjoy the blissful destination. You must see the Edakkal Caves as well, which are made from ancient rock formations and date back to the Neolithic Age. On the inside, you’ll witness centuries-old carvings and paintings that portray the artistic flair of that era.

Also check out 15 Mesmerizing Destinations for Pre-Wedding Shoot in India

Tamil Nadu’s Ooty is popular for its serene environment and the man-made Ooty Lake, which is the highlight of this hill station. It’s tucked between the Nilgiri Hills and is a great place for visitors to enjoy a lovely boat ride. You can go for a trek on Doddabetta Peak and immerse yourself in the beauty of this Western Ghats tourist destination. The Glenmorgan Tea Estate and the Dodabetta Tea Museum are two other well-known spots where you can go for a cup of freshly brewed tea. 

8. Valparai

Valparai is a hidden gem of Tamil Nadu with its soothing environment and exotic wildlife. A vacation to Valparai is the exact break you need from the chaotic city life. Plan a picnic at the Aliyar Dam, go on boat rides, and bask in the glory of nature while you’re at one of the most beautiful hill stations of the Western Ghats. If you are in the mood for birdwatching or admiring animals, Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary is the place for you! Here you can find elephants, tigers, leopards, and multiple species of birds. The tea plantations here are an added bonus, where you can stop by before you head out to explore from your Treebo Hotel.

Agumbe hill station is located in the luscious green forests of the Western Ghats, and it offers biodiversity along with a relaxing break from your work. The Koodlu Theertha Falls, that cascade down from a height of 300 feet, is a site that tourists desperately yearn to see and take a dip in. The Agumbe Rainforest Research Station has successfully preserved flora and fauna of the region and turned the region into a place where anyone can learn about zoology and botany. The sunset point at Agube is a sight to see and is a peaceful place amidst magnificent surroundings.

So, there are the nine most sought hill stations of the Western Ghats that you must plan a trip to. A staycation at any of these places is no less than therapy. You can go for treks, romantic dinners, boating, and so many other recreational activities to keep you entertained all the time. On the contrary, if you don’t want to keep it all adrenaline-rushing, you can opt for more relaxing activities like a small hike or a visit to the eateries here. 

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Explore Western Ghats Through Road Trips: A Gateway To India's Spellbinding Scenery

A s travellers on road, nothing beats the tiresome ride unlike nature-bound atmosphere's, where the wind while swinging through flowers, tree leaves churns out a rhyme people fail to hear amidst the cacophony of an Indian metropolis. 

The Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage site, provide some of India's most breath-taking road trips. Extending along the western coast, these mountain ranges are famed for their remarkable symphony of greenery, wildlife, and post-card worthy landscapes. Road trips through the ghats offer winding paths, picturesque viewpoints, and relief from the long ours enroute to your favourite nature's escape. 

Mumbai to Goa

This iconic journey along NH66 combines coastal scenery, dense forests, and charming villages. The drive through the eye-catching Konkan aka Aparanta coast offers travellers a chance to explore subtly-hidden beaches and local seafood. The route also features historic forts and temples.

Bangalore to Ooty

Winding through the Nilgiri Hills, this route boasts of vast expanses of tea plantations and mist-covered mountains. Known for its hairpin bends, the drive presents stunning vistas of rolling hills and valleys. Along the way, stop at viewpoints, staycation at these quaint hill stations, and experience the local flora and fauna of the region.

Chennai to Munnar

This scenic drive through the Anamalai Hills is a delight for nature lovers. The route is lined with verdant forests, cascading waterfalls, and expansive tea gardens. Ascending to Munnar, the cool climate and breathtaking landscapes offer a refreshing escape from city life. Wildlife sanctuaries and spice plantations enhance the allure of this journey.

Pune to Mahabaleshwar

A popular weekend getaway, this short trip is renowned for its panoramic viewpoints, strawberry farms, and serene beauty. The route meanders through the Sahyadri mountain range, offering lush greenery and tranquil surroundings. Mahabaleshwar’s vibrant market and serene Venna Lake are must-visit spots.

Kochi to Wayanad

Travelling through Kerala ’s lush landscape, this route features dense forests, spice plantations, and picturesque waterfalls. The journey offers glimpses of traditional Kerala culture and architecture. Wayanad’s wildlife sanctuaries and historic caves add to the adventure, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts.

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Best road trips to explore the Western Ghats

TRAVEL TRENDS , INDIA Created : Dec 26, 2020, 11:30 IST

The Western Ghats of India undoubtedly has many hidden gems that make for a perfect vacation. This 1600 km long Western Ghats boasts of a mountain chain that has forests older than the Himalayan range. This mountain chain is even recognised as one of the world’s eight ‘hottest spots’ of biological diversity. And to experience the magic of Western Ghats, a road trip is the best way to do so.

So, here are the best road trips that will take you around the Western Ghats, and let you enjoy the beauty of the hills first-hand.

Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra

Mahabaleshwar is one such spot that has something to offer to every kind of traveler, no matter whether you are a nature or a history lover or anyone who just loves to travel. It was once the summer capital of the Bombay Presidency during the British Raj, and showcases the perfect blend of modern and old-world charm. Almost all the parts of this hill station are accessible via car, so exploring this place will add charm to your travel. If you are in the mood, you can also enjoy a walk through the woods and take in the best of nature. It is one of the perfect places to visit in the Western Ghats.

Mollem, Goa

Whenever Goa is considered for a trip, most of the travellers think of exploring the beaches, the party scene, and similar other things. In fact, it is a go-to destination for all things modern. However, Goa also has its other side, and very few people take the pain to explore that. But once you also get a taste of that, you will understand how much this spot is misunderstood. To break your misconception, visit Mollem, a small village in Goa, situated in South India on National Highway 4 near, in the foothills of the Sahyadri Mountain range. This place introduces you to beautiful waterfalls and wild forests. This spot also takes you to the breath-taking Dudhsagar Falls, so plan accordingly.

Coonoor, Tamil Nadu

Coonoor still proudly retains its colonial tinge, with its club culture, sophisticated architecture and a particular distinct plantation lifestyle. People are drawn to this tea town to enjoy its relatively quieter environs and scenic landscape that can be rarely found anywhere. Surrounded by Nilgiri Hills, Coonoor is known for its mystical beauty and tea plantations. To enjoy this spot to its core, drive through the beautiful roads that hug the hills, offering you with mesmerizing views of tea plantations. You can head up to the hills and enjoy a toy train ride or drive to Kotagiri or Ooty to make your vacation memorable.

Agumbe, Karnataka

Agumbe in Western Ghats is well-known for its biodiversity and scenic landscape. If you remember watching the popular serial Malgudi Days, you would be amazed to know that it was largely picturised around this town. Agumbe’s 14 hairpin bends will not only make your drive exciting, but will also demand good driving skills. Further, Agumbe also receives highest rainfall and is known as the Cherrapunji of South IndiaI. So, try not to plan your trip to this place during the monsoons. Also, the wild forest in Agumbe is home to a wide variety of reptiles, especially King Cobra, in case you want to spot one.

Wayanad, Kerala

The is one of the destinations in the Western Ghats that is apt for road trips. The picturesque landscape, rich vegetation, cascading waterfalls, verdant tea plantations, and chance spotting of varied animals, make Wayanad the sought-after destinations in Kerala. When here, you can explore the untouched landscapes on a hilltop or go on to unravel the mysteries of a cave, or even take part in activities like river rafting, and much more.

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The Western Ghats of India undoubtedly has many hidden gems that make for a perfect vacation. This 1600 km long Western Ghats boasts of a mountain chain that has forests older than the Himalayan range...

The 5 Western Ghat Road Trips: Which One Would You Prefer?

• Uncategorized
• September 7, 2022 in Road trips , Uncategorized

India is rich in picturesque destinations. Increased development has opened roads to many destinations, allowing people to travel more easily. While travelling by flight and train has been the norm for quick travel, nowadays road trips are becoming increasingly popular for adventure seekers and travellers with a wanderlust. The Western Ghats are highly preferred among road trip destinations due to the lush greenery and hills. Moreover, many fun resorts are available in these destinations, aiding in an enjoyable experience.

5 Western Ghat Road Trips That You Should Not Miss

#1: mahabaleshwar, maharashtra.

Located among the hills in Satara, Maharashtra, Mahabaleshwar is the perfect place for a road trip. Even in summer, the weather in the hill station is moderately cool. Post-Monsoon, the destination is filled with greenery, making road trips a pleasant experience. Since Mahabaleshwar is located at a high altitude, food stalls and refuelling stations are scarce. However, there are many top sightseeing places in Mahabaleshwar , such as the Mapro Garden and Arthur’s Seat, where you can find places to eat.

While Summers and Winters are considered the best time to travel to Mahabaleshwar, monsoons are the preferred time to experience this hillside destination in its complete glory. During the monsoon and post-Monsoon seasons, one can spot many waterfalls and lakes. Mahabaleshwar’s top tourist attractions include the Venna Lake and Lingamala Waterfalls. Apart from this, you can visit the Pratapgadh Fort while in Mahabaleshwar.

Travelling to Goa by road trip is one of the most economical options. Goa is connected to three highways, NH4A, NH 17 and NH17A, making it an easily accessible location from major cities. All three National highways to Goa offer unique sightseeing locations on the way. Moreover, there are other routes to Goa which are equally safe. 

The ideal time for a Goa road trip is after the monsoon. After the rains, the weather is more pleasant and soothing, making the road trip even more enjoyable. You may find bustling crowds and a lively atmosphere from December to February. However, if you are looking for peace, the off-season of May to September would be the best for you. Moreover, you can book fun resorts at cheaper rates during this time.

#3: Chikmagalur, Karnataka

Chikmagalur is one of the most recommended destinations for road trips by Karnataka tourism. The most convenient way to reach the destination is via NH75, 73 and 48 from Bangalore. There are several popular tourist spots on the way between Bangalore and Chikmagalur that can be visited during the road trip. Some of the most popular stops are:

• Hassan – It is a picturesque town surrounded by lush green valleys and filled with historical monuments.
• Belur – Filled with heritage sites, this location has plenty of pilgrimage spots, making it a good place for travelling visitors.
• Kunigal – While on the way to Chikmagalur, you will have to pass through the green lands of Kunigal. Also, while passing through Kunigal, visit Begur Lake, which is just 1 hour away.

The best time for a road trip to Chikmagalur is between September and March.

#4: Agumbe, Karnataka

Karnataka has many off-beat places that are perfect for a road trip. One such place is Agumbe. Travelling to Agumbe is possible throughout the year as the routes remain open at all times. There are several ways to reach Agumbe. However, most people prefer to travel the Chikmagalur-Agumbe route. The route is highly popular as it allows visitors to visit many sightseeing spots. Most routes to Agumbe experience moderate traffic, making them convenient whether you are travelling by bus. Moreover, the safe routes are perfect if you want to drive from Bangalore. 

You can enjoy the area’s beauty to the fullest extent after the monsoon. Moreover, the lakes and waterfalls are in prime condition at this time. 

#5: Kalpetta, Wayanad, Kerala

Kalpetta has many direct routes that allow travellers to travel from several cities. Kalpetta has a lot to offer, including wildlife, rich culture and historical sites. Moreover, other attractions include coffee plantations, heritage museums and temples. Other various places to visit here are:

• Kanthanpara Waterfalls
• Meenmutty Waterfalls
• Vaduvanchal
• Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary
• Chembra Peak
• Soochippara Waterfalls
• Neelimala View Point

The most favourable time to visit Kalpetta is during winter, between October to March.

The Western Ghats are one of the greenest locations in India, making them perfect for road trips. So which one is your pick?

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Exploring Western Ghats : Part 12 : Ooty – Hyderabad

Hyderabad / May 28 – May 29 It was time to get back. I wanted to drive all the way back to Hyderabad but we started late around 10:30 AM from Ooty. In addition to that we have this soft rule which prevents us from driving after dark. We have driven enough in the dark and it’s just not enjoyable.

Route Recap Hyderabad – Chennai – Kodaikanal – Marayoor – Munnar – Kochi – Vagamon – Thekkady – Munnar – Palakkad – Kalpetta (Wayanad) – Masinagudi – Ooty – Ananthpur (AP) – Hyderabad.

For previous part, click here

May 28, 2016 Started at 10:30 AM because of delays caused by multiple factors. Route via Gudalur-Mysore was the obvious choice. It took quite sometime to drive down those hairpin bends. I stayed in 2nd gear mostly as oncoming cars were being driven unnecessarily fast for this road. Probable weekend mania and people getting restless to reach Ooty.

Lovely elephant with his/her kiddo by the side. Somewhere on NH-181.

Roads were smooth mostly till Nanjangudu. Between Nanjangudu and Mysore there is still a 3-4 KM stretch which is still a work in progress. Mysore ring road is mostly a useless road despite being six lane. No flyovers at interchanges and countless famous barricades. Still it’s much better than going through Mysore. NH-275 Bangalore-Mysore again doesn’t feel like a highway. Passes through many densely populated areas. Urgent need for a few bypasses on this stretch.

All was well, till we hit the NH-4 after exiting NICE Ring Road. It’s a maze with only a little signage. A smart city planner will put directions for Hyderabad at every interchange or flyover entry because he wouldn’t want people bypassing the city accidentally getting lost and contributing to the already monstrous traffic.

Once we crossed Bangalore, it already started feeling like home. But it was already 5:00 PM or so. We were targeting Kurnool earlier and Ananthpur was plan B. After another hour, there was no plan A and we decided that we’ll find a hotel in Ananthpur and stay there irrespective of how it is.

We reached Hotel Masineni Grand and was totally surprised to find this amazingly neat and clean upmarket hotel at a really affordable price. This was probably the best value for money stay for the entire trip.

They have a regular restaurant and a pure vegetarian restaurant.

May 29, 2016

If you live in Bangalore, first thing that comes to your mind is Bellandur Lake.

People have to walk through this poison

It’s so cool that people want pictures with it.

And a broader picture

That’s all for this adventure. Well, we had a time of our life driving through the Western Ghats, crossing the borders of Tamil Nadu & Kerala. We transcended through Valleys, Tea Gardens, Forests, Sanctuaries, Caves, Waterfalls, Lakes, Dams & what not….

We never knew that such a small part of India can have so much to offer. This trail or region is ideal for making roadtrips across months as one can find one or the other thing at every 150-200 kms. We believe we had the most of this region but still as a traveler if you feel you have some better recommendations & suggestions from you past experiences, do enlighten us!!!!

Feel free to make suggestions, recommendations & give feedback in the comment box to make our travel experiences better.

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