Ooty, Coonoor and Kodaikanal are the classic hill escapes from Chennai and the rest of Tamil Nadu. They are pleasant for most of the year, but each season feels different.
April to June: summer peak
When the plains are at their hottest, the hills are cool and green. This is peak season, especially during school holidays in April and May. Ooty's flower show at the Government Botanical Garden is held in May, along with other summer festival events. Expect crowds, traffic on the ghat roads and higher hotel rates. Book the Nilgiri Mountain Railway early.
July to September: monsoon
The southwest monsoon brings rain and mist, especially to Ooty and Coonoor on the western side of the Nilgiris. Kodaikanal, in the Palani Hills, gets somewhat less of this monsoon. Waterfalls are full and the hills are very green, but views can be hidden and roads slippery. It is a quiet, romantic time if you do not mind the rain.
October to December: northeast monsoon and winter
The northeast monsoon brings rain from about October to December, particularly to Kodaikanal and the eastern slopes. Weekends around Diwali can be busy. By December, nights are cold, often around 5–10°C, and occasionally colder at higher points.
January to March: crisp and clear
Cool, dry days and clear skies make this an excellent time for views and walks, with far fewer crowds than in summer. Frost is possible on winter mornings in Ooty.
Which hill station?
- Ooty and Coonoor suit families who want the toy train, gardens and lakes.
- Kodaikanal suits couples who want walks, lake views and a slightly quieter atmosphere.
- Yercaud is the closest and quietest for a two-night weekend.
Quick answer
Go between January and June. For the fewest crowds with good weather, pick February or March. See Ooty vs Kodaikanal: which hill station should you choose? and our Hill-station holidays page.
When to go
When to go
When to go
When to go