Yercaud is a hill station in Tamil nadu which is not as frequented by travellers as much as Ooty or Kodaikanal. It is situated some 25 kms from the city of Salem. The drive to the hill station is breath-taking with so many U curves up the hill.
The places of interest offered by Yercaud for the ardent traveller are :
Yercaud Lake - The first thing that attracts a visitor is the lake. It is a picturesque pool surrounded by gardens and well wooded trees. Boating in cold water of the lake is enhancing as well as refreshing.
Anna Park - Anna Park is a lovely garden near the lake.Lake Park, Gandhi Park, Children Park are the other parks to be visited in Yercaud.
Lady’s Seat (Dont get misguided by the name) - It is a place offering a breath taking view of the valley and links the winding Ghat Road. This view is spectacular at night with the twinkling lights of Salem town in sight. Tourists can have a panoramic view of the plains below with the help of the telescope mounted at the Lady’s Seat.
Pagoda Point - This is also another view point which offers scenic beaty of nature.
Kiliyur Water Falls This is a 300 feet high waterfall and is situated amidst picturesque surroundings.
Grange - The ’castle-like’ building was built by the then Collector of Salem, Mr.M.D. Cockburn who first introduced Coffee from Arabia, Apples and other fruits from South Africa between 1820 and 1829 A.D.
Bear’s Cave It is situated near the Norton Bungalow on the way to Servaroyan Temple. It is an important tourist spot.
The Sevaroyan Temple - It is situated in the Servaroyan Hills. The tribals here celebrate their Annual Festival in May every year.
The Montfort School and the Sacred Heart Convent - These are the two famous educational institutions at Yercaud imparting education to boys and girls respectively.
The Retreat - Started in 1945 by the brothers of Don Bosco, this institution serves as a ’Novitiate House’ where students of religious order stay and study.
Other Places of Interest - Ornamental plants at Green House, Orchard cum Nursery of Rose plants, Silk farm, Arthur Seat, Horticulture Research Station, Orchiderium, Mettur View (on Nagalur Road), Cauvery Peak, Salem View (between 16th and 17th bends) are other places of interest.
Annual Flower show in Yercaud is also a very good event not to be missed.