Some hill trips need planning, bookings, and big budgets.
This one didn’t.
My visit to Yercaud, the “Jewel of the Shevaroys,” began with nothing more than a few notes in my pocket, a curious mind, and the cheapest local bus I could find from Salem.
Table of Contents
The Journey Begins: Salem to Yercaud on a Budget
Early morning, I reached Salem bus stand and started hunting for a ride that wouldn’t burn my wallet. And there it was—an ordinary TNSTC bus heading to Yercaud.
No frills. No luxury.
Just a ticket, a window seat, and the excitement of climbing a hill.
As the bus rolled out of Salem’s busy roads and towards the mountains, the scenery slowly changed from blaring horns and markets to tall trees, mist, and winding roads.
The Famous Hairpin Bends
The real thrill began when the bus hit the 20+ hairpin bends leading up to Yercaud.
Every turn opened up a new view—steep valleys, rising cliffs, sunlight slicing through the trees. The bus leaned, curved, climbed… and I held the window rail like a mini adventure. The cool breeze, the smell of eucalyptus, and the sudden drops beside the road made the ride unforgettable.
And the best part?
All of this for the cheapest ticket in town.
First Stop: The Viewpoints
Yercaud is all about viewpoints, and the first one I explored was like stepping onto a balcony overlooking Salem city. Tiny buildings, long roads, and the sprawling landscape looked surreal from above.
Other viewpoints along the way offered, a wide valley views, Hill ranges wrapped in mist, Picture-perfect selfie spots.
Each view made the bus ride totally worth it.
Markets & Hill Vibes
Near the town center, I found small market streets full of:
- Fresh spices
- Home-made chocolates
- Tea packets
- Wooden souvenirs
- Caps and shawls
Vendors spoke warmly, offering samples and stories. Nothing felt rushed—just slow, simple hill-town charm.
Chocolates, Tea & Hill Flavors
A trip to Yercaud is incomplete without tasting:
Homemade chocolates—dark, creamy, and surprisingly affordable
Flavored tea—masala, ginger, cardamom, and green tea packs
Hot chai stalls—perfect with the chill in the air
Every sip and bite felt like a reward after the winding climb.
Cabs, Autos & Getting Around
Yercaud isn’t huge, but the attractions are spread out. You’ll find:
- Autos near the lake area and the main bus stand
- Shared jeeps for short trips
- Cabs offering sightseeing packages
But honestly, walking between spots is half the fun—fresh air, tall silver oak trees, and mountain silence everywhere.
Yercaud Lake
The heart of the hill station—Yercaud Lake.
Boats swaying gently, kids feeding fish, couples clicking photos, and a calm breeze brushing the water. I didn’t take a boat ride, but just sitting by the lake felt peaceful.
Around the lake were small shops selling:
✅ Sweet corn
✅ Bajjis
✅ Hot peanuts
✅ Tea and coffee
Perfect hill snacks.
Gent’s Seat Viewpoint
Gent’s Seat offers a stunning panoramic view of the valley, making it one of the most peaceful lookout points in the Yercaud hills. The cool breeze, mist rolling over the cliffs, and quiet surroundings create a refreshing escape from the crowds. It’s a great spot to relax, take photos, and soak in the vastness of nature.
Lady’s Seat Viewpoint
Lady’s Seat is known for its dramatic cliffside view and unforgettable sunsets. As the sky turns golden and the lights of Salem twinkle below, the entire landscape feels magical. With a telescope tower nearby and a scenic sitting area, it’s a perfect stop for travelers who love scenic moments with a touch of romance and charm.
Children’s Park Zones
The children’s park areas in Yercaud add a fun, family-friendly touch to the trip, with open playgrounds, greenery, and safe spaces for kids to run around. While little ones enjoy the swings and slides, adults can unwind in the shaded seating spots. It’s a simple yet refreshing break that brings a smile to everyone.
Botanical Gardens
The Botanical Gardens are a quiet pocket of greenery filled with vibrant flowers, tall trees, and neatly kept walking paths. As you stroll through the garden, you get a closer look at the rich flora of the Shevaroy hills. It’s peaceful, colorful, and ideal for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a slow, calming moment.
Tiny Temples Hidden Among Trees
Scattered along forest paths and tucked beneath thick canopies, these tiny temples add a mystical charm to the journey. Their quiet presence, surrounded by chirping birds and rustling leaves, creates a spiritual pause in the middle of nature. They may be small, but each one carries a unique sense of serenity and cultural connection.
Each spot added a layer to the Yercaud experience—nature, peace, and simplicity everywhere.
Evening Descent: Back Through the Bends
As the sun began to set, I hopped onto another local bus back to Salem. The return journey was quieter—lights flickering in the valley below, cool winds brushing my face, and the same thrilling hairpin bends in the opposite direction.
It felt like the hills were saying goodbye.
Split Up of the Expenses
| Budget | Amount |
| Local Bus Cost (To and Fro) from Salem | 26 +26 |
| Auto (5 Places) – 100 to 200 each | 500 – 600 |
| Food (Breakfast +Lunch) | 60 + 100 |
| Tea, Snacks and Water Bottle | 100 -150 |
| Entry Fees | 200 – 300 |
| Total | 1300 Approx. |
Why I Loved This Trip
This Yercaud visit had:
✔️ The cheapest travel
✔️ Hairpin-bend adventure
✔️ Stunning viewpoints
✔️ Lakeside calmness
✔️ Tasty chocolates & tea
✔️ Simple markets & friendly locals
No luxury. No rush. Just pure hill magic.
Travel Reflections
Sometimes the best trips don’t need fancy hotels or expensive plans. All you need is a bus ticket, a window seat, and an open heart.
Yercaud proved that beauty doesn’t have to cost much—sometimes it’s just a local bus ride away.
