Kolli Hills are located in the Namakkal District of the state of Tamil Nadu. The destination is also referred to as Kolli Malai, which means the 'Mountains of Death'.
These hills are over 1000 to 1300 metres in height, which cover more than 280 sq. km. There are around 70 hairpin bends that take tourists to the top of the hill. Moreover, the hills are part of the discontinuous Eastern Ghats.
History of Kolli Hills
The early Hindu literature talks about the existence of Kolli Pavai ghost on the top of these hills, thereby earning the destination this name. This image or ghost used to entice the wayfarers and kill them.
Kolli Pavai is also known as 'Ettukai Amman', who is the local deity of the Kolli Pavai Amman Temple. Ancient sages used to worship Kolli Pavai Amman, who is believed to chase away the demon interrupting the rituals of these sages.
Kolli Hills are also famous for their rich collection of rare herbs that are effective for almost all kinds of diseases. Besides, Tamil literature like Purananuru, Ainkurnuru, Manimekalai and Silappadhikaram talk about Kolli Hills.
In 200 AD, the entire region was under the control of Valvil Ori, who is believed to be one of the prominent philanthropists of ancient Tamil Nadu. He is also believed to have used a single arrow for killing a boar, lion, bear and deer. His marksmanship and valour have been mentioned in the works of various Tamil poets.
People and Culture in Kolli Hills
Kolli Hills are covered with evergreen forests, including tea, coffee, pineapple, black pepper, jackfruit and many other plant spices. The tribal people living in the region are fond of eating rice and millets. These tribal people also often eat the ripe jackfruit and mostly soak it in wild honey for adding to its taste and fragrance.
An annual tourism festival in the month of August is organised at this farm by the state government. Ori Festival is also celebrated in grand style in the region.
Things to do in Kolli Hills
Kundur Nadu, Pulianjolai and Ariyur Solai are the three main reserved forests of the region that are managed and controlled by the Government of Tamil Nadu. Arapaleeswarar Temple, Siddhar Caves, Agaya Gangai Waterfalls, Botanical Garden, Masila Falls and Selur View Point are few of the popular attractions of the region. The Government of Tamil Nadu has established a Boat House in the region that attracts travellers.
Trekking at Kolli Hills is the main adventure activity available in the destination. There is a pineapple research farm maintained by the Government of Tamil Nadu at Seekuparai Viewpoint.
Travelling to Kolli Hills
The destination can be easily accessed from the closest airport situated at Trichy, which is around 90 km from Kolli Hills. Prepaid taxis are available from this airport to reach the destination. Salem Railway Station is the nearest railhead, outside which direct buses are available for Kolli Hills. The destination can be visited any time of the year, except for the monsoon season when there is a danger of landslide due to heavy rainfall.
Accommodation options in Kolli Hills
Accommodation options in Kolli hills ranges from budget to luxury hotels. Tourists can also opt to stay in hotels with hill view rooms.
