India Festivals Destinations
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Yeracaud
Yeracaud is situated in the green vistas of the Shervaoyan Hills in the
Eastern Ghats, close to the town of Salem in Tamil Nadu. Its popularity as
an escape from the heat and grime of the city rests not just upon its
landscape of forest covered hill-sides, and coffee, cardamom and black
pepper plantations, but also its very affordability, as against the more
up-market Ooty. The picturesque man-made lake here is a popular spot for
picnickers. Yercaud started gaining popularity as a hillstation in the 19th
century. It was David Cockburn, the Scottish Collector of Salem (said to
have first introduced the cultivation of coffee here) who set about
developing its natural resources. The Grange, his old home which still
stands, was fortified and equipped with ramparts and cannons,
About Yercaud
Yeracaud is situated in the green vistas of the Shervaoyan Hills in the
Eastern Ghats, close to the town of Salem in Tamil Nadu. Its popularity as
an escape from the heat and grime of the city rests not just upon its
landscape of forest covered hill-sides, and coffee, cardamom and black
pepper plantations, but also its very affordability, as against the more
up-market Ooty. The picturesque man-made lake here is a popular spot for
picnickers.
Yercaud started gaining popularity as a hillstation in the 19th century. It
was David Cockburn, the Scottish Collector of Salem (said to have first
introduced the cultivation of coffee here) who set about developing its
natural resources. The Grange, his old home which still stands, was
fortified and equipped with ramparts and cannons, to act as a sanctuary for
the European community here, in the event of another uprising after the
Indian Mutiny.
Sightseeing:
There are some pretty walking trails amidst the forested hills rich in flora
and fauna. The Big Lake is a natural water body and a central talking point
in the hill station with boating (both rowing boats as well as the pedal
variety) on offer at nominal rates. The nearby ground at Anna Park hosts a
weeklong summer festival. Another popular visitor attraction is the Silk
Farm.
From the Lady's Seat you get some panoramic views of the ghats in the day
and the nightlights of Salem. The telescope here serves up views of the
Cauvery River. The Pagoda Point close by is another fine vantage point. Go
for picnics to the Killiyur Waterfalls, which are at their very best
post-monsoon.
A walk to the Shevaroy Temple, set atop the highest point in the hill town,
takes you past Norton Bungalow one of oldest residences in town. An annual
festival is held at the temple in the month of May by the local tribal
community. The orchidarium at the beautifully maintained Botanical Gardens
is a big favourite with gardening enthusiasts. The kurinji flower which
blooms every 12 years also grows here. Montfort School which was established
in 1917 is worth a visit for its sprawling grounds, and the lovely chapel.
Other Activities:
Stock up on fresh garden produce such as coffee, cloves, pepper, and
cinnamon on sale. Pick up handlooms in the textile town of Salem before
hopping on to the train
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