Palamalai Hills, Mettur
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Palamalai Hills, Mettur

Discover Palamalai Hills in Mettur, a serene escape in Tamil Nadu offering lush landscapes, ancient temples, challenging treks, and spiritual tranquility.

⭐ 4.6 Nature & Scenic ⛰️ 1,472 m (4,829 ft) 📍 Area: Mettur 🏙️ Salem 📍 Tamilnadu
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Best Time October to February
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Category Nature & Scenic
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Area / Region Mettur
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Elevation 1,472 m (4,829 ft)
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Entry Fee

Free (No explicit mention of an entry fee)

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Open Hours

Generally 6:30 AM – 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM – 7:30 PM for Arulmigu Aranganathar Temple (Timings may vary).

🗺️ Get directions to Palamalai Hills, Mettur (Google Maps)

About this Place

Palamalai Hills, nestled in the Mettur Taluk of Salem District, Tamil Nadu, is a tranquil retreat characterized by its lush landscapes, undulating rocky terrain, and spiritual significance. Part of the Eastern Ghats, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding areas, including the Mettur Dam and the Kaveri River.

The hills are home to the ancient Siddheswara Temple, a small Shiva temple believed to be from the nineteenth century, and the Arulmigu Aranganathar Thirukkovil, dedicated to Lord Ranganatha. The area provides excellent opportunities for trekking, off-road rides, and experiencing a serene rural environment. Visitors can explore remote villages and appreciate the rich biodiversity, including various medicinal plants.

The climb to the Siddheswara Temple can be challenging, involving a mix of driving on unpaved roads and trekking, promising a rewarding adventure for nature lovers and devotees alike.

🛡️ Verified Travel Resource 📅 Last Updated: July 12, 2026 08:47 PM (Local Time)

Ideal For & Recommended Visitors

👥 Nature Lovers
👥 Trekkers
👥 Adventure Seekers
👥 Spiritual Seekers
👥 Pilgrimage
👥 Local explorers
👥 Families
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☀️ Optimal Season to Visit

The ideal time to visit Palamalai Hills is during the cooler months, from October to February, when the weather is pleasant and views are clear, perfect for trekking and temple visits. Early morning or late afternoon are recommended.

The Tamil month of Purattasi (September-October) is particularly popular for pilgrims visiting the Siddheswara Temple.

How to Reach

Palamalai Hills is accessible via Mettur, a well-connected town in Salem District.

  • Nearest Airport: Salem Airport (SXV) is approximately 75 km from Mettur. Coimbatore International Airport (CJB) is approximately 150-155 km from Mettur.

  • Nearest Railway Station: Mettur Dam Railway Station (MTDM) is approximately 40 Km, located about 3 km northeast of Mettur Bus Stand. Salem Junction (SA), a major railway station, is approximately 83 km by road from Mettur.

  • Nearest Bus Stand: Mettur Bus Stand is located on W Main Rd, Mettur. Palamalai village is approximately 35 km from the Mettur tehsil headquarters.

Palamalai Hills, Mettur – FAQs

What are the timings of Palamalai Hills, Mettur?

Generally 6:30 AM – 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM – 7:30 PM for Arulmigu Aranganathar Temple (Timings may vary).

What is the entry fee for Palamalai Hills, Mettur?

Free (No explicit mention of an entry fee)

What is the best time to visit Palamalai Hills, Mettur?

October to February

How to reach Palamalai Hills, Mettur?

Palamalai Hills is accessible via Mettur, a well-connected town in Salem District. Nearest Airport: Salem Airport (SXV) is approximately 75 km from Mettur. Coimbatore International Airport (CJB) is approximately 150-155 km from Mettur. Nearest Railway Station: Mettur Dam Railway Station (MTDM) is approximately 40 Km, located about 3 km northeast of Mettur Bus Stand. Salem Junction (SA), a major railway station, is approximately 83 km by road from Mettur. Nearest Bus Stand: Mettur Bus Stand is located on W Main Rd, Mettur. Palamalai village is approximately 35 km from the Mettur tehsil headquar…

Where is Palamalai Hills, Mettur located?

Palamalai Hills, Mettur is in Mettur, Salem, Tamilnadu (GPS: 11.69411, 77.73562).

📜 Historical Context

Palamalai, meaning 'milk hill' in Tamil, is rich in ancient Vaishnavite traditions and local legends. The Arulmigu Aranganathar Thirukkovil, dedicated to Lord Ranganatha, is believed to be centuries old, with a legend of a cowherd discovering a self-manifested idol.

Another tale speaks of a king and a sage whose curses were lifted after bathing in the sacred Padma Theertham and praying to Lord Ranganatha, leading to beliefs of healing and fortune. The Siddheswara Temple, a small Shiva temple from the nineteenth century, is also a significant pilgrimage spot.

The hills are home to Malayali tribal communities, known for their traditional knowledge of medicinal plants.

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📍 GPS Accurate Map

GPS Coordinates: 11.69410900, 77.73561900

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