Paruvathamalai Adventure Itinerary

  1. 6:00AM: Paruvathamalai Trekking
    Start your day by hiking up the Paruvathamalai hill, the highest in the Javadhu Hills range. Expect a challenging climb, rocky terrain and some mesmerizing views from the top of the hill. The trail takes about 2 hours to reach the top.
  2. 9:00AM: Gingee Fort
    Drive down to Gingee Fort, a magnificent heritage monument from the 13th century. The fort is an architectural marvel and offers an exciting walk through its multiple levels and chambers. The fort is open between 9:00AM and 5:00PM.
    Estimated Time and Distance from last location: 45 minutes (28 km)
  3. 11:00AM: ATV Adventures
    Take your pick from rugged ATVs and go on an adrenaline-pumping ride through the natural terrain and forests surrounding the fort. The ride would take you to the hills nearby where you can witness panoramic views and waterfalls. The ATV rides are open between 9:00AM and 4:30PM.
    Estimated Time and Distance from last location: 30 minutes (18 km)
  4. 1:00PM: Lunch Break
    Stop for lunch at Pongal Vilas, serving authentic Tamil Nadu dishes like Pongal, Dosas, and other South Indian delicacies. The restaurant is open between 6:30AM and 10:30PM.
    Estimated Time and Distance from last location: 30 minutes (17 km)
  5. 2:30PM: Koli Hills Trekking
    Drive down to Koli Hills, a scenic hill station offering bountiful natural beauty and some of the best trekking trails. The hill station is home to unusual flora and fauna and is challenging for trekkers seeking more intense routes. The trekking boots can be rented from Yercaud, which is en-route.
    Estimated Time and Distance from last location: 45 minutes (43 km)
  6. 4:30PM: Pagoda Point Sunset View
    End your day by catching the sunset at Pagoda Point. The view of the sunset and the surrounding valley is ethereal, and one can spot the Salem city in the distance. The spot is open until 6:30PM.
    Estimated Time and Distance from last location: 45 minutes (27 km)

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Paruvathamalai Trek (2 hours): Free
  • Gingee Fort (2 hours): INR 50 ($0.60) per person
  • ATV Adventure (1.5 hours): INR 700 ($9) per person
  • Lunch at Pongal Vilas (1 hour): INR 200 ($3) per person
  • Koli Hill Trekking (2 hours): Free
  • Pagoda Point Sunset View (1 hour): Free
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 950 ($13) per person (excluding transport costs)

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can add a visit to Yercaud, another popular hill station, known for its scenic beauty and coffee plantations. You can also explore the Fort St. David and the Dutch Fort in the city of Cuddalore.

If you have less time, you can skip the ATV Adventure and the Koli Hill Trekking and instead explore the safari ride at Melagiri Hills or take a swim at the Gingee Lake.

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