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Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu · Hard grade

Velliangiri — seven hills

A steep pilgrimage climb over seven hills to a Shiva shrine at the top, known as the 'Kailash of the South'. There are medical camps on the third, sixth and seventh hills. People die of cardiac arrest on this climb every season, so do not attempt it without training and a fitness check.

Photo: Silvershocky, CC BY-SA 4.0

How to reach it

Bus from Coimbatore's Gandhipuram or Ukkadam to Poondi, 1 h 30 m. Most pilgrims start in the evening and climb through the night to see the sunrise on the seventh hill.

Permits

The climb is only open in the season the forest department announces (from February 2026 this year). A medical fitness check at the base is mandatory, and plastic is removed at the check-post. Temple custom has long restricted women of menstruating age from the climb, so check the current position before planning.

Gear

A strong walking stick (sold at the base), a torch, two litres of water, a warm layer for the top and good grip shoes. The steps are uneven rock.

What it costs

From ₹400 per person, all-in from Poondi Velliangiri Andavar temple — transport, permits, a guide where required and food on the trail. Open the live planner to price it for your own dates and party size.

Costs are indicative ballparks and change with season and demand — always check live fares and current permit rules before you go. Photographs are sourced from Wikimedia Commons, credited above and in full at /credits/. Trip Under features underrated destinations only, is reader-planned, and takes no affiliate commission on any booking link.