Kolli Hills is a scenic hill station located in the Namakkal district of Tamil Nadu. It is famous for its lush greenery, waterfalls, and serene environment. Salem, a major city in Tamil Nadu, serves as the nearest urban hub and gateway for travelers heading to Kolli Hills.

This route is popular among nature lovers and weekend travelers looking to escape city life. In this guide, you will learn the best ways to travel from Salem to Kolli Hills, including train, bus, and car options, along with practical tips to make your journey comfortable and hassle-free.

Getting from Salem to Kolli Hills – Main Options

Train

Train travel is limited for this route as Kolli Hills does not have a direct railway station. However, trains to nearby stations can be useful for part of the journey.

• The nearest railway station to Kolli Hills is Namakkal, about 40 km away, connected to Salem by frequent trains taking around 1 to 1.5 hours. Train fares range from INR 50 to 150 depending on class.

• From Salem Junction, you can catch passenger or express trains to Namakkal, which run multiple times daily, making it a flexible option for travelers.

• After reaching Namakkal, you will need to take a bus or taxi to Kolli Hills, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours on winding roads.

• Train travel offers comfort and affordability but requires planning for last-mile connectivity, especially since buses from Namakkal to Kolli Hills are less frequent in the evening.

Bus

Bus travel is the most popular and direct way to reach Kolli Hills from Salem. Several government and private buses operate on this route daily.

• State-run TNSTC buses depart from Salem Central Bus Stand to Kolli Hills multiple times a day, with journey times ranging from 3 to 4 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• Private buses and shared jeeps also operate on this route, offering slightly faster travel but varying in comfort and safety standards.

• The bus route covers about 90 km via NH44 and local roads, passing through scenic but winding mountain roads that require cautious driving, especially during monsoon.

• Bus fares typically range between INR 100 and 200, making it an economical choice for most travelers.

• During festival seasons or weekends, buses can get crowded, so booking tickets in advance or arriving early at the bus stand is advisable.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Salem to Kolli Hills is a great option if you prefer flexibility and comfort. The route offers beautiful views but requires careful driving on hill roads.

• The distance by road is approximately 90 km, taking about 3 to 3.5 hours via NH44 and SH95, depending on traffic and stops.

• The route includes 70 hairpin bends on the Kolli Ghat Road, which demands experienced driving and caution, especially during night or rainy weather.

• Toll plazas are present on NH44 near Salem, so keep some cash handy for toll payments during your journey.

• There are several rest stops and small eateries along the way, including at Rasipuram and Namakkal, where you can enjoy local Tamil Nadu cuisine.

• Self-drive cars or taxis can be booked from Salem city via Ola, Uber, or local rental services, with fares ranging from INR 1500 to 2500 depending on vehicle type and negotiation.

Flight

There is no direct flight connectivity between Salem and Kolli Hills, as Kolli Hills is a hill station without an airport. The nearest airport is Salem Airport, mainly serving domestic flights.

• Travelers arriving by air to Salem Airport can use taxis or buses to reach Kolli Hills, which is about 45 km away and takes around 2 to 3 hours by road.

• Flight options to Salem are limited, so this mode is suitable only if you are connecting from other cities by air before continuing by road.

• Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are available at Salem Airport for convenient onward travel to Kolli Hills.

• Booking airport transfers in advance is recommended to avoid delays, especially during early morning or late-night arrivals.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers going from Salem to Kolli Hills, helping you navigate the journey smoothly.

• Step 1: Decide your mode of transport based on comfort, budget, and time. Bus is economical, car offers flexibility, and train requires a transfer at Namakkal.

• Step 2: Book your tickets in advance if traveling by bus or train, especially during weekends or holidays, using TNSTC online portals or IRCTC for trains.

• Step 3: Reach Salem Central Bus Stand or Salem Junction railway station early to avoid last-minute rush and secure good seats.

• Step 4: If driving, check your vehicle condition and fuel tank, and plan for breaks at Rasipuram or Namakkal for refreshments and rest.

• Step 5: On arrival at Kolli Hills, use local shared autos or taxis to reach your accommodation, as public transport within the hills is limited.

• Step 6: Keep mobile connectivity and offline maps ready, as network coverage can be patchy in hilly areas.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry bottled water and snacks, as food options on Kolli Ghat Road are limited and hygiene standards vary at roadside stalls.

• Wear comfortable shoes and carry light rain gear during monsoon, as roads can be slippery and weather unpredictable.

• Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola or Uber in Salem to avoid overcharging and ensure safety.

• Keep your ID and ticket handy when boarding buses or trains, as ticket checks are common on this route.

• Travel light if using public transport, since buses and shared vehicles have limited space for luggage.

• Avoid traveling after dark on Kolli Ghat Road due to narrow and winding roads with limited street lighting.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Kolli Hills from Salem is during the cooler months from October to March. The weather is pleasant, and the roads are safer for travel.

Monsoon season from June to September brings heavy rains, which can cause landslides and slippery roads, making travel risky and slower.

• Avoid traveling during major Tamil Nadu festivals like Pongal or Diwali when roads and transport hubs are crowded.

• Early morning departures help avoid traffic and allow you to enjoy daylight while driving on the hill roads.

• Winter mornings can be foggy, so plan your journey to start after sunrise for better visibility.

• Summer months can be hot in Salem but cooler in Kolli Hills, so carry appropriate clothing for both climates.

Arrival at Kolli Hills & What to Expect

When you arrive at Kolli Hills, you will find a peaceful environment with limited public transport. Most travelers use local shared autos or taxis to reach their hotels or guesthouses.

The main areas to stay include the villages of Semmedu and Arapaleeswarar, which have basic accommodations and eateries. Prepaid taxis or local guides can help you navigate the area.

Mobile network coverage may be weak in some parts, so plan your communications accordingly. Local buses are infrequent, so private transport is preferred for sightseeing.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Kolli Hills from Salem depends on your preferences. Buses offer an affordable and direct route, while self-driving provides flexibility and scenic views. Train travel is possible but requires additional road travel from Namakkal.

Planning ahead by booking tickets, checking weather conditions, and preparing for hill road driving will ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. With the right approach, you can confidently explore the natural beauty of Kolli Hills starting from Salem.