Swamimalai Temple, Yelagiri Hills, Tamil Nadu India

Yelagiri Hills' most famous landmark is the Swamimalai Temple. While there are plenty of other temples dedicated to Lord Murugan, the Swamimalai Temple is the most famous of them all. If you are coming here via a vehicle, you can park it in the Mangalam village which is at the base. In fact, visit the Mangalam temple too. At the outset let me inform you that going up the hill to the Swamimalai Temple is not as easy a climb as many think!

There are a number of steps which you have to tackle & probably you will need to rest from time to time as you make your way up.

So wear sensible footwear & do carry lots of drinking water. You can also carry a few biscuit packets or fruits, but avoid carrying heavy sling bags or backpacks. Keep it light. More important: It is also advisable to climb in the early hours of the morning if you are going in the summer season. During winter, take extra care as there is a lot of fog. There are many who visit really early, well before 6a.m., just to see the sunrise.

Possibly the highest peak around and the best place to go on a lovely trek is Swamimalai. It's an easy trek along a muddy path starting from the eastern side of the lake, which is about 3 kilometres long and pretty scenic too. Most visitors to Yelagiri Hills, who have trekking in mind, often climb up Swamimalai.

Make sure you have enough water and light snacks before you set-off up the hillock.