Three Hill Stations to be developed as Weekend Getaways: TTDC
Three Hill Stations to be developed as Weekend Getaways: TTDC
The Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC) is set to transform Yelagiri, Jawadhu, and Kolli Hills into premier weekend destinations for Chennai residents. This ambitious plan aims to offer local tourists novel experiences and boost the regional economy.
Development Plans and Features
Each hill station will be developed with unique attractions and amenities:
Yelagiri: TTDC has earmarked a five-acre government-owned site for a new camping ground. The facility will accommodate 50 tourists with both traditional and luxury glamping tents. Planned features include a zipline, rope-walking facilities, and a boating area.
Kolli Hills: A 12-acre site will host an eco-resort, a restaurant with a bonfire area and potential rappelling activities at waterfalls. However, Kolli Hills has faced safety concerns. Recent issues such as the lack of basic infrastructure like changing rooms and washrooms and incidents of public drunkenness, have highlighted the need for significant upgrades before further development. TTDC has allocated ₹2 crore to address these safety issues.
Jawadhu Hills: Less known but rich in cultural heritage, Jawadhu will see an increase in tourism through community-based experiences. Plans include integrating tribal communities into the tourism process, allowing visitors to explore local traditions and festivals. Known primarily for its use in film shoots, Jawadhu Hills is poised to become a significant cultural and tourism hub.
Economic and Social Impact
The development of these hill stations is expected to create job opportunities, stimulate local economies and enhance the property market. V K T Balan from the Tamil Nadu Tourism Federation notes that the focus on Jawadhu Hills, in particular, will generate additional revenue and contribute to local employment. Following the announcement by Tourism Minister M Mathiventhan, there has been a notable increase in land purchases. There is a rise in property values in the region.
Infrastructure and Accessibility
All three destinations are within a six to eight-hour drive from Chennai. This makes them viable options for quick getaways. Improved infrastructure, including well-maintained roads leading to these hill stations, is anticipated to further encourage tourism. Local taxi drivers report increased business and longer trips, attributing this to the ease of access and the growing popularity of these locations.
TTDC’s development plans reflect a strategic effort to offer nearby alternatives for Chennai residents. It will reduce the need for long journeys to other states and enhancing the overall tourism experience in Tamil Nadu.
