Situated close to the Nilavoor village of Tamil Nadu, The Nilavoor lake is a beautiful artificial with turquoise waters and green surroundings. It is becoming a popular summer retreat for travellers in Tamil Nadu. The lake is a secluded haven and most preferred for boating and nature walk.
It reflects the vibrant beauty of the thickets of trees that outline the shimmering waters of the lake. There is also a Thambiran Lotus Pond constructed near the lake adds to the charm of the lake and attracts many visitors to the place. Sometimes when the water level in the lake is low, you can also see rocks at the bed of the lake.
The Amma temple near the lake is cherry on top with its serene beauty and peaceful aura. There is a superior garden right opposite to the lake where you can venture which is well-manicured and makes for a perfect picnic spot near the Nilavoor Lake. The hills present in the backdrop of the lake make for an awe-inspiring sight.
Boating has become the main attraction of the place due to its beautiful surroundings and calming waters. There is a boating house near the lake which provides several boating options to travelers. The beauty of the lake increases multifold during dusk and dawn and you will be thrilled to discover more wonderful sights at and near the lake on a family trip to the Yelagiri Hills.
How To Reach
The Yelagiri bus stand is well-connected to nearby places like Tirupattar, Ambur, Harur, Natrampalli, and Vaniyambadi. The bus stand is about 4.5 km from the lake. There are many auto rickshaws available from the bus stand to visit the lake. You can also choose to hire a cab for a more comfortable journey.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit Nilavoor lake is from April to June and October to December.
Summer Season: During this time of the year, the weather is quite delightful and it will significantly enhance your experience of visiting the Nilavoor lake. The surroundings of the lake in summer is characteristized by lush greenery and flourishing vegetation. If you visit in May, you can also witness the Yelagiri Summer Festival at its full swing.
Winter Season: From October to December, the winter season brings an ethereal charm to the hills of Yelagiri. The winter days feature mellow warmth of the sun which will add to your experience of visiting the lake. You will see a verdant spread of greenery all around the lake. The surroundings of the lake become extremely enchanting during this time.
Other Essential Information
Location: It is located in Yelagiri district of Tamilnadu.
Timings: The boat ride is available from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm. The lake is open on all days.
Fee: The entry to the lake is Rs. 10, and you’ll have to pay a minimum amount to enjoy the amusement rides. Boating charges are Rs. 50/10 minutes.
Boating experience at Nilavoor lake
The boating experience at the Nilavoor lake is entrancing. The splendid vistas offered by the majestic green mountains surrounding the Nilavoor lake are a once-in-a-lifetime experience. As you go further towards the centre of the lake, you will feel the light pats of fresh air from the valley on your face. The boating ride is not only a memorable experience to have with your family but also a rejuvenating activity to partake in with your friends.
There is a boathouse near the lake from where you can rent boats and it provides several boating options to travellers. You can choose row boating or paddle boating in the lake. The boathouse provides the rower, but you can also choose to row the boat yourself on request. The price of the boat ride is only Rs. 50 per person for 10 minutes.
Note: Keep in mind that every boat has space for only five people, including the rower.
Places to Eat Near Nilavoor Lake
1. Food Corner: It is a small restaurant in the Nilavoor village known for its delicious food and charming ambience. It is an ideal place for having light snacks and refreshments before and after a trip to the lake. The restaurant serves mouth-watering pure veg food to its guests.
2. Ambur star biryani: The restaurant is considered an old-hand at Biryani. It serves different varieties of Biryani to travellers. They have professional service in place, and the ambience of the restaurant is also pleasant. The prices are also reasonable for the quality of food served by the restaurant.
3. Nilgress Restaurant: The restaurant is one of the best in the remote region. The small restaurant serves both veg and non-veg food. The food served is tasty, especially the chicken curry, which is loved by most tourists. There is a modest décor inside the restaurant, which will add to a fine dining experience.
4. Peters Park Restaurant: The restaurant is famous for the variety of dishes available for all options- be it breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The restaurant serves a mouth-watering buffet to the guests on request. The interiors of the restaurant are classy, and you will have a great time dining at this place.
Tips Before Visiting Nilavoor Lake
Be armored with a list of tips that will save you a lot of time and make your trip to the lake hassle-free:
1. Carry some warm clothes and light comforters as it gets chilly during the night. The days are pleasant, and you wouldn’t require warm clothes.
2. It will take 1-2 hours to enjoy your trip so plan your day before visiting.
3. There are food stalls near the lake, but it is advisable to carry some food items along with drinking water for convenience.
4. There are only a few petrol stations in Yelagiri hills, so get your fuel tank completely filled before starting your journey.
5. Be wary of your surroundings and take extreme care of children.