Red Hills comes under the ecological zone of the Blue Mountain”the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.
Red Hills is bounded by seven lakes and the magnificent Nilgiri peaks. The Red Hill trek offers a spectacular view of the Emerald and Avalanche lakes, and also the surrounding hills of the Silent Valley and Makuti National Park.
The verdant tea estates, dense foliage, wild mountain flowers in varied hues, the pristine and serene atmosphere, invigorating clean air, all these make Trekking a memorable one. The trek to the Red Hills peak is an easy one, and some part of the trekking trail leads you through forest area. You can walk through the wilderness along the narrow route that go all round the valleys.
Exact Location: Red Hills trek is located around 28 km from Ooty.
Nearest Town: Ooty (28 km)
Distance from Bangalore: 310 km
How to Reach: Bangalore ’ Mysore ’ Gundlupet ’ Masinagudi ’ Ooty ’ Red Hills
From Bangalore: Take the state highway (SH) 17 to Bandipur via Mandya, Mysore, and Nanjangud. Then take the Tamil Nadu SH to Ooty via Theppakadu and Gudalur. From Ooty take the district road to Red Hills via Palada, Ithalar, Emerald.
Nearly 5 km after Emerald the road bifurcates, right goes to Red Hills and left to Emerald. The nearest airport and railhead is in Coimbatore (116 km).
Trek Length: 10-12 km approx. (one way)
Best Time to Visit: September to May
Other Attractions in the Vicinity
Avalanche: Located 7 km from Red Hills is the village of Avalanche. The oldest tribe of Nilgiris, called the Todas, resides here. The quaint village has the 100 year old trout hatchery. Crystal clear blue waters of the Avalanche Lake get its colour from the Blue Mountain. Shola trees, rhododendrons, orchids, and magnolias enhance the beauty of this place.
Parsons Valley: The scenic valley is said to be a paradise for trekkers, naturalists and wildlife enthusiasts. The Porthimund dam built across the Pykara River is located around 18 km from Parsons V alley.