Easy One-Day Bangalore to Yercaud Budget Trip Itinerary Guide

Explore Nature’s Gem in One Day

Are you searching for a perfect budget trip itinerary from Bangalore to Yercaud that offers adventure, scenic beauty, and affordability? Yercaud, known as “Poor Man's Ooty”, stands out as a serene hill station near Bangalore. Unlike Ooty or Kodaikanal, which often require significant spending on local transport and stay, Yercaud is a budget-friendly destination perfect for a one-day trip.

In this guide, I will walk you through my personal experience, step by step, detailing the most efficient way to explore Yercaud from Bangalore without taking leave or spending much.


Why Yercaud Is the Ideal Budget Getaway from Bangalore

Yercaud offers a unique combination of nature’s beauty and simplicity. It is often called Yelaigalin Ooty because of its lower cost and equally scenic landscapes. Here’s why Yercaud stands out:

  • Almost all sightseeing spots are within walking distance.

  • Affordable public transport options are available.

  • No need to hire private cabs or spend on expensive accommodations if planning a day trip.

  • Well-connected by train and bus.

This makes it perfect for travelers who want a quick escape without a heavy budget.


When Is the Best Time to Visit Yercaud?

For the best experience, plan your trip between August and December. During this time:

  • Waterfalls like Kiliyur Falls are at their fullest.

  • Weather is pleasant – neither too hot nor too cold.

  • Less crowded compared to peak holiday seasons.


How to Reach Yercaud from Bangalore: A Budget-Friendly Travel Plan

Step 1 – Night Train from Bangalore to Salem


LTT CBE Express night train from Bangalore to Salem – Affordable sleeper coach travel for budget trips


I started my trip by boarding the
LTT CBE Express at 9:50 PM from KSR Bangalore City Junction. Opting for the sleeper coach was both comfortable and economical, costing only ₹180. This allowed me to sleep through the night and arrive in Salem at 3:40 AM.

Step 2 – Local Bus to Salem New Bus Stand


Salem New Bus Stand – Starting point for buses to Yercaud in Tamil Nadu


From Salem Railway Station, a quick ₹12 local bus ride in 15 minutes took me to Salem New Bus Stand, ready for the next leg of my journey.

Step 3 – Salem to Yercaud by Bus



At 4:35 AM, I boarded the Salem to Yercaud bus for a mere ₹26. The 30 km drive was breathtaking – the misty atmosphere, 20 hairpin bends, and the gradual rise in altitude gave a perfect introduction to Yercaud’s charm. I arrived at the Yercaud Boat House Bus Stop by 6:00 AM.


What to Explore in Yercaud? Complete One-Day Itinerary

1️⃣ Kiliyur Falls – The First Adventure Spot



My first destination was Kiliyur Falls, just 2.1 km from the boat house bus stop. The walk itself is scenic, passing through lush coffee estates and pepper plantations. After around 15 minutes of walking, I reached the falls at 6:25 AM.

Kiliyur Falls cascading amidst green forest near Yercaud, ideal for nature lovers and photography


The waterfall was spectacular. The water was chilling – almost like an ice bath – yet refreshing and rejuvenating. I spent a good half an hour enjoying the view and the cold splash. Pro Tip: Visit between August and December for the best water flow.

2️⃣ Yercaud Boat House – Relax and Rejuvenate

By 7:20 AM, I was back at the Yercaud Boat House and had a simple breakfast costing ₹60. The place is perfect for a light snack and relaxation. The boat house also offers a variety of boating options.


  • 🏷️ Entry Fee:
  • Adult – ₹10
  • Children – ₹5
  • Still Camera – ₹12
  • Handy Camera – ₹60
  • Big Video Camera – ₹230

  • 🛶 Boat Charges:
  • Peddle Boat (2 Seater): ₹150 (30 min)
  • Peddle Boat (4 Seater): ₹200 (30 min)
  • Row Boat (3 Seater): ₹150 (15 min)
  • Row Boat (5 Seater): ₹200 (15 min)
  • Motor Boat (8 Seater): ₹600 (10 min).


As a solo traveler, I skipped the boating ride, but the peaceful ambiance was worth soaking in.

3️⃣ Botanical Garden – Nature’s Beauty in Full Bloom

Next, I walked 1.5 km to the Botanical Garden, entering at 8:50 AM with an entry fee of ₹30 for adults. The garden is vast, with well-maintained paths and vibrant flowers. The sudden misty atmosphere added a magical touch. It is a paradise for photographers and nature lovers alike.



4️⃣ Rose Garden – A Blooming Delight

A two-minute walk from the botanical garden took me to the Rose Garden. The garden boasts a variety of flowers, not just roses, and offers the convenience of restroom facilities – which many places in Yercaud lake. I spent about an hour here appreciating the floral diversity.

5️⃣ Silk Museum – Learn the Secrets of Silk

Entry fee: ₹30. The Silk Museum offers a deep dive into silk cultivation. Real silkworms and stages of silk production were displayed in a well-organized manner. There is also a science park for kids that is free of charge. The museum proved educational and took me almost an hour to fully explore.

6️⃣ Scenic Viewpoints: Ladies Seat, Gents Seat, and Children’s Seat

From the Silk Museum:

  • Ladies Seat View Point (₹10 telescope available) provides panoramic valley views.

  • Gents Seat View Point lies half a kilometre away, featuring even wider scenic expanses.

  • Children’s Seat View Point completes this trio of beautiful viewpoints.

Along the way, I also visited the Genetic Heritage Garden (₹30 entry fee), which showcases hybrid trees and plant species.

Panoramic view from Yercaud viewpoint showing valley and distant hills covered in mist


7️⃣ Anna Park and Yercaud Aeri Poonga Garden – Relax Before Return

At 1 PM, I returned to Yercaud Boat House Bus Stop and enjoyed a filling Biryani for ₹120. Afterward, I visited Anna Park (restroom facilities available) and the Yercaud Aeri Poonga Garden (₹15 entry fee). These spots provided a nice atmosphere to relax and reflect before heading back.


Why This Bangalore to Yercaud Budget Trip Itinerary Is Perfect

  • Cost-Effective: Complete trip under ₹1000, including food, transport, and entry fees.

  • Convenient Sightseeing: Most places are within walking distance, reducing the need for local taxis or guide services.

  • Solo Travel-Friendly: Easy navigation using offline Google Maps.

  • Time-Efficient: All key spots covered within 10–12 hours.


How to Return to Bangalore?

At 6:50 PM, I boarded the Kongu SF Express from Salem and arrived back in Bangalore by 10:50 PM. The sleeper coach ticket was ₹230.


💰 Total Budget Breakdown

Item
Cost (₹)
Train (Bangalore → Salem)180
Salem Local Bus (Station → Bus Stand)12
Salem → Yercaud Bus26
Breakfast60
Kiliyur Falls EntryFree
Botanical Garden Entry30
Rose Garden EntryIncluded in Botanical Garden ticket
Silk Museum Entry30
Genetic Heritage Garden Entry30
Telescope at Viewpoint10
Aeri Poonga Garden Entry15
Lunch (Biryani)120
Return Train (Salem → Bangalore)230
Miscellaneous Snacks/Shopping100

➔ Total Estimated Budget: ₹823

This makes Yercaud an extremely budget-friendly and fulfilling day trip from Bangalore.


🌟 Final Thoughts

Essential Travel Tips

  • Always wear comfortable walking shoes.

  • Carry light rain gear and an extra bottle of water.

  • Visit during the best months (August–December) for a more scenic experience.

  • Download offline Google Maps before starting the trip.


What Makes Yercaud Different from Other Hill Stations?

Unlike other popular hill stations:

  • You don’t need expensive cab services for sightseeing.

  • Most attractions are close together, making it walkable.

  • Public transport is both frequent and cheap.

This makes Yercaud a hidden gem for budget travelers and solo adventurers.


Final Thoughts: A Perfect Budget-Friendly Escape

This Bangalore to Yercaud budget trip itinerary is perfect for nature lovers, solo travelers, and anyone seeking a simple escape from city life. With a well-planned route, affordable transport, and walkable sightseeing spots, this itinerary delivers an enriching experience without a hefty budget.

👉 If you enjoyed this trip plan, you might also like my previous adventure to Kondarangi Hills – A Simple One-Day Trek from Bangalore. It’s another easy and affordable day trip with stunning views and peaceful trekking trails..

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