Yercaud Lake, also known as Emerald Lake, is the heart of the picturesque hill station of Yercaud in the Shevaroy Hills of Tamil Nadu. This man-made lake, nestled at an altitude of about 1,500 meters, is surrounded by coffee plantations, orange orchards, and lush green forests. It is one of the most popular attractions in Yercaud, offering a peaceful ambiance with boating facilities and scenic views.
Quick Overview — Yercaud Lake Tamil Nadu
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Yercaud, Salem District, Tamil Nadu – 636602 |
| Also Known As | Emerald Lake |
| Type | Man-made Freshwater Lake |
| Altitude | 1,500 meters (4,921 feet) |
| Timings | 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Daily) |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Boating Fee | ₹100 – ₹300 (Pedal / Row / Shikara Boats) |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March |
| Nearest Town | Salem (~22 km) |
Location of Yercaud Lake
Yercaud Lake is centrally located in the heart of Yercaud town. It is a medium-sized lake with a well-paved promenade around it, offering pleasant walking paths and beautiful views of the surrounding hills. The lake is a major hub for local tourism and is especially charming during the cooler months when the weather is misty and refreshing. The area is lined with shops, eateries, and viewpoints, making it lively yet relaxing.
Directions to Yercaud Lake
Yercaud Lake is very centrally placed and easy to reach once you arrive in Yercaud.
- From Yercaud Bus Stand: Just 1–1.5 km (15–20 minutes walk or short auto ride).
- From Salem: 22–25 km uphill via the Hairpin Bend Road. Drive time: 45–60 minutes.
- From Salem Railway Station: 25–28 km.
- From Coimbatore: Approximately 180–200 km.
The road from Salem to Yercaud is scenic with 20 hairpin bends. Taxis, private cabs, and local autos are readily available. The lake has parking facilities nearby.
Timings and Activities
Yercaud Lake is open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Main Activities:
- Pedal boating, row boating, and Shikara rides
- Walking along the scenic lake promenade
- Photography with the hills in the background
- Horse riding near the lake area
- Enjoying local snacks and corn at lakeside stalls
- Relaxing on benches and enjoying the cool breeze
Evenings are particularly lively with visitors enjoying the sunset glow over the water.
Nearby Places
Yercaud Lake’s central location makes it convenient to explore other attractions:
- Lady’s Seat — Famous viewpoint with panoramic views (~2 km)
- Killiyur Falls — Beautiful waterfall (~3 km)
- Bear Shola Falls — Scenic waterfall (~4 km)
- Gents Seat & Children’s Seat — Popular viewpoints
- Yercaud Coffee Plantations — For estate walks and tours
- Salem City — For shopping and urban facilities (~25 km)
FAQs — Yercaud Lake Tamil Nadu
Q1. What are the timings of Yercaud Lake?
A: The lake is open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. Boating is available during these hours.
Q2. Is there an entry fee for Yercaud Lake?
A: No entry fee. Boating charges apply separately.
Q3. How far is Yercaud Lake from Salem?
A: Approximately 22–25 km. The drive takes 45–60 minutes through the hills.
Q4. When is the best time to visit Yercaud Lake?
A: October to March offers the most pleasant weather. Summers are also good for escaping the heat of the plains.
Q5. What activities are available at Yercaud Lake?
A: Boating, walking, photography, horse riding, and enjoying the scenic hill station atmosphere.
Yercaud Lake beautifully captures the charm of this charming hill station. Whether you take a relaxing boat ride, enjoy a morning walk, or simply sit by the water soaking in the cool breeze, it remains one of the most delightful experiences in Yercaud. It is an ideal spot for families, couples, and solo travellers looking for peace amidst nature.
