One of the lesser-known hill stations of Tamil Nadu, the Velliangiri Hills are located at an altitude of 6000 ft and are a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, which is currently under consideration for World Heritage Site status. The name Velliangiri means ‘Mountain With A Silver Line’, and the delicate curtain of mist which veils the mountain tops through most of the year gives it an ethereal and out-of-this-world quality. For the intrepid traveler, these mountains offer up the double bonanza of a luxuriant hill station with a spiritual twist.

While its salubrious climate is a prime attraction for many, one can also experience the spiritual dimension that is offered here. These mountains are known as Dakshin Kailash or ‘The Kailash of the South.' Legend has it that Shiva retreated to these mountains to grieve, when he failed to reach his devotee in Kanyakumari in response to her appeal. Shiva aside, these mountains have served as the abodes of many great saints and yogis.

On February 27^th, Mahashivarathri or the Night of Shiva, I made a yatra to the top of this mountain. The peak is called the Seventh Hill, since the contour of the mountain gives the impression that you are cresting seven peaks while climbing it. It was truly a remarkable experience. The trek takes about three hours if you are fit and healthy. Mind you, fit and healthy in the trekking sense not in the city-dweller sense! :)

I made it to the top and spent about two hours meditating there, and then came down. It was such a powerful experience. The wind, the mist, the physical effort, the mental calm, everything came together to give a sense of what Shiva truly is.