Kodaikanal – The Princess of Hill Stations

Kodaikanal is a lovely lake town situated near Palani in the hills of Dindigul district of Tamil Nadu. It is popularly known as “The Princess of Hill Stations”. The name Kodaikanal in Tamil means “The Gift of the Forest”. However, the name has four more possible interpretations based on how it is pronounced in Tamil language. It is referred to as “a place to see in the summer” owing to its pleasant climate. It could also mean “the end of the forest” in a geographical sense as it is at the summit of Palani Hills. The place is also stated to mean “the forest of creepers/wine”

Major Attractions in Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal offers an array of places to visit according to one’s likings and preferences. Some of the major tourist attractions of Kodaikanal are:

Kodaikanal Lake

The Kodaikanal lake is an artificially created lake built in 1863 by Sir Vere Hendry. The lake covering 24-hectare is bordered by a 5 kilometre path. Boating, horse-rides, cycling, and a stroll along the lake are the highlights of this place.

Bryant Park

Bryant Park was landscaped by a British Army Officer, Glen Bryant. It is a well maintained botanical garden found east of the lake and 500 meters from the bus stand. It covers an area of 20.5 acres. The park is open throughout the year and offers a rainbow of flowers and ornamental plants. The Flower Show conducted during the month of May every year is a real treat for the eyes.

Coaker’s Walk, Kodaikanal

Running along the edge of steep slopes on the southern side of Kodaikanal is the 1-kilometre paved pedestrian path called the Coaker’s Walk, named after Lt. Coaker. It is at a distance of 500 meters from the bus stand. The place assures one of the best views extending to the Dolphin’s Nose in the south, the valley of Pambar River in the southeast, and the town of Periyakulam and Madurai.

Pine Tree Forest, Kodaikanal

Found southwest of Kodaikanal, Pine Forest is yet another prominent tourist spot of Kodaikanal. Here, one can witness the myriad of pine trees aligned to as far as our vision goes. The pine plantations was started by Mr. Bryant in the year 1906. Photographers and nature enthusiasts would simply love this place. Scenes from various Indian movies have been shot here.

Poombarai Village (Kuzhanthai Velappar Temple)

The scenic village of Poombarai is 15 kilometres from Kodaikanal bus stand. At the heart of Poombarai village is Kudhanthai Velappar Temple which comes under the administration of Palani Temple. The temple houses the shrine of Lord Murugan in standing posture and has a history of over three thousand years.

Green Valley View

The Green Valley View formerly called the Suicide Point is a little more than 5 kilometres from the bus stand. It offers a breathtaking view of the Vaigai Dam to the south. The valley below this point is very deep and goes down to around 5000 ft.

Shenbaganur Museum Kodaikanal

The museum also known as Fauna Flora Museum was established in 1895. It is at a distance of around 5 kilometres from the Lake. Tourists can witness over 300 species of exotic orchids and a phenomenal taxidermy collection of more than 500 species of animals, birds and insects. It’s a place best suited for people inclined towards science and facts.

Kodaikanal Solar Observatory Museum

Located 6 kilometres from the bus stand on Observatory Road at 2343 meters is the Kodaikanal Solar Observatory Museum. A grand panorama of Kodaikanal through the Terrestrial Telescope, the popular Astronomical Science Museum, Astronomy Library are some of the captivating attributes of this place.

Pillar Rocks View Point

A set of three giant pillars standing 122 meters high, 8 kilometres from the bus stand are the Pillar Rocks Viewpoint. The beautiful view from the rocks makes it a crowded place. You could also visit the public garden adjacent to the view point.

Guna Caves, Kodaikanal

Deep narrow chambers between the three giant Pillar Rocks is the Devil’s Kitchen, now known as the Guna Caves (named after the Tamil movie Guna). Its mystery and adventure has led to many tragic incidents in the past and hence entry inside the cave is now prohibited.

Silver Cascade Waterfalls, Kodaikanal

Experience a refreshing environment at the Silver Cascade Waterfalls. At a distance of 8 kilometres from Kodaikanal, this waterfall was formed from the outflow of Kodaikanal lake. It is a perfect stop-over to have a break while on your journey from Kodaikanal to Madurai.

Dolphin’S Nose View Point

A quiet retreat to experience the beautiful valley of Kodaikanal at its best would be The Dolphin’s Nose viewpoint. This viewpoint, as the name suggests, is based on a flat and protruding piece of rock similar to a dolphin’s nose. It’s a splendid way to experience the peace and tranquility in the atmosphere of a hill station.

Kurinji Andavar Murugan Temple

This Murugan temple, situated 4 kilometres from the bus stand, refers to Lord Murugan as the “God of Hill”. The area surrounding the temple is famous for Kurinji flower which blooms once in 12 years. You could have an amazing view of Palani and Vaigai Dam from this temple.

Berijam Lake

This viewpoint is 21 kilometres South West of Kodaikanal Lake. It is a reservoir that hosts many species of animals, birds, plants and fishes. Entry is restricted by the Forest Department between 9.30 a.m. and 3 p.m. It’s a perfect place for bird watching, amiable photography and for some quiet nature time.

Things to do in Kodaikanal

Apart from spending time in nature’s lap, Kodaikanal offers a host of other recreational activities such as cycling, pony rides, boating, trekking and angling. Ensure a safe and enjoyable trek with our comprehensive trekking gear checklist. Tourists can also shop for some quality Eucalyptus oil, homemade chocolates, plums and pears and woolen clothing.

Ideal time to visit Kodaikanal

You can visit Kodaikanal anytime during the year as the temperature is always moderate, however the best time would be in the months of April to June, September and October. Watch out for the Summer Festival that takes place every year in the month of May.

How to reach Kodaikanal

Buses are available from Madurai Aarappalayam bus stand and Batlagundu. Frequent buses are also available from Palani, Kodairoad and Dindigul. The nearest Railway Stations to Kodaikanal are – Palani Railway Station in the north (64 kilometres) , Kodaikanal Road Station down south (80 kilometres), Dindigul Junction in the east (100 kilometres) and Madurai Junction nearly to the east (114 kilometres). The nearest Airports are in Madurai, Coimbatore, Tiruchirapalli and Tuticorin.

Best Hotels to stay in Kodaikanal

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Ooty – The Queen of Hill Stations

The beautiful town of Udhagamandalam, popularly known as Ooty is located in the Nilgiris District of Tamil Nadu. It’s fascinating gardens and cottages, beautiful lakes and waterfalls, vast stretches of grasslands, lofty mountainous peaks and frosty weather makes it a lovely blend of adventure, beauty and romance.

Places to visit in Ooty

The small town of Ooty offers galore of attractive destinations.

Botanical Gardens

Botanical Gardens attract tourists from all over the world. The garden has an explicit collection of flowers, trees, beautiful shrubs and coloured lilies.

Ooty Lake & Boat House

Ooty Lake is behind the Central Bus stand and near to Ooty Railway station. Local ponies for jolly rides, boat races, children park, deer park are the means of entertainment for the visitors.

Rose Centenary Garden

Laid on 10 acres of land, situated in the heart of Ooty town is the enchanting Rose Centenary Garden. It is maintained by Tamil Nadu Horticulture Department. Its prominent features include the unusual colours and collection of roses that will simply captivate your senses. “Nila Maadam” is located in a spot from where visitors can see the entire rose garden.

Pykara Lake & Pykara Boat House

Pykara village is 19 kilometres from Ooty. Pykara Lake is a clean and scenic lake located between the hills. It is an isolated lake free from pollution and crowd.

Shooting Spots

The picturesque meadows found at 6 and 9 miles from Ooty town are the well-known Shooting Spots. This location has been a preferred location for Indian movies. A calm lake alongside the route leading to the viewpoint, surrounded by mountains and aligned by huge trees makes it an excellent picnic spot.

Avalanche Lake

Avalanche Lake derives its name from it being formed naturally due to a landslide back in 1823. This stunning spot is located at about 28 kilometres from Ooty. The lush green hillside landscape with clear water all around makes it a unique experience for tourists, especially for nature lovers.

Belikkal Lake

Belikkal lake is a popular tourist destination in Ooty. Spotting elephant, deer and tiger around the lake is very common, it being the source of drinking water for the wildlife living in the surrounding forest. It is also a nice spot for bird watching. Tourists can engage in trekking and hiking near the lake with the help of a proper guide.

Upper Bhavani Lake

A perfect getaway at around 48 kilometres from Ooty is the Upper Bhavani Lake. For people looking out for indulgence with nature, do not miss out on visiting the Upper Bhavani lake.

Sim’s Park

Sim’s Park is named after Mr. J.D. Sim, a former Secretary to the Government, who laid out the garden in 1874. The place has an exotic garden with many unique species of plants and shrubs. Tourists can witness the Annual Fruits and Vegetables show held every year in the month of May.

Nilgiris Mountain Railway

The Nilgiris Mountain Railway was built by the British in 1908. It is a 1000 mm metre gauge railway operated by the Southern Railway The train covers a distance of 26 kilometres connecting Ooty and Mettupalayam.
In July 2005, UNESCO declared the Nilgiris Mountain Railway as an extension to the World Heritage Site of Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. The train ride is a real delight to experience the tranquility and scenic atmosphere of Ooty.

Doddapetta Peak

Doddapeta meaning “a big mountain” is the highest peak located at 2637 meters in the Nilgiris Mountains. It is at a distance of 10 kilometres from Ooty covered by a reserved forest area around its peak. One could get an amazing view of the whole district from ‘The Telescopic House’ set up by the Tourism Department.

The Tea Factory & Tea Museum

The perfect aroma of tea could be found in Nilgiris District, home to the largest tea growing belts in India. Dodabetta Tea Factory at Coonoor was founded in 2005 and spreads out over an area of 1 acre of land. Adjacent to the Dodabetta Tea Factory is the Tea Museum.

Emerald Lake

Another very prominent tourist spot at Ooty is the Emerald Lake, located in Silent Valley in the Nilgiris District. It has a wonderful sun rise and sunset view and variety of birds in the locale. An ideal place for lovers of photography to soak in the natural beauty.

Things to do in Ooty:

Apart from visiting the spectacular locations, experiencing the joy of boating and the fun ride in the Nilgiri Mountain toy train, tourists also have the option of engaging in other entertaining activities such as fishing, golfing, horse racing and trekking. You could go shopping for handicrafts and woolen clothes. Homemade chocolates, tea, and spices are also very famous in Ooty.

Ideal time to visit Ooty

Ooty has a pleasant climate between the months of March to June. This constitutes the peak season for tourists to visit Ooty as you can venture out for sightseeing and have fun.

How to reach Ooty?

Ooty is well connected by road to major cities including Chennai, Coimbatore, Bangalore, Mysore, Calicut. By rail, Ooty is connected to Mettupalayam by narrow gauge and going forward is connected to Coimbatore. The nearest airport is Coimbatore at a distance of 104 kilometres.

Best Hotels to stay in Ooty

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Kurangani Hill Station in Theni

Kurangani is a hill station atop the Western Ghats in the district of Theni. The place is accessed from Bodinayakkanur which is the nearest town.

Kurangini Hills is a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and trekkers. The trekking journey of 12 kilometres uphill from Kurangini village to Top Station is covered with dense forests and plain grasslands.

How to reach Kurangani

By road, it is a 16 kilometer uphill drive from Bodinayakanur to Kurangani. Buses and taxi services are available from Madurai to Kurangani. The nearest airport is at Madurai, 101 kilometres from Kurangani.

Thiyagadurgam is a town panchayat in the district of Kallakurichi. At the centre of the town is a mountain range known as the Thiyagadurgam range. It is a small mount marked by many rocks.

The place was inhabited by Jain Saints before the 7th century AD. Later in the 9th century AD, Thirthankar and Shri Kooshmandini idols were installed by the Jains. The idols are still found and worshipped in their originally carved form. The cavern temple by name Sri Bhagavathi Malayamman Temple is maintained and offering are made following Hindu traditions.

The hill also has a fort which was under the control of rulers such as Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan, until it served as a base for British rulers. The fort is now under the control of the Archaeological Department of the Government of India.

Thiyagadurgam is located on the Kallakurichi road, 12 kilometres west of Kallakurichi. The town is well connected through district roads and national highways NH 65 and NH 45, to other major cities that include Viluppuram, Pondicherry, Cuddalore and Salem. National Highway NH 68 Chennai to Salem also passes through the town. The nearest railway station is at Ulundurpet (around 26 kilometres) and the nearest airport is at Trichy (around 152 kilometres).

Location & Features of Kalvarayan Hills

Nestled in the quiet solitude of the Eastern Ghats in Tamil Nadu, around 150 kilometres northwest of Chidambaram, is the picturesque Kalvarayan Hills.

The Kalvarayan Hills extend over an area of 1095 square kilometres. The hills separate the Kaveri river basin to the south from the Palar river basin to the north. The Kalvarayan is divided into two sections – the Chinna Kalvarayan (average 2700 feet in height) constituting the northern section and the Periya Kalvarayan (average 4000 feet in height) constituting the southern section.

The hills are filled with scrub jungles, deciduous forests and Sholas. Gomukhi Dam is the reservoir that holds water from falls in and around Kalvarayan Hills. The climate around the area is mostly temperate making it a peaceful place ideal for trekking.

The Kalvarayan Hills is home to the Malayalee Gounder tribe. The hill ranges have two waterfalls (Megam and Periyar Falls), a beautiful botanical garden, several temples and forests. Summer festival is held in the month of May every year.

How to reach Kalvarayan Hills

The nearest cities to Kalrayan Hills are Kallakurichi (about 56 kilometres away) and Salem (about 70 kilometres away). Buses can be availed from Kallakurichi to Gecherapalayam – a place in the ground level of Kalrayan Hills. Villupuram Station is the nearest railway station which connects the place to Chennai and Pondicherry. Trichy Airport is the nearest airport to the hills (175 kilometres away).

Epilogue

Unwind the roads less travelled and have an enthralling experience at the Kalvarayan Hills.

Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary

Anamalai Tiger Reserve was originally called the Anamalai Wildlife Sanctuary (established in the year 1976) and later on renamed as Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park. It is located near Pollachi at an altitude of 1,400 metres at the Top Slip, covering an area of 958 sq. kms.

A 30 kilometres wide gap in the Western Ghats mountain range, called the Palghat Gap, between the Nilgiri Hills to the north and the Anamalai Hills to the South forms a major communication route between the Kerala and Tamil Nadu border. The Reserve is carved out of the Tamil Nadu portion of The Anamalais. The administration of the Reserve falls under the Tamil Nadu Forest Department.

Image Attribution : Jaseem Hamza

Things to do & see in Anamalai Tiger Reserve

• • The deep forest is a habitat of varieties of exotic and endemic fauna – Elephant, Panther, Tiger, Spotted Deer, Sloth Bear, Nilgiri Thar are some of the animals that can be spotted.
  • Explore the natural bounties through an amazing trekking experience. Check out our essential trekking gear guide for a safe trekking experience.
  • The Sanctuary is an abode of over 800 species of flora and around 250 species of birds.
  • Shola trees, grass hills, waterfalls, groves, teak forests, estates, dams and reservoirs add beauty to Anamalai Hills.
  • Photograph the wildness of the forest in all its glory.
  • Enjoy purchasing souvenirs at the Eco-Shop in Top Slip.
  • Tourists have accommodation option inside the park at Top Slip. Alternately, there are also several forest guest houses available at Amaravathi, Sethumadai and Varagaliar near to Anamalai.
  • The Reserve Park timings are 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The park is open on all days. The checkpost timings are 7:00 a.m to 4:00 p.m. The entry fees at check post to be paid by private vehicles are as follows:

Entree Fee	Ticket Cost(INR)
Per head	Rs. 30
Per Child (5 to 10 yrs of age)	Rs. 10
Still Camera	Rs. 80
Video Camera	Rs. 300
Light Motor Vehicles	Rs. 100
Heavy Motor Vehicles	Rs. 200
Van	Rs. 150

• • The Safari ride at the Reserve Forest is a major attraction. Forest Department vans and four wheelers are available for the ride. Elephant Safari at Top Slip is a favourite among tourists for a pleasant jungle ride, details of which are as follows:

Safari Timings	Entry Fee(INR)	Safari Duration	Ticket Cost(INR)
11:00 a.m to 2:00 p.m.	Rs.30 per head	45 mins	Rs. 800 per ride

Ideal time to visit Anamalai Tiger Reserve

The best time to visit Anamalai Tiger Reserve would be between the months of December to April.

How to reach Anamalai Tiger Reserve

Direct buses are available to Anamalai Tiger Reserve from Coimbatore and Pollachi. The nearest railway station is at Pollachi (35 kilometres) and nearest Airport is Coimbatore International Airport (75 kilometres).

Kolli Hills: A Trekker’s Paradise

Kolli Hills is Located in Namakkal District at an altitude ranging from 1000 to 1300 metres above sea level is the serene mountain range of Kolli Hill Station. To reach this offbeat paradise, one has to traverse through 70 hairpin bends.

The hills are said to be guarded by Kollipavai also called Goddess Ettukkai Amma, the local deity. The mountains come across as an eerie place according to the myth among the locals. Kolli Hills is a perfect blend of natural splendor, pilgrim destination, mysteries and adventures.

Top Attractions in Kolli Hills

Kolli Hills, a hidden gem nestled in the Eastern Ghats of Tamil Nadu, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Trek to the ancient Arapaleeswarar Temple, nestled amidst misty mountains, or witness the mesmerizing Agaya Gangai Waterfalls cascading down the cliffs. For nature enthusiasts, the botanical gardens provide a serene escape, while the mysterious Siddhar Caves offer a glimpse into the region’s spiritual past. With lush greenery, diverse flora and fauna, and breathtaking vistas, Kolli Hills is a paradise for those seeking adventure and tranquility. Plan your visit to Kolli Hills today and experience the magic of this enchanting destination.

Arapaleeswarar Temple

Located at Periakoviloor, in the vicinity of Akasa Gangai waterfall, is Arapaleeswarar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is said to have been built by the then ruler Valvil Ori in the 1st or 2nd century AD. It is believed that the temple has a secret path to the Shiva Temple in Rasipuram.

Botanical Garden, Kolli Hills

Botanical Gardens is one of the best places to visit in Kolli Hills. Its main highlights are a beautiful Rose Garden, a majestic view point, exo-friendly cottages and a fun-filled Children’s Park.

Tampcol Medicinal Farm

Located on the way to Vaasaloorpatti while returning from Semmadu, is the Tampcol Medicinal Farm in Kolli Hills. The medicinal plants, shrubs and herbs grown in this farm are widely used in the production of Ayurveda, Siddha and Unani products. It is run by the State Government.

Ettukai Amman Temple

Ettukai Amman Temple is an ancient temple located at Valapoor Nadu. The deity worshipped here is Kolli Paavai (meaning – ‘Maiden of Death’) or Ettukai Amman (meaning – ‘Goddess with eight hands’). The temple is a hut with a palm leaf roof.

Agasa Gangai Waterfalls

Agasagangai Waterfalls is the waterfall of the river Aiyaru that cascades down from a height of 300 feet. It is located near the Arapaleeswarar Temple. The waterfalls comprises of about 1000 steps descending the base. The trail from Arapaleeswarar Temple to the waterfalls covers a distance of about 1 kilometre.

Siddha Caves

The belief is that, in ancient times, the Sidha’s lived, researched and meditated in the caves practicing traditional medicine and methods of natural healing. The location also serves as an excellent trekking expedition.

Things to do in Kolli Hills

• Trek to Agaya Gangai Waterfalls
• Vasalurpatty Boat House
• Visit viewpoints – Selur Viewpoint, Sirumalai viewpoint, Binnan viewpoint and Seekuparai viewpoint
• Stay at one of the traditional wood houses
• Trek to the remote Bogar Caves and Kayanavandhu Caves
• Tourists can shop for coffee, pepper, rice and honey in Solakkadu, Kolli Hills

Best time to visit Kolli Hills

Kolli Hills can be visited all round the year but the best time to visit Kolli Hills is from February to December.

How to reach Kolli Hills

By road, Kolli Hills can be easily reached from the cities of Chennai and Salem. The nearest railway head is Salem Junction which is located at a distance of 90 kilometres. Trichy Domestic Airport is the nearest airport from the hill station of Kolli Hills.

Tips for a Safe and Memorable Trek

To ensure a safe and memorable trek, plan meticulously, pack smartly, prioritize safety, and embrace the journey. Choose trails suitable for your experience level, check weather conditions, and inform someone of your plans. Check out our essential trekking gear checklist for a safe trekking experience. Follow marked trails, be aware of your surroundings, and respect nature. Capture the moment, connect with nature, and practice mindfulness. For an enhanced experience, consider hiring a guide or joining a trekking group. Start slow and gradually increase the difficulty of your treks.

Mudumalai National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary

Mudumalai National Park is a part of Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary. It is located at a distance of 150 kilometres from Coimbatore, in the Nilgiris District of Tamil Nadu and shares its borders with the states of Karnataka and Kerala. The Western Ghats in Nilgiris covering an area of 6000 square kilometres including the whole of Madumalai National Park is under consideration for selection as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO World Heritage Committee. Madumalai has a varied mixture of beautiful landscapes, open grasslands, swamps, exotic flora and fauna and rare species of birds. A pure bliss can be felt by tourists especially by avid wildlife lovers.

Image Attribution : Jaseem Hamza

Major Tourist Attractions in Mudumalai

Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary

Mudumalai National Park was declared as a Tiger Reserve. The sanctuary derives its name from the word “Mudumalai” which means “situated on the first hill”. The sanctuary is divided into five ranges – Masinagudi, Theppakadu, Mudumalai, Kargudi and Nellakota. The contour of the sanctuary includes the three types of forests in the sanctuary – tropical moist deciduous, tropical dry deciduous and southern tropical dry thorn. Some of the rare fauna found here are the grey langur, bonnet macaque, Asian elephant, tiger, leopard, guar, hyena, sloth bear and species of reptiles and birds. Theppakadu is the entry point to the Sanctuary which has an information center.

Kalhatti Waterfalls, Mudumalai

An ideal destination for trekking at Mudumalai would be Kalhatti Waterfalls. It is on the Ooty-Mysore route and is 13 kilometres from Ooty. The falls is located on the slopes of Kalhatti Mountains at around 2000 metres from sea level. Feel the pulsating experience of trekking together with the natural beauty of the area.

Theppakadu Elephant Camp

The camp derives its name from ‘Theppam’ meaning ‘pond’ and ‘kaadu’ meaning ‘forest’. A small camp since 1910 was declared an elephant camp in 1972. Elephants are trained and housed at the camp. Elephant shows are held on every Saturday and Sunday. Elephant race and soccer performed by the elephants are quite entertaining.

Mudumalai Museum

A Museum is located near the Elephant feeding camp. It provides a glimpse of the animals of the former years in their preserved form. It is a place worth a visit to observe the former dwellers of the forest.

Moyar River

Moyar River, originating from the town of Moyar along the Masinagudi-Ooty Road is one of the tributaries of the Bhavani River. Moyar River separates Mudumalai Sanctuary and Bandipur (Karnataka). It is a noted spot where many animals come to drink water along the banks of the river. The Moyar River Gorge also known as the Moyar Canyon is a massive gorge dug out of the Moyar River. The river water plunges into the Canyon from a great height giving origin to the Moyar Falls.

Things to do in Mudhumalai

Tourists can explore the adjacent forest ranges to Mudumalai – Bandipur National Park (in Karnataka) and Wayanad Sanctuary (in Kerala). Some of the other enthralling activities to keep the tourists engaged are

• Canter and jeep safari
• Bird watching
• Camping amidst the pristine surroundings
• Nature trails and photography
• Trekking to Mayor Gorge
• Village tour
• Elephant Camp tour and Elephant safari
• Watch tower and water hole visit

Ideal time to visit Mudumalai

Mudumalai is an year-round destination but the best time to visit between the months of February to June. Vehicle Safari duration is for 1 hour –6 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.

How to reach Mudumalai

Mudumalai is connected via road to Gudalur (3 kilometres), Ooty (41 kilometres) and Mysore (84 kilometres).Taxi services are also available from Ooty to Mudumalai. The nearest railway station is Ooty station (40 kilometres) and the closest broad gauge station is Coimbatore Railway Station (116 kilometres). The nearest airport is the Coimbatore International Airport (123 kilometres). Accommodation is available at forest rest houses, guest houses at Masinagudi, kargudi, Theppakadu and Abhayaranyam.

The second largest hill station in the Nilgiri Hills of the Western Ghats is Coonoor. It is marked by its Colonial culture, lush green hills and amazing views. It is situated at an altitude of 1930 metres and at a distance of 19 kilometres from Ooty. Coonoor has the advantage of being less crowded with all the charm of a hill station. It is marked with large tea plantations, lush green Nilgiris Hills, blooming surroundings and colonial charm.

Major Tourist Attractions in Coonoor

Sim’s Park

Sims Park is named after Mr. J.D. Sim, a former secretary to the Government, who laid out the garden in 1874. It is a park cum botanical garden with many unique species of plants and shrubs. Tourists can witness the Annual Fruits and Vegetables show held every year in the month of May. Tourists can also enjoy boating in Sim’s Park.

Lamb’S Rock

The Lamb’s Rock 8 kilometres from the city center of Coonoor. Trekking to reach the summit of Lamb’s Rock could be challenge owing to the steep climb but the magnificent view of surrounding valleys and Coimbatore plains from atop makes it worth the effort.

Dolphin’S Nose, Coonoor

At a distance of 10 kilometres from Coonoor is the Dolphin’s Nose viewpoint. Along the road between Coonoor and Dolphin’s Nose viewpoint is Lamb’s Rock. This viewpoint, as the name suggests, is based on a flat and protruding piece of rock similar to a dolphin’s nose. Enjoy watching the sunrise and sunset and an unobstructed view of Cathering Falls.

Catherine Waterfalls

St. Catherine Falls is about 21 kilometres from Coonoor and 8 kilometres from Kotagiri. Located near Aravenu on the Kotagiri-Mettupalayam Road, this double cascaded Falls waters from the Kallar River. Tourists can get a lovely view of the Falls from Dolphin’s nose of Connoor.

Law’s Falls

Law’s Falls is an amazing destination situated on the Mettupalayam-Coonoor-Ooty route. At a distance of around 10 kilometres from Coonoor, the falls is covered by vast stretched of forests.

Droog Fort

Droog Fort at a distance of 17 kilometres from Coonoor is said to have been used by Tipu Sultan as an outpost. It is also called the Bakasura Malai based on the belief that a demon resided in the fort many years back. It is a must visit place for trekkers, adventure seekers and bird watchers. Tourists have to go up to Nonsuch Estate and trek down for around 4 kilometres to reach the fort.

Things to do in Coonoor

– Tourists are offered plenty of activities while their stay in Coonoor. Trekking being the most popular, tourists can have a rewarding experience of trekking to viewpoints, tea estates and waterfall. The most popular toy train ride from Coonoor to Ooty is not to be missed.
Tourists can have a wholesome experience shopping at Coonoor. It offers antique and exquisite articratfs, apparels, embroidered shawls, Toda jewellery, and not to forget the aromatic tea, fresh honey and homemade chocolates.

Ideal time to visit Coonoor

The peak season in Coonoor is from April to June. The best time to visit Coonoor is from March to June, September and October.

How to reach Coonoor

Coonoor is well connected to all major cities by road. The nearest railway hubs to Coonoor are Mettupalayam (32 kilometres) and Coimbatore (68 kilometres). The nearest airport is at Coimbatore (68 kilometres).

Meghamalai – Highwavys Mountains

Meghamalai is a mountain range situated in the Western Ghats in Theni District of Tamil Nadu. It is also called the Hignwavys Mountains, the term ‘Highwavys’ being derived to describe the steep and undulating mountain ranges. As the name suggests, Meghamalai is invariably a place where the clouds meet the mountains. It marks natural beauty surrounded by tea and coffee plantations and varieties of flora and fauna.

Image Attribute : Vinoth Chandar

Tourist Attractions in Meghamalai

Meghamalai Falls

Meghamalai Falls also called the Clouds Land Falls are round-the-year falls that do not run dry. The falls descends in two separate places from the stream Suruli Theetham that originates from the hills. Spotting wild animals such as elephants, guar, spotted deer and other dwellers of the forest is not very uncommon.

Meghamalai Tea Estates

Large tea estates, coffee plantations and spice garden could be found in abundance in the Meghamalai region. The Highwavys Estates is a tea plantation run by the Woodbriar Group. Highwavys is the ideal viewpoint for a wonderful view of the Varusanadu Hills.

Meghamalai Dams

Six dams originate from Meghamalai Mountains, most popular of them being the Suruli Theertham. Manalar Dam offers a breathtaking view of the Cumbum Valley and distant villages in Theni District. Highway Point Dam is another important landmark.

Meghamalai Forests

Meghamalai forests in all its wilderness is home to exotic birds, flora and mammal life. Meghamalai has been declared as a protected area by the Government of Tamil Nadu owing to its quintessential wildlife.

Vellimalai

Vellimalai or the Silver Mountain is situated in the heart of Meghamalai at about 1650 metres above sea level. This place is where the Vaigai River originates. It is a lovely place to experience the natural bounties that Meghamalai has to offer in the form of tea gardens and rare species of fauna.

Things to do in Meghamalai

Meghamalai is not a very crowded place so you could thoroughly enjoy the pristine nature and the peaceful vibe of a hill station. Trekking and long mountain walks is an experience second to none. Please refer the essential trekking gear checklist for a safe and enjoyable trekking.

Ideal time to visit Meghamalai

The month of September to May is the ideal time to visit Maghamalai. It is pleasantly cool and refreshing this part of the year.

How to reach Meghamalai

• Roads are not very proper and buses that take you to Megamalai are few. You could reach Meghamalai from Theni via Chinnamanoor or from Andipatti via Kandamanayakkanur. Both Theni and Andipatti are well connected from the districts of Madurai and Dindigul.
• The nearest rail heads are at Dindigul, Kodairoad and Madurai. The nearest airport is at Madurai (130 kilometres), Trichy (190 kilometres) and Coimbatore (290 kilometres).