Avalanche Lake is located near Ooty (Udhagamandalam) in the Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu, India. The geographical coordinates of Avalanche Lake are approximately 11.3741° N latitude and 76.5484° E longitude.
The lake is situated at a distance of about 28 kilometers from Ooty, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and tourists seeking the serene beauty of the Nilgiri Mountains. The surrounding landscape is characterized by dense forests, greenery, and a tranquil atmosphere, making Avalanche Lake a peaceful retreat in the Nilgiris.
Origin of Avalanche Lake:
The origin of Avalanche Lake near Ooty in the Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu, India, is associated with a natural event that occurred in the early 19th century. The lake gets its name from an avalanche that took place in the region. During this event, a significant amount of debris, including rocks and soil, blocked a stream. The debris from the avalanche created a barrier across a stream, obstructing its flow. As a result, water started accumulating behind the barrier, forming what is now known as Avalanche Lake.
Over time, the accumulated water transformed into a serene and picturesque lake, surrounded by the scenic beauty of the Nilgiri Mountains. The lake’s origin is closely tied to the natural landscape and geological processes of the region. The lush greenery, dense forests, and the tranquil environment contribute to the overall appeal of Avalanche Lake.
Boating in Avalanche Lake:
Boating is a popular activity at Avalanche Lake, offering visitors a serene and enjoyable way to experience the natural beauty of the surroundings. Visitors can typically enjoy paddle boat rides on Avalanche Lake. These paddle boats are often available for rent at the lake.
Boats can be rented directly at the lake, and the rental duration may vary. Visitors can inquire about rates and rental conditions at the boating facility. It’s essential to adhere to safety guidelines provided by the boating facility. This may include wearing life jackets, following designated routes, and complying with any specific rules. Boating on Avalanche Lake offers excellent opportunities for photography. Capture the scenic beauty and serene atmosphere as you paddle along the lake.
Fishing in Avalanche Lake:
The Fishing in Avalanche Lake can be performed by following the necessary steps:
Permission: Obtain the necessary permits and permissions from the forest department before engaging in any fishing activities. This is important to ensure compliance with conservation efforts and local regulations.
Regulations: Be aware of any specific fishing regulations or guidelines set by the authorities. This may include restrictions on the type of fishing equipment allowed, catch limits, and specific areas designated for fishing.
Conservation: Practice responsible and sustainable fishing. Follow catch-and-release practices if required, and avoid any activities that may harm the ecosystem or aquatic life in the lake.
Equipment: Bring your fishing equipment, such as fishing rods, reels, and bait. Ensure that your equipment complies with any regulations in place.
Timing: Confirm the timing and availability of fishing activities at Avalanche Lake. Some areas may have specific seasons or hours designated for fishing.
Local Guidance: If you are unfamiliar with the lake and its fishing conditions, consider seeking guidance from local authorities, fishing experts, or guides who can provide valuable insights.
Best time to Visit Avalanche Lake:
The best time to visit Avalanche Lake is during the post-monsoon season, from September to November, when the weather is pleasant, and the surroundings are lush and green. The lake operates daily from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, and visitors can access it for INR 200 per person for the bus safari or INR 2000 per trip for the jeep safari.
How to reach Avalanche Lake:
By Air:Nearest Airport: Coimbatore International Airport (approx. 88 kilometers from Ooty).From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use other local transportation to reach Ooty.
By Train: Nearest Railway Station: Udagamandalam (Ooty) Railway Station.Ooty is connected by a narrow-gauge railway line. However, the nearest major railway station is Mettupalayam Railway Station.From Mettupalayam, you can take the Nilgiri Mountain Railway (toy train) or a taxi to Ooty.
By Road:Ooty is well-connected by road. You can reach Ooty by bus, car, or taxi from various nearby cities.
The Government Rose Garden in Ooty is one of the largest rose gardens in India. It spans across an area of about 10 acres, making it a substantial and expansive botanical garden. The garden is known for its vast collection of roses, featuring thousands of varieties, hybrids, and colors.
With well-maintained lawns, pathways, and pergolas, the Government Rose Garden provides a serene and picturesque setting for visitors to enjoy the beauty of roses and other ornamental plants. The size and diversity of the garden make it a popular attraction in Ooty, drawing tourists and flower enthusiasts throughout the year.
Varieties of Government Rose Garden:
The Government Rose Garden in Ooty is renowned for its extensive collection of roses, featuring numerous varieties, hybrids, and colors. Some of the varieties of roses are mentioned below,
- Hybrid Tea Roses: Known for their large, single blooms on long stems, hybrid tea roses are often considered classic and are commonly grown for their beauty and fragrance.
- Floribunda Roses: These roses produce clusters of flowers on each stem, creating a more abundant and colorful display. Floribundas are valued for their continuous blooming.
- Grandiflora Roses: A cross between hybrid tea and floribunda roses, grandiflora roses combine the traits of both, featuring large, solitary blooms and clusters of flowers on a single stem.
- Miniature Roses: Compact in size, miniature roses have small blooms and are often grown in containers. They come in a variety of colors and are prized for their versatility.
- Climbing Roses: These roses are characterized by their long, arching canes, making them suitable for training to climb walls, fences, or trellises. They often produce clusters of blooms.
- Old Garden Roses: These are traditional rose varieties that were cultivated before the introduction of hybrid teas. They often have a classic, romantic appearance and may include varieties like damask and bourbon roses.
- Shrub Roses: Known for their hardiness and natural growth habit, shrub roses are versatile and can be used in landscaping. They produce clusters of flowers and are generally low-maintenance.
- Groundcover Roses: These low-growing roses are often used as groundcovers or for mass plantings. They are valued for their ability to spread and create a carpet of blooms.
- English Roses (David Austin Roses): Bred by David Austin, these roses combine the form of old garden roses with the repeat flowering of modern hybrids. They are often fragrant and come in a variety of colors.
Rose Show in Ooty:
The Rose Show in Ooty is an annual event held at the Government Rose Garden, showcasing the breathtaking beauty and diversity of roses. The show features an extensive display of various rose varieties, hybrids, and colors. The garden is in full bloom during this period, creating a vibrant and colorful spectacle.
The Rose Show often includes competitions where growers and gardeners showcase their best roses, competing for awards in different categories. In addition to the floral displays, the Rose Show may include cultural programs, entertainment, and other festivities to enhance the overall experience for visitors. The well-manicured lawns and the abundance of roses provide excellent opportunities for photography, making it a favorite event for those who enjoy capturing the beauty of flowers.
Visiting Hours and Entry fee of Rose Garden:
The garden is under the stewardship of the Tamil Nadu Horticulture Department and The admission cost for access to the Government Rose Garden in Ooty is INR 30 for adults and INR 15 for children. For the privilege of bringing a still camera, there is an additional fee of INR 50, and for a video camera, the applicable fee is INR 100. The garden operates from 7:30 am to 6:30 pm throughout the week.
How to reach Government Rose Garden:
By Air:Nearest Airport: Coimbatore International Airport (approx. 88 kilometers from Ooty).From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use other local transportation to reach Ooty.
By Train: Nearest Railway Station: Udagamandalam (Ooty) Railway Station.Ooty is connected by a narrow-gauge railway line. However, the nearest major railway station is Mettupalayam Railway Station.From Mettupalayam, you can take the Nilgiri Mountain Railway (toy train) or a taxi to Ooty.
By Road:
From Ooty:
- Ooty is well-connected by road. You can reach Ooty by bus, car, or taxi from various nearby cities.
- The Government Rose Garden is situated in the heart of Ooty town and is easily accessible by local transportation.
- Navigate to Ooty and then head towards the center of the town.
- The Government Rose Garden is a prominent landmark and is often well-signposted in the town.
Doddabetta Peak is located near Ooty (Udhagamandalam) in the Nilgiri Hills of the Western Ghats, Tamil Nadu, India. The geographical coordinates are approximately 11.4084° N latitude and 76.6952° E longitude. It stands at an elevation of approximately 2,637 meters (8,650 feet) above sea level and also the highest point in the Nilgiri Hills, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Ooty is the nearest town and a popular hill station, making Doddabetta Peak a well-known tourist destination in the region.
Climate of Doddabetta peak:
The temperature at Doddabetta Peak remains relatively cool, especially compared to the surrounding plains. Summers (March to May) are mild, with daytime temperatures ranging from around 10 to 20 degrees Celsius (50 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit). Winters (December to February) can be chilly, with temperatures often dropping to around 0 to 10 degrees Celsius (32 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit).
The monsoon season occurs from June to September. During this period, the region receives a significant amount of rainfall, which contributes to the lush greenery of the surrounding hills. The hill station area, including Doddabetta, is known for misty and foggy conditions, especially in the early morning and late evening. This atmospheric phenomenon adds to the scenic beauty but can impact visibility.
Observation Tower of Doddabetta Peak:
The observation tower is a key attraction, allowing tourists to enjoy a 360-degree view of the Nilgiri Hills, the town of Ooty, the plains of Coimbatore, and even the Mysuru plateau on clear days. Visitors can use telescopes available at the tower to get a closer look at distant landmarks and appreciate the natural beauty of the Western Ghats.
The Doddabetta observation tower is a popular spot for photography, and it provides a tranquil setting for tourists to soak in the breathtaking views while surrounded by the cool and refreshing mountain air.
How to reach Doddabetta Peak:
By Air:Nearest Airport: Coimbatore International Airport (approx. 88 kilometers from Ooty).From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use other local transportation to reach Ooty.
By Train: Nearest Railway Station: Udagamandalam (Ooty) Railway Station.Ooty is connected by a narrow-gauge railway line. However, the nearest major railway station is Mettupalayam Railway Station.From Mettupalayam, you can take the Nilgiri Mountain Railway (toy train) or a taxi to Ooty.
By Road:
From Ooty:
- Ooty is well-connected by road. You can reach Ooty by bus, car, or taxi from various nearby cities.
- Doddabetta Peak is approximately 10 kilometers from Ooty town center.
- You can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Doddabetta.
- Driving Directions:
- From Ooty, take the Ooty-Kotagiri Road.
- Follow the road signs leading to Doddabetta Peak.
Pykara Falls, a splendid cascade situated in Ooty, Tamil Nadu, is positioned 2 km away from Pykara Lake and 23 km from Ooty Bus Stand. Originating from the Pykara River downstream of the Pykara Dam, these falls present a captivating natural spectacle.
Image Attribution: flickrPrince
Scenic Beauty of Pykara Falls:
The scenic beauty of Pykara Falls is truly captivating, offering a visual feast for visitors. Nestled in the lush landscapes of Ooty, Tamil Nadu, these falls showcase the harmonious blend of nature’s elements. As the Pykara River gracefully descends downstream of the Pykara Dam, the falls create a mesmerizing spectacle.
The verdant surroundings, characterized by dense forests and vibrant flora, serve as a picturesque backdrop to the cascading waters. The play of sunlight on the glistening water further enhances the ethereal charm of Pykara Falls, making it a serene and visually enchanting destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Water Flow of Pykara Falls:
The water flow of Pykara Falls is characterized by a graceful descent of the Pykara River downstream of the Pykara Dam. The falls exhibit a series of cascades as the river flows over the rocky terrain, creating a captivating display of natural beauty. The volume and intensity of the water flow can vary based on factors such as seasonal rainfall and local weather conditions.
During the monsoon season, the flow is often more robust, presenting a dynamic and powerful spectacle, while in drier periods, the falls may exhibit a more subdued yet equally picturesque flow. The rhythmic movement of the water over the rocky contours contributes to the tranquil and scenic ambiance of Pykara Falls.
Visiting Hours of Pykara Falls:
Pykara Falls in Ooty, Tamil Nadu, welcomes visitors daily from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, with an entry fee of ₹30 per person.
How to reach Pykara Falls:
By Air: The nearest Airport is Coimbatore International Airport (approx. 88 kilometers from Ooty). From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use other local transportation to reach Ooty.
By Train: The nearest Railway Station is Udagamandalam (Ooty) Railway Station. Ooty is connected by a narrow-gauge railway line. However, the nearest major railway station is Mettupalayam Railway Station.From Mettupalayam, you can take the Nilgiri Mountain Railway (toy train) or a taxi to Ooty.
By Road:
Ooty is well-connected by road. You can reach Ooty by bus, car, or taxi from various nearby cities. Once in Ooty, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Pykara Falls.From Ooty, take the Ooty-Pykara-Gudalur Road.Follow the road signs leading to Pykara Falls.
Pykara Lake is a popular tourist destination in the state of Tamil Nadu, India. It is situated near the town of Ooty (Udhagamandalam), which is a well-known hill station in the Nilgiri Hills. Pykara Lake is part of the Pykara River and is surrounded by lush greenery and hills, making it a picturesque location.
Boat rides on Pykara Lake:
Boat rides on Pykara Lake are a popular activity for tourists visiting the region. Visitors can enjoy the serene and picturesque surroundings while taking a boat ride on the lake. There are different types of boats available for rides on Pykara Lake, including rowboats and motorboats.
The choice of boat may depend on your preference and the services provided at the lake. The boat ride offers stunning views of the lake, surrounded by hills, forests, and sometimes wildlife. It’s a peaceful and tranquil experience, allowing visitors to connect with nature.
The duration of boat rides may vary, and you can typically choose from different packages based on the duration of the ride. Some rides may be shorter, providing a quick tour of the lake, while others may be longer, allowing you to explore more of the surroundings. Some boat rides may be accompanied by a guide who provides information about the lake, its surroundings, and any interesting facts about the flora and fauna.
There is usually a fee associated with boat rides. The fee may vary depending on factors such as the type of boat, duration of the ride, and whether it’s a rowboat or a motorboat. The lake provides diverse boating options, including motorboats with varying capacities. Prices for motorboats start at ₹770 + Tax for an 8-seater boat (20 min) and go up to ₹1240 + Tax for a 15-seater boat (20 min). Additionally, a 2-seater speedboat ride is available for ₹800 + Tax (10 min).
Wildlife around Pykara Lake:
The Pykara Lake area, situated in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu, India, is known for its rich biodiversity and is home to various forms of wildlife.
The surrounding forests are known to be inhabited by wild elephants. Visitors may occasionally spot these majestic animals, especially in the early mornings or late evenings.
Different species of deer, such as sambar deer and spotted deer, are often found in the forests around Pykara. These graceful animals can sometimes be seen grazing in the open areas. The Indian bison, or gaur, is the largest species of wild cattle and can be found in the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, where Pykara is located.
The region is rich in birdlife, with various species of birds inhabiting the forests and the lake area. Birdwatchers may spot species such as the Nilgiri flycatcher, Malabar grey hornbill, and many others. Other smaller mammals, such as langurs, macaques, and various reptiles, may also be present in the surrounding forests.
Pine Forest in Pykara Lake:
The Pykara Lake area in the Nilgiri Hills is indeed surrounded by pine forests, adding to the scenic beauty of the region. The pine forests enhance the overall natural ambiance of Pykara, creating a picturesque landscape that visitors often find captivating.
Pine trees, with their tall and straight trunks, contribute to the serene atmosphere of the area. Walking through or around the pine forests can be a refreshing experience, especially with the scent of pine needles in the air. The combination of the lake, hills, and pine trees makes Pykara a popular destination for nature lovers and those seeking a tranquil escape.
Visiting Hours of Pykara Lake:
The lake welcomes visitors daily between 8:30 AM and 5:30 PM. Admission costs ₹10 per person, and a battery car ride from the lake entrance to Pykara Falls is available for ₹20 per person.
How to reach Pykara Lake:
By Air:
The Nearest Airport is Coimbatore International Airport (approx. 88 kilometers from Ooty)From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use other local transportation to reach Ooty.
By Train:
- Nearest Railway Station: Udagamandalam (Ooty) Railway Station.
- Ooty is connected by a narrow-gauge railway line. However, the nearest major railway station is Mettupalayam Railway Station.
- From Mettupalayam, you can take the Nilgiri Mountain Railway (toy train) or a taxi to Ooty.
By Road:
Ooty is well-connected by road. You can reach Ooty by bus, car, or taxi from various nearby cities.
- Once in Ooty, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Pykara Lake.
- From Ooty, take the Ooty-Pykara-Gudalur Road and Follow the road signs leading to Pykara Lake.
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
Looking for the best hotels in Ooty? Our guide highlights top-rated accommodations, including luxury resorts, family-friendly hotels, and budget-friendly options. Book your stay today!
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).
Kotagiri – The Hidden Gem of blue mountains
Kotagiri is a small hill station in Nilgiris, located about 29 kilometres east of Ooty and 19 kilometres northeast of Coonoor. The literal meaning of Kotagiri is “Mountain of Kotas”.
The region was first discovered by two civil servants of the Madras Government. John Sullivan, the then collector of Coimbatore was so impressed by this offbeat place that he built a home here.
Image Attribution : earnest.edison9
Major Tourist Attractions in Kotagiri
Longwood Shola Reserve Forest
Longwood Shola Reserve Forest is a beautiful place (3 kilometres from town) offering tourists a spectrum of Kotagiri’s quintessential woodlands. The evergreen shoal forest in the midst of tea plantations is a quiet and peaceful retreat to visit. The forest inhabits rare animals such as the flying fox and Indian bison.
Bikkapathi Reserve
Bikkapathi Reserve is about 10 kilometres from Kotagiri and is under the control of the Forest Range Officer of Kattabettu at kotagiri. It is a perfect place for trekking provided you get prior permission.
Kodanad View Point
At a distance of 18 kilometres east of Kotagiri and at an altitude of about 6500 feet, is the Kodanad View Point. Tourists get to see the beautiful mountains and valley below. A panoramic view of tea estates nearby and the Moyar River makes the hike uphill worthwhile.
Catherine Falls
Catherine Falls is about 8 kilometres from Kotagiri. Located near Aravenu on the Kotagiri-Mettupalayam Road, this double cascaded Falls waters from the Kallar River. A lovely view of the Dolphin’s nose of Connoor and woodlands and tea estates around could be seen from here.
Elk Falls Provincial Park
Elk Falls placed below the Uyilathi Village is around 7 kilometres from Kotagiri. From this picturesque landscape, one could see the Echoing Valley of kookal famous for oranges.
Doddabeta Range
Doddabeta Range is reputed as the second biggest peak of Nilgiris. You could trek or take a vehicle to reach the summit. The view from atop Doddabeta Range extends as far as Chamundi Hills and one could even spot Coimbatore and Mysore.
Rangaswamy Peak And Pillar
Rangaswamy peak and Pillar is known not just for its beauty but also for its religious beliefs. The peak has two temples – one of Lord Rangaswamy and the other of his consort. He treks to the peak is not as easy one but worth the effort owing to the beautiful sceneries on the way.
Things to do in Kotagiri
Kotagiri unlike Ooty, is a very secluded place where you can be at leisure and experience nature in all tranquility. Do make trekking and shopping for some real good tea a part of your vacation at Kotagiri.
Ideal time to visit Kotagiri
Kotagiri can be visited any time during the year as the temperature is always moderate.
How to reach Kotagiri
Kotagiri is well connected to all major places in Tamil Nadu by road. It is also connected to Ooty, Mettupalayam and Coonoor by regular buses. The nearest railway station is Coonoor. The nearest Airport is at Coimbatore (105 kilometres).
