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Into The Enchanted Hills With The 7 Best  Places To Visit In Kotagiri

Get lost in the mist with a journey through Kotagiri's ethereal landscapes.

Nestled amidst the misty peaks of the Nilgiris, Kotagiri emerges as a tranquil refuge for the nature lovers, tempting travelers with its amazing landscapes and prominent woodland areas. It is perched at an elevation of about 1,793 meters above sea level, this idyllic hill station and the places to visit in kotagiri gives an opportunity to stretch your imaginations and is a perfect getaway with its rolling tea estates and plummeting waterfalls.

Table of Contents

Top Places To Visit In Kotagiri

Kotagiri has earned the reputation as one of the most sought-after locations in South India. In this article, we’ve listed out majestic waterfalls and scenic viewpoints and may be diving into the rich hidden gems of Kotagiri.

1. Uyillati Waterfall

Nestled amidst the lush vegetation, Uyillati Waterfall is an interesting surprise. The water tumbles down the step fashioned boulders developing a calming and pristine visual, developing a relaxing ecosystem and offering a clean respite. The cool mist and the sound of the cascading water treat you to a natural spa day during your visit.

Timings: Open from sunrise to sunset

Entry Fees: None

Location: Uyillati Waterfall, Kotagiri, Tamil Nadu, India

2. Quin Waterfall

Quin Waterfall is a hidden gem tucked away in Tamil Nadu’s Nilgiris District’s Kotagiri Taluk. This spellbinding waterfall gives a lovely sight of the water gushing down, making its way through the crevices of boulders. A popular spot for day picnics, it is located about 7 kms from Kotagiri and just 5 kms from the Kotagiri bus stop making it one of the ideal and convenient places to visit in Kotagiri.

Location: Quin Waterfall, Kotagiri, Tamil Nadu, India

3. Black Thunder Theme Park

Black Thunder Theme Park is a thrilling excursion spot for adrenaline fanatics and a fun household. Located near Kotagiri, this expansive park gives a wide variety of adrenaline-pumping rides, water slides, and dry rides for those who don’t like water rides. From exhilarating roller coasters to lazy rivers, visitors can spend a very interesting day exploring the park. You can even stay at the Black Thunder Resort during your visit here.

Timings: 9:30 AM to 5:30 AM 

Entry Fees: Adult entry: Rs. 990/-

Child (85cms to 140cms): Rs. 840/-

College student: Rs. 850/-

School student: Rs. 700/-

Senior citizen/Defence: Rs. 790/-

Location: Jaganari Slopes R.F., Tamil Nadu 641305, India

4. Kodanad View Point

Kodanad View Point offers breathtaking panoramic views of the picturesque Nilgiri hills, it is reputed as one of the most scenic trails making it a must visit vacation spot for nature enthusiasts. Located on the Kotagiri – Kodanad Road, this is one of the best places to visit in kotagiri as this hike offers a beautiful vantage point of rolling hills, mist-covered valleys, tea gardens and rivers. 

Timings: Mon-Fri: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Sat- Sun: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Location: Kodanad View Point, Kotagiri – Kodanad Rd, Tamil Nadu, India

5. Catherine Falls

One among the Kotagiri tourist places, Catherine Falls, named after the spouse of the Mysore District Collector, G.D. Cockburn, is an impressive waterfall located near Kotagiri. Cascading from a peak of over 250 feet, this lovely waterfall offers an enchanting sight amidst the plush greenery of the Nilgiri hills. Visitors can absorb the panoramic perspectives of the falls from various viewpoints alongside the Kotagiri – Kodanad Road, if you are looking for places to visit in kotagiri that offers a perfect opportunity for hikers and birding enthusiasts to witness what they love in complete abundance then this 1.9 km trail is the choice to go with.

Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Location: Catherine Falls, Kotagiri – Kodanad Rd, Tamil Nadu, India

6. Longwood Shola

Longwood Shola is a pristine evergreen forest offering a tranquil retreat amidst untouched beauty. This dense shola woodland is home to a diverse range of plants and fauna, along with endemic species of vegetation and animals like the flying fox and bison. Travelers can spot dense trails, breathe in the clean mountain air, and immerse themselves in the serene ambiance. Longwood Shola is a haven for birdwatchers, nature fanatics, and photographers.

Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Entry Fees: 100 Rs. Per person

Location: Longwood Shola, Kotagiri – Kodanad Rd, Tamil Nadu, India

Book now: Private 2 Days 1 Night Kotagiri Birding Photo Travel

7. Kil-Kotagiri

Kil-Kotagiri is a quaint village located six miles northeast of Kotagiri, providing a serene break from the daily banters of crowds. This is the ideal places to visit in kotagiri if you are trying to discover the communal tea breaks where workers gather to enjoy a cup of tea which has waned due to the advent of automated processes. The tea estates throw light on the lost practices of withering, rolling, fermenting and drying the tea leaves. 

Entry Fees: Free

Location: Kil-Kotagiri, Tamil Nadu, India

How To Reach

By Train: Hop on a train to Coonoor, the nearest railway station. From there, it’s just a short drive or a scenic cab ride away. Alternatively, you can make a pit forestall at Coimbatore after which connect with Mettupalayam before heading to Coonoor.

By Road : Ooty to Kotagiri is 28 kms, whether you are winding through the Ghats or cruising from Coimbatore, the route to Coonoor is easy. From there, it is a mere 20-kilometer drive to reach your destination.

By Flight: For the ones flying in, Coimbatore International Airport (CJB) is your gateway to Kotagiri.

Best Time To Visit Kotagiri

For your Kotagiri journey, try to visit between the months of October and May. Though the weather in Kotagiri is almost always pleasant, during these months, Kotagiri transforms into a paradise. Picture-perfect vistas of rolling hills and plush tea estates, with clean skies and gentle breezes setting the scene for an unforgettable getaway. Also December to February the temperatures are pleasantly between 9 degrees celsius to 19 degree celsius which is also ideal for outdoor activities.

Final Thoughts

As you pack your bags and say goodbye to the misty peaks of Kotagiri and its breathtaking viewpoints. You will feel a closeness to the valley and will have a completely different perspective about the unique facet of Kotagiri’s beauty which will leave you spellbound at every turn. Whether it’s the adrenaline rush at Black Thunder Theme Park or the serene trails of Longwood Shola, there are way too many places to visit in kotagiri that will satisfy the wanderlust in you better than you would have imagined.

The top sightseeing locations in Kotagiri are Catherine Falls, Kodanad View Point, Black Thunder Theme Park, and Longwood Shola, providing a blend of natural beauty and leisure sports.

Commuting inside Kotagiri is easy with many options like taxis, rickshaws, and motorcycles that allow easy access to numerous sights and viewpoints scattered across the hill station.

To plan a journey to Kotagiri, do not forget to reserve resorts in advance, make sure to cover the top attractions and pack essentials like warm clothes and comfortable shoes for exploring the outdoors.

Kotagiri can be accessed through train via Coonoor Railway Station, by using road from Coimbatore or Coonoor, and by flight to Coimbatore International Airport, followed by a scenic drive or cab journey to the hill station.

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About Kotagiri

Kotagiri , a town in Tamil Nadu, is tucked away in the serene sapphire-blue Nilgiri mountains. This ravishing hill station, adorned with beauty and lush greens, is a great spot for all wanderlust-stricken souls. If an exciting trip to the mountains is your idea of a perfect weekend, make Kotagiri your next stop. Kotagiri not only has a plethora of places to visit, but it also has a plethora of thrilling trails that all trekkers can explore. A soul-satisfying vacation surrounded by tranquillity will rejuvenate your soul and make you fall in love with Kota-giri.

How to Reach Kotagiri

The airport in Coimbatore is the closest to Kotagiri. The airport in Coimbatore is 47 kilometres away and has good connections to several major cities in India. To get to this picturesque hill station, take a taxi outside the airport.

Although there is no railway station in Kota-giri, the nearest option is the Coonoor railway station, which is around 21 kilometres away. The other two best options are Mettupalayam or the Ooty railway station. Mettupalayam is approximately 33 kilometres away, and Ooty is approximately 29 kilometres away. Buses and taxis to Kotagiri are available all day from both locations.

Buses leave from a variety of locations, including Trichy, Coimbatore, Erode, Ooty, Tripur, and Mettupalayam.

Top 7 Best Places to Visit in Kotagiri

Catherine falls.

Catherine Falls is located in Kotagiri, near Ooty, and is surrounded by the lush greenery of the Nilgiris. The water of the Kallar River, which is cut off by the Mettupalayam-Ooty road beyond the mountains, falls in a double cascade from a height of 250 meters to form the Catherine Falls, the Nilgiris’ second-highest waterfall. This tourist attraction, located near Kotagiri, is frequently visited by people travelling the Ooty-Coonoor route.

Longwood Shola

Longwood Shola provides tourists with a wide range of Kotagiri’s wilderness in its prime. The area is densely forested and home to animals such as the flying fox and Indian bison.

Kodanad View Point

This is one of the most popular places to visit in Kotagiri for those seeking solace. Stay in one of the village cottages and enjoy all of the scenic delights that surround this alluring town in Tamil Nadu. Kodanad View Point is an excellent picnic spot and is ideal for all leisure travellers.

John Sullivan Memorial

In honour of John Sullivan, who passed away in 1855 A.D., the John Sullivan Memorial was built. One of the top attractions in Kotagiri is the John Sullivan Memorial, also known as the Pethakal Bungalow, and you should go there while you’re there. You can learn about all the hard work John Sullivan put into creating Ooty and the Nilgiri hills by visiting this memorial, which was erected in his home.

Rangaswamy Peak

All visitors have the opportunity to forget about city life and admire mother nature’s magnificent creations at Rangaswamy Peak. Due to the presence of two shrines and the large number of locals who frequent it, this majestic peak is a sacred site. 

Elk Falls, a sight of unbridled splendour, is located on the main route to Mettupalayam about 7 km from Kotagiri, close to Uyilathi Village. The area around the falls is just as captivating as the fall itself, with a nearby European house that exalts British architecture.

Sri Arulmigu Karumariamman Temple

Shakthi cultures from various eras can be seen in the temples. One of these places of worship is Arulmighu Karu Mariamman, located close to Donington in the Kotagiri taluk of the Nilgiri District. This temple is situated in a stunning natural setting along the Kotagiri-Mettupalayam State Highway.

The Amman (goddess) is tenacious and answers the prayers of all those who pray to her. There are buses that travel to Kotagiri from Mettupalayam,  Coonoor , Ooty, and other locations.

Kotagiri is a stunning town in Tamil Nadu, hidden away in the serene sapphire Nilgiri mountains. This stunning hill town, which is adorned with beauty and lush greenery, is a great destination for all wanderlust-stricken souls. If you like to spend your weekends on adventurous mountain activities, make Kotagiri your next vacation. In addition to a diverse range of attractions, Kotagiri is alive with intriguing paths for hikers of all ability levels to discover. Your weary soul will be soothed by a tranquil getaway in Kotagiri, and you’ll fall in love with it.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

In addition to its many tourist attractions, Kotagiri is renowned for its top-notch educational facilities. And the reasons why visitors favor Kotagiri over Ooty are all summarized in the aforementioned facts about Kotagiri. Near the road, one can see Nilgiri Langurs, Nilgiri Thar, monkeys, elephants, bison, and deer.

While Coonoor has the polished feel of a larger town without sacrificing the allure of being in the middle of nature, Kotagiri has the feel of a very small town.

Winter and the start of summer are the ideal times to visit Kotagiri. The best time to visit the location is from December to May. These months continue to have a pleasant climate, providing visitors with the best possible vacation.

In Karnataka, Sakleshpur is referred to as the “Poor Man’s Ooty.” It is a hill resort town and the administrative center of the Karnataka district of Hassan.

In addition, the captivating rivers, seductive tea estates, and lush green surroundings provide a soothing atmosphere.

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"Queen of the Nilgiri Hills"

Kotagiri tourism.

Snuggled in the Nilgiris District, Kotagiri is a gorgeous hill station frequented by tourists from different parts of the country. It is one of the oldest hill stations in the Nilgiris and rests at an altitude of 5882 feet. Once served as a site of coffee plantation, today the town is a tea plantation covering a huge area of 30,000 acres. Steeped in vast expanses of greenery and rolling hills, Kotagiri offers plenty of trekking and hiking opportunities for adventure lovers. 

Home to the famed Kota tribe, Kotagiri is commonly known as the ‘mountains of the Kotas’. It is packed with European style houses and has a history dating back to the British rule in India. The 8 kilometres long trek to the Catherine Falls is one of the many highlights of this hill station. With a jagged terrain backed by a peaceful setting, this region is also ideal for rock climbing. Kotagiri is wild and pristine and there is no better way to experience the destination without staying in a homestay.

Places To Visit In Kotagiri

Longwood Shola

Catherine Falls

Rangasamy Peak and Pillar

Kodanand View Point

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Places To Visit In Kotagiri

Kotagiri is a charming town in Tamil Nadu . It is tucked away in the peaceful, sapphire-blue Nilgiri mountains. There are many lovely places to visit in Kotagiri .

This beautiful hill town has a lot of greenery and is an excellent place for people who want to travel. You spend every weekend going on exciting mountain trips. 

Then Kotagiri should be your next stop. Not only does Kotagiri have a lot of places to see, but it also has a lot of exciting trails that walkers can discover. 

Your soul will feel better after a relaxing holiday in Kotagiri, making you fall in love with it.

1. Elk Falls

Elk Falls is a beautiful sight about 7 km from Kotagiri and close to Uyilathi Village. It is on the main road to Mettupalayam. 

The area around the falls is just as beautiful as the falls themselves. A European house near the falls is an excellent example of a British building. 

Going to the falls during the rainy season, you’ll see Kookal Valley in all its foreign glory and total beauty.

2. Longwood Shola

Longwood Shola is one of the best locations to go hiking in Kotagiri. It is right in the middle of the town. 

This place of interest is a forest area where you can see a lot of wildlife. At the Longwood Shola Forest Reserve, wildlife lovers can see Indian bison and flying foxes. 

Birds in danger of going extinct live in this forest area, and you’ll need your glasses for a better look. So prepare for an exciting hiking trip in the middle of lush greenery.

3. Catherine Falls 

Catherine Falls is one of the most beautiful tourist spots in Kotagiri. It is a wonderful place to visit. 

Catherine Falls is the second-highest fall in the Nilgiri hills. Every year, many people who love nature come to see it. 

It is a double-cascade waterfall that you should take a photo of. This 250-foot-high waterfall is called Geddhehaada Halla by the people who live near it. 

Catherine Waterfalls has a charm that makes everyone fall in love with it. It’s a great place to get away from the crowds.

4. Rangaswamy Peak

Rangaswamy Peak allows all tourists to forget about city life and look at the beautiful things that mother nature has made. This beautiful hill has two churches on it. 

So a lot of people go there to pray. Rangaswamy Peak is an excellent place for shooters because it has beautiful views and looks like it came straight out of a movie.

5. Kodanad View Point

The Kodanad View Point is a famous spot in the village of Kodanad. From this spot, you can see how beautiful the Nilgiri hills are. 

You can see the best things to do in Kotagiri. Then walk up to Kodanad View Point to see the whole hill town from above. 

This is one of the most popular places in Kotagiri for people who want to find peace. In this lovely town in Tamil Nadu, you can stay in one of the houses in the village and enjoy the beautiful scenery around it. 

Kodanad View Point is an excellent place for all vacationers and a great place to picnic.

6. John Sullivan Memorial

John Sullivan was an English worker who was born in the year 1788. He is why the Nilgiri Hills have grown and have tea gardens. 

John Sullivan died in 1855, and the John Sullivan Memorial was built to honor him. John Sullivan Memorial, also known as the Pethakal Bungalow. 

It is one of the best spots to see in Kotagiri, and you should go there on your trip. This memorial was built on John Sullivan’s house. 

You can learn how he used wood to create Ooty and Nilgiri hills.

Best Time To Visit Kotagiri

The summer is a great time to visit hill towns, and Kotagiri looks fantastic. However, suppose you want to avoid the summer heat. 

The best time to visit Kotagiri is in the summer. However, for tourists who like the feel of winter and want to enjoy the cold weather. 

The winter season is the ideal time to visit this beautiful hill station. 

Plan your trip to Kotagiri between December and May to make the most of a well-spent and happy holiday.

In conclusion, Kotagiri is a perfect getaway destination for those seeking tranquil surroundings and natural beauty. The town’s calm and beautiful scenery is ideal for escaping city life. 

From the Kodanad viewpoint to Catherine Falls, Elk Falls, and the Rangaswamy Peak, many places to visit in Kotagiri will leave you amazed. Also, remember to indulge in some of the local cuisines while on your trip here. 

So book your tickets today and embark on an unforgettable journey to this hidden gem of South India!

Nayana is passionate about discovering the most magnificent places to visit in India ! She also loves to uncover the most incredible sights and capture her experiences in her writing through  TouristPanda.com .

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Kotagiri tourist places

Kotagiri tourist places – Kotagiri is a beautiful hill station located in the Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu, India. Situated at an altitude of 1,793 meters above sea level, it is known for its pleasant weather, tea plantations, and stunning natural beauty.

Kotagiri is the oldest and smallest among the three major hill stations in the Nilgiris district, the others being Ooty and Coonoor .

The town was founded in the early 19th century by the British, who were attracted by its cool climate and fertile land. Today Kotagiri is famous for its toursit places.

They established tea and coffee plantations, which continue to be a major source of income for the local people.

The town’s name is derived from the Toda language, and it means “mountain of the Kotas,” referring to the indigenous Kota people who once lived in the area.

One of the main attractions of Kotagiri and its tourist places are its natural beauty. The town is surrounded by lush green forests, rolling hills, and waterfalls.

The most famous waterfall in the area is the Catherine Falls, which is located a few kilometers from the town. The falls are named after the wife of M.D. Cockburn, a British officer who discovered the falls in the early 19th century.

Kotagiri is also known for its trekking routes. There are several trekking routes in the area that take visitors through the lush green forests, tea plantations, and rolling hills.

One of the most popular treks is the Kotagiri-Kodanad trek, which takes visitors through the Kodanad tea estate and the Rangaswamy Peak and Pillar.

The trek offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

The town also has a rich cultural heritage. It is home to several ancient temples and churches that attract.

The Kotagiri Kannerimukku Temple is one of the most famous temples in the area. It is believed to be more than 300 years old and is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

The temple is located in a picturesque location and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Kotagiri is also known for its vibrant local markets. The town’s market is filled with fresh produce, handicrafts, and souvenirs.

Visitors can sample some of the local delicacies, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, and tea.

Here are the top 10 places to visit in Kotagiri :

• Catherine Falls – Located near Kotagiri, the Catherine Falls is a two-stage waterfall with a height of over 250 feet. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery, and the view is breathtaking.
• Rangaswamy Peak and Pillar – A popular trekking destination, the Rangaswamy Peak and Pillar offers spectacular views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
• Kodanad View Point – Kodanad View Point is one of the most popular viewpoints in Kotagiri, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and hills.
• Elk Falls – Located in a dense forest, the Elk Falls is a hidden gem and a great place to trek and enjoy the scenic beauty of Kotagiri.
• Longwood Shola – Longwood Shola is a beautiful forested area with a variety of flora and fauna. It is a great place to explore nature and indulge in birdwatching.
• John Sullivan Memoria l – The John Sullivan Memorial is dedicated to the founder of Kotagiri and provides a glimpse into the town’s history.
• Nehru Park – Nehru Park is a beautifully landscaped garden located in the heart of Kotagiri. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of the town.
• Tea Estates – Kotagiri is known for its tea plantations, and visiting one of the tea estates is a must-do activity. You can enjoy a guided tour and learn about the tea-making process.
• Kannerimukku Temple – Kannerimukku Temple is a famous Hindu temple in Kotagiri dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is located in a picturesque location and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
• Ooty – Although not located in Kotagiri, Ooty is a nearby hill station that is definitely worth a visit. It is known for its beautiful gardens, lakes, and tea plantations.

Table of Contents

Popular kotagiri tourist places

So below are my must visit list of Kotagiri Tourist places.

Catherine Falls

The seclusion of Catherine Falls in Kotagiri near Ooty from the cacophony of urban areas makes it famous.

The falls are nestled among the lush greens of the Nilgiris and are a pristine location to observe nature’s beauty.

The water of the Kallar River, cut off by the Mettupalayam-Ooty road beyond the mountains, falls in a double cascade from a height of 250 metres to create the Catherine Falls, the Nilgiris’ second highest waterfall.

This tourist hotspot near Kotagiri is frequently visited by people looking for a place away from the crowds in the Ooty-Coonoor area.

Catherine Falls is truly a place in the lap of nature for visitors to soak up the atmosphere, explorers to find all that nature has to offer, trekkers to take on the adventurous path, and photographers to catch some of the best scenery.

The emerald woods and tea plantations of the Nilgiris appear to be a freshness paradise and a haven for all the wilderness imaginable.

It is one of the best locations to visit in the entire district of Nilgiri and is ideal for tourists and the odd wanderer soul.

Rangaswamy Peak and Pillar

Rangaswamy Peak and Pillar is a popular tourist destination located in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu.

It is situated at an altitude of 1,785 meters above sea level and is surrounded by dense forests and rich wildlife.

The peak and pillar are named after the Hindu deity Lord Ranganatha, and are considered to be a sacred site by the locals.

The Rangaswamy Peak and Pillar is a popular destination for trekking and hiking enthusiasts.

The trek to the peak is challenging and requires a good level of fitness. The trail passes through dense forests and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

The trek to the peak usually takes around 3-4 hours.

At the top of the peak, there is a small temple dedicated to Lord Ranganatha.

The temple is surrounded by dense forests and offers a peaceful and serene environment.

Visitors can enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys from the top of the peak.

The Rangaswamy Pillar is a tall rock formation located near the peak. It is a popular spot for rock climbing and offers a challenging climb for experienced climbers.

The climb to the top of the pillar is not for the faint-hearted and requires a good level of fitness and experience.

So, Rangaswamy Peak and Pillar is a must-visit destination for those who love adventure and nature. The stunning views, challenging trek, and unique rock formation make it a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.

Kodanad View Point

Kodanad View Point is a popular tourist attraction located in the Nilgiri Hills. It is situated at an altitude of 6,800 feet above sea level and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

The viewpoint is located on the Kotagiri-Kodanad Road and is easily accessible by road.

The Kodanad View Point offers stunning panoramic views of the Nilgiri Hills, including the Moyar River, the Rangaswamy Peak, and the Bhavani Sagar Reservoir.

Visitors can also catch a glimpse of the wildlife that inhabits the region, including elephants, bison, and wild boars.

The viewpoint is surrounded by lush green forests, which are home to a variety of flora and fauna.

You can take a leisurely walk through the forest trails and enjoy the fresh air and serene environment.

Kodanad View Point is a popular spot for photography enthusiasts, who come to capture the stunning views of the sunrise and sunset.

The golden hues of the sun rays hitting the mountains and valleys offer a spectacular view that is not to be missed.

Kodanad View Point is a must-visit destination for those who love nature and adventure. The stunning views, serene environment, and diverse wildlife make it a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.

Longwood Shola

Longwood Shola is a beautiful forested area. It is a natural habitat for a diverse range of flora and fauna and is home to several endemic species of birds, mammals, and insects.

It has become one of must visit tourist places in Kotagiri.

The forested area is surrounded by tea estates and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

The Longwood Shola is a popular destination for nature lovers and birdwatchers, who come to observe the rich wildlife that inhabits the region.

The forested area is covered with tall trees and is home to a variety of animals like tigers, leopards, deer, and wild boars.

The Longwood Shola is also a popular destination for trekking and hiking enthusiasts, who come to explore the dense forests and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

The forested area is located at an altitude of 6,000 feet above sea level and offers a challenging climb for experienced trekkers.

Elk Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in Udhagamandalam, also known as Ooty. It is situated in the midst of lush green forests and offers a peaceful and serene environment.

The waterfall cascades down from a height of 80 feet and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Visitors can take a leisurely walk through the forest trails and enjoy the fresh air and serene environment.

Elk Falls is a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts who come to enjoy the stunning views and indulge in outdoor activities like trekking and hiking.

John Sullivan Memorial

The John Sullivan Memorial is a historical monument located in Kotagiri, Tamil Nadu, India.

The memorial is dedicated to John Sullivan, the founder of Ooty, who was the Collector of Coimbatore during the British rule in India.

He is known for his contribution to the development of the Nilgiri Hills, including the construction of the Ooty Lake.

The memorial was built in 1873, in memory of John Sullivan, who died in 1855. It is situated at a height of 2,500 meters above sea level, and offers a stunning view of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

The memorial is located on a hill, which can be reached by climbing a flight of stairs.

The memorial is a simple structure, made of stone, with a plaque commemorating John Sullivan’s life and achievements.

It is surrounded by a well-maintained garden, which is a popular spot for visitors to relax and enjoy the view.

The John Sullivan Memorial is an important historical landmark in Ooty, and is visited by tourists and locals alike.

It is a testament to John Sullivan’s contribution to the development of the Nilgiri Hills, and serves as a reminder of the region’s colonial past.

The memorial offers a unique opportunity to learn about the history of Ooty and its founder, and is a must-visit destination for those interested in Indian history and culture.

Nehru Park is about 3 kilometres from Kotagiri’s major town. It is a private area that offers a variety of recreational opportunities to visitors.

A temple of the Kota tribe, the initial inhabitants of Kotagiri, can be found within the park.

There is also a congregation centre and a park devoted to the memory of our nation’s father, Mahatma Gandhi.

There is also a public playground and an indoor game venue that was originally designed to function as a flood shelter.

The park’s primary function is to host a variety of cultural events and indoor game activities.

Every year, from March to June, a flower show is held inside the park, showcasing a wide variety of uncommon flowers that thrive only in the Nilgiris, particularly rare varieties of roses.

In recent years, a vegetable show has been held here, showcasing some of the best vegetable produce located in Kotagiri.

Kotagiri Tea estates

Kotagiri is famous for its tea estates.

The history of Kotagiri Tea Estates dates back to the 19th century when the British established tea plantations in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu.

The Kotagiri Tea Estates were established in 1885 by the Madras-based United Nilgiri Tea Estates Company.

The company established several tea estates in the region and began producing high-quality tea that was popular across the world.

The tea estates in Kotagiri were established on the slopes of the Nilgiri Hills, which provided the perfect climate and soil conditions for tea cultivation.

The tea plants grew in abundance and produced high-quality tea leaves that were processed and sold across the world.

Today, the Kotagiri Tea Estates are still operational and produce some of the finest tea in the world.

The tea estates are spread across hundreds of acres of land and are a major source of employment for the local population.

The tea produced in Kotagiri is known for its rich flavor and aroma and is exported to several countries around the world.

Ooty & Coonoor

Though Ooty and Coonoor are not with in Kotagiri as tourist places. These are places which are not very far from Kotagiri either.

Both these places are known for their picturesque scenery, pleasant climate, and rich flora and fauna.

These hill stations are popular tourist destinations and attract visitors from all over India and abroad.

Ooty, also known as Udhagamandalam, is located at an altitude of 2240 meters above sea level. It is a perfect retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

The town is surrounded by lush green hills and tea gardens, which offer a breathtaking view.

The famous Doddabetta Peak, which is the highest peak in the Nilgiri Hills, is located in Ooty.

The Ooty Lake, Botanical Gardens, and Rose Garden are some of the major attractions of the town.

The Toy Train, also known as Nilgiri Mountain Railway, is another popular attraction that takes tourists on a scenic ride through the hills.

Coonoor, located at an altitude of 1850 meters above sea level, is a quieter and more peaceful town compared to Ooty.

The town is surrounded by tea plantations and offers a serene and tranquil environment to its visitors.

The Sim’s Park, Lamb’s Rock, and Dolphin’s Nose are some of the popular tourist attractions in Coonoor. The town is also famous for its tea estates, where visitors can enjoy a cup of freshly brewed tea while enjoying the view of the hills.

Both Ooty and Coonoor offer a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The pleasant climate, scenic beauty, and rich flora and fauna make these hill stations a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

places to visit in coonoor – Top 10 Coonoor tourist places

So freinds, Kotagiri is a beautiful hill station that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure.

Its lush green forests, rolling hills, and waterfalls are a nature lover’s paradise, while its trekking routes and adventure activities are perfect for thrill-seekers.

The town’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant local markets make it an ideal destination for those who want to experience the local way of life.

If you are looking for a peaceful and rejuvenating vacation, then Kotagiri should definitely be on your list of places to visit.

Also remember that you can club your trip to Kotagiri with a trip to Ooty and Coonoor.

I hope you liked out list of must visit Kotagiri tourist places. Have you visited Kotagiri. Do share your feedback!

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• TamilNadu Tourist Places
• Places to Visit in Ooty

Kotagiri, Ooty - Best Season to Visit, Things to Do

India | TamilNadu | Ooty

#15 of 47 places to visit in ooty, distance (from ooty): 29 kms, visited from: ooty, trip duration (including travel): half day to full day, place location: on mettupalayam road, transportation options: bus / cab, website: na, phone no: na, place address: na, travel tips: catherine falls (8 kms) can be visited along with kotagiri.

At a distance of 20 km from Coonoor, 29 km from Ooty, and 72 km from Coimbatore, Kotagiri is a small hill station in the Nilgiris district of Tamilnadu. It is one of the lesser-known hill stations in tamilnadu , and among the top tourist places to visit near Ooty . Situated at an altitude of 1793 m, Kotagiri is the oldest and the third largest hill station in the Nilgiris after Ooty, and Coonoor. The name Kotagiri literally means mountains of the Kotas that refers to the Kota tribe who lived here in the past. It is one of the top attractions you must include in Ooty tour . Kotagiri was the first British settlement in the Nilgiris and preferred summer retreat, till a road was built from Mettupalayam to Coonoor. The region was discovered by two civil servants of the Madras government in pursuit of outlaws. They called the region Kotacherry. John Sullivan, the then collector of Coimbatore, visited Kotagiri and was so drawn to the place that he built a home here making him the first European to reside in Kotagiri. Kotagiri is famous for its breathtaking scenic beauty. The first coffee plantation was planted here in 1843 which was followed by many more plantations. However, the first tea plantation in the late 19th century by the daughter of MD Cockburn, tea slowly started taking over coffee until it completely spanned the city. Today, the tea plantations in Kotagiri cover a total area of 30,000 acres. Surrounded by tea estates and beautiful green landscapes, Kotagiri offers plenty of opportunities for trekking and rock climbing. The trekking trails in this region go through picturesque tea-estates and lush greenery, meadows, and rivers. The most popular trekking trails in Kotagiri are towards Kodanad (15 km), Catherine Falls (7.5 km), and Longwood Shola (3 km). Some of the tourist attractions in Kotagiri are Kodanad Viewpoint, Catherine Falls, Elk Falls (7 km), and Rangaswami Peak and Pillar. Kodanad Point offers spectacular views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Kotagiri has plenty of accommodation options in form of resorts, villas, and lodges from economical to mid-range and highly luxurious hotels. Lazy Hills, La mansion, Moon Shadow Cottage, Bel Air Cottage are some of the many options. Kotagiri is well connected by bus with Mettupalayam, Coimbatore, Trichy, Tirupur, and Erode. Coonoor (20 km) is the nearest narrow-gauge railhead and Mettupalayam (33 km) is the nearest major railway station. The best time to visit Kotagiri is from December to May.

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Tourist Places to Visit in Kotagiri

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Top things to do in Kotagiri – A complete guide

With rolling hills and misty slopes, Kotagiri gives you the feel of a mini-Europe right here in your homeland. This little hill station greets you with lush greenery and the best views. Book a Savaari taxi from Madurai to make the most out of your trip to Kotagiri. With an annual vegetable show and lanes lined with shrubs and misty trees, it’s like a charming little town right out of a fairy tale.

Table of Contents

Places to visit in kotagiri.

• Places to visit nearby

Places to eat

• How to reach
• Best time to visit
• Interesting Facts
• Hotels and Resorts

Things to do in Kotagiri

When in Kotagiri, you can never run out of things to do or places to see.

• Bask in the glory of nature.
• Take a walk amidst the greenery.
• Explore shops that showcase the artisanship of tribal craftsmen.
• Taste the Nilgiri Tea (One of the best in the world).
• Indulge in some homemade chocolate from local stores.

• Kodanad View Point : A beautiful viewpoint where the majestic mountains and the magical mist meet.
• Catherine Falls : A high waterfall that can be accessed after a short but interesting hike amongst green shrubbery and delightful trails.
• John Sullivan Memorial : An ode to the collector, John Sullivan, this museum curates his best memories.
• Elk Falls : A trekker’s dream, Elk Falls is a hidden gem enveloped by nature.
• Longwood Shola : A breathtaking view of dense and evergreen forests covering a spectrum of Kotagiris wilderness.

Nearby places to visit in Kotagiri

• Doddabetta : The highest peak in the South, Doddabetta is the best place for sightseeing and basking in the glory of nature.
• Emerald Lake : Straight out of a storybook, this lake features crystal-clear water with the right hints of greenery.
• Dolphins Nose & Lambs Rock : Viewpoints on the edge of twin hill overlooking an endless urban landscape.
• The Toy Train : Featured in the likes of cult songs like Chaiya Chaiya, this toy train offers a joyous ride between Ooty & Coonoor.
• Botanical Garden : A garden rich in history and home to some of the oldest and rarest species of plants and trees.
• Chocolate Museum : If you are a lover of exotic chocolates and somehow can’t get enough of them, the Chocolate Museum at Ooty is a great place to be.

• Tandoor Hut – A small eatery with the best rolls and momos in town
• Green Nest Garden Restaurant – A scenic sit-out with sumptuous delicacies
• Cafe Diem – A rustic cafe with the best Pizzas in town
• Orange Pekoe – Dine with a view of the mountains

How to plan a trip to Kotagiri?

Congratulations on choosing one of the most beautiful hill stations for your next trip. You can choose to reach by rail, road, or air.

How to reach Kotagiri ?

By Train – The nearest railway station is Coonoor. You can reach Coimbatore and then connect to Mettupalayam and then Coonoor or you can easily rent a car or local cab to reach Kotagiri faster.

By Road – Kotagiri is easily accessible by road. Start from your city and reach Coonoor through the Ghats or Coimbatore. From Coonoor, Kotagiri is at a meagre distance of 20 km.

By Flight – The nearest airport is Coimbatore International Airport (CJB). From Coimbatore, you can rent a car or local cab to reach the picturesque town of Kotagiri.

Best time to visit Kotagiri

The prime period to plan your visit to Kotagiri is from December through February, which marks the peak of the winter season. During these months, the days are characterized by a cool and pleasant climate, with temperatures typically ranging from 9 degrees Celsius to 19 degrees Celsius.

Nestled in the picturesque hills of The Nilgiris, lies the quaint town of Kotagiri. The misty little town is a hidden gem, not as commercialized despite being the third largest hill station in the district. It is a melting pot of beautiful scenery and things to do, making for a unique travel experience and a cosy retreat in the lap of nature.

Kotagiri is located in Tamil Nadu, at a convenient distance of 33 KM from the well-known hill station, Ooty, and 68 KM from Coimbatore, the nearest metro with access to rail and air travel. The road conditions on the highways circling the city are great making the city accessible to different tourist destinations by road. Reserving a local cab in Kotagiri and going for a weekend trip is easy and the best way to explore the wonderful places in and around this hill station.

Kotagiri exhibits pleasant weather all year long, with the summers averaging a temperature between 18°C and 30°C and the winters showcasing a temperature around 12°C, with a drop as low as 0°C. The weather is almost always dreamy with clouds, mild sunshine, and a gentle breeze that soothes the soul.

The quaint little town of Kotagiri is rich in history dating back to the early 1800s when two English officers from the Madras government took a trip within the mountains and found a beautiful place with excellent climatic conditions. It had the potential to be a summer escape. Not too long ago, Ooty was discovered by John Sullivan, the collector of Coimbatore.

On witnessing the pleasant climate and the heavenly view that Kotagiri held, Sullivan built himself a home in the mountains. He went on to encourage the locals to cultivate vegetables and also empowered the economic development of the town.

Kotagiri is rich in culture and home to some of the oldest tribes in India – the Todas, Badugas, Irulas, Kotas, and Kurumbas.

Kotagiri enjoys a hilly landscape at 5,882 ft above sea level. The hilly slopes are similar to the dreamy slopes of England, covered with a blanket of clouds. Green carpets of tea plantations run as far as the eyes can see, and the panoramic views of nature are almost unending.

Interesting facts

• Kotagiri translates to “Mountain of the Kotas”, a popular tribe.
• It has a climate identical to that of Europe.
• During the winter, temperatures can drop as low as 0°C
• It hosts an annual Vegetable show in the summer

Hotels & Resorts

Kotagiri has some of the most beautiful cottages, resorts, homestays, and resorts. Some of the best places to stay here are:

Tamil Nadu is filled with breathtaking hills and you can access all these places like Kotagiri from Chennai very easily. Access  Savaari’s curated list of such places near Chennai .

Last Updated on May 24, 2024 by Shabari Shankar

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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).

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Home » Lifestyle » Travel » Kotagiri Tourist Places: That Every Traveler Should Explore

Kotagiri Tourist Places: That Every Traveler Should Explore

Kotagiri is a town in Tamil Nadu hidden away amid the tranquil sapphire Nilgiri highlands. This stunning hill town, adorned with beauty and lush greenery, is a perfect destination for wanderlust-stricken people. In addition to having a wide variety of attractions, Kotagiri is also brimming with intriguing treks for hikers of all skill levels.

Table of Contents

How to reach Kotagiri?

By air: The nearest Airport is Coimbatore Airport, roughly 100 km from Kotagiri. A taxi can be hired from the airport to reach Kotagiri.

By train: The nearest railway station is at Coimbatore, roughly 21 km from Kotagiri.

By road: Kotagiri is well connected by road to all of the state’s major cities.

Top 6 Kotagiri tourist places you will love

Make Kotagiri your next destination if you like spending weekends on exciting mountain adventures. Here is a list of six Kotagiri tourist places you must visit.

Longwood Shola

One of the top Kotagiri attractions for all trekkers is Longwood Shola, tucked away in the city’s centre. A forest reserve that is part of this attraction allows visitors to see the diverse flora and wildlife. Indian bison and flying foxes can be seen at the Longwood Shola Forest Reserve. 

To get a closer look at the numerous endangered bird species that call this forest reserve home, you must have your binoculars on hand. Prepare yourself for a fascinating trekking adventure while you are surrounded by nature.

Entry fees: Free

Catherine Falls

Catherine Falls, one of the most stunning tourist spots in Kotagiri, is a lovely place. It is the second-highest fall in Nilgiri Hill and draws a sizable number of outdoor enthusiasts each year. It is a waterfall with two cascades that are well worth photographing with your polaroids. Catherine Waterfalls’ allure enchants all visitors, and it is a great place to escape crowded areas.

Timings : 6 AM to 6 PM

Source: Pinterest

Rangaswamy Peak

At Rangaswamy Peak, visitors can forget about city life and marvel at mother nature’s amazing creations. Due to the presence of two shrines and many residents that frequent it, this gorgeous summit is a sacred site. Rangaswamy Peak will be an excellent location for all photographers because it offers breathtaking views and landscapes straight out of a movie.

Kodanad View Point

The Kodanad View Point is one of Kotagiri’s most well-known attractions. You may admire the magnificent Nilgiri hills from here. Get a bird’s-eye perspective of the entire hill station by hiking up to the Kodanad View Point in Kotagiri. 

This location is one of the most popular destinations in Kotagiri for those seeking solace. Stay in a rustic cottage and enjoy the scenic wonders surrounding this Tamil Nadu town. Kodanad View Point is an ideal location for leisure travellers. It is about 16 km from the main town.

John Sullivan Memorial

The John Sullivan Memorial was built in honour of John Sullivan, who passed away in 1855 A.D. He was responsible for the development and tea plantations in the Nilgiri Hills. You may learn about all the hard work John Sullivan put into creating Ooty and the Nilgiri hills by visiting this memorial, which was erected in his home.

Timings : 10 AM- 5 PM

Entry fees: Rs 100 

Elk Falls, a site of unbridled magnificence, is located on the major route to Mettupalayam, about seven km from Kotagiri, close to Uyilathi Village. The area around the falls is just as captivating as the fall itself, with a nearby European mansion that exalts British design. You will have the thrill of seeing Kookal Valley in all its unique glory and full bloom if you visit the falls during the monsoon season.

Entry fees : Free

What are Kotagiri's top tourist destinations?

Some of the top attractions in Kotagiri that visitors of all ages can enjoy are Longwood Shola, Catherine Falls, Rangaswamy Peak, Kodanad View Point, John Sullivan Memorial, etc.

What is the renown of Kotagiri?

Kotagiri is a fantastic choice for adventurers due to its magnificent trekking trails. In addition, the sparkling rivers, seductive tea estates, and lush green environs provide a calming effect.

What time of year is ideal for visiting Kotagiri?

The best time to visit Kotagiri is between December and May, during winter and the start of summer. The weather is still beautiful around this time, which makes sightseeing much more worthwhile.

Which resorts in Kotagiri are the best?

Some of the top resorts in Kotagiri are Green Nest Resort, Nahar Retreat And Spa, and Farview Mountain Resort Villas.

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Travel | Food | Lifestyle

Ooty, Coonoor, Kotagiri itinerary for 5 days

Ooty or Udagamandalam (2240 metres) is a popular hill station in Nilgiri district in Tamil Nadu state of India. Around 20 kilometres south-east of Ooty is Coonoor(1850 metres). Kotagiri(1950 metres) is to the east of Ooty and to the north-east of Coonoor. Essentially, these three places form a triangle. You can visit this area completely while stationing yourself in Ooty, however, this itinerary will cover night stays at all these hill-stations.

The Nilgiri district is named after the Nilgiri mountain range that exists here. Most of these places are parts of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Nilgiris used to be a densely forested region inhabited by various tribes. The forest was razed and the tribal lifestyle was uprooted with the arrival of John Sullivan in 1819. He was the British collector posted in Coimbatore.

Sullivan established a very British way of life here. The forests were destroyed leading to the loss of indigenous flora and fauna. Tea, a foreign crop, was introduced in the region to satisfy the unsatiable British thirst of the beverage. The British way of life is still very much perceivable in the region—it is reflected in the old stone house with chimneys and the omnipresence of bakeries. The displaced tribes—Todas, Kotas, Irulas, Badagas, Kurumbas and many more still exist in small pockets, but they have integrated themselves with modern India.

Even during summer, the Nilgiris exhibit pleasant temperatures. The Nilgiri Mountain Railways (popularly known as the Toy Train) is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a very popular tourist trail and thronged by domestic vacationers who want to get some respite from the summer heat of tropical India.

Is this itinerary right for you?

This itinerary is right for you if you are looking for a relaxed pace of travel. It is focused on nature and food.

Is Ooty, Coonoor and Kotagiri safe?

Yes, it is largely safe to travel in Ooty, Coonoor and Kotagiri if you do not pick a fight and maintain general safety measures. Here, wildlife, particularly elephants, bison, leopards, and sloth-bears, roam in the tea thickets. They are also sometimes found on the open road particularly at dawn, dusk, and night. Be mindful of this when driving or walking at odd hours.

Bison rarely attack unless they are disturbed. Tread calmly and cautiously if an elephant is in your way. Leopards shy away from a group of people but if you are alone be careful of your surroundings. Sloth bears, the most dangerous of them all, attack when they are surprised. So, it is best to make noise and talk with your fellow travel partners when walking on lonely stretches to avert unpleasant surprises!

Sometimes, the region faces water crises, so some hotels may not provide 24×7 hot water supply. Small plastic water bottles are banned in the region (thank God), however, every hotel and restaurant provide either filtered water or boiled water for drinking purpose.

Mindless construction and haphazard ‘development’ nowadays cause frequent landslides in the Nilgiris during monsoon. Even though the distances between the towns are small, the roads sometimes get cut off. Keep this in mind when travelling during monsoon. Planning for buffer days is the best safety net if travelling during monsoon.

Day 1: Arrival in Coimbatore. Coimbatore to Coonoor transfer. Sightseeing at Coonoor.

• Reach Coimbatore, have breakfast, then set off for Coonoor.
• Check-in at your accommodation, freshen up, have lunch, and then go for Coonoor sightseeing.
• Sim’s Park, Dolphin Nose(a view point), Lamb’s Rock(a view point), Tea factory are some of the places to visit in Coonoor. Some tea factories also let you taste chocolate tea. The whole road is hemmed by tea terraces and forests. The tea stretches are lush green and forested patches are deep and dark. Wild animals often roam on these forested areas. Ask your driver to stop at nice vista points. There is a bit of a walk at Lamb’s Rock. Reach back to Coonoor before sunset.
• Have dinner and retire for the day.
• Our Experience — There are many tea factories in Coonoor; we had visited the Benchmark Tea Factory. After the tea factory tour they also offered us 5 types of teas—green tea, white tea, masala tea, black tea and lemon tea. We had also visited a ‘strawberry farm’ and ‘eucalyptus oil producing unit’ but both were just gimmicks to draw in customers and sell them products from their respective shops. No-one will explain what is happening so it is just whatever you draw from the visuals.

Day 2: Leave Coonoor for Kotagiri. Sightseeing in Kotagiri.

• Have breakfast in Coonoor and set off for Kotagiri.
• Check-in at your accommodation, have lunch and then go for Kotagiri sightseeing.
• The first point should be Kodanad view point. The road to Kodanad View Point is dotted with forests where wildlife is very active. The tea gardens here are a class apart and probably the best maintained tea gardens in the Nilgiris. They used to be owned by the late J. Jayalalitha, the much-adored former chief minister of Tamil Nadu.
• The next viewpoint should be Catherine waterfalls. It can be reached by walking through a tea garden. The waterfall is at right angle to the view point and is quite far.
• Longwood Shola is a small patch of forest, remnants of the original Shola forest that had once thrived in the Nilgiris (before it was destroyed by the British). The forest is extremely dense, dark, and very thrilling. You should ideally go here only with a guide. This is ground zero of wild animals.
• Return to Kotagiri, have dinner, sleep tight.
• Our experience – Our vehicle driver was a local here, he stopped at a very scenic Toda village sprawled on velvety grassland and showed us a Toda Dairy Temple. Kodanad viewpoint barely had any tourists and hence we loved it. Catherine waterfall was wafer-thin but we had visited in mid-April, a dry season, so this was expected. At Longwood Shola forest, I was so terrified of being attacked by wild animals that I returned just after walking 200 metres. While getting out our driver, who was with us, showed us footsteps of sloth-bears in the tea terraces.

Day 3: Perched in a tea estate of Kotagiri, relax, and do nothing.

• Book a nice accommodation in a refurbished British bungalow within a tea estate in Kotagiri, just sit back and relax. Laze in a hammock, read a book, enjoy the sounds of nature. Draw in endless vistas of tea gardens and if you are lucky, you may even see a bison munching on tea leaves. This is largely what we did.

Day 4: Kotagiri to Ooty transfer. Walk around the hill-station of Ooty.

• Go for a nature walk in a tea garden with a naturalist in the morning. Return, freshen-up, have breakfast and then leave for Ooty.
• Check-in and have lunch at Ooty.
• Go for a stroll at the beautiful campus of YWCA Ooty. Check out Shalom, a non-profit that sells G.I tagged Toda embroidery in the form of shawls, sarees, bags, cushion covers, coasters and even keychains!
• While in YWCA, also check out the chocolate museum.
• Go to the main market for shopping and buy some home-made chocolates and Ooty Varkey(a flaky biscuit that just got a GI tag). Have dinner and retire for the day.
• Our Experience – Unfortunately on this day early morning, I got bitten by a leech in the tea garden. The rest of the day I tried to do as less activity as possible. We visited Shalom but skipped the chocolate museum.

Day 5: Ooty sightseeing.

• Have breakfast and set off for Ooty local sightseeing. The first point is Dodabetta Peak (2637 metres), it is the highest point of Tamil Nadu and is extremely crowded. Coonoor, Kodanad and many other places are visible from this point. There is also an observatory here with a telescope.
• The Ooty Botanical Gardens is the next stop. It is an extremely beautiful garden with labelled trees. From grass slopes, shrubs, to tall pine forests, the Ooty Botanical Gardens is a joy to plant lovers. Beyond the topmost gates of the Botanical Gardens there is a Toda Village with a Toda Dairy Temple. If you plan to climb to it then exploring the Botanical Gardens would take around 1.5 hours.
• Have lunch and leave for the tea and chocolate factories. There are many tea and chocolate factories situated side by side in Ooty. The tea factories give a guided tour of the factory. You see the machineries used, processes involved, and a little bit of tea-history. It always ends with tea tasting. The chocolate factories are mostly just a couple of machines whizzing in a small room and a shop.
• Next, head to the Ooty Lake or Boat House. The lake is situated in front of a forested hill. Row boats and paddle boats ply when there is no rain. There is also a shopping complex and food plaza here. Bang opposite the entrance of the lake is a Thread Museum, it is a repository of flowers made by threads.
• Next visit the Ooty Rose Garden, which covers a large expanse of a hill-slope and houses thousands of varieties of roses. May is the best time to see them bloom.
• Have dinner and retreat for the day.
• Our Experience – The highlight of this trip for me was visiting the Toda Dairy Temple and the village. The grassy meadows and the view of Ooty from the village is spellbinding to say the least. We visited the Dodabetta Tea Factory and Tea Museum and their chocolate factory outlet. The latter was hardly anything more than a shop. During our visit to Ooty Lake it was pouring heavily so boating was off the table. Unlike Coonoor and Kotagiri, most of the tourist places in Ooty were very crowded.

Day 6: Ooty to Coimbatore transfer via Nilgiri Mountain Railway, also known as the ‘Toy Train’.

• Have breakfast and board the Nilgiri Mountain Railway from Ooty railway station. One train per day runs between Ooty and Mettupalayam for which Coonoor is a pit stop situated in the middle of this route. Other trains run till Coonoor only. You can get down at Coonoor and hire a cab/auto from Coonoor to Coimbatore. The Coonoor bus stand is walking distance from Coonoor railway station so you can also get on a bus. However, the buses originate from Ooty so keep in mind you may not get a seat. Sometimes shuttles ply on this route as well. They give comfort, an ensured seat, and are very easy on the pockets.

Alternatively, you can get down at Mettupalayam railway station and go to Coimbatore by bus/car/auto.

• Check-in at your hotel, freshen up and have lunch at Coimbatore. Rest for the afternoon.
• In the evening, put a jasmine flower garland in your hair and go visit the nearby temples. The architecture of the stone temples in Tamil Nadu are very different from those in Northern, Eastern, or even Western India. Observe the devotees performing rituals.
• Have dinner and retire for the day
• Our Experience – We deboarded the train at Coonoor. Luckily, we got a shuttle car (a Tempo Traveller van) at INR 100 per head from Coonoor bus stand to Coimbatore. The sudden temperature change was too much to handle for our bodies hence we just rested in the afternoon. Since we rarely get the opportunity to visit south India, we used our super short stay in Coimbatore to sample food— Venu Dindigul Biryani, Madurai Jigarthanda and Ghee Roast (a dosai that is served like a conical hat) from the nearest Sree Annapurna Shree Gowrishankar branch.

Day 7: Catch a morning flight/train to home.

How to book the Nilgiri Mountain Railways or the Ooty Toy Train

Tickets of this train are available on the IRCTC portal. Tickets open four months in advance. On IRCTC, the tiny train has two kinds of coaches—Second Sitting and First Class. There is not much difference between the two except that First Class seats are the front coaches of the train (towards the direction of the train). The First Class seats are arranged such that 5 people will sit in every row facing each other.

The tickets are also available offline. They need to be booked on the same day of travel. Travel should commence within 3 hours of the purchase of the offline tickets. They cost less in the offline counters.

Our experience – We planned our trip last minute. So by the time we decided we are surely going on this trip, these tickets were exhausted online. After reaching Ooty we asked a local if he can get us the tickets to which he agreed. His task was to wake up early and stand in the queue and get the tickets for us. He asked for INR 100 per ticket for the service and we felt it is fair. We would have preferred the Second Sitting but said it is okay to get us First Class if Second Sitting is unavailable. He got us First Class.

You can ask your hotel or transport person to arrange tickets if you are planning on getting tickets offline. They can arrange tickets at an added price for their service.

Accommodation

We discover accommodations using Booking.com. We select the ones that fit our budget, ‘check-in’ timings, and has good reviews. Then we cross-check the reviews on Google. Finally we do the bookings and as a rule of thumb we always call up the properties to ascertain if they have received our bookings and if all is good. Only then we pay the advance. This has protected us from ugly surprises.

For example, once we had used a hotel aggregator platform to book an accommodation in Havelock Island. Later, on calling the accommodation, we discovered that the aggregator has listed the hotel on their platform against the hotel’s wish. So bookings coming from the concerned platform are not respected by the hotel. The hotel asked us to cancel the booking from the platform and pay them directly. This worked fine for us.

Property name – H.S Cottages (INR 2340 per night a room, double occupancy, booked through Booking.com)

This property is a 90-year-old refurbished British cottage with chimneys. It is in Upper Coonoor. It overlooks the city and provides a fantastic vista. Sunsets are spectacular from here. The cottage has a lawn and is decked with flowers.

There are 3 rooms in the cottage. One is a giant room that can fit in a big family, this room has a view. Our room was probably the smallest with no view. There is one more room that may or may not have a view. The washrooms are large, very clean, with 24×7 hot water supply. Our room was furnished with a giant bed, a single bed, side table, centre table, dressing table, wardrobe, and a chair.

There is a living room at the centre of the house with sofa, TV and dining table. Two caretakers look after guests and cook for them. The owner is very friendly and hangs around the premises during day time. The cottage basically feels just like home and during our stay we ended up chatting with the guests in the other rooms as well. Everyone sat in the lawn, balcony, and there was Cookie, the very playful kitten who made us guests bond with each other!

The owner can speak Hindi but the caretakers speak only Tamil, though they understand English. The food was homely but spicy.

Kotagiri Day 1

Property name – apple breeze resort(inr 2000 per night a room, double occupancy, booked through booking.com)..

This hotel is newly constructed and overlooks tea terraces and a church. The room was huge and clean with a windowed balcony and 24×7 hot water supply. The room was furnished with a giant bed, two side tables, a centre table, two chairs, TV and a wardrobe. There is a restaurant downstairs. The owner/manager is friendly and can speak Hindi. The person at the reception can only speak Tamil. Everyone at the restaurant were speaking Hindi. The restaurant was strange in that they are supposed to serve South Indian food but they just had puri-bhaji for breakfast but no South Indian fare during our visit.

Kotagiri Day 2

Property name – teanest nightingale by nature (inr 3968 per night a room, double occupancy, breakfast included, booked through booking.com).

This is a 140-year-old refurbished British bungalow right in the middle of a tea slope. The bungalow has a lawn, a beautiful garden, and a porch. Inside, there are four rooms and a dining area. Each room has an attached modern balcony and a giant, luxurious washroom. Our room did not have a proper view though.

The room was furnished with a large bed, a wardrobe, side tables, dressing area, chest of drawers and TV with Netflix subscription! However, I felt there was very less natural light.

The resort runs a complimentary guided nature walk on the tea slopes in the morning for guests. It is 1.5 kilometres stretch downhill and then uphill walk. Here guests are made aware of the history of tea in the Nilgiris, how tea is farmed and the current challenges that the tea industry and workers are facing. The food at the resort was extremely good.

Property name – AI Woodlands (INR 1800 per night for standard, double occupancy, booked by directly contacting the hotel)

This hotel is a stone’s throw away from the Ooty Rose Garden. It faces the town and at night the twinkling city lights make for a very nice view. Our room did not have a city view though. The room was small but very clean and well lit. It was furnished with a bed, two side tables, a coat hanger, loft, mirror, stool and two chairs. The washroom was also clean, had a soap and shampoo dispenser, and 24×7 hot water.

There is no restaurant here but there is a restaurant just opposite to AI Woodland hotel where we used to go for breakfast and dinner.

Property name – Hotel Aiba Regency (INR 1800 per night, double occupancy, breakfast included, booked through Booking.com)

This hotel is barely 2 minutes walking distance from the railway station, our primary reason for booking it. The room was big and air conditioned with a giant bed, side tables, a centre table, chairs, wardrobe, TV and a dressing table. The washroom was clean.

The breakfast of idli, uttapam, upma, sambhar, coconut chutney and coffee were good.

Homemade chocolates, various types of Nilgiri tea and a crispy flaky biscuit called Varkey are the typical food items that you should not miss in Coonoor, Kotagiri and Ooty belt. Baked goodies and cakes are the go-to snack here and there are bakeries at every corner. The starting price for a box of assorted homemade chocolates could hover from INR 100 – INR 250. Cost of 250 grams of Varkey was around INR 50in Kotagiri. A pack of 500 grams of Benchmark Chocolate tea cost us INR 250.

Nilgiris has traditionally been a place for honey hunters. If you have sources in the Nilgiris who can point you to the purest honey and if you have a conveyance of your own, please buy some. We were travelling by trains and buses hence we did not risk buying (and spilling) honey.

Apart from this, you will get typical South Indian breakfast fare in all these places. North Indian food is also available for lunch and dinner in all these places but it is very widely available in Ooty.

We are not from South India but we love South Indian breakfast. Dosai is probably the one item that almost everyone loves irrespective of where they are from. We have lived in Kolkata and Bombay and we often eat (store bought) dosai as lunch or dinner. However, after visiting Nilgiris, we realized dosai is strictly a breakfast item here.

State bus services are good at connecting the cities of Coimbatore – Coonoor – Kotagiri – Ooty. Since we are two fit and fine backpackers, we made all city transfers via state buses. Since most of the sightseeing were just half-day long, we did most of the intra-city sightseeing by hiring random autos from street corners. Just in Ooty we booked a car through the hotel as we wanted a bit more comfort on that day.

• Coonoor half-day sightseeing by auto – INR 800 (around 22 kilometres)
• Kotagiri half day sightseeing by auto – INR 1500 (around 47 kilometres)
• Ooty sightseeing by car – INR 1500 (non AC)

Tamil is the mother tongue in the state of Tamil Nadu, however, most of the people in this circuit understand English and most can speak at least broken English. Ooty being the most touristy place in the circuit, here many shopkeepers, hotel and restaurant staff can even speak Hindi. In Coonoor, English was the go-to language for us. In Kotagiri, very few people can speak and understand English. However, navigating the language barrier was fun. We took help of Google translate and sometimes used sign language.

Please be respectful of the local language and do not impose your language (ahem, Hindi) expectations on them.

Climate / Time of travel

You can travel to Ooty, Coonoor and Kotagiri all round the year. The weather is very pleasant in the spring months of March-May. It is also the time when maximum flowers bloom. The evening/night time temperature in Ooty and Kotagiri can get chilly in the winter months. Monsoon unleashes a different kind of beauty in the region with cloudy, dramatic skies and frequent spells of rain. However, monsoon is also the time when landslides occur cutting off road connectivity between towns/villages/cities here. If you are travelling in the monsoon, it is good to have buffer days and avoid risky roads. Also, I imagine the experience of walking in the tea terraces would be out-of-bounds during monsoon.

Happy responsible travel!

Have you been to Ooty, Kotagiri and Coonoor? Did I miss anything? Comment below to add to the knowledge and start a conversation!

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Tania Banerjee

Tania is a freelance writer based in India who tinkers with words here and there but mostly focused on travel, food, arts and crafts. She writes for several Indian dailies and magazines.

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• Places to visit in Kotagiri

Mettupalayam

Quaint town with scenic beauty

Mettupalayam, located in the Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu, is a town known for its scenic beauty and is often referred to as the Gateway to the Nilgiris. It is situated at the foot of the Nilgiri hills and is known for its tea plantations and trekking routes.

Suggested Duration - 1-3 Days

What To Expect?

The town is also famous for its toy train ride, which takes tourists through the Nilgiri hills and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.

• The best time to explore Mettupalayam is between the months of December and March.
• Carry extra cash with you in order to deal with emergencies.

Exploring a destination...

The joy of travel comes in exploring new things. Planting your feet somewhere you’ve never been before brings with it the rush of discovery and the joy of pushing back on the boundaries of your world.

But when one does arrive at that fresh frontier, there are ways better than others to begin your journey of discovery. Follow these steps and see the world with a new light.

• Discover a new city through a food tour. Food tour’s are the easiest way to take a tour, learn about the local delicacies, and the best of all, get great tips that aren’t just “local” tips for tourists, but sometimes, lessons for a lifetime too

• Use Public Transportation. When you are in a new city, you can possibly see places and people that you wouldn’t normally see when simply walking to the places that checks your list. Some buses or rails take you to parts of the city you wouldn’t get to see otherwise. Whilst using public transportation, just ensure that you are following the local norms and do remember to watch the locals!

• Find a local festival. Go beyond what other tourists might do while visiting a place. Look for the unique things you would want to do. Use social media or the local tourism website to find out what’s going on locally. You may have to move out of the center of the city to do some of the less popular but more unique things, so just keep that in mind!

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions about Mettupalayam

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Kotagiri Trip Planner

Top attractions in kotagiri.

Explore nearby places

• Mettupalayam
• Ooty (Udhagamandalam)
• Bandipur National Park
• Booluvampatti
• Chamarajanagar
• Chamrajnagar
• Seerapalayam
• Gobichettipalayam
• Karuvarakundu
• Vaduvanchal
• Sultan Bathery
• Kolagapaara

All related maps of Kotagiri

• Map of Kotagiri
• Map of Coonoor
• Map of Mettupalayam
• Map of Ooty (Udhagamandalam)
• Map of Masinagudi
• Map of Bannari
• Map of Mudumalai
• Map of Gudalur
• Map of Bandipur
• Map of Bandipur National Park
• Map of Coimbatore
• Map of Booluvampatti
• Map of Chamarajanagar
• Map of Chamrajnagar
• Map of Seerapalayam
• Map of Gobichettipalayam
• Map of Mannarkkad
• Map of Tiruppur
• Map of Karuvarakundu
• Map of Nilambur
• Map of Vaduvanchal
• Map of Sultan Bathery
• Map of Yelandur
• Map of Wandoor
• Map of Palakkad
• Map of Kidanganad
• Map of Kolagapaara
• Map of Vellinezhi
• Map of Nanjangud
• Map of Meenangadi
• Map of Meppadi

Kotagiri throughout the year

• Kotagiri in January
• Kotagiri in February
• Kotagiri in March
• Kotagiri in April
• Kotagiri in May
• Kotagiri in June
• Kotagiri in July
• Kotagiri in August
• Kotagiri in September
• Kotagiri in October
• Kotagiri in November
• Kotagiri in December

Weather in Kotagiri

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Kotagiri -Reason why many travellers prefer Kotagiri to Ooty

If you’ve ever wondered where Kotagiri is, what places to see there, where to stay, or why so many people nowadays prefer Kotagiri to Ooty, I’m happy to share my experience by answering your questions.

Among the Panchayat towns in The Nilgiris District, Kotagiri (Kothagiri) is best known for its cool weather which is extremely quiet and much more attractive than Ooty. Kotagiri is located at a distance of 29 Km from Ooty , 20 Km from Coonoor , and 33 Km from Mettupalayam and is one of the three major hill stations located in the Nilgiris.

Kotagiri gets its name from the Kota Tribes and refers to the “Mountain of Kotas.” It is surrounded by tea plantations, with a few houses and resorts in between, and is also surrounded by mountains, making it a perfect place for the Kota Tribes to live for centuries.

Kotagiri had a larger number of visitors until the road that connects Mettupalayam and Coonoor was built. Before the construction of this road, people had to cross Kotagiri to reach Ooty, which attracted many travelers to discover the towns’ beauty. One outstanding feature that you will notice is the excellent condition of the roads, which do not have damage and holes. While walking down the town streets, you can see the British colonial influence in the houses, schools, and churches.

The unpolluted, clean, fresh air, cool climate, and scenic green landscapes of Eucalyptus trees add to the beauty of the location. Kotagiri is well-known not only for its tourist attractions but also for its outstanding educational institutions. And all the above facts of Kotagiri stand as the reason why travelers prefer Kotagiri to Ooty.

Nearby estate view

One can spot Nilgiri Langurs, Nilgiri Thar, Monkeys, Elephants, Bisons, and Deers near the road. Mettupalayam viewpoint is located on the way to Kotagiri and gives a stunning view of Mettupalayam at night. Apart from sightseeing the tea plantations, waterfalls, mountain valleys, and enjoying the cool weather, many outdoor activities are available, such as trekking, camping, rock climbing, and waterfalls, making the place ideal for a vacation or weekend trip. If you want to trek, you must make reservations with an adventure firm.

A week before the new year, my friends and I planned a small get-together trip to Kotagiri. We started the ride from Mettupalayam around 9.30 a.m. and arrived in Kotagiri between 11.30 a.m. and 12 p.m. since we stopped and took pictures in between. We did not plan any trek adventure activities because our trip was just two days duration.

View of a town opposite to Kotagiri Bus Stand.

Wondering how to reach Kotagiri?

By Road: The best way to reach Kotagiri is by road, as the area is well served by buses from major towns and cities like Bengaluru, Chennai, and Coimbatore, and many others. You can get to Coimbatore bus station from cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and Kerala. There are two better ways of getting to Kotagiri from Coimbatore: take a direct Kotagiri bus from Coimbatore North bus stand or take a bus to Mettupalayam and then a Kotagiri bus from there.

By Flight: The Coimbatore International Airport, which is located at SITRA, is the nearest airport. The airport is well connected to major airports all across the country as well as several airports outside of the country. The airport is 69 km away from Kotagiri, and there are so many buses, cabs, and rental vehicles available to get you to Kotagiri.

By Train: The nearest railway station is Mettupalayam which is located at a distance of 33 km. You can take the local passenger train from Coimbatore Junction, which is well connected to major cities across the state and to many cities outside of the state. Mettupalayam Railway station is the starting point for Nilgiri Mountain train services.

If you have traveled from Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, or the northern part of India, you can travel to Bangalore/Mysore Airport instead of traveling to Coimbatore for your return journey.

We preferred to travel by car since we decided to save some expenses on our fuel than traveling by two-wheelers and we also realized by doing this we’ll be having a chance for endless chats. In the hills, traffic is unpredictable, and though we didn’t have much traffic on our way to Kotagiri, we got delayed by three hours while returning to our places due to traffic.

Nearby Village – Kotagiri

Where to Stay in Kotagiri?

Kotagiri has many numbers of holiday resorts, villas, houses, lodges, cottages, and hotels. You can look up any resort’s price ranges, availability of rooms, and facilities on Google. My suggestion is to book in advance after checking the reviews of the place.

Food Facility:

The majority of resorts, hotels, and villas have their own kitchens. Few owners of the place make their own food and supply once we decide on the dishes. Tea and coffee will also be available in the mornings and evenings.

Best time to visit Kotagiri.

The peak season lasts from March to October when the weather is mild and pleasant in comparison to urban climates.

What are a few things to consider during your visit and stay?

• If you’re stopping the car in the middle of nowhere to take pictures, be careful of monkeys. They can take the food and other eatables if you leave the vehicle door open.
• Carry extra woolen jackets/sweaters.
• If you feel like you’re going to throw up while traveling in the hills, take some anti-vomiting tablets or lemon with you.
• Make reservations for the resorts or villas where you will be staying in advance. Check the additional service charges they charge during the booking process, because few resorts offer a separate food package, and you will not be able to bring outside food into your room.
• Avoid walking through the tea estate area at night because Bisons, Elephants, and other wild animals may be roaming around.
• It is advisable to carry moisturizing creams on hand.

Resort front view – Kotagiri

The following are the top sightseeing places to visit in Kotagiri:

Kodanad View Point

• Rangaswamy Peak and Pillar
• Catherine Falls
• John Sullivan Memorial
• Longwood Shola Reserve Forest

Kodanad View Point – Kotagiri

We booked our rooms a week in advance since we were concerned that we wouldn’t be able to find affordable villas during peak tourist season. We booked a resort with four rooms, and the owner offered meals based on our choices, with the cost of food being a separate charge. The resort was located in a quiet area in a local village. We went to Kodanad View Point and walked around a few local streets before returning to the resort around 7 p.m.

We went for a walk through the tea estate the next morning before heading to Ooty. Due to the Covid lockdown, other tourist attractions in Kotagiri were restricted, so we chose to visit nearby town areas and drive to Ooty.

Doddabetta, Pine Forest, Shooting spot, Pykara Lake, Botanical garden are the main tourist attractions to visit when traveling from Kotagiri to Ooty.

Happy Exploring!!

Do share your experience in the comments.

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