Coonoor beckons with its captivating landscapes, colonial charm, and refreshing mountain air. Whether you seek breathtaking scenery, vibrant tea plantations, or quaint towns with a touch of history, Coonoor has something for everyone. Adventure exploration in Coonoor are Trekking Trails, boating bliss, Waterfalls wonders, Foodie delights, festival fiesta and Souvenir Safari.
It has an average elevation of 1,650 metres (5413 feet) above sea level is situated in the Nilgiri District which lies in the Southwest corner of Tamil Nadu in India, the little town of Coonoor can be described as the gateway to the much famed tourist destination, Ooty.
Colonial Echoes:
- Toy Train Adventure: Hop aboard the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a delightful toy train chugging through charming villages and breathtaking landscapes, offering a journey back in time.
- Heritage Stroll: Explore Coonoor town, dotted with colonial-era buildings, quaint cafes, and remnants of British history, whispering tales of a bygone era.
- Museum Exploration: Discover the rich history of the Nilgiris at the Nilgiri Documentation Centre, showcasing artifacts, photographs, and exhibits tracing the region’s past.
Best Time to Visit: October to February offers pleasant weather and stunning landscapes, while the monsoon season unveils lush greenery and cascading waterfalls.
Accommodation: Choose from charming cottages, cozy homestays, or luxurious hotels overlooking the hills, to suit your budget and preferences.
How to reach Coonoor
By Air:
- Nearest Airport: Coimbatore International Airport (CJB) is about 70 km from Coonoor.
- From Airport to Coonoor: Hire a taxi or cab from the airport. The journey takes about 2-3 hours and costs around Rs. 2,000-3,000. Alternatively, take a bus from Coimbatore to Mettupalayam and then board the toy train to Coonoor.
By Train:
- Nearest Station: Coimbatore Junction is the nearest major railway station, about 70 km away. Mettupalayam station, 46 km from Coonoor, connects the Nilgiri Mountain Railway with the mainline railways.
- To Coonoor: From Coimbatore, take a taxi or cab directly to Coonoor. Alternatively, travel to Mettupalayam and board the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a charming toy train offering a scenic journey through the hills.
By Road:
- Distance: Coonoor is well-connected by road from Bangalore (286 km), Chennai (545 km), and Coimbatore (70 km).
- Self-Drive: If you prefer exploring independently, renting a car can be a convenient option. However, be prepared for hilly roads and potential traffic during peak season.
Additional tip
Toy Train Experience: The Nilgiri Mountain Railway is a popular tourist attraction, so book tickets well in advance to avoid disappointment.
1.Sim’s Park
Sim’s Park in Coonoor is a delightful botanical garden and park, established in 1874 and a must-visit for anyone seeking a slice of tranquility and natural beauty in the Nilgiris.
Immerse yourself in a fragrant world of vibrant roses, exotic orchids, and countless other colorful blooms in the well-maintained gardens. The park boasts dedicated sections like a rose garden, a fern house, and a cascading rock garden, offering a diverse floral paradise.
Discover towering Eucalyptus trees, graceful palms, and ancient indigenous species as you stroll through the park. Learn about the local flora through information boards and appreciate the diverse ecosystem.
Location: Cantonment Area Road, Attadi, Coonoor 643101
Timing: From morning 09:00 am to evening 06:00 pm. Usually 2 hours would be great to spend some time in the park.
Price: Entry fee for adults is around 30 INR; For kids – 15 INR. Photography might cost about 50 INR while videography might cost about 100 INR.
How to reach
Sim’s park is located near the coonoor railway station and the distance can be covered through short walk. The Coonoor railway station is well-connected with Ooty and Mettupalayam. After taking a toy train ride to Coonoor, you can either hire a taxi or relaxing walk to reach Sim’s Park in the upper Coonoor.
Best time to visit
It is recommended to visit the place from October to February. During this time weather remains quite pleasant.
2.Laws Falls
Laws Falls, nestled amidst the verdant valleys of Coonoor in the Nilgiris, is a cascading waterfall offering a refreshing retreat and breathtaking views. While captivating throughout the year, Laws Falls truly comes alive during the monsoon season (June-September). The increased water flow makes for a more dramatic and powerful cascade. Capture stunning photographs of the falls, particularly during early mornings when the sunlight dances on the water, creating a breathtaking rainbow effect.
Location: Laws Falls Coonoor Address: Mettupalayam Road, 5 Km from Coonoor, Coonoor, Tamil Nadu, 643101, India
Timing: 6am to 6 pm. It take usually one to two hours to spend time in the falls.
Price: No entry fee to visit the falls.
How to reach
Laws Falls is 10 km away from Coonoor and 26 km away from Ooty. Coimbatore International airport is 100 km away from Coonoor. Hence you can travel through airplane to reach Coonoor.
Best time to visit
The laws falls looks stunning in the monsoon season and can be viewed from Dolphin’s nose.
3.Dolphin’s nose
In Dolphin’s Nose get ready for breathtaking panoramas and a touch of adventure nestled amidst the verdant embrace of the Nilgiris. Imagine gazing upon an endless expanse of rolling hills, lush valleys, and shimmering clouds from an altitude of almost 1800 meters. Dolphin’s Nose, aptly named for its rock formation resembling a dolphin’s snout, offers just that and more. Prepare to be awestruck by the sheer magnificence of nature.
Location: Dolphin’s Nose, Coonoor, Tamil Nadu, 643103, India
Timings : 09:00 am to 06:00 pm
Price: INR 15 per person
INR 20 for Still Camera
INR 50 for Video Camera
Best time to visit
The best time to visit the place would from march to may to enjoy the occasional rainfall whereas avoid visiting the place during winter from november to february since it would be too cold to visit the place.
How to reach
From Coonoor Bus Stand or Coonoor Railway Station, follow the road to Bedford Circle, then continue west to Dolphin’s Nose road to reach this spot. The 20-min drive through tea estates is as rewarding as the viewpoint itself. The distance from Ooty to Dolphin Nose is about 30 km via Ketti and Coonoor.
4.Droog Fort
Droog Fort is a historic fort located in Coonoor, Tamil Nadu, India. It was built in the 18th century by Tipu Sultan, the ruler of the Kingdom of Mysore. The fort is situated at an altitude of 1800 meters above sea level and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
- The fort was named after the Dutch word “droog,” which means “dry.” This is because the fort was built on a plateau that was free of vegetation.
- The fort was built using a combination of stone and brick. The walls were made of stone, while the gates and watchtowers were made of brick.
- The fort was once home to a garrison of soldiers. The soldiers were responsible for protecting the fort and the surrounding region from attack.
Location: 13 km from Coonoor Centre, Coonoor, Tamil Nadu, 643101, India
Timings : 06:00 am to 06:00 pm. It take an average of one hour to visit the place completely.
Price: There are no entry fees to climb up the Droog Fort.
Best time to visit
The months of October and March would be considered as the best time to visit the Droog Fort in Coonoor as the weather would pleasant making it ideal to enjoy your trip.
How to reach
Droog Fort is nearly 30 km away from the Queen of hill stations – Ooty, it can be easily accessed by a local train, bus or a cab.
5.Heritage Train
Embark on a trip back in time aboard this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Picture yourself in a quaint steam locomotive, chugging through verdant hillsides like a character from a vintage postcard.
Admire the ingenuity of this century-old railway, snaking through steep gradients and hairpin bends with precision. Witness the craftsmanship of bridges and tunnels that stand as testaments to time.
Hop off at charming stations like Hillgrove or Wellington to explore quaint towns, savor local delicacies, or stretch your legs on a brief nature walk.
Location: From Mettupalayam to Coonoor
Timing: Heritage Train is functional from early morning 07:00 am to 06:00 pm
Price: The journey price for the unreserved category is Rs.15 and it is Rs.30 for Second Class and Rs.205 for First Class.
How to reach
You can travel from Coonoor to Mettupalayam by rail, the distance covered would be 28 kms.
6.Rallia Dam
Rallia Dam is a beautiful dam located in the Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu, India. It is situated on the Coonoor-Mettupalayam road, approximately 9 kilometers from Coonoor town. The dam was built in 1938 and is one of the oldest dams in the Nilgiris.
The dam is a popular tourist destination and is a great place to enjoy the stunning scenery of the Nilgiris. The dam is surrounded by lush greenery and offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The dam is also a great place for birdwatching, as it is home to a variety of bird species.
Location: Kotagiri Road | Near Banthomai Village, Coonoor, India
Timing: Although there is no specific time limit to reach here, it is advisable to start the journey by 08:00 am and complete it around 02:00 pm. Visiting duration depends on your pace of trekking.
Price: There are no entry fees to reach this dam.
How to reach
By Train: Its Nearest Major Railway Station “Coimbatore Railway Station”. It is exact 81.2 KM far from Rallia Dam (Coonoor).
By Road: National Highway 181 connects Coonoor to other major cities of the India.
Best time to visit
During monsoon season, it is best to visit the dam to enjoy the sparkling water all over the area. Because in summer or winter there is no water in the dam.
7.Lamb’s Rock
Lamb’s Rock, nestled amidst the verdant embrace of the Nilgiris near Coonoor, promises a delightful blend of scenic vistas, tranquil charm,
Prepare to be mesmerized by panoramic vistas of rolling hills, emerald valleys, and shimmering lakes as far as the eye can see. Lamb’s Rock offers a breathtaking 360-degree view, making it a photographer’s haven and a nature lover’s paradise.
Location: Lamb’s Rock, Coonoor, Tamil Nadu, 643101, India
Timings: 08:30 to 06:30 pm
Price: INR 10 per person
INR 20 for Still Camera
INR 50 for Video Camera
How to reach
It is just 8 km away from Coonoor
By Air: Coimbatore International Airport is the nearest airport to reach Lamb’s Rock. After arriving in Coonoor, opt for either a bus or a cab to get to your destination.
By Train: Coonoor is 46 km away from Mettupalayam Railway Station and 75 km from Coimbatore Railway Station. From there you can hire a taxi to reach the destination.
By Bus: Last but not least, the government of Tamil Nadu operates various buses from Ooty to Coonoor and vice-versa.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Lamb’s Rock is during the warm summers i.e., in the month of March. because the place transforms itself into a marvellous viewpoint, with its scenic view.
8.All Saints Chruch
All Saints Church is a charming and historic landmark offering not only beautiful architecture but also a glimpse into the region’s colonial past. Prepare to be transported to a bygone era as you witness the church’s stunning Gothic Revival architecture. Imagine soaring stained-glass windows casting colorful hues on the interior, intricate stonework adorning the facade, and a majestic bell tower piercing the clear mountain sky.
Location: Church Road, Off Near Indcoserve Office, Coonoor-Kattabettu-Kotagiri Rd, Alwarpet, Coonoor, Tamil Nadu, 643101, India
Price: INR 0 (No Entry Fee)
Timings: 09:30 to 05:00 pm
How to reach
By Air: The nearest airport, Coimbatore International Airport, which is only 100 km away. After arriving at the Coimbatore terminal, you can hire a taxi to reach your destination or get to Mettupalayam to enjoy the Nilgiri toy train ride for Coonoor.
By Road: Another way to travel to Coonoor is by road. There are private and government owned buses that take you to the destination.
By Train: Approximately 45 km away is the Mettupalayam Railway Station and about 75 km away is the Coimbatore Railway Station that links the rest of India via a train service.
Best time to visit
Make sure to attend the Sunday mass at 9:30 AM if you’re planning to visit All Saints Church on the weekends.
9.Lady Canning’S Seat
Step back in time and learn about the fascinating history of Lady Canning’s Seat. Named after the wife of Viceroy Lord Canning, the spot was once a favorite picnic retreat for the British Raj elite. Imagine their horse-drawn carriages winding through the hills, stopping here to admire the panoramic vistas.
After soaking in the scenic views, explore the charming town of Coonoor. Wander through bustling markets, savor local delicacies like “katti paniyam” and “coonoor tea,” or visit Sim’s Park, a historical botanical garden.
Location: 9 Km from Coonoor, Ooty, Coonoor, Tamil Nadu, 643001, India
Timing: From morning 08:00 am to evening 06:00 pm. Ideally, you can complete your visit here within half an hour duration.
Price: There are no entry fees for your visit.
Best time to visit
If you wish to make the most of your Coonoor tour visit, plan your trip in the months of November to February.
How to reach
By Air:
From Coimbatore International Airport you can reach Coonoor then you can hire a cab or taxi.
By Train:
Coimbatore railway station, which is 73 km away, is the nearest railway station to Coonoor. For your convenience, Nilgiri toy train also runs from Mettupalayam and Ooty to Coonoor. After arriving to Coonoor, opt for local transportation to reach your destination.
By Road: Another way to travel to Coonoor is by road. There are private and government owned buses that take you to the destination.
10.Highfield Tea Factory
The Highfield Tea Factory in Coonoor is a popular tourist destination that offers a glimpse into the fascinating world of tea production, nestled amidst the enchanting Nilgiri Hills. Here’s what you can expect at the Highfield Tea Factory:
Aromatic Journey:
- Walk through the Tea Gardens: Stroll through the sprawling tea plantations, inhaling the invigorating aroma of fresh tea leaves and witnessing the lush greenery that paints the hillsides.
- Tea Processing Unveiled: Observe the various stages of tea processing, from plucking the leaves to fermentation, drying, and sorting, gaining an appreciation for the meticulous journey behind each cup.
- Tasting Delights: Indulge in a complimentary tea tasting session, savoring diverse flavors and discovering your new favorite brew. Purchase aromatic tea packets as souvenirs for yourself or loved ones.
Location: Coonoor-Kattabettu-Kotagiri Road, Attadi, Coonoor, Tamil Nadu 643231
Timing: Highfield Tea Factory is open from morning 09:00 am to evening 06:00 pm.
Price: You just need to pay a nominal sum of 10 INR as your entry fee to this Highfield Tea Factory.
Best time to visit
The months from October to March are generally considered as the best time to visit this site.
How to reach
By Air:
From Coimbatore International Airport you can reach Coonoor then you can hire a cab or taxi.
By Train:
Coimbatore railway station, which is 73 km away, is the nearest railway station to Coonoor. For your convenience, Nilgiri toy train also runs from Mettupalayam and Ooty to Coonoor. After arriving to Coonoor, opt for local transportation to reach your destination.
By Road: Another way to travel to Coonoor is by road. There are private and government owned buses that take you to the destination.
Remember, Coonoor is a destination ripe for exploration and discovery. So, pack your curiosity, your camera, and an adventurous spirit to uncover its unique features and create lasting memories in this enchanting hill station.
Have a wonderful and unforgettable Coonoor experience!