Coonoor is a hill station in Tamil Nadu that is known for its gorgeous tea estates. Surrounded by Nilgiri Hills, Coonoor is just 20 km from Ooty, a very popular resort town in the Western Ghats. While Ooty has been largely commercialised because of the influx of tourists, Coonoor has escaped the wave of modernisation and the hill station remains to be an attraction for nature lovers. A lot of travellers go to Coonoor from Ooty just to beat the crowd. The region was developed as a tourist hub during the British Raj and is among one of the most popular tourist attractions in the southern part of the country.
While a lot of travellers return from Ooty because of a shortage of time or other issues, there are hundreds of reasons to not stop at Ooty and explore the gorgeous hill station of Coonoor. Home to stunning landscapes, enchanting meadows and alluring tea estates, the beauty of Coonoor can’t be put into words.
How To Reach?
By Air: The Nearest airport to Coonoor is Coimbatore Airport, which has direct flights from all the major Indian cities, Singapore and Sharjah. You can either hire a cab or take a direct bus from Coimbatore to Coonoor.
By Train: Travelling to Coonoor by train can be a really original experience as the railway station here is an absolute work of art. It is a World Heritage Site.
By Road: While you can travel to Coonoor by any means of transportation, travelling by road has to be the most amazing experience. Driving in the Western Ghats and on the Nilgiri Hills has a unique charm to it.
Also Read, Nelliyampathy: An Serene Adventurous Trail
Where To Stay?
Coonoor is a luxury destination and you can easily find a lot of homestays, luxury hotels and resorts suiting your budget.
For backpackers and budget travellers, Coonoor also has some well-maintained hostels. The Birdhouse Backpackers Hostel is one of them.
Places To Explore
Sim’S Park:
Sim’s Park is one of the most popular spots in Coonoor. It is the botanical hub of the hill station that houses hundreds of trees. The colourful garden is a great place to enjoy the view of Nilgiri hills, click wonderful pictures and chill. You can sit in the park for hours while gazing at the marvellous creations of nature. The park is open between 9 am and 6 pm and can be explored in less than 2 hours. The entry fee for adults is Rs.30 whereas photography costs Rs. 50 extra.
Heritage Train:
Heritage Train is the highlight of Coonoor and a trip to the hill station is incomplete without enjoying a ride on this slow-motion toy train that passes through the mesmerising landscape while taking you on a memorable ride at the high altitudes. The heritage train was started for the transportation of tea and coffee in the 19th century. It remains functional between 7 am and 6 pm. The fare is Rs. 15 for the unreserved category, Rs. 30 for Second Class, and Rs 205 for first class.
Droog Fort:
A place of great historic significance, Droog Fort is another important place to visit in Coonoor. While what remains of the fort is the ruins, it is enough to attract the tourists with a sole wall and a watchtower. A great spot for history buffs. The fort is in the foothills of Nilgiri and is a perfect spot for trekkers. The fort remains open between 6 am and 6 pm and can be explored in less than an hour.
Law’S Fall:
The 180 ft falls is the next place that one must explore while in Coonoor. Located nearly 7 km from the major area of Coonoor, the cascading waterfall attracts a lot of nature lovers. Surrounded by huge rocks, the waterfall is a great place to chill and enjoy a refreshing bath. However, one needs to be careful while walking on the rocks surrounding the fall, as they could be slippery. The waterfall falls on the way to Mettupalayam and is open for tourists round the clock. A couple of hours is enough to explore the falls and the nearby area.
Lady Canning’S Seat:
A photographer’s paradise, Lady Canning’S Seat is a perfect place to click amazing pictures for your Instagram. Located nearly 9 km from the key spot in Coonoor, it is a great place for activities like photography, trekking, etc. The panoramic view of the gorgeous tea estates and the gigantic mountain ranges at the backdrop will leave you hypnotised. The entry is open for tourists between 8 am and 6 pm.
