Coonoor
Coonoor, a subdued hill station known for its tea estates is one of the most favored tourist destinations in South- India. The serene hill station encircles the lush green Nilgiri hills and is present in the Nilgiri district of Tamil Nadu. Coonoor is a place that offers a perfect getaway from the hustle-bustle of city life, and its natural beauty has made it one of the most sought-after tourist spots in the region. Here are some of the top tourist places in Coonoor that you should not miss when you visit this charming hill station.
Top 9 Tourist Places in Coonoor
Mentioned below are the top 9 tourist places in Coonoor:
#1 Sim’s Park
Sim’s Park is a botanical garden located in the heart of Coonoor. The establishment of the park happened in the early 1900s and has an extensive collection of plant species from all over the world. Sim’s Park is popular for its beautifully manicured lawns, vibrant flower beds, and unique topiary sculptures. The park also houses a small lake, which is home to several species of fish and ducks. The park is beautifully landscaped and features several trekking routes that take visitors via diverse sections of the garden. You can spot a variety of flowers and trees here, including rhododendrons, magnolias, and camellias.
#2 Dolphin’s Nose
Dolphin’s Nose is a popular viewpoint located at an altitude of 1,550 meters. The viewpoint offers an enchanting scenic panorama of the Nilgiri hills and the surrounding tea estates. The name of the viewpoint is after its shape, which resembles a dolphin’s nose. To reach Dolphin’s Nose, one has to trek for about 1 km from the parking area, but the effort is worth it for the breathtaking views it offers. The viewpoint also offers a bird’s eye view of the surrounding tea estates and forests.
#3 Catherine Falls
Catherine Falls is a ravishing waterfall located on the outskirts of Coonoor. The name of the falls is after Catherine, the wife of M.D. Cockburn, who was a coffee planter in the area. Catherine Falls is a double-cascaded waterfall that descends from a height of 250 feet. The falls surround by lush greenery and are a prevalent spot for picnics and photography. Visitors can trek to the top of the waterfall and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding hills and forests.
#4 Lambs Rock
Lambs Rock is another popular viewpoint in Coonoor, named after Captain Lamb, who was the first person to discover the place. The viewpoint offers a panoramic vista of the Coimbatore plains, the tea estates, and the hills. The place is a quintessential spot for nature aficionados and photography buffs. Visitors can also enjoy a refreshing cup of tea and snacks at nearby tea shops.
#5 Highfield Tea Factory
Coonoor is famous for its vast tea estates, and a visit to the Highfield Tea Factory is a must for tea lovers. The factory is one of the ancientest tea factories in the province launched in 1859. The factory offers a guided tour of the tea-making process, and visitors can learn about the different types of teas produced in the area. You can also taste and buy different varieties of tea at the factory store.
#6 Law’s Falls
Law’s Falls is another beautiful waterfall located near Coonoor. The anoint of the falls happens after Col. Law, who was the first European to visit the place. The falls cascade from a height of 180 feet and surrounds by lush green forests. The place is an ideal spot for a picnic, and visitors can also take a dip in the natural pool formed at the bottom of the falls.
#7 Ralliah Dam
Ralliah Dam is a scenic dam located near Coonoor that offers a great view of the surrounding hills and valleys. The construction of the dam happened in the early 1900s and is a major source of water for the nearby towns and villages. The dam surrounds by lush greenery and presents a hushed atmosphere to visitors.
#8 The Droog Fort
The Droog Fort is a historic fort located on the outskirts of Coonoor. Tipu Sultan built the fort in the late 18th century and utilized as a military outpost. The fort offers a panoramic view of the surrounding hills and is a perfect spot for trekking and camping. Visitors can explore the ruins of the fort and enjoy the panoramic views from the top.
#9 Wellington Gymkhana Club
The Wellington Gymkhana Club is a prestigious sports and social club located in the scenic hill station of Wellington, near Coonoor, Tamil Nadu. During the British Raj, the establishment of the club happened in 1892. Since then been a popular destination for sports enthusiasts and socialites. The club is present in the heart of Wellington and offers a serene and picturesque view of the Nilgiri hills. The club is familiar for its world-class sporting facilities which include a cricket ground, tennis courts, badminton courts, and a swimming pool.
