Top 5 Things to Do in Coonoor

The second-largest hill station in the Nilgiris - Coonoor is quietly tucked away in the Western Ghats. Just 21 kms away from the popular hill station Ooty, Coonoor is a nature’s paradise in Tamil Nadu. This serene hill station is frequented by tourists from all walks of life, as it houses delightful experiences for one and all. With its lush green valleys and velvety tea estates, this tranquil hill station will mesmerise you at first sight.

Here are the top 5 things you can do in Coonoor for a fabulous vacation.

1. Trek to the Hidden Valley

Longing for the adrenaline rush? Head to the lush green mountains of the Hidden Valley! Just 20 kms from the main city of Coonoor, this trekkers’ paradise offers breath-taking views to soak in. You could enjoy a picnic here with friends and family, and if you love capturing beautiful landscapes through your lens, you should definitely keep your camers handy.

Timings: 9 am to 9 pm

Trek difficulty level: Moderate

Altitude: Approximately 1850 metres

Best time to visit: August to November

2. Spend Some Time At The Highfield Tea Factory

coonoor-tea-garden

Your Coonoor trip would be incomplete if you don’t visit one of its famous tea estates. Mark your attendance at the Highfield Tea Factory and take a walk through the beautiful tea gardens. You can also get inside the factory and watch the making of the finest of teas in the world. Oh! and don’t forget to savour the freshly brewed cup of tea they serve to the tourists for free.

Timings: 9 am to 6 pm everyday

Entry fee: Rs. 10

3. Take A Joyride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway Toy Train

A toy train ride in the hills is always fun, no matter how old you are! With 3 coaches and a seating capacity of 254 people, the Nilgiri Mountain Railway toy train starts from Mettupalayam, a town near Coonoor, and goes all the way up to Ooty. The train passes through picturesque green valleys, dark tunnels and plush coffee plantations, and all the while the lovely weather is a plus! Don’t forget to take loads of photographs for your Insta-family to drool at!

#DidYouKnow: While moving uphill, the train travels at such a slow speed that you can actually get down and walk at its pace! Make sure you keep yourself safe.

Timings: 7:45 am to 4:30 pm

Cost of tickets: First Class: Rs. 1100 and Second Class: Rs. 800

Journey duration: 6 hours

4. Head to the Popular View Points

scenic-coonoor

If you want to bask in the authentic beauty of Coonoor, then the famous botanical garden – Sim’s Park is a must visit. With over 85 different species of roses, this park is perfect for a fun family picnic and a serene evening amid pleasant weather and fresh air.

Another place with awesome views in Coonoor is Lamb’s Rock. If you ask around, chances are almost everybody would suggest this viewpoint to you. Close to this, there is another hotspot called Dolphin’s Nose. Aquiring its name due to its shape, this viewpoint offers magnificent views of the Catherine Falls too. You can also take a dip into the soothing water of the Falls if you are willing to trek for a few kilometres.

5. Treat Your Taste Buds with Coonoor’s Specialities

After a long day of travelling, reserve your table at Coonoor’s famous restaurant – The Culinarium. Apart from the delectable food, you also get to enjoy breath-taking views of the landscape while you gorge on pot pies and the goulash from the Continental menu. For dessert, try the salted caramel ice cream and Crème brûlée.

Also, your trip would be incomplete without visiting the Indian Bakery here. Try the famous crusty, flaky biscuits called Varkey and don’t forget to take some back home!

The Culinarium address: 75, Bicketty, Tamil Nadu - 643202

Cost for two: Rs. 2000

Indian Bakery location: Disancherry Road, Near Bus Stand, Coonoor, Tamil Nadu - 643101

Cost for two: Under Rs. 500

Coonoor is the perfect destination for nature lovers. So, if you are one of them, plan a trip with your loved ones now!

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