Coonoor Hills Tamil Nadu

Coonoor is the second largest hill station in the Nilgiris, surrounded by tea plantations. It stands at an altitude of 1839 metres. It is essentially a small tea garden town where the weather is pleasantly cool through the year. It falls on the toy-train line between Mettupalayam (28 km) and Ooty. A popular pastime here is birdwatching as it is home to an extensive array of birds. The main attraction of course is Sim's Park, a small botanical garden that boasts of a wide variety of plants.

It offers panoramic views of the Niligiris, its hills and valleys lush with tea shrubs and eucalyptus trees. There is a quaint hill market which peddles leaf tea and essential oils. Although the height of summer is peak season, winter too is enjoyable in its own special way. Sports and honey moon travel.

Tourist attractions in Coonoor

The Pasteur Institute : The 96 years old, Pasteur Institute known for its path-breaking research work on rabies and polio, is situated just opposite Sim's Park. One has the permission to visit the institute only on Saturdays. However, on other days, one can visit the institute with the prior permission of the Director of the Institute.

Pomological Station : The Pomological station is a research center of the State Agricultural Department for persimmon, pomegranates and apricot. It is one of the three experimental fruit gardens in the Nilgiri Hills. The other two research centers are Burliar and Kallar.

Droog Fort : Droog fort is located about 15 km from Coonoor, once used by Tipu Sultan as an outpost. Also called Bakasura Malai, since it is linked to the local demon, Bakasura. But today only one wall of the fort has survived.

Lamb's Rock : Lamb's rock is situated about 8 km from Coonoor. It provides you an awesome view of Coimbatore plains.

Dolphin's Nose : It is a huge rock resembling with a dolphin's nose is about 10 km from Coonoor. On a clear day, you can glimpse Catherine Falls from atop the Dolphin nose. The famous Law's Fall is another popular picnic spot, situated at a distance of 7 km from Coonoor.

Sim's Park : It is a very important site to visit in Coonoor. It is a 12-hectare park, having a collection of over 1,000 plant species, including magnolia, pines, tree ferns, and camellia. The botanical garden developed partly in the Japanese style. The key attraction of the park is the annual fruit and vegetable show held in May.

Kotagiri : This place is about 21 kms from Coonoor.It is famous for Coffee plantations, Elk Falls, Rangaswamy Pillar and Peak, Kodanand view point. Other places important places near Coonoor are Lady Canning's seat, the Pomological Station and the Ralliah Dam.