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Explore ExperiencesNestled amidst the plush Nilgiri hills of Tamil Nadu, Coonoor hill station emerges as a picturesque paradise, enchanting traffic with its breathtaking landscapes and tranquil environment. Situated at an elevation of approximately 1,850 meters above sea level, this old-fashioned hill station boasts of mist-covered valleys, rolling tea estates, and cascading waterfalls that paint a reassuring portrait of natural beauty. Its salubrious climate, verdant surroundings and the many things to do in Coonoor is what warms the hearts of travelers from far away.
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Things To Do In Coonoor
Coonoor is one of the top tourist destinations within 300 km of Bangalore. From leisure strolls amidst tea gardens to adrenaline-pumping adventures, we have a long list of things to do that promise to leave a long-lasting impact on each person who decides to visit.
1. Go Hiking In Lamb’s Rock
Going on a thrilling hike to Lamb’s Rock has got to be the best things to do in Coonoor, you will get to witness panoramic perspectives of the Coimbatore plains and the Catherine Falls in the distance. Popular for its unique dolphin’s nose form, the path winds through lush forests and meandering streams and is the perfect day if you are seeking solitude.
Location: Lamb’s Rock Road
Timings: Open from dawn to sunset
Entry Fees: None
2. Take A Cycling Tour Through The Tea Estates
One of the highlights of Coonoor is the expanse of tea estates and the best way to experience this is by cycling through the rolling tea estates which offers a complete immersive package where you get to witness the bounty of South Indian tropics. Exploring winding paths coated with tea timber and basking in the exquisite aromas of the fresh blooms of the tea estate as you bike through the delicate trails will have you advicing your friends that this is one of the best things to do in Coonoor.
Location: Various tea estates around Coonoor
Timings: Open during the day
Entry Fees: Varies based on the tour operator
3. Visit The Sim’s Park For Botanical Exploration
If you are lover of all things flowery then the flora at Sim’s Park will leave you feeling satisfied, a sprawling botanical garden that houses various collections of exclusive plant life and timber, this park is perfect to appreciate the well managed colorful blooms, Indian butterflies, cicadas and various reptiles. It is also among the top 6 things to see in Coonoor.
Location: Sims Park Road
Timings: Open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry Fees: INR 30 per person
4. Go Bird Watching At Law’s Falls
While people say tigers inhabit the forests around the falls, Law’s Falls is where you need to go to appreciate the avian wonders of Coonoor, this is where you can spot quite a few species if you have a keen eye for details. The place is beautifully positioned with the backdrop of cascading waterfalls and is a gateway to the wildlife of Western Ghats making sure your Coonoor sightseeing is a fulfilling experience.
Location: Mettupalayam Road
Timings: Open from sunrise to sunset
Entry Fees: None
5. Indulge In Tea Tasting At Highfield Tea Factory
Coonoor is renowned for the intense expanse of tea estates, Immersing yourself in the rich aroma and flavors of Nilgiri tea at the Highfield Tea Factory has to be one of the things to do here. Learn about the tea-making process from leaf to cup, and sample an array of superb blends in conjunction with chocolate tasting sessions that capture the essence of the region.
Location: Coonoor-Kattabettu-Kotagiri Road, Attadi
Timings: Open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry Fees: INR 10 per person
6. Explore The Hidden Gems Of Droog Fort
Take some time to discover the historical ruins of Droog Fort, perched atop a scenic hilltop overlooking the plains of Coonoor, it used to be an outpost of Tipu Sultan. Trek through dense forests and rugged terrain to reach this hidden gem that is perched at 2,000 ft above sea level.
Location: Near Coonoor-Kotagiri Road
Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry Fees: None
7. Enjoy A Picnic At Lady Canning’s Seat
Basking in the serenity of Lady Canning’s Seat has to be one among the top things to do in Coonoor, a charming vantage point that offers sweeping perspectives of the lush valleys and distant hills. Pack a picnic basket along with some snacks and spend a leisure day surrounded by nature and a panoramic view of the surrounding vistas.
Location: Lady Canning’s Seat Road
Timings: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry Fees: None
8. Experience The Toy Train Ride To Ooty
Take part in the nostalgic adventure aboard the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, fondly known as the “Toy Train,” as it chugs from Coonoor to the hill station of Ooty, making it is way through slim passages, tea plantations, misty valleys, rustic wooden homes and quaint villages along the way,
Location: Coonoor Railway Station
Timings: First train: 7:10 AM to 11:55 AM
Entry Fees: INR 290 per person for first class
INR 80 per person for second class
INR 15 for Unreserved category
9. Discover Indigenous Crafts At The Handloom Emporium
While in Coonoor, getting to know the art and handicraft culture that is very alive here has to be on your list of things to do in Coonoor. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural background of Coonoor by visiting the Handloom Emporium or The Craft Connexion, where you can browse through a big selection of conventional handicrafts and textiles. Witness professional artisans at work, weaving intricate patterns and designs that replicate the essence of Tamil Nadu’s inventive legacy.
Location: Bedford, Coonoor
Timings: Open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Entry Fees: None
10. Unwind With A Yoga Session Amidst Nature At Ayurveda Retreat Center
Rejuvenate your thoughts, body, and soul with a tranquil yoga consultation amidst the serene surroundings of Coonoor. Find your inner peace as you exercise yoga asanas amidst lush greenery, accompanied by the gentle rustle of leaves and the soothing sounds of nature.
Location: 286,Sanitorium Kambisholai, Road, Tamil Nadu 643231
Timings: open 24 hours
Entry Fees: Fees vary based totally at the yoga middle and length of the session
11. Go On A Butterfly Watching Expedition
Immerse yourself in the magical world of butterflies at the Butterfly Conservation Center in Coonoor. Witness a kaleidoscope of colors as you stroll through lush gardens beaming with local butterfly species, and study their captivating life cycle and behavior. You can witness a number of the peculiar species of butterflies here, making it one of the most surreal things to do in Coonoor.
Location: Kotagiri Road
Timings: Open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry Fees: INR 20 per person
Book Now: Day Trip To Coonoor (Guided Sightseeing Tour by Car from Ooty)
12. Go Horseback Riding
Explore the scenic splendor of Coonoor on a horseback, as you trot along picturesque trails that wind through tea estates and verdant forests. Horseriding is the most popular activities outside Pykara lake and Ooty lake, depending on your skill level you get to choose different riding trails with the guidance of experience locals.
Location: Ooty, Lower Bazaar, 643001
Timings: Timings can vary
Entry Fees: Half Round Ride (10 mins) Rs. 300
Full Round: Ride (20 minutes) Rs. 500
Full day Ride (7 hours) Rs. 3500 INR
13. Indulge In the Art Of Cheese Making At Acres Wild
Immerse yourself in the gourmet cheese making world of Acres Wild, an educational farm coexisting with nature and the rolling hills of Coonoor. You can take part in workshops led by expert cheese makers who moved to Coonoor to master the art of cheese making. From deciding on the tricky ratios to learning the strategies of curdling, cutting, and getting to whip up different kinds of cheese along with creamy camembert, tangy feta, and flavorful cheddar. This farm will satisfy your senses as you sample your freshly made creations and have an advantage of the valuable expertise so that it will elevate your culinary skills to new heights.
Location: Acres Wild, Tiger Hill Road
Timings: Workshop timings can range depending on the availability of the slots.
Entry Fees: INR 8,000 per person
How To Reach Coonoor
By Train – Coonoor does not have a railway line or a station due to its steep terrain and excessive altitude. The nearest railway station is in Mettupalayam that’s 45 KM away. From there, you can take the Heritage Train. The Coimbatore to Coonoor distance is about 75 KM away by train. From there, you need to take a local taxi to reach Coonoor.
By Road – The metropolis is properly linked with Kochi, Coimbatore, and Bangalore. There are many state buses going for walks from Coimbatore to Coonoor, Bangalore to Coonoor, and Kochi to Coonoor. But the most convenient way to travel is to rent a taxi from Bangalore.
By Flight – The nearest airport is in Coimbatore, 45 KM away. You can e-book a domestic flight that’s well-connected to the airport. From Coimbatore, you may book an airport taxi which will have you dropped at Coonoor.
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it, a list of the best things to do in Coonoor, a land where the mist dances on the hills and the tea estates stretch as far as the eyes can see. Coonoor embodies all things natural and is a must-visit place for those seeking some pleasant adventures.
FAQs
Coonoor is famous for its scenic beauty, tea plantations, and serene environment. It’s also renowned for attractions like Sim’s Park, Lamb’s Rock, and the Nilgiri Mountain Railway.
While you are at the Coonoor local sightseeing excursion, make sure to discover lush botanical gardens, indulge in the panoramic views from scenic viewpoints, and do not miss out on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway also known as the toy train.
While on your Coonoor sightseeing excursion, you will want to indulge in all things locally produced. Like the homemade tea, homemade candies, handmade souvenirs, and awesome handicrafts showcasing the place’s rich cultural history.
To thoroughly discover Coonoor and its attractions, plan for at least 2 to 3 days. This allows sufficient time to visit popular spots of interest, bask in the outdoors, and truly appreciate the alternate way of life that the residents here are proud of.
The best time to visit Coonoor is between the months of October to March while the climate is pleasant enough for outdoor exploration. Avoid the monsoon season (June to September) because of heavy rainfall, which can also disrupt your plans and any plans for trekking.