Best Places to Visit in Coonoor for a Perfect Mountain Retreat

Have you ever been to Coonoor? If not, you're really missing a true gem! Coonoor is one of the most beautiful hill stations in Tamil Nadu that offers panoramic views of the Nilgiri Hills and Catherine Falls. If you’re traveling to Ooty then a reroute to Coonoor is absolutely necessary; otherwise, your trip is incomplete. The charm and elegance exuding from this hill station is unlike any other you’ve experienced till now. The natural beauty of this place is something you’ll talk about for days after your return and thanks to the mesmerizing places to visit in Coonoor, you’ll have a lot to explore. So, let’s delve into this hilly paradise and uncover the layers of beauty of this hill station.

Top Places to Visit in Coonoor to Visit with Your Loved Ones

Coonoor is a dreamy destination due to its rich green scenery, manicured hills, colonial culture, and tea gardens. Situated at an altitude of 1930 meters, it attracts travelers across the country. Are you also making plans to explore the best places to visit in Coonoor? If so, consider visiting between the months of October and March due to the cold and pleasant weather. A stark contrast to the bustling city of Ooty, this place is a serene escape to the mountains, where the breeze would whisper into your ear. From natural to man-made beauties, there’s a lot to look forward to here, but let’s begin with its attractions.

Here are some of the best places to visit in Coonoor that you must explore.

1. Sim’s Park
2. Droog Fort
3. Catherine Waterfalls
4. Nilgiri Mountain Railway
5. St. Geroge’s Church
6. Law’s Falls
7. Dolphin’s Nose
8. Ketti Valley
9. Hidden Valley
10. Lamb's Rock

1. Sim’s Park: Walk Amidst Vibrant Floras

First on our list and one of the best places to visit in Coonoor is the gorgeous botanical garden,Sim’s Park, which is filled to the brim with exotic and rare flower species. There’s also a Rose Garden here with the finest varieties of roses that would leave you in awe of their beauty. Sim’s Park is famous because of the scenic views of the mist-covered hills and colorful flowers here. You can even indulge in boating here or simply walk along the beautiful pathways, admiring the place. The park is spread over an area of 12 hectares and is divided into different sections pertaining to different flowers and is structured like a terraced flower bed. The highlight is that this is located near Coonoor Railway Station, so you can easily access this garden on your vacation.

Location: Attadi, Coonoor, Tamil Nadu, 643101, India

Contact Number: 0423 223 0395

Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 6 PM

Entry Fees:

• INR 40 per person for adults
• INR 20 per person for Children between 3 to 12 years
• INR 50 for Still Camera
• INR 100 for Video Camera

Nearby Hotels:

• Hotel Vivek
• Vel's Cliff
• Heavens Gate Holidays
• Coonoor Mountain Stay
• Check Inn Today Resort

Nearby Restaurants:

• Bagaicha Restaurant
• Quality Restaurant
• Coonoor Junction
• Abiruchi Multicuisine Restaurant
• Hyderabad Biriyani House

Nearby Attractions:

• Law’s Falls
• Kattery Park
• Nilgiris Tea
• Steamlocoshed - A World Heritage Site
• Wellington Lake

Things to do: Boating in the lake, strolling around the garden

How to reach: You can take a toy train to Coonoor and then hire a taxi to take you to the park.

2. Droog Fort: A Mythological Tie to Mahabharata

This mythological and historical attraction in Coonoor is among the best places to visit in India, especially for history buffs. Located just 15 km from the Nilgiri Hills foothills, this  fort was built by Tipu Sultan to protect his reign, but there’s a mythological legend behind this place as well. According to the locals, this fort was the home of a local demon, Bakasura Malai, which is why this attraction is also known as Bakasura Malai Fort. However, this fort is no longer the same and there’s only a single wall and watchtower left, but it offers panoramic views of the hill station. It’s one of the most ideal places to visit in Coonoor, Tamil Nadu for adventure enthusiasts as the trek to this location is worth it.

Location: 13 km from Coonoor Centre, Coonoor, Tamil Nadu, 643101, India

Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday – 6 AM to 6 PM

Entry Fees: Free

Nearby Hotels:

• Coonoor Mountain Stay
• Aruvi Cottages
• Vel's Cliff
• Silver Oak resorts
• Hotel Vivek

Nearby Restaurants:

• TanTea Tea Shop
• Nilgiri Shopping Mall
• Hyderabad Biriyani House
• V V Tiffin & Meals Kerala Food
• Havana Restaurant

Nearby Attractions:

• Law’s Falls
• Dolphin Nose Viewpoint
• Steamlocoshed - A World Heritage Site
• Nilgiris Tea
• Government Museum

Things to do: Trekking, watching the scenic views from the top, bird watching

How to reach: You can take a local train, bus or cab from Ooty or take a taxi from Coonoor itself as the fort is around 14 km away.

3. Catherine Waterfalls: Unwind in the Arms of Nature

One of the must visit places in Coonoor is Catherine Waterfalls that is located in Kotagiri in Nilgiri district. Waterfalls in hill stations hit differently because of the abundant greenery and mist-covered hills surrounding them. Similarly, this double cascading waterfall wades through the rocky surface of the mountain, past the thick vegetation to offer a surreal view to the tourists. Catherine Waterfalls is named after the wife of Montague Dundas Cockburn, a Scottish coffee planter and district collector of Salem. The serene and picturesque environment here would invite you to spend some relaxing time here, away from the city’s hustle and bustle, making it one of the good places to visit in Coonoor for everyone. The only sound you’ll hear is of the water crashing on the ground and it’s truly a hypnotizing experience. Another highlight of visiting this waterfall is the journey to it as you’ll have to trek amidst the lushness of the forest to reach here. So, don’t miss out on this memorable opportunity.

Location: Mettupalayam Road, 8 Km from Kotagiri, Coonoor, Tamil Nadu, 643217, India

Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday – 6 AM to 6 PM

Entry Fees: Free

Nearby Hotels:

• Garuda Park Resort Kotagiri
• Serenest Resort in Kotagiri
• Bless Hill Heritage Home Stay
• The Resort at Laughing Waters
• The Door to Nirvana Hostel

Nearby Restaurants:

• The Hobbit Garden Restaurant
• ODAE
• Carnival Cafe & Restaurant
• Prana Vegetarian Restaurant
• Kousik Mess

Nearby Attractions:

• Law’s Falls
• Government Museum
• Doddabetta
• Tiger Hill
• Tea Museum

Things to do: Trekking, picnicking, bird watching, unwinding

How to reach: You can travel via bus or taxi from Ooty to this waterfall or take a cab directly from Coonoor as it’s around 21 km away from there.

Suggested Read: Places to Visit in Goa: Explore Pristine Beaches, Historical Sites, and Vibrant Culture

4. Nilgiri Mountain Railway: A Rollercoaster of a Ride

The Nilgiri Mountain Railway is one of the most amazing destinations in the world that one should definitely explore. Covered in dense vegetation, with majestic mountains forming a stunning backdrop, it offers mesmerizing sights that will leave you awe-inspiring. Now, imagine you're enjoying this beautiful glimpse while taking a train ride through this region. Isn't it something extraordinary? That is what the Nilgiri Mountain Railway provides you.

Among the many things to do in Coonoor, the most popular activity is to ride on the heritage train or the Nilgiri Mountain Railway.  This train has been featured in many movies and TV series, and you’ll understand why once you get onboard. You can enjoy the sights of lush tea estates, gorgeous bridges and hills, milky white waterfalls, and much more. The entire journey would feel like a dreamy affair, which is why it’s one of the most popular tourist places in Coonoor among locals and tourists.

Route: The Nilgiri Mountain Railway starts from Mettupalayam and ends in Ooty.

Route: Ooty to Mettupalayam

Ooty Toy Train Entry Fee:

• INR 290 per person in First Class
• INR 80 per person in Second Class
• INR 15 for Unreserved category

Nearby Hotels:

• Silver Oak resorts
• Coonoor Mountain Stay
• Hotel Vivek
• Vel's Cliff
• Orchid Square Boutique Hotel

Nearby Restaurants:

• Quality Restaurant
• Abiruchi Multicuisine Restaurant
• Cherrie Berry
• ODAE
• Sri Lakshmi Cafe

Nearby Attractions:

• Catherine Waterfalls
• Kotagiri
• Ooty
• Kattery Park
• Government Museum

Duration: 5 hours

5. St. George’s Church: One of the Best Places to Explore in Coonoor

One of the best tourist places in Coonoor is St. George's Church that provides peace and spirituality to its visitors. Unlike other churches in Coonoor, which reflect the British architecture at its finest, the church inclines towards the gothic side. From its red sandstone exterior to its white marbled floor, everything spells regality. Constructed in the year 1926 in the ancient Raj style of architecture, the church houses an array of paintings and curved interiors. You’ll find paintings of St. Michael, St. Geroge, and other beautiful décors that blends in beautifully with the aura of this place. Due to its building style, this tourist attraction in Coonoor is also known as “Cantonment Church” and when the military controlled this church during the Raj era, it was known as “Garrison Church.” The rich history of this place is what makes it one of the best places to visit in Coonoor in 1 day.

Location: Wellington, Coonoor, Tamil Nadu, 643231, India

Contact Number: 0423 223 5645

Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 6 PM

Nearby Hotels:

• Heavens Gate Holidays
• Check Inn Today Resort
• 180 Mciver
• Vijaya Deepa Guest House
• Sparkling Hill

Nearby Restaurants:

• La Belle Vie @ 180 Mciver
• My Momo House
• Central Hotel
• Dream House Restaurant
• Coonoor Junction

Nearby Attractions:

• Rallia Dam
• Wellington Golf Course
• Sim's Park
• Ayurveda Yoga Meditation Resort
• Highfield Tea Estate

Things to do: Soak in the positive aura, pray to God, learn about the history

How to reach: You can either reach here via a toy train or take a cab to this church from Coonoor. The distance is approximately 4 km.

6. Law’s Falls: A Soulful Retreat to Nature

Located around 5 km outside the town of Coonoor, Law’s Falls, is named after Colonel Law, and is a breathtaking waterfall that attracts many visitors. It’s a sight to behold as the water gushes down from a height of around 180 ft into a water pool, making it one of the  most fascinating places to visit in Coonoor. This waterfall is located amidst hills and rich greenery, which makes it a perfect picnic spot for locals and tourists alike. The best time to visit this waterfall is during monsoons because that’s when the beauty of this place enhances manifolds. Nature lovers would absolutely love this place and find it hard to return from this serene and tranquil bubble.

Location: Mettupalayam Road, 5 Km from Coonoor, Coonoor, Tamil Nadu, 643101, India

Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday – 6 AM to 6 PM

Nearby Hotels:

• Silver Oak Resorts
• Coonoor Mountain Stay
• Hotel Vivek
• Vel's Cliff
• Orchid Square Boutique Hotel

Nearby Restaurants:

• Quality Restaurant
• Abiruchi Multicuisine Restaurant
• Cherrie Berry
• ODAE
• Sri Lakshmi Cafe

Nearby Attractions:

• Sim's Park
• Dolphin's Nose
• Ketti Valley
• Hidden Valley
• Lamb's Rock

Things to do: Picnicking, soaking in the scenic views, bird watching

How to reach: You can board the Nilgiri Toy Train to Coonoor and then take a taxi to this waterfall, which is around 5 km away from this hill station.

7. Dolphin’s Nose: A Panoramic Viewpoint from the Top

This viewpoint at 6600 ft above sea level in Coonoor is one of the hidden gems in this hill station and derives its name from its shape, which resembles a Dolphin’s nose. Surrounded by canyons, dense forests, and mist-covered hills, you’ll be in awe of the jaw-dropping views from here. You can even get a clear view of Catherine Falls from here, apart from that, you’ll get an unobstructed view of the ravines, valleys, and other gorgeous attractions. A 180-degree view of the entire hill station is truly a magical feeling; therefore, it’s a must-visit location for all. Witnessing a sunrise or sunset from here would make you want to sit here and admire the views indefinitely. Dolphin's Nose is one of the ideal places to see in Coonoor for those who have a deep interest in trekking as the trail to it covers around a distance of 3 km in the Palani Hill Range.

Location: Coonoor, Tamil Nadu, 643103, India

Contact Number: 099878 50625

Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 6 PM

Entry Fees:

• INR 30 per person for adults
• INR 10 per person for Children
• INR 30 for Still Camera
• INR 100 for Video Camera

Nearby Hotels:

• Silver Oak Resorts
• Coonoor Mountain Stay
• Hotel Vivek
• Vel's Cliff
• Orchid Square Boutique Hotel

Nearby Restaurants:

• Abiruchi Multicuisine Restaurant
• Cherrie Berry
• ODAE
• Sri Lakshmi Cafe
• Quality Restaurant

Nearby Attractions:

• Droog Fort
• Simi's Park
• Lamb's Rock
• Katari Falls
• Doddabetta Peak

Things to do: Watching sunrise or sunset, photography, horse riding, boating

How to reach: You can take a bus or travel via train to Coonoor and then take a taxi or cab to this viewpoint as it’s approximately 12 km away.

8. Ketti Valley: Switzerland of South India

Venture into the second largest gorge in the world, where a fantasy land awaits. Ketty Valley, a famous vantage point located on Ooty-Coonoor road, is one of the best places to visit in Ooty and Coonoor. Surrounded by majestic mountains, lush green landscape, and a serene atmosphere, it is a hidden gem in Coonoor that make it the top destination for honeymoon in India. Also known as the ‘Switzerland of Nilgiris’, it provides a picturesque landscape and is a paradise for nature lovers and photographers who want to capture nature at its best. The Todas and Badagas are two indigenous tribes here that indulge in farming and cultivation, in addition to that, there’s a Shivalinga Temple here as well and you’ll also see the manufacturing of pony needles here. The journey to this destination is an even more mesmerizing one as you’ll have to reach here via a toy train, so you can revel in the picturesque views on the way.

Location: Ketti Valley, Coonoor, Tamil Nadu, 643215, India

Contact Number: 0423 244 4615

Opening Hours: 24/7

Entry Fees:

• INR 5 per person
• INR 15 for Binoculars

Nearby Hotels:

• Green villa Ooty by Lex Stays
• Skylarc Inn
• Tulips Village Resorts
• Hills Cottage Annexe
• Vanam Holidays

Nearby Restaurants:

• The Culinarium
• Rana Mess
• Hanifa Biriyani Mess
• Beijing Bites
• Celeste by Mindescapes

Nearby Attractions:

• Rose Garden
• Sim’s Park
• Thunder World
• Ooty Lake
• Doddabetta Peak

Things to do: Explore the tourist spots, marvel at the views, watch the sunrise or sunset

How to reach: You can easily reach this viewpoint via cab from Ooty or Coonoor as it's around 13 km away from the latter.

9. Hidden Valley: A Hidden Gem in Coonoor

One of the most important visiting places in Coonoor is Hidden Valley which is popular for its picturesque views and outdoor activities. Located on the outskirts of Coonoor, adventure enthusiasts can try mountaineering, rock climbing, and trekking here. Basically, Hidden Valley is a serene and off-the-beaten-path destination in Coonoor, offering visitors a chance to escape the bustle of city life. Also, it's an ideal place for families and couples to spend a peaceful day with their loved ones.

Location: Coonoor, Tamil Nadu, 643102, India

Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 9 PM

Nearby Hotels:

• Heavens Gate Holidays
• Orchid Square Boutique Hotel
• Planters Punch Resort
• Queen Palace
• Dew Drops Cottage

Nearby Restaurants:

• Cherrie Berry
• Abiruchi Multicuisine Restaurant
• Uptown Kitchen
• La Belle Vie @ 180 Mciver
• Quality Restaurant

Nearby Attractions:

• Ketti Valley
• St. George's Church
• Wellington Golf Course
• Sim's Park
• Ayurveda Yoga Meditation Resort

Things to do: Trekking and nature walks, camping, picnic spot, photography

How to reach: It is located around 25-30 km from the town of Coonoor. The best way to reach here is by private car or taxi.

10. Lamb's Rock: The Best Vantage Point in Coonoor

Last but not the least, Lamb's Rock is one of the most popular places to visit in Coonoor which you will find on your way to Dolphin's Nose. It is mainly famous for its spectacular views of the surrounding hills, valleys, and the plains below. The vantage point offers a breathtaking panorama of the Nilgiri Hills and is a great spot to catch the sunrise or sunset. Just imagine, you are sitting with your loved one amid lush greenery and tranquility and the wind is blowing slowly-slowly. How did it feel to you? Isn't it something beyond your imagination? Well, you can feel the same in reality by exploring Lamb's Rock as the location is ideal for providing fascinating views of the surrounding valleys.

Location: Lamb's Rock, Coonoor, Tamil Nadu, 643101, India

Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday – 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM

Entry Fees:

• INR 30 per person for adults
• INR 10 per person for children
• INR 30 for Still Camera
• INR 100 for Video Camera

Nearby Hotels:

• Silver Oak Resorts
• Coonoor Mountain Stay
• Teanest by Nature Resorts
• Aruvi Cottages
• Gateway Coonoor

Nearby Restaurants:

• Rock Bistro
• #TN 43 hilltop hotel
• Cherrie Berry
• Shree Baba Restaurant
• Hotel Pearls Coonoor & Art Gallery

Nearby Attractions:

• Dolphin's Nose
• Sim's Park
• Ketti Valley
• Law's Falls
• Rallia Dam

Things to do: Nature walks, photography, sightseeing, and picnic spot

How to reach: It is about 8 km from Coonoor town, and you can reach there by taxi or private vehicle. It's a short trek from the main road to the viewpoint, which takes around 10-15 minutes on foot.

Additional Information About Places to Visit in Coonoor

Here are a few more factors that you must keep in mind while making travel plans to Coonoor.

Best time to visit in Coonoor:

October to March is the best time to visit Coonoor because that’s when the weather’s at its finest and you can experience the full feel of vacationing at a hill station.

How to reach Coonoor:

• Air – You can take a flight to Coimbatore International Airport (CJB) or Peelamedu Airport, which is the nearest airport to this hill station, at a distance of around 69 km.
• Rail - Coimbatore Junction is the nearest railway station to Coonoor at a distance of approximately 71 km.

Coonoor is a slice of paradise for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, honeymooners, families, and people from all walks of life. You’ll have a complete package of fun, relaxation, and memorable moments here that will make your vacation here worthwhile. As for the places to visit in Coonoor, you’ll be awestruck by the absolutely gorgeous locations here. So, book yourself one of the best Coonoor tour packages for a holiday in the lap of nature.

Places to Visit in Coonoor - FAQs