Deeksha Dutta

Picture this: a tiny hill station nestled in the Nilgiris, just 20 km from Coonoor, 29 km from Ooty, and 72 km from Coimbatore. That’s Kotagiri for you – one of Tamil Nadu’s best-kept secrets and a top-notch tourist destination near Ooty. It’s the place you didn’t know you needed to visit until now!

Perched at a lofty 1793 meters, Kotagiri is the oldest and third-largest hill station in the Nilgiris, right after Ooty and Coonoor. Its name literally translates to “mountains of the Kotas,” a nod to the indigenous Kota tribe who once called this paradise home.

Trust me, it’s a must-see on your Ooty itinerary.

Once upon a time, Kotagiri was the British summer hotspot in the Nilgiris – that is, until they built a road from Mettupalayam to Coonoor. Two civil servants from the Madras government stumbled upon this gem while chasing outlaws. They named it Kotacherry. Then along came John Sullivan, the Coimbatore collector, who fell head over heels for Kotagiri and built a home here, becoming its first European resident. Talk about a love story!

Kotagiri is renowned for its jaw-dropping scenic beauty. With mist-covered mountains in the distance, the town is now surrounded by lush tea farms that extend as far as the eye can reach, providing a calming green carpet.

Kotagiri has excellent weather all year round. Summer temperatures range from 18°C to 30°C, while winter lows are as low as 0°C. The weather is almost always dreamy, with soft sunshine, clouds, and a comforting wind.  Kotagiri, is 5,882 feet above sea level, has hilly terrain. The forested hillsides resemble the idyllic England slopes when they are shrouded in clouds. The sweeping landscapes of nature seem to go on forever, as the eyes are treated to verdant carpets of tea plantations. 

Surrounded by these lush tea estates and verdant landscapes, Kotagiri is a playground for trekking and rock climbing enthusiasts. The trails here meander through picturesque tea estates, lush greenery, meadows, and rivers. Popular trekking routes lead to Kodanad (15 km), Catherine Falls (7.5 km), and Longwood Shola (3 km). Not to mention the tourist hotspots: Kodanad Viewpoint, Catherine Falls, Elk Falls (7 km), and Rangaswami Peak and Pillar. Kodanad Point, in particular, serves up breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

Getting there

By Train:

Coonoor is the closest train station. To go to Kotagiri more quickly, you can rent a car or take a local taxi after you get to Coimbatore. From there, you can connect to Mettupalayam and then Coonoor.

By Road:

It's simple to get to Kotagiri via car. Begin in your city and go to Coonoor via Coimbatore or the Ghats. Kotagiri is around 20 kilometres away from Coonoor.

By Flights:

Coimbatore International Airport (CJB) is the closest airport. You can rent a car or a local taxi from Coimbatore to get to the charming town of Kotagiri.

Places to visit in Kotagiri

Kodanad Viewpoint:

An exquisite vantage point where the enchanting mist and imposing mountains converge.

Catherine Falls:

A short yet fascinating journey through lush vegetation and pleasant paths leads to this tall waterfall.

John Sullivan Memorial:

This museum honors the collector by compiling his fondest recollections.

Elk Falls:

Tucked away in the middle of the wilderness, Elk Falls is a hiker's paradise.

Longwood Shola:

An amazing panorama of Kotagiris' varied nature, encircled by thick, evergreen trees.

Things to do

Kothagiri is a trekking enthusiast's dream come true. Numerous hiking paths, suitable for both novice and experienced hikers, wind through the hills and tea gardens. From easy strolls through tea gardens to strenuous hikes leading to hidden views and waterfalls, every path offers a different experience. In addition to hiking, guests can enjoy leisurely strolls through fragrant eucalyptus forests or spend time exploring the charming town and mingling with the kind inhabitants. Kotagiri's serene atmosphere makes it the perfect place for anyone who wants to escape the bustle of the city and restore their senses.  

Best time to visit

The best time to schedule your trip to Kotagiri is during the winter's height, which falls between December and February. With average daily temperatures between 9 and 19 degrees Celsius, these months are known for their cool and pleasant weather.

Approximate Budget

Accommodation: Kotagiri has some of the most beautiful cottages, resorts, homestays, and resorts. 

Budget guesthouses and homestays start from around INR 1000 per night.

Mid-range hotels and resorts can range from INR 2000 to INR 4000 per night.  The town is known for its hospitality, and visitors can expect warm welcomes and personalized service at various establishments. 

Food: Meals at local eateries and restaurants can cost around INR 200 to INR 500 per person per meal, depending on where you dine. Tandoor Hut ,Green Nest Garden Restaurant,Cafe Diem ,Orange Pekoe are some popular eateries for you to explore!

Transportation: Local buses and auto-rickshaws are affordable options for getting around within Kothagiri. Renting a taxi or a private car for sightseeing purposes can cost around INR 1500 to INR 2500 per day.

Activities: Entry fees to attractions like Catherine Falls and guided trekking tours may have additional costs, typically ranging from INR 100 to INR 500 per person, depending on the activity.

In a nutshell, Kotagiri is a place that enthrals with its unspoiled beauty, serene atmosphere, and exploration and adventure possibilities. In the midst of the Nilgiris' stunning scenery, Kotagiri provides an amazing experience for anyone looking for a tranquil getaway, a trekking enthusiast, or an environment lover. Arrange your trip, take in the peace and quiet of this hill station, while discovering about the undiscovered gems that Kotagiri has to offer.  

And remember, dear traveler, Barganza is here to craft your perfect journey. From booking cozy lodgings and arranging seamless transport to creating bespoke itineraries brimming with must-see spots and hidden gems, we’ve got it all covered. Let us handle the nitty-gritty, so you can soak up the serenity and splendor of Kothagiri. Pack your bags, bring your sense of wonder, and let’s explore this hidden gem together!

Call us today: +919674040202 or email us at: kavyadutta@barganzatravel.com