Coonoor is famous for Sim's Park and Dolphin's Nose, but the true magic of this tea-country lies off the beaten path. Here are 5 hidden gems you shouldn't miss:
1. Droog Fort Ruins
Trek up to this historical ruin once used by Tipu Sultan as an outpost. The trek through the tea gardens is as beautiful as the view from the top.
2. Rallia Dam
Located deep within a dense forest, this quiet dam is perfect for a peaceful picnic. You have to walk about 1km from the parking spot, ensuring it stays uncrowded.
3. Highfield Tea Factory
While most tourists visit the tea factories in Ooty, Highfield in Coonoor offers a much more authentic and less commercialized tea tasting experience.
4. Wellington Lake
A beautifully maintained, serene lake maintained by the Madras Regimental Centre. It's spotlessly clean and offers peaceful boating.
5. Hidden Valley
True to its name, this requires a local guide to reach. It offers some of the most dramatic, untouched landscapes in the entire Nilgiris district.