How to spend a day in Kotagiri? An offbeat location in Tamil Nadu

Imagine a town which sits elegantly in nature’s lap with neat roads, a refreshing breeze, friendly people and devoid of pushy vendors. You can find great eateries here, serving amazing authentic local cuisine since decades, to pleasantly surprise your taste buds!

Kotagiri looks like one such town, conjured out of fantastical imagination!

Nestled amidst the gorgeous mountains of Nilgiris, Kotagiri is juxtaposed with the popular hill stations of Ooty & Coonoor in Tamil Nadu. The tea plantations scattered all over this picturesque town are mesmerizing. If you are visiting Ooty or Coonoor, you can drive down here and spend a day in absolute serenity & enchanting peace.

How to reach Kotagiri

Kotagiri is located at a distance of 30 KMs from Ooty & 17 KMs from Coonoor. The roads are not only well maintained but also scenic. You will gradually start seeing less tourists & more locals as you traverse through the meandering roads, carved from the mountains. So, if you are looking for one of the best places to visit near Ooty, you can choose Kotagiri.

For people residing in the North of India, Kotagiri is perfect as an extra feather along with Ooty & Coonoor. To reach this set of hill stations, you can fly from Delhi to Coimbatore. Indigo offers non-stop flights which take a little less than 3 hours. A visit to Kotagiri is one of the best things to do in Ooty.

Things to do in Kotagiri

Being a small town, there aren’t many things to do in Kotagiri. However, whatever Kotagiri can offer, is sufficient for one day. I have listed down top 3 things to do here given that this destination is recommended for a day trip.

Relish amazing cakes at Shops near Johnstone Circle

The best part in such an offbeat destination are the small outlets & eateries known for not compromising with taste! We discovered one such bakery and it blew our mind! Kotagiri doesn’t have many mainstream restaurants and we decided to let this bakery decide our lunch menu. Our lunch platter comprised of swim jam cakes, cup-cakes & pineapple rolls! Relishing the bursts of flavor was surely a joy ride for my taste buds. This and many such bakeries will offer you an unforgettable gastronomic delight!

Traverse through tea estates to reach Catherine falls

Most of the waterfalls in India are swamped by tourists. The filth & dirt around the waterfall makes it a less fascinating attraction. However, Catherine falls around Kotagiri is lesser known and hence, intact in its purest form. You might not be able to actually go to the waterfalls & take a dip, but the drive to reach here is something to look forward to. We also spotted a bear here, hidden in one of the vast tea plantations.

 Catherine Falls from a distance, KotagiriThe enchanting landscapes while driving to Catherine Falls

Visit Kodanad view point, located in Jayalalithaa’s Tea Estate

After visiting Catherine falls & the tea plantations, you can visit the Kodanad view point. As you start approaching the view point, you will be stopped by police and your details will be taken. This is from where Jayalalithaa’s Tea estate will start. You will realize this when a 20 feet high Jayalalithaa standee will stare at you! The flags of her political party will flutter & welcome you in her vast tea estate. You will gradually go deeper in her tea estate and will discover a brilliant bungalow which is actually her residence. It is believed that there are around 108 rooms in her house!

The Kodanad view point offers brilliant & picturesque views of the Nilgiri Mountains. The view can be enjoyed from a lower deck & an upper deck. You can enjoy photography here as the sun gradually slides towards the horizon.

The upper deck at Kodanad View point, Kotagiri

View from Kodanad View point, Upper Deck

Once you have spent time at the view point till the sunset, you can start your journey back to your stay, hoping you can spend more time in this untouched terrain!

You might not have visited Kotagiri Tamil Nadu. Even, some people might not have heard about this destination. If you have previously visited Kotagiri India, you might have wondered why this spot is not so popular. Let us find out the reasons here:

Why Is Kotagiri Tamil Nadu Not So Popular?

Kotagiri City nestled in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu is a charming yet relatively lesser-known destination compared to its neighbouring hill stations like Ooty and Coonoor. Despite its stunning natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere, Kotagiri remains off the beaten path for many travellers. Let’s explore some reasons why Kotagiri might not be as popular as other hill stations:

Limited Accessibility

Unlike Ooty, which has a well-connected railway station and a major highway passing through it, Kotagiri’s accessibility is somewhat limited. The nearest major transportation hub is Coimbatore, and from there, travellers have to navigate winding mountain roads to reach Kotagiri. This lack of direct access can deter some tourists, especially those looking for convenience and ease of travel. So, even after hearing about places to visit in Kotagiri, they skip the visit.

Underdeveloped Tourism Infrastructure

Kotagiri lacks the extensive tourism infrastructure found in more popular destinations. While it has a few guesthouses, homestays, and small hotels, the options for accommodation and dining are relatively limited compared to Ooty or Coonoor. This lack of infrastructure might discourage travellers who prefer well-established tourist facilities, amenities and plenty of places to visit Kotagiri.

Limited Marketing and Promotion

Compared to Ooty and Coonoor, which have been extensively promoted as tourist destinations by the government and tourism authorities, Kotagiri Tamil Nadu has received comparatively less attention in terms of marketing and promotion. As a result, many travellers may not even be aware of Kotagiri’s existence or its attractions.

Perception as a ‘Hidden Gem’

While being a hidden gem can be appealing to some travellers seeking offbeat experiences, it can also work against Kotagiri in terms of popularity. Many tourists tend to flock to destinations that are well-known and widely promoted, rather than taking a chance on lesser-known places like Kotagiri India. This perception of being ‘off the beaten path’ might contribute to Kotagiri’s relatively low tourist footfall.

Lack of Iconic Attractions

Unlike Ooty, which is famous for its botanical gardens, toy train, and bustling marketplaces, Kotagiri City lacks standout attractions that draw tourists in large numbers. While it has its unique charm with picturesque tea estates, rolling hills, and scenic viewpoints, Kotagiri’s attractions may not have the same mass appeal as those of its more popular counterparts.

Seasonal Tourism

Kotagiri’s tourism largely depends on seasonal factors, with the peak tourist season coinciding with the pleasant weather conditions from October to May. During the monsoon season, heavy rainfall and misty conditions can limit outdoor activities and visibility, making it less attractive to tourists looking to explore a lot of places to visit in Kotagiri.

Limited Activities and Entertainment Options

While Kotagiri offers opportunities for trekking, bird watching, and exploring tea estates, it may lack the variety of activities and entertainment options available in more developed tourist destinations. This limited range of experiences might not cater to the diverse interests of all travellers, who look for entertaining places to visit Kotagiri.

Despite these factors contributing to its relatively lower popularity, Kotagiri’s serene ambience, lush landscapes, and unspoiled natural beauty make it a hidden gem worth exploring for those seeking a tranquil getaway amidst the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu.

Kotagiri is one of the best places to visit near Kodaikanal as well.

The Hidden Gem Called Kotagiri

Kodanad View point, Lower Deck, Kotagiri

However, beneath the surface of its “underrated” status lies a hidden gem:

Untouched Beauty

Kotagiri’s remoteness has preserved its natural beauty. Tranquil tea estates, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints offer a serene escape from the crowds, perfect for nature lovers and those seeking peace.

Off-the-beaten-path Experience

The lack of mass tourism allows visitors to experience the authentic culture and lifestyle of the local communities. Immerse yourself in the rhythm of village life, interact with friendly residents, and gain a deeper understanding of the region’s heritage.

Budget-friendly Destination

With fewer commercial establishments and a slower pace of life, Kotagiri Tamil Nadu is a haven for budget-conscious travellers. Cosy homestays, local eateries, and minimal transportation costs make it an affordable option for a relaxing getaway.

Adventure Activities

Trekking enthusiasts can embark on challenging trails through the hills, while birdwatchers can delight in the diverse avian life. Kayaking in the Upper Bhavani River and mountain biking through scenic routes offer opportunities for thrill-seekers in Kotagiri India.

Historical Significance

Kotagiri’s colonial past is evident in its heritage buildings and churches. Explore the history of the Nilgiri Mountain Railway or visit the Toda settlements to learn about the indigenous culture.

In conclusion, while Kotagiri City, might not be a mainstream tourist destination, its charm lies in its authenticity, tranquillity, and off-the-beaten-path appeal. If you seek a genuine experience amidst stunning natural beauty, a slower pace of life, and a budget-friendly escape, Kotagiri might just be the hidden gem you’ve been searching for.

Read my post on Kurumba Village Resort.

Did you know about Kotagiri before? What did you think of it? Have you been here? Do let me know your comments below!