Coonoor - India Travel Guide hero image

Coonoor!

india-guide.in

groups

Population

45,000

schedule

Best Time

September to March

calendar_month

Time Needed

2-3 days minimum

currency_rupee

Currency

Rupee (₹)

View full travel guide
See timings and practical tips

Plan by Intent

Trip Planning pages built for fast decisions and deeper discovery.

photo_camera

Did You Visit Coonoor?

Showcase Your Photography Skills • Help Thousands of Travelers • Get Featured with Credit

location_on Tamil Nadu map South India ⛰️ Mountains 🏔️ Hill Stations Hill Stations Tea Plantations Coonoor Nilgiris tea Tamil Nadu hill station South India

Coonoor, nestled in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu, is a serene tea town known for its lush tea estates and stunning viewpoints. It's a quieter alternative to Ooty, offering a more relaxed and authentic experience of the Nilgiris.

Coonoor is worth visiting for its beautiful scenery, pleasant climate, and opportunities for tea plantation tours. However, it can get crowded during peak season and transport options are limited. The town is smaller and has less nightlife than Ooty.

Reaching Coonoor is easiest via Coimbatore, and you'll need at least two to three days to explore the main attractions. Consider booking accommodation and transportation in advance, especially during peak season.

When To Visit

Best Time

September to March

15-25 degrees C

Pleasant and cool weather, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Clear skies and sunny days are common.

Why Visit:

The weather is perfect for exploring tea gardens, hiking, and enjoying panoramic views. The annual tea and tourism festival is held during this time. You can avoid the monsoon rains and enjoy the greenery at its best.

Tip: This is the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds. Book your accommodation and transport well in advance.

Shoulder Season

April to May

20-30 degrees C

Warm days and slightly cooler nights. The weather can be unpredictable with occasional showers.

Why Visit:

The weather is still pleasant enough for outdoor activities, and the crowds are slightly less than peak season. You might find better deals on accommodation. However, the heat can be uncomfortable during the day.

Tip: Carry light clothing and stay hydrated. Be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Avoid

June to August

15-22 degrees C

Heavy monsoon rains make it difficult to explore the outdoors. Landslides are common, disrupting transportation.

Why Avoid:

The heavy rains can disrupt travel plans and limit outdoor activities. Visibility is often poor due to fog and mist. Many viewpoints may be closed due to safety concerns.

Note: If you must travel during this time, check weather forecasts and road conditions before you go. Be prepared for delays and cancellations.

Top Sights - Top Attractions!

Sim's Park

⏱ 2-3 hours ₹30 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners)

Sim's Park is a beautifully maintained botanical garden with a diverse collection of plants and trees. It features landscaped gardens, a rose garden, ...

Read more arrow_forward

Lamb's Rock

⏱ 1-2 hours ₹20 (Indians), ₹400 (foreigners)

Lamb's Rock is a scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of the Coimbatore plains and the surrounding hills. It's a popular spot for photography and...

Read more arrow_forward

Dolphin's Nose

⏱ 1-2 hours ₹15 (Indians), ₹300 (foreigners)

Dolphin's Nose is another popular viewpoint offering stunning views of the Catherine Falls and the surrounding valleys. The rock formation resembles a...

Read more arrow_forward

Catherine Falls

⏱ 2-3 hours ₹20 (Indians), ₹400 (foreigners)

Catherine Falls is a beautiful double-cascaded waterfall cascading down from a height of about 250 feet. It's a popular attraction for nature lovers a...

Read more arrow_forward

Highfield Tea Factory

⏱ 1-2 hours ₹50 (Indians), ₹550 (foreigners)

Highfield Tea Factory offers a glimpse into the tea-making process, from plucking to packaging. Visitors can learn about the history of tea cultivatio...

Read more arrow_forward

Droog Fort

⏱ 2-3 hours ₹40 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners)

Droog Fort is a historic fort located on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area. It was once used by Tipu Sultan as an outpost....

Read more arrow_forward
View all attraction details

Things To Do

attractions

Tea Plantation Tour

⏱ 2-3 hours 💰 ₹500-1500 per person

Explore the lush green tea plantations surrounding Coonoor with a guided tour. Learn about the tea-making process from p...

Read more arrow_forward
attractions

Hiking

⏱ 3-5 hours 💰 Free (guide fees extra, ₹500-1000)

Explore the scenic trails around Coonoor with a hiking adventure. There are trails for all skill levels, from easy walks...

Read more arrow_forward
attractions

Toy Train Ride

⏱ 2-3 hours (Coonoor to Ooty and back) 💰 ₹15-30 (unreserved), ₹300-500 (first class)

Experience the iconic Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a scenic train ride from Coonoor to O...

Read more arrow_forward
attractions

Birdwatching

⏱ 2-4 hours 💰 Free

Explore the diverse birdlife of Coonoor with a birdwatching excursion. Sim's Park and the surrounding areas are home to ...

Read more arrow_forward

Cultural Experiences

celebration

Nilgiri Cuisine Cooking Class

3-4 hours | ₹1500-2500

Learn to prepare traditional Nilgiri dishes with a hands-on cooking class. Discover the unique flavo...

Read more arrow_forward
celebration

Visit a Tribal Village

4-6 hours | ₹1000-2000 per person (including transport and guide)

Experience the culture and traditions of the local tribal communities in the Nilgiris. Visit a Toda ...

Read more arrow_forward
celebration

Attend a Tea Festival

1-2 days | Free to attend, costs for food and activities

Immerse yourself in the world of tea at the annual Tea and Tourism Festival. The festival celebrates...

Read more arrow_forward
celebration

Learn About Traditional Crafts

2-3 hours | ₹500-1000 (cost of materials extra)

Learn about traditional Nilgiri crafts like embroidery and pottery. Take a workshop and try your han...

Read more arrow_forward
celebration

Visit a Local Market

1-2 hours | Free

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of a local market in Coonoor. Observe the daily lives of the local...

Read more arrow_forward
celebration

Attend a Church Service

1-2 hours | Free

Experience the colonial heritage of Coonoor by attending a service at St. George's Church. The churc...

Read more arrow_forward
View all cultural experiences

Eat This!

Must-Try Dishes

Nilgiri Vegetable Korma
Nilgiri Vegetable Korma

A creamy and flavorful vegetable curry (try at The Lawley Arms)

Homemade Chocolates
Homemade Chocolates

Available at various shops in Coonoor

Varki
Varki

A local crispy snack (try at local bakeries)

Tea
Tea

Sample different varieties of Nilgiri tea at tea stalls

Where to Eat

The Lawley Arms

The Lawley Arms

₹₹

Multi-cuisine

📍 Near Sim's Park

A popular restaurant with a colonial ambiance and a diverse menu. Offers both Indian and international dishes. It has a cozy atmosphere.

Nilgiri Vegetable Korma

₹800-1200 for two

Open Kitchen

Open Kitchen

Indian, Chinese

📍 Main Road

A casual dining restaurant serving tasty Indian and Chinese dishes. Known for its biryanis and friendly service. Good for a quick meal.

Biryani

₹500-800 for two

Street Food Spots

Coonoor Market

Coonoor Market

💰 Budget: ₹50-100 per person

⚠️ Tips: Try the local snacks and tea. Be mindful of hygiene and choose vendors with clean stalls.

🍽️
Discover More on
Foodie Finder: Coonoor

More restaurants & dishes from Coonoor

Where To Stay ?

Best Neighborhoods

Near Sim's Park

Good for easy access to the park and central Coonoor. Can be a bit crowded during peak season.

Best For: Families, first-time visitors

Upper Coonoor

Offers quieter surroundings and scenic views. Requires transport to reach main attractions.

Best For: Couples, those seeking a peaceful retreat

Accommodation Options

Budget

💰

₹800-1500/night

Hotel Blue Bird

📍 Near Sim's Park

Basic but clean rooms, good location near the park. Offers decent value for money.

₹800-1500/night

Hotel Vivek

📍 Main Road

Simple rooms in a central location, convenient for transport. A no-frills option.

₹700-1200/night

Mid-Range

🏨

₹2500-4000/night

The Lawley Arms

📍 Near Sim's Park

Comfortable rooms with modern amenities, good service. Features a restaurant and garden.

₹2500-4000/night

Hampton Inn Coonoor

📍 Near Coonoor Railway Station

Offers well-appointed rooms, a multi-cuisine restaurant, and easy access to transportation.

₹2000-3500/night

Luxury

₹8000+/night

Taj Garden Retreat

📍 Upper Coonoor

Elegant rooms, stunning views, excellent dining options. Offers a luxurious and relaxing experience.

₹8000+/night

McIvor Villa

📍 Near Sim's Park

A heritage property with spacious rooms, beautiful gardens, and personalized service. Provides a unique and memorable stay.

₹7000+/night

View all stay & eat options

How To Get There ?

flight

By Air

Airport: Coimbatore International Airport (CJB), 70km from city

train

By Train

Stations:

Coonoor Railway Station (ONR)

Connects to Ooty and Mettupalayam. Part of the Nilgiri Mountain Railway.

Routes:
  • From Chennai: 10 hours to Mettupalayam, then toy train (₹500-1500)

Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia

directions_bus

By Bus

Terminals:
  • Coonoor Bus Stand
Routes:
  • From Coimbatore: 3 hours (₹200-400)

Note: Trains more comfortable and scenic.

Getting Around

local_taxi

Taxi

💰 ₹1500-2500 per day

Best for: Sightseeing

Negotiate the fare in advance. Book for the entire day for convenience.

local_taxi

Auto-rickshaw

💰 ₹50-200 per trip

Best for: Short distances within the town

Bargain for the fare. Confirm the price before starting the journey.

directions_bus

Bus

💰 ₹10-30 per trip

Best for: Budget travelers

Buses can be crowded. Check the route and timings in advance.

Practical Tips

checkroom

What To Wear

Pack warm clothes, even during the summer, as the weather can be unpredictable. Wear comfortable walking shoes.

payments

Money

Daily Budget: Budget: ₹1500, Mid: ₹3000, Luxury: ₹5000+

ATMs: Available in Coonoor town

Cash vs Card: Cash is preferred for smaller establishments. Credit cards are accepted at larger hotels and restaurants.

Bargaining: Expected in local markets and with auto-rickshaw drivers

health_and_safety

Health

Water: Drink bottled water or filtered water. Avoid tap water.

Food: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food from unhygienic vendors.

Common Issues: Altitude sickness, stomach upset. Bring necessary medications.

sim_card

Communication

SIM Cards: Available from Airtel, Vodafone, Jio. Requires passport and visa.

WiFi: Available at most hotels and some cafes.

translate

Language & Tipping

Language: English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas. Learning a few basic Tamil phrases can be helpful.

Tipping: Restaurant: 5-10%, drivers: ₹50-100

Nearby Destinations

Explore More Of India

Bundi - India Travel Guide

Bundi - India Travel Guide

map North India

Top Attractions:

  • Taragarh Fort
  • Rani ki Baori
  • Bundi Palace

+2 more attractions

Itanagar - India Travel Guide

Itanagar - India Travel Guide

map Northeast India

Top Attractions:

  • Ita Fort
  • Ganga Lake (Gyankar Sinwi)
  • Jawaharlal Nehru Museum

+2 more attractions

Bidar - India Travel Guide

Bidar - India Travel Guide

map South India

Top Attractions:

  • Bidar Fort
  • Bahmani Tombs
  • Chaukhandi of Hazrat Khalil Ullah

+2 more attractions

Varantharappilly - India Travel Guide

Varantharappilly - India Travel Guide

map South India

Top Attractions:

  • St. George Forane Church
  • Paddy Fields of Varantharappilly
  • Local Farms

+3 more attractions

Modhera - India Travel Guide

Modhera - India Travel Guide

map West India

Top Attractions:

  • Sun Temple
  • Surya Kund (Stepwell)
  • Modhera Dance Festival

+2 more attractions

Trimbakeshwar - India Travel Guide

Trimbakeshwar - India Travel Guide

map West India

Top Attractions:

  • Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga Temple
  • Kushavarta Kund
  • Nil Parvat

+3 more attractions

Achanakmar - India Travel Guide

Achanakmar - India Travel Guide

map Central India

Top Attractions:

  • Achanakmar Wildlife Safari
  • Amarkantak
  • Kabir Chabutra

+3 more attractions

Madhubani - India Travel Guide

Madhubani - India Travel Guide

map East India

Top Attractions:

  • Madhubani Art Museum
  • Gram Vikas Parishad
  • Ranti Village

+3 more attractions

Share Your Coonoor Photos!

Help fellow travelers by sharing your authentic travel photos. Get credited with your name and social links!

Found an Error?

Help us improve! Report incorrect information or suggest updates.

Suggest a Destination

Know a hidden gem we're missing? Help us add it to the guide!