Coonoor

A popular hill getaway in Tamil Nadu, Coonoor is the second largest town and first of the three Nilgiri hill stations - Udhagamandalam (Ooty), Kotagiri and Coonoor. Not commercialized, Coonoor makes a great place for a peaceful weekend getaway or a weekend. 19 km from Oooty, Coonoor is at an altitude of 6,100 ft above sea level. it used to be home to the Coon tribe (oor means hamlet in Tamil). Eventhough, the British left this hill station years ago Coonoor, still have a very colonial feel all ove including clubs, beautiful bungalows and gardens.

Located on the way from Coimbatore to Udhagamandalam, Coonoor's climate is noticeably warmer and less wet than that at Udagamandalam. Physically divided into upper and lower Coonoor with the commercial part being in the lower and residences in the upper part.

The hill station gained it's popularity as a hill-station way back in the 19th century when the British made Udhagamandalam a popular hill resort. It was first discovered by John Sullivan. Between 1820 and 1827, the then British settlers developed the area and laid down the first railway line (now known as the Blue Mountain Railway). 

Also known as the 'Jewel of the Nilgiris', the hill station lures its visitors with its rolling tea plantations, valleys, waterfalls and panoramic views. The hill station also provides trekking and hiking. Like Oooty, the toy train ride from Coonoor to Oooty and back is really amazing.