Nilgiri Hills

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Nilgiri literally means Blue Mountains, Nil-Blue and Giri refers to the mountains. Blue Mountains are located in the western parts of Tamil Nadu, at a junction of Karnataka and Kerala states. The views from these hills are excellent and they have Kerala on the west, Mysore at the North and Coimbatore on the East. They are a range of mountains and have more than 24 peaks with average height above 2000 meters. The highest mountain peak in the Nilgiri hills is the Dodabetta (2623 m).

The nilgiris have natural charm due to its locations. There are steep hills, and beautiful narrow valleys with a number of rivers and rivulets running in every direction. There are some water falls here and there and provide beautiful scenery. The most popular falls are Kolakambai falls, Halashana falls, Catherine falls, Pykara falls and the Karteri falls. The climate is excellent and makes the Nilgiri hills more attractive for the tourists. The Tea gardens in the hills are also a major attraction in the region.

Peaks in the Nilgiri Hills

There are a number of peaks in the Nilgiri Mountains. The highest point in the hills is the Dodabetta. Hecuba has a eight of 2375 m, Kattadadu 2375 m and Kulkudi 2439 m. These are closely linked peaks and are a favorite among the trekkers. Snowdon (2530 m), Club hill (2448), Elk Hill (2466m) along with Dodabetta forms the Udhagamandalam valley.

Devashola is notable for the blue gum trees. Kulakombai lies to the east of Devashola and Bhavani valley and the famous Lambton's peak range stretch from here. Hullikal Durg means Tigers Rock Fort. There are pine forests while the valley supports green foliage. Coonor Betta is also called as Teneriffe lies on the Northen side of the gorge. Rallia hill is in the middle of the forest and is popular among the trekkers. Dimhatti hill is just above the Gajalahatti pass and had a lot of strategic importance during the 18th century. This peak is dedicated to the local deity Rangaswamy and is considered very sacred by the local people.

The Nilgiri peaks in the Mukurthi National park are he very famous ones. The elevation here is greater than the general level of the plateau. Avalanche hill has a very interesting range of two twin peaks- Kudikkadu and Kolaribetta.

Adventure and Trekking in the Nilgiri Hills:

The Nilgiri hills are a trekker's paradise. People from all over come here to have a good time and enjoy the adventure. There are treks in all directions and are filled with thrill and excitement. This way you can enjoy nature at its fullest and enjoy the greens of the Blue Mountains. There are trekking pamphlets with the Nilgiri Wildlife and Environment Association. Guides are available who have sound knowledge of the areas and can take you the most enchanting places in the hills. The best trekking seasons are from April June and September December.

You can also enjoy the Tours of Nilgiris. These tours are a weeklong annual bicycle tours that traverse the Nilgri Mountains.

There are some fairs and festival in the Nilgiri hills. There is an annual flower show at Ooty and the Fruit show at Coonoor. Both the events are a major hit among the tourists.