Last Updated on December 8, 2025 by admin

Coonoor, the Hidden Jewel

Some time ago I wanted to get away from the heat and dust of Delhi in the summer’s and chose the less crowded and relatively quiet  town of Coonoor .

Nestled in the Nilgiri Hills at an elevation of about 1,850 meters, Coonoor is a charming hill station that offers a quieter, more authentic alternative to its famous neighbor, Ooty. Just 19 kilometers away from the bustling tourist hub of Ooty, this small town wraps you in its misty embrace and slower pace of life. Tea estates carpet the rolling hills in brilliant shades of green, while colonial-era bungalows peek through the eucalyptus and silver oak trees that line winding mountain roads.

What sets Coonoor apart is its unhurried charm. There are no crowded malls or commercialized attractions here—just spectacular viewpoints like Dolphin’s Nose and Lamb’s Rock, the heritage Nilgiri Mountain Railway chugging through tunnels and over bridges, and peaceful walks through working tea plantations. The air is crisp and fragrant with eucalyptus, the views are postcard-perfect, and the town retains an old-world character that feels increasingly rare. Whether you’re sipping fresh Nilgiri tea at Sim’s Park or watching the valley disappear into clouds from a roadside viewpoint, Coonoor reminds you that sometimes the best travel experiences are the ones that let you simply slow down and breathe.

For my stay, after some research I chose Sunvalley Homestay .

Perched on a hillside with sweeping views of the Nilgiri valleys, Sunvalley Homestay is one of those rare finds that makes you want to extend your stay. This family-run retreat captures everything that makes Coonoor special—warm hospitality, tranquil surroundings, and that unhurried hill station charm. The homestay sits surrounded by tea estates and pine forests, far enough from the town center to feel like a genuine escape, yet close enough to explore Coonoor’s attractions with ease.

What makes Sunvalley special isn’t just the comfortable rooms or the home-cooked meals (though both are excellent), but the genuine warmth of the hosts who treat guests like extended family. Wake up to mist rolling through the valleys, spend your afternoons on the terrace with a book and endless cups of tea, and let the cool mountain air work its magic.

Some of the places  visited during my stay n Coonoor were:

Pyakra Lake and Boathouse

Pykara Lake, located about 20 kilometers from Ooty (and roughly 40 kilometers from Coonoor), is a serene man-made reservoir surrounded by dense shola forests and rolling grasslands. Fed by the Pykara River, the lake is part of the larger Pykara complex that includes scenic waterfalls and a dam, making it a popular day trip from Coonoor.

The main attraction here is the boathouse, where you can rent paddle boats or rowboats  or even Motorboat and glide across the calm waters while soaking in views of the surrounding hills. It’s a peaceful escape—less crowded than Ooty’s attractions—where you can enjoy a leisurely boat ride, explore the nearby Pykara Falls, or simply sit by the water’s edge with a picnic. The drive itself through winding mountain roads and tea estates is half the fun. Best visited on a clear day when the blue sky reflects off the water and the Nilgiri landscape shows off its full beauty.

Here is a video of our Motorboat tour of the Lake that day and also of other attractions in Coonoor.

 

 

180 McIver

 

McIver 180 is a beautifully restored 150-year-old British bungalow perched at 6,000 feet, offering stunning 180-degree views across tea estates and valleys. This colonial gem retains its old-world charm with wooden floors, vintage furniture, and large windows framing spectacular mountain vistas, while providing modern comforts like cozy fireplaces and well-appointed rooms.

Film buffs will recognize it as the picturesque location where parts of the Bollywood film Kapoor & Sons were shot—and once you’re here, you’ll understand why the filmmakers chose it. It’s the perfect blend of heritage, natural beauty, and that timeless Nilgiri magic that makes you want to linger just a little longer.

Dolphin’s Nose

Dolphin’s Nose is Coonoor’s most dramatic viewpoint—a massive rock jutting 1,000 feet above the valley that resembles a dolphin’s nose in profile. Located about 10 kilometers from town, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Nilgiri hills, Catherine Falls, and the Coimbatore plains stretching into the distance.

The trek through tea estates and forest paths is as rewarding as the destination itself. On clear days, the layered mountain views are spectacular, though even mist-shrouded days have their own magic. Wear good shoes—the path can be steep and slippery—but the views from that rocky precipice make every step worthwhile.

Cafe Diem , Coonoor

Cafe Diem was one of  my favorite refuge in Coonoor. This cozy café tucked in the heart of town serves excellent coffee, homemade comfort food, and exactly the kind of warm, unhurried vibe you need after a morning exploring misty viewpoints. The menu covers everything from hearty breakfasts to pizzas and tempting desserts, but honestly, I loved the cold coffee and the atmosphere.

With its wooden interiors and comfortable seating, it’s the perfect spot to thaw out on a chilly afternoon, catch up on writing, or simply linger over a second cup while watching Coonoor life unfold outside. It’s one of those places that feels less like a café and more like a friend’s living room—exactly what you want in a hill station hideaway.

Here are some of the pics from my trip, do let me know what you think in the comments below.