COONOOR

For those preferring a milder version of Ooty's climate, Coonoor, at an altitude of 1,712 metres, is the alternative. The main attraction is Sim's Park, established in 1874, with its beautiful flowerbeds that are a botanist's delight. Among the rare trees and herbs grown here are Pine, Magnolia, Phoenix, Turpentine, Camellia, Quercus and Araucaria.

Lamb's rock, so called because of one Captain Lamb who was responsible for creating a path to this previously inaccessible ravine. The ravine of Burliar is a truly a visual treat. The blue skies and mist hanging over the ghats over the Mettupalayam area is most certainly a grand sight.

Dolphin nose is a natural rock formation in the form of an uprising dolphin. The place is a perfect 'picture post card' memory, with the St. Catherine's Falls flowing slowly across the canyon and the Badaga (Local tribe) huts dotting the edge of the serrated cliffs; creating a dramatic effect.

Law's Falls, is situated 5 km from Coonoor and is so called because of Colonel G.V Law who completed the Ghat road to Mettupalayam. The Falls have water from the Coonoor river falling into the deep gorge, to meet River Katteri along the Ghat road.

Katteri Falls is 10 km away from Coonoor. It is the third highest falls in the Nilgris. It has the distinction of having run the first coordinate factory with the hydel electric power plant in 1902.

The Droog is the most captivating place in and around Coonoor. One has to first go to Nonsuch estate, which is 17 km from Coonoor, and then trek 4 km to reach the ruins of the old fort. The panaromic view of the green mountains is simply the best. This was once a strategic military post.

571 km from Chennai.
Nearest airport - Coimbatore.
Nearest rail hub - Mettupalayam or Coimbatore.
Well connected by road.

YERCAUD

At an altitude of 1,515 mts, Yercaud's pleasant climate makes it one of the few year-round hill stations in the country. Situated on the Shevaroyan hills in Salem district, this hill station offers several breathtaking views.

At Yercaud, what should be part of the tourist's itinerary is Yercaud Lake (that is lined with gardens and woods), Anna Park, Lady's Seat, Killiyur Falls, Pagoda Point and Bear's Cave. Also part of the attraction is the Shevaroyan temple and the castle-styled building called the Grange.

Accommodation is available at the guesthouse run by the Tamilnadu Tourism Development Corporation.

360 kms from Chennai.
Nearest airport - Tiruchirapalli.
Nearest rail hub - Salem.
Accessible by road.

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