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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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