Kotagiri is your classic plantation location, with meandering hairpin roads, tea plantations, and a cool climate. It is one of the three well-known hill towns in the Nilgiris, along with Ooty and Coonoor. The hill station is situated at a height of 5,882 feet. The name translates to “Mountains of the Kotas,” indicating the Kota tribe, an indigenous tribal community in the Nilgiris.
Kotagiri boasts majestic panoramas of the surrounding landscapes, winding roads, lookout sites, hiking paths, and cool temperatures. The most well-liked hiking routes in Kotagiri are those that go to Catherine Falls, Kodanad, and Longwood Shola for daring hikers. A meadow, tea farms, and the Moyar River are all along the route that leads to Kodanad.
Ideal months to visit– October-December; March-May
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How to reach Kotagiri?
By air: Kotagiri’s nearest airport is in Coimbatore. It is a 69-kilometre drive that takes around 2 hours. The best way to get across from the airport to the tourist hill station is to hire a taxi outside the airport or you can rent a car if you are the kind who loves long drives.
By rail: Coonoor, about 21 kilometres from Kotagiri, is the nearest train depot. The other nearest train stations to Kotagiri are Ooty (29 km) and Mettupalayam (33 km). You could hire a cab from the railway or take a direct bus to the town.
By road: There are numerous roads that all lead to Kotagiri. It is well-linked to all of the state’s major cities. Kotagiri is 29 kilometres from Ooty, 63 kilometres from Coimbatore, 126 kilometres from Erode, 194 kilometres from Salem, 258 kilometres from Trichy, and 294 kilometres from Bangalore.
Best time to visit Kotagiri
Kotagiri offers pleasant weather and natural beauty throughout the year. However, the best time to visit Kotagiri depends on your preferences and the kind of experience you seek. Here are the different seasons and the best time to plan your visit:
Summer (March to May)
The summer season in Kotagiri is relatively mild and pleasant, making it a popular time to visit. The temperature ranges from 15°C to 25°C, providing a comfortable climate for exploring the scenic beauty of the region. It is an ideal time for outdoor activities, nature walks, and enjoying the picturesque landscapes.
Monsoon (June to September)
Kotagiri experiences moderate to heavy rainfall during the monsoon season. The hills and valleys come alive with lush greenery, waterfalls, and mist-covered landscapes, offering a serene and rejuvenating ambiance. If you enjoy the tranquillity of rainy days and wish to witness the natural beauty in its full glory, the monsoon season can be an excellent time to visit. However, it is advisable to check weather conditions and road accessibility before planning your trip.
Winter (October to February)
The winter season in Kotagiri is relatively cold but enjoyable, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. The weather is ideal for sightseeing, trekking and indulging in outdoor activities. The clear skies and cool climate provide breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. It is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher accommodation rates during this time.
Overall, the months from March to May and October to February are considered the best time to visit Kotagiri, offering pleasant weather and a range of outdoor activities. However, if you are a monsoon lover and wish to experience the beauty of nature in its lush green splendour, the rainy season can be a unique and enchanting time to explore Kotagiri.
Must see locations and landmarks
- Longwood Shola Reserve Forest
- Catherine Falls
- Elk Falls
- Kodanad View Point
- Rangaswamy Peak
- John Sullivan Memorial
7 must-visit Kotagiri resorts for a glimpse of the paradise
These seven beautiful properties, each unique and tasteful in its own beautiful space. Do plan your itinerary seeking inspiration from these and enjoy the foggy hills and valleys that enfold Kotagiri.
Green Nest Resort
Green Nest is a true paradise with eternal beauty and enjoyment, nestled among the conveniences of a lush 25-acre tea plantation and flanked by hills on all sides. There are 15 opulent rooms at the resort, each with a stunning view of the tea plantations. Each accommodation has a balcony that overlooks the tea gardens.
Source: Pinterest
The hotel has four distinct categories of rooms, each with varying levels of luxury. The surrounding spices and tea’s subtle, delicious fragrance revitalise the body, mind, and soul.
Amenities and info
3-star property
Average prices starting from – Rs 4900
| Garden Gazebo | Walking/Cycling Tracks | Playground | Indoor |
| Amphitheatre | Indoor Play Centre | Lounge | Garden Cafe |
| Restaurant | In-room dining | Barbeque on balcony | Candlelight dinner on the balcony |
| Trekking trails | Bonfire | Doctor on call | Transfers |
Timings
Check-in time: 2:00 pm
Check-out time: 12:00 pm
Address
Gundada Pirivu, Kettikambai Road, Kotagiri, Tamil Nadu 643217
Location info
31 km from Ooty; Approximately 1 hr drive
73.3 km from Coimbatore; Approximately 2 hr 20 min drive
22.2 km from Coonoor; Approximately 45 min drive
Kurumba Village Resort
A lush landscape that serves as a haven for the senses, where the earth is nourished and nurtured. The resort is named after “Kurumbas,” a long-forgotten tribe, as a homage to the historic tribe that coexisted harmoniously with nature.
The resort is enveloped in a cloud of green, and its earthy, meandering walkways take you to the rooms. Cottages are designed in a tribal style and made with natural materials, including creature comforts. Inhale the spicy scent of the cloves, pepper, and nutmeg. The resort was skillfully moulded into a slope on a 10-acre former spice plantation without cutting even one tree.
Heal your body and mind with Ayurvedic massages, ride some horses, or play a match of badminton to create fun memories here.
Source: Pinterest
Amenities and info
4-star property
Average prices starting from Rs 2700
| Wi-Fi | Television | Minifridges | Whirlpool baths |
| Free Parking | Restaurant | Ayurvedic Spa | Game room |
| Kids Playroom | Outdoor pool | Bonfire | Air Conditioner |
| Trekking trails | Jacuzzi | Badminton | Golf |
Timings
Check-in time: 1:00 pm
Check-out time: 11:00 am
Address
Hillgrove post, Kurumbadi, Burliyar, Tamil Nadu 643102
Location info
32 km from Ooty; Approximately 1 hr 10 min drive
53.8 km from Coimbatore; Approximately 1 hr 30 min drive
15.7 km from Coonoor; Approximately 36 min drive
PrakritiLaya Nature Homes
In the stunning Blue Mountains of the Nilgiris, PrakritiLaya is tucked away in the lush tea plantations of Kotagiri, where you may disconnect and let nature calm your spirits. Wake up to the sound of the birds, refresh your lungs with some crisp, clean air, and then relax with some of their delicious, home-cooked vegetarian food.
This property practises environmental sustainability giving you the additional satisfaction of doing your part for Mother Earth.
Source: PrakritiLaya
They have four rooms against three categories to tend to any luxury escapism you may have in mind from your daily hustle. If you are feeling more daring, you may explore the Longwood Shola Forest (permissions required), where you could be thrilled to come across some of its wild dwellers.
Amenities and info
3-star property
Average prices starting from – Rs 1500
| Restaurant | Complimentary Breakfast | Lush Gardens | Free Wi-Fi |
| Housekeeping | Transfers | Free Parking | Kitchen |
| Kids Activities | Boutique shopping | Smoke-free property | Biodiversity Walk |
Timings
Check-in time: 1:00 pm
Check-out time: 11:00 am
Address
Kotagiri – Kodanad Rd, Kairbetta, Kotagiri, Tamil Nadu 643217
Location info
34 km from Ooty; Approximately 1 hr drive
70 km from Coimbatore via Mettupalayam; Approximately 2 hr drive
22 km from Coonoor; Approximately 47 min drive
Chow Chow Valley Resorts
Source: Chow Chow Valley
The vegetable called “Chow Chow,” referred to as “Bangalore Brinjal,” inspired this eponymous resort. Similar to cucumbers and watermelons that have a high water content, the resort has set aside more than seven acres of farmland for this specific vegetable. Seeing the plantation is a unique experience, in addition to the spectacular tea farms surrounding it.
Chow Chow is positioned well above the valley on a spacious 20-acre property in the centre of Kotagiri. You will undoubtedly be captivated by the untouched beauty of the landscape as it is seen from a spectacular bird’s eye perspective.
They have an internal reservoir that serves as a pond for the daring. A natural aqua spa is another option, as fish are added to the reservoir regularly. The campus is covered in beautiful green lawns bordered by eye-catching, multicoloured saplings.
Amenities and info
3-star property
Average prices starting from – Rs 4300
| 24×7 hot water | Dining Room | Party Hall | 24×7 medical assistance |
| Natural Aqua Spa | Multi-cuisine Food | Insulated Rooms | 24×7 security |
| Room Service | Bonfire | Free Breakfast | Free Parking |
| Laundry | Air Conditioner | 24×7 front desk | Child-Friendly |
Timings
Check-in time: 1:00 pm
Check-out time: 11:00 am
Address
22/155, Kairbetta, K. K. Nagar, Kotagiri, Tamil Nadu 643217
Location info
32 km from Ooty; Approximately 1 hr drive
68 km from Coimbatore; Approximately 2 hr drive
20 km from Coonoor; Approximately 45 min drive
The Den By Trees Resort
The Den by Trees is the ideal spot to stay in Kotagiri if you enjoy spending time with your loved ones amidst a beautiful green environment while on vacation. The resort’s expansive windows provide a beautiful view of the well-known Kodamalai hills. There are four main types of accommodations available: tents, cottages, huts, and villas.
You will get to stay in rooms that vary from minimal to tastefully decorated, with all the necessary conveniences. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to spend time in the wellness centre, which is housed inside the resort grounds and includes a fitness centre, a therapeutic spa, and a game area.
It offers horseback riding, trekking, tree planting, nature walks, and other agricultural pursuits. Likewise, there are games like archery, shooting, cricket, badminton, and basketball.
Amenities and info
3-star property
Average prices starting from – Rs 3300
| Free Breakfast | Buffer Dinner | Room Service | Laundry |
| Child-Friendly | Transfers | Play area | Gym |
| Indoor Games | Bonfire | Floral Garden | Dining Cabin |
| Free Parking | 24×7 front desk |
Timings
Check-in time: 2:00 pm
Check-out time: 12:00 pm
Address
Kodamalai Estate, Kettikambai, Gundada post, Kotagiri, Tamil Nadu 643217
Location info
30 km from Ooty; Approximately 1 hr drive
71 km from Coimbatore; Approximately 2 hr drive
20 km from Coonoor; Approximately 40 min drive
Golf Dale Holiday Resort Kotagiri
Although technically a luxury villa, this property easily feels like a resort thanks to the lush gardens and picturesque scenery, making it a naturalist’s paradise. It is in a good location—central yet away from the crowd. They are testified to having excellent service and really delicious home cooking. The property is spacious, with three very tidy rooms and attached bathrooms.
The bedrooms are large and airy, with large windows. The meals served at the cottage are delicious and homemade, according to a lot of reviews and testimonies we hear. The lovely garden area has a badminton court, a relaxing swing to swing your worries away, and a campfire.
Amenities and info
3-star property
Average prices starting from – Rs 10000
| Free Parking | Free WI-Fi | Restaurant | Room Service |
| Smoke-Free Property | Daily Housekeeping | Front desk | Kids Activities |
| Indoor Games | Transfers | Doctor on Call |
Timings
Check-in time: 2:00 pm
Check-out time: 12:00 pm
Address
Riverside School Main Road, Near Pandian Park, The Nilgiri’s, Kotagiri, Tamil Nadu 643217
Location info
30 km from Ooty; Approximately 1 hr drive
71 km from Coimbatore; Approximately 2 hr drive
20 km from Coonoor; Approximately 40 min drive
Farview Mountain Resort Villas
Rated Tamil Nadu’s Best Mountain Resort 2016-18, this luxury resort proudly showcases elegance, beauty, tranquillity, and fine dining at its best. Farview is a European-style mansion and annexes kept within the Hills, nestled high in the Blue Mountains and protected by the Shola Natural Reserve Forest.
Source: Farview Mountain Resort
Each magnificent Villa offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Nilgiri Hills, gorgeous tea estates, and distant plains. This spectacular panorama can be enjoyed from the privacy of your villa, which has a wrap-around veranda. This slice of paradise provides visitors with a tranquil setting, cutting-edge design, and unmatched luxury at every turn.
Amenities and info
4-star property
Average prices starting from – Rs 14000
| Luxury Villas | Free Breakfast | Airport Shuttle | Restaurant |
| Room Service | Front Desk | Laundry | Child Friendly |
| Hot Tub | Kitchen | 24 hr medical assistance | Television |
Timings
Check-in time: 2:00 pm
Check-out time: 12:00 pm
Address
Riverside School Main Road, Near Pandian Park, The Nilgiri’s, Kotagiri, Tamil Nadu 643217
Location info
30 km from Ooty; Approximately 1 hr drive
71 km from Coimbatore; Approximately 2 hr drive
20 km from Coonoor; Approximately 40 min drive
FAQs
How many days would be needed to explore Kotagiri?
2 - 3 days should suffice to cover all the important and scenic spots in Kotagiri.
How is the weather in Kotagiri?
The average daytime temperature is around 20 degrees, and the nighttime temperature is about 10 degrees.
What are the average rates of properties around Kotagiri?
The average price range of the best properties in Kotagiri varies anywhere from Rs. 3000/night to Rs. 12000/night, depending on the star category, amenities and experiences they offer.
Saswat Kumar, a real estate writer, keeps up with the latest trends in residential real estate. He simplifies complex real estate jargon, making it accessible to all. Saswat’s data-driven analysis empowers buyers and investors to make informed choices in the housing market.
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