'Nilgiris' or 'Blue Mountains' rise to an altitude of
2,280 m to 2,290 m above sea level. Situated at the confluence of the
Western and the Eastern Ghats known as the Sahayadri Hills, Nilgiris
offers some of the most panoramic views of Deccan India. Some of the
most well-known highlights of Nilgiris are Udhagamandalam or Ooty,
Coonoor, Kotagiri, Doddabetta peak, Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary, 180-ft
high Laws Falls, Dolphin's Nose, a unique rock of tremendous proportions
jutting out of the face of the hillside, Catherine falls, Kodanad
Viewpoint, which offers panoramic view of the plains and the eastern
slopes of the Nilgiris, Mukkurthi Peak and National Park and Pykara
known for well-protected fenced sholas, Toda settlements, undisturbed
grassy meadows and a good wildlife habitat along with Pykara Dam, Pykara
falls and the reservoir. To its west lies Kerala while there is Mysore
to the north of the hills and Coimbatore covers its east and south. It
has been carved as a district known as Nilgiris district with its
district headquarters at Udhagamandalam or Ooty.The highest peak of Nilgiris is Doddabetta, which reaches up to an altitude of 2,623 m above sea level. The beautiful scenery of Nilgiris with steep hills, narrow valleys, rivers and rivulets rushing downhills, fine waterfalls, lush green forests and the pleasant temperate climate make it one of the most desirable hill-tour destination. Along with a number of popular hill resorts and major tea estates in South India, Nilgiris got its name from the misty blue haze that envelops the distant hills and blue-violet 'Kurinji' flowers that bloom to cover the hills like a carpet once every 12 years. A trekker's paradise, Nilgiris have been so planned and landscaped by Nature itself that there are number of treks in all directions that are thrilling, exciting and adventurous all at once. Trekking through Nilgiris is perhaps the best way to come closer to Nature and its blessings. One may opt for the guided tour while trekking too.
