Kotagiri
A quaint town in the Nilgiris
The Name ‘Nilgiris’ means Blue hills (Neelam – Blue and giri – Hill or Mountain) the first mention of this name has been found in the Silappadikaram. There is a belief that the people living in the plains at the foot of the hills, should have given the name, the Nilgiris, in view of the violet blossoms of ‘kurinji’ a native flower enveloping the hill ranges periodically.
In 1818, Mr. Whish and Kindersley, who were assistants to the Collector of Coimbatore, discovered the place Kotagiri near Rengaswamy peak. John Sullivan, the then Collector of Coimbatore was greatly interested in this part of the country.
Kotagiri or Kothagiri is a taluk and a Panchayat town in The Nilgiris District in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is the third largest hill station in the Nilgiri hills.
Kotagiri which gets its name from the Kota tribes and means the "Mountain of Kotas" is a quiet place in the Nilgiris cloaked with the dense forest of Shola.The refreshing climate of this place makes it a complacent option to visit, all round the year.
Altitude: 1,847 m (6,060 ft approx.)
Places to Visit
Kodanadu View Point
Located at a distance of about 12 kms from Prakritilaya Nature Homes is one of the most famous scenic spots in Kotagiri the spectacular breathtaking Kodanadu view pointwhich offers a memorable experience. On a clear day, you can get to see the birds eye view of the Mysore Plateau. You can also spot the Thengumarahada Tribal Village on one side, Mayar River & Bhavani Sagar Dam on the other. The drive to this place from Kotagiri is scenic &takes you through the sprawling tea estates.
Catherine Water Falls
All those who can walk an extra mile to see the best views, Catherine Falls is a perfect summer getaway for you in Kotagiri. Catherine Falls lets you enjoy a stunning waterfall falling from height of 250 feet. It is a hidden gem in Kotagiri and an ideal point for families to relax and rejuvenate away from the monotony of everyday life.
Catherine Falls is named after Catherine Cockburn, the wife of M. D. Cockburn, who introduced coffee plantations in Kotagiri.The early morning mist gives you a perfect view, making your visit to Catherine Falls an unforgettable moment. However, if you are not a morning person, you can also plan to soak up its unmissable beauty even in the afternoon.
John Sullivan Memorial
While in Kotagiri, a visit to John Sullivan’s Pethakkal Bungalow which has now been converted to a memorial is a must visit. Located in Kannerimukku just 8 kmsfrom Prakritilaya, this brick red building with old-school white doors and windows is replete with oodles of old-world English charm. Restored and renovated in the 2000s, the building is a treasure trove of information on the life and times of John Sullivan and his contribution to the socio-economic development of the Nilgiris. The museum also houses rare photographs of the indigenous tribes of the region, including their native crafts and occupationspractised by them.
St. Luke’s Church
If you are a fan of history, heritage and architecture, St Luke’s Church in the town calls for a visit. With its majestic stone facade, brick-tiled sloping roof, arched windows and a vintage clock atop its tower, the 1867-built Luke’s Church in Kotagiri is a perfect symbol of the bygone era.
The Town
While in the town, relish some mountain specialities like the delectable plum cakes, speciality teas and varkey available in the little bakeries near Johnstone Square. Shop for local handicrafts, including Toda tribal-embroidered shawls, stoles and cushion covers at Kotagiri Woman’s Cooperative Cottage Industrial Society at Ramachand Square. If you love handmade soaps, niche pottery and gourmet chocolates, Green Shop in the town centre is worth exploring. Hand-knitted sweater , shawls, honey, tand essential oils are also great souvenir options. Speciality Niligiri Teas are available at Prakritilaya Nature Homes gift shop.
