Visit the Botanical Gardens that sprawls over 55 acres and houses over 650 species of plants and trees. The Gardens have an enviable collection of orchids and ferns and a fossil tree trunk that is said to be 20 million years old. Enjoy the colorful flower beds, musical fountain, and the Toda hill that offers a panoramic view of the gardens and the town of Ooty.
Experience breathtaking views of the Nilgiri Mountains from the Doddabetta Peak, the highest peak of the Nilgiri range, standing tall at 8,650 feet. On a clear day, you can see up to 50 km away. The peak can be reached by a motorable road or a trek from the base. The telescope house on top of the peak offers better views of the surroundings.
Learn about the history of tea production in the Nilgiris at the Tea Museum. The museum is housed in a colonial-era tea factory and has exhibits on tea processing, packaging, and tasting. You can also buy locally grown tea and tea products from the museum store.
Visit the Sim's Park, a botanical garden in Coonoor with over 1,000 species of plants and trees. The park has a beautiful collection of roses, hydrangeas, and bonsai trees. The park is laid out in a Japanese style with winding footpaths, rockeries, and small waterfalls. Don't miss the annual fruit and vegetable show held in May.
Take a scenic drive to Dolphin's Nose, a viewpoint that offers stunning views of the Nilgiri Mountains and the Catherine Falls. The viewpoint is named after a rock formation that looks like a dolphin's nose. From the viewpoint, you can also see the Mettupalayam plains and the Coimbatore plains on a clear day.
Visit the Catherine Falls, a double-cascaded waterfall located in the Kotagiri area of the Nilgiris. The falls are named after the wife of M.D.Cockburn, who was a coffee planter in the area. The falls can be reached by a trek through the forest or by road. Be prepared for a steep climb down to the base of the falls.