About the Place: 

Kotagiri or Kothagiri is a taluk and a panchayat town in the district of Nilgiris. It is the third-largest, and the oldest hill station in the hills of Nilgiri. This magnificent hill is enveloped by lush green tea estates and picturesque landscapes. Situated at an altitude of 6,060ft above sea level, this is an ideal destination for nature lovers, ardent trekkers, and passionate rock climbers in the State of Tamilnadu. Kotagiri has the climatic advantage, as it is bulwarked by the Doddabetta ranges, from the onset of the monsoon weather. Retaining its beauty, this emerald green hill offers moderate weather all through the year. Like most hill stations in India, even this tourist spot reminds you of the colonial era. 

Extolled for the temple of Kota amidst the town, Kotagiri was once a dwelling place of the Kota tribal people. The name Kotagiri means ‘mountains of the Kotas.’Kotagiri became a famous tourist place after the construction of the ghat road from Mettupalyam on the foothills of Coonoor. Even before this place got acknowledged as a travel destination, travelers who were touring to Ooty had to pass through Kotagiri. Apart from trekking, there is not much to do in Kotagiri except for strolling through the tea plantations. You can even watch the workers pluck tea leaves, and bask in the cool climate of the region. When in Kotagiri, do not miss visiting one of the finest tea factories, that caters to the international market. 

The most significant trekking trails in Kotagiri are towards Kodanad, Catherine Falls, and Longwood Shola. The path that leads to Kodananad passes through the verdant meadows and pristine pure Moyar River. 

The major sightseeing places are:

• Catherine Falls, 
• Elk Falls, 
• Doddabetta Range, and 
• the Rangaswamy Pillar. 
• Kodanad Point offers breathtaking views of the circumferential hills and valleys. 

The best time to visit Kotagiri is during October. The hill was earlier known as Kotakeri or Kotagheri which means ‘street of the Kotas’. In 1911, the government acquired the region, and the Kota tribe people were shifted to Aggal hamlet about two km away. John Sullivan, the then collector of Coimbatore, visited Kotagiri and was so attracted to the place that, he built a home there. Hence, he became the first European to reside in Kotagiri.