Geography of the Blue Mountains
A land where the Western and Eastern Ghats meet. Explore the unique topography that makes the Nilgiris a biodiversity hotspot.
2,552 km² Total Area
2,240 m Ooty Altitude
2,637 m Highest Peak (Doddabetta)
Where is the Nilgiris Located?
The Nilgiris district is a bridge between three southern states: Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka. This strategic location gives it a diverse culture and ecosystem.
📍 Geographical Borders
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North: Mysore & Chamarajanagar (Karnataka)
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West: Wayanad & Malappuram (Kerala)
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South: Coimbatore (Tamil Nadu)
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East: Erode (Tamil Nadu)
Topography & Landscape
The district is a massive plateau, rising steeply from the plains. It is divided into two distinct natural zones:
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The Nilgiri Plateau: The higher region (approx. 2000m+) comprising Ooty, Coonoor, and Kotagiri. This area features rolling grasslands and "Shola" forests.
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The Wynaad Tableland: The lower region (approx. 1000m) comprising Gudalur, which is warmer and dense with bamboo and paddy fields.
Why is Nilgiri Tea so Special?
The high altitude (6,000+ ft) and unique mist cycles slow down the growth of the tea bush, concentrating the flavor. This is why Nilgiri Tea is world-famous.
Taste the High-Altitude Tea
The "Salubrious" Climate
The British called Ooty's climate "Salubrious" (health-giving). Unlike the Himalayas which freeze, or the plains which burn, Ooty remains temperate year-round.
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Summer (Mar-Jun): Max 25°C. Warm days, cool nights.
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Monsoon (Jul-Sep): Max 19°C. Heavy rainfall on the western slopes (Gudalur/Pandalur) and lighter rain in Ooty/Coonoor.
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Winter (Nov-Feb): Min 0°C. Known for the morning frost and clear blue skies.
Interesting Fact: The eastern part of the district (Kotagiri/Coonoor) receives less rain than the western part (Avalanche/Gudalur) due to the rain-shadow effect.
Geography FAQ
Q: What is the highest waterfall in the Nilgiris?
The Kolakambai Falls is the highest, dropping 400 feet. The more famous Catherine Falls (near Kotagiri) is the second highest at 250 feet.
Q: Why is Ooty colder than Coonoor?
It is simple physics. Ooty is at a higher altitude (2,240m) compared to Coonoor (1,502m). For every 1000m you climb, the temperature drops by about 6.5°C.
Data Source: Nilgiris District Administration Records.
