Dolphin's Nose - Coonoor

Coonoor has no shortage of viewpoints. But Dolphin's Nose is easily among the most popular.

Located around 10–12 km from Coonoor town, the viewpoint stands at an altitude of about 1,550 metres above sea level. The drive itself is enjoyable, passing through the green landscape of the Nilgiris and stretches of tea estates before reaching the viewpoint.

The place gets its unusual name from the shape of the projecting rock, which is said to resemble the nose of a dolphin.

Once you reach the viewpoint, the landscape suddenly opens up.

Deep valleys lie on either side, while layer after layer of Nilgiri hills stretches into the distance. The greenery is especially impressive when the hills have received good rain. On a clear day, Catherine Falls can be seen across the valley, dropping down the distant mountainside.

Catherine Falls from Dolphin's Nose

Catherine Falls is actually one of the highlights of the view.

From this distance, the waterfall appears as a narrow white streak cutting through the green hillside. Of course, the Nilgiris has its own plans. Mist can move in quickly and hide the waterfall, the valley and sometimes almost everything in front of you.

So, the experience depends considerably on the weather.

I always find such viewpoints more interesting when the clouds keep moving. One moment the valley is hidden. A few minutes later, the mist clears and an entirely different landscape appears.

The Journey Matters Too

Dolphin's Nose is reached by road from Coonoor, and the route through the hills is part of the experience. Lamb's Rock is also located along the same general sightseeing route, so the two places can conveniently be covered together.

There is a viewing area protected by railings, but the drops beyond are steep. This is one place where enjoying the scenery from the designated viewpoint is more sensible than trying to move closer to the edge.

Dolphin's Nose is not a place that needs several hours.

Come here for the drive, the cool Nilgiri air, the deep valleys and, if the weather cooperates, that distant view of Catherine Falls.

Sometimes, that is more than enough.

Happy travelling.