10 Unmissable Things to Do in Wellington, Ooty, and Coonoor

Tucked in Tamil Nadu’s Nilgiri Hills, Wellington is a serene escape between Ooty and Coonoor, where crisp 13°C air and lush greenery offer a stark contrast to India’s scorching plains. A 2024 TripAdvisor survey ranked the Nilgiris among South India’s top slow travel destinations, and Wellington delivers with its biodiversity, colonial charm, and adventure trails. Whether you’re fleeing Delhi’s 43°C heat or chasing authentic experiences, this military town and its neighbours promise a transformative trip.

Here’s your ultimate guide to Wellington’s best, updated for 2025.

Unlock Nilgiris’ Hidden Gems through this immersive Wellington travel guide

To soak in the magical bliss of the south, I’d recommend everyone take a trip to the Nilgiris. India’s oldest biosphere reserve, the Nilgiris, offers the thickest nature canopy in South India. I grabbed the unique opportunity to visit Coonoor & Wellington this summer. It didn’t disappoint!

After learning about its wonderful biodiversity and stunning outdoors, I was lured into a trip to Wellington, and what could be a perfect time to explore the place other than the peak summer. So, instead of getting toasted in Delhi (at 43 degrees Celsius), I chose to pack my bag and escape to Wellington in Tamil Nadu. Perfect 13-degree weather, lush green outdoors, topped with crisp mountain air, and occasional monsoon drizzles, is all you need to beat the great Indian summers. Safe to say, I savoured the best that Wellington, Coonoor, and Ooty combined had to offer!

Getting to Wellington

Wellington is accessible via Coimbatore (70 km) or Ooty (13 km). 

• By Air: Fly into Coimbatore International Airport, connected to major Indian cities. A taxi (1.5-2 hours) or a bus reaches Wellington. 
• By Rail: Mettupalayam (38 km) or Coonoor (3 km) are the nearest stations. The UNESCO-listed Nilgiri Mountain Railway is a scenic must-do. 
• By Road: Drive or take a bus from Coimbatore (2 hours) or Ooty (30 minutes). Local buses from Coonoor cost INR 10 and take 15 minutes.

Unmissable Things to Do in Wellington, Ooty, and Coonoor for 2025

1. Ride the Nilgiri Mountain Railway

The UNESCO-listed Nilgiri Mountain Railway from Ooty to Coonoor to Mettupalayam is a 2.5-hour journey through waterfalls, tunnels, and tea estates. Departing Coonoor at 3:15 PM daily, the train’s vintage charm and 15 kmph pace let you soak in every view. Book tickets via IRCTC for INR 200-2000, depending on the class. 

• Pro Tip: Visit the Nilgiri Mountain Railway Museum in Mettupalayam for a historical deep dive.

2. Trek the Doddabetta Trails

Wellington’s proximity to Doddabetta Peak, the Nilgiris’ highest point, makes it a trekking hub. Trails around the MRC and DSSC campuses lead to the mountain’s base, a popular film-shooting spot. Expect 2-3 hour hikes through tea plantations and forests, perfect for adventure seekers. 

• Eco-Tip: Stick to marked paths to preserve the Nilgiris Biosphere Reserve’s biodiversity.

3. Explore Wellington Lake’s Serenity

Nestled in Keelachiruvoi village, Wellington Lake is Tamil Nadu’s second-largest lake, offering boating (INR 20) and stunning views of tea estates. A 2024 review called it a “tranquil oasis” with a light-and-sound show at dusk. Feed ducks or relax by Gandhi’s statue for a peaceful escape. 

• Nearby: Visit Rallia Dam for birdwatching (hornbills, kingfishers).

4. Tee Off at Wellington Gymkhana Club

This historic club, nestled in Nilgiri greenery, boasts one of India’s oldest golf courses. Non-members can visit with prior arrangement, enjoying the colonial pavilion and tea estate views. Try tennis or billiards for a full experience. 

Vibe: Sip coffee while watching a golf match for royal feels.

5. Marvel at Lamb’s Rock and Dolphin’s Nose

A 1.5-hour drive from Wellington, Lamb’s Rock and Dolphin’s Nose offer panoramic views of Coonoor’s valleys and Catherine Falls. Trek through tea estates to reach these viewpoints, perfect for Instagram-worthy shots. 

• Tip: Visit during monsoon for misty vistas.

6. Savor Handmade Nilgiri Chocolates

Wellington’s roadside stalls and Coonoor’s confectioneries sell low-sugar, cocoa-rich chocolates crafted by local artisans. Pair them with filter coffee from spots like Sri Lakshmi in Coonoor’s market for a true South Indian treat. 

• Where to Buy: Green Shop- Last Forest in Coonoor offers artisanal chocolates and wild honey.

7. Stroll Ooty’s Rose Garden

Just 13 km from Wellington, Ooty’s Government Rose Garden houses 20,000 roses across 2,220 varieties. A 2024 report noted it’s a top family-friendly spot, ideal for a quick day trip. 

• Add-On: Pair with a visit to Ooty Lake for boating (INR 20-50). 

8. Discover Coonoor’s Sim’s Park

A 10-minute bus ride from Coonoor’s station, Sim’s Park is a botanical gem with terraced gardens and rare plants. Entry is INR 5, and the uphill walk is worth it for nature lovers. 

• Event: Visit in May for the Fruit and Vegetable Show. 

9. Dine at Coonoor’s Hidden Gems

From South Indian idlis at Sri Lakshmi to continental dishes at Gateway Coonoor, the area’s food scene is vibrant. Try Cafe Coffee Bean for aromatic coffee or Cherrie Berry for desserts. 

• Pro Tip: Order from Jarokha for North Indian takeout if you’re staying in.

10. Visit the Madras Regiment Museum

Wellington, home to the Madras Regiment Centre, hosts a museum showcasing the oldest infantry regiment’s history (est. 1750s). Guided tours narrate its role in global campaigns, offering a unique cultural stop. Open to visitors with prior permission. 

• Note: Contact the MRC for access details.

Plan Your Nilgiris Adventure

Wellington, Ooty, and Coonoor blend slow travel, eco-tourism, and cultural immersion, with 2025 trends like sustainable tea estate tours gaining traction. From serene lakes to historic trains, this region is a millennial’s dream. Ready to explore? Dive into my curated city guides or join me on Instagram to swap tips. What’s your must-do in Wellington?