Image source: Pradeep K
About Catherine Falls
A spectacular two-tiered waterfall, Catherine Falls is located near Kotagiri in the Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu. Surrounded by lush greenery and tea estates, the falls are a perfect destination for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure enthusiasts.
One of the tallest waterfalls in the Nilgiris, its cascade from a height of 250 feet. The water flows in two stages, creating a breathtaking visual as it plunges into the valley below.
The interesting point to note is that you cannot reach the base of the waterfall; to get the full view of the waterfall, reach the Dolphin’s Nose Viewpoint that offers a panoramic perspective of the cascading waterfall against the backdrop of the surrounding hills and forests.
How to Reach Catherine Falls
To reach the waterfall, start from a town, Aravenu, that falls on the Kotagiri-Mettupalayam Road. Travel via Moon Road to come on the Catherine Road. A trek of 2-3 km takes you to Catherine Falls with sprawling tea plantations, eucalyptus trees, and the sound of chirping birds enhancing the experience.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Catherine Falls is during the monsoon season (July to September) or post-monsoon months (October to March), when the waterfall is at its fullest and the surroundings are vibrant and green.
Nearby Attractions
1. Dolphin’s Nose Viewpoint: Offers a stunning aerial view of Catherine Falls and the surrounding landscape.
2. Kotagiri: A serene hill station with charming tea estates, colonial-era bungalows, and pleasant weather.
3. Rangaswamy Pillar: A massive rock pillar offering a unique geological feature and a trekking challenge.