 The Nilgiri hills, a range of mountains with at least 24 peaks, bestow glory and magnificence to the southern part of Indian subcontinent. The Nilgiri hills also known as the 'Blue Mountain' rise to a height of 6,000-8000 ft. The highest peak in the hills is Doddabetta which is about 8,652 feet. The hills provide an arena for trekking, and other adventurous holiday options which can wonderfully satiate one's quest for leisure.
Location of Nilgiri Hills Situated in the southern region of India, the Nilgiri Hills are geographically demarcated by the Moyar River to the north, which acts as a natural boundary separating them from the Karnataka Plateau. This geographical location places the Nilgiri Hills at the confluence of three Indian states, namely Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu, resulting in the significant topographical feature in the region. The latitudinal and longitudinal dimensions of the hills are 130 km by 185 km. The Nilgiri hills constitute the Nilgiri district. The Nilgiri Hills are encompassed by three prominent national parks, each adding to the natural diversity and ecological significance of the area. To the north, the Mudumalai National Park spans an extensive area of 321 square kilometers, creating a pristine wilderness where the three states converge. To the southwest lies the Mukurthi National Park which covers more than 75 square kilometers, boasting a remarkable shola-grassland mosaic landscape that provides habitat for the Nilgiri tahr, a species of mountain goat. Silent Valley National Park, contiguous with the former two, extends to the south, encompassing an area of 89.52 square kilometers. Etymology of Nilgiri Hills The etymology of the Nilgiri Hills can be traced back to the fusion of two Sanskrit words, namely "neelam" meaning "blue" and "giri" meaning "mountain." The term "Nilgiri" has been documented in historical records as far back as 1117 CE. In Tamil literature, the hills are referred to as "Iraniyamuttam." This nomenclature likely emerged due to the distinct bluish hue of the flowers that adorn the kurinji shrubs native to the region. The word "Nilgiri," encapsulating the essence of these mountains, succinctly signifies their unique characteristic of appearing blue, a visual spectacle attributed to the vast stretches of kurinji shrubs that bloom in unison once every twelve years. This etymological origin reflects the interplay between language, geography, and nature, underscoring the profound impact of the environment on linguistic evolution. Conservation of Resources on Nilgiri Hills The Nilgiri Hills, an integral component of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve reflects India's commitment to resource conservation and environmental stewardship. This biosphere reserve holds a distinguished position within the esteemed UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves, underscoring its global significance in ecological preservation. Within the boundaries of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, the Nilgiri Hills occupy a pivotal role as protected bio-reserves. This designation shows a concerted effort to safeguard the region's natural resources, fragile ecosystems, and unique biodiversity. Conservation initiatives in the Nilgiri Hills encompass a multifaceted approach, encompassing the preservation of native flora and fauna, the sustainable management of water resources, and the promotion of eco-friendly practices among local communities. These efforts are instrumental in maintaining the delicate balance between human activities and the fragile environment. History of Nilgiri Hills The history of the Nilgiri Hills reveals a fascinating narrative of human habitation and exploration. Prehistoric relics, unearthed by diligent excavators, attest to the region's ancient settlement. Notably, artifacts amassed by colonial officers such as James Wilkinson Breeks, Major M. J. Walhouse, and Sir Walter Elliot are housed in the British Museum, showcasing the rich archaeological heritage of the Nilgiri Hills. The earliest documented use of the term "Nila" in reference to this area dates back to 1117 CE. It appears in a report by a general of King Vishnuvardhana of the Hoysalas, chronicling his conquests and offering of the Nila Mountain's peak to the Goddess of Wealth, Lakshmi. Historical inscriptions also illuminate the Nilgiri Hills' past. A Veeragallu (hero stone) bearing a Kannada inscription from the 10th century CE was discovered in the Nilgiri District. Additionally, a 14th-century Kannada inscription linked to Hoysala king Ballala III was found near the Moyar and Bhavani rivers, though the temple it adorned is now submerged beneath the Bhavani Sagar dam. The early 19th century marked a significant turning point, as British explorers and administrators ventured into the region. The Hills rapidly developed under British colonial rule, driven by its popularity as a summer retreat. Ooty, becoming the official sanatorium and summer capital of the Madras Presidency in 1827, catalyzed this development. The construction of winding hill roads and the completion of the Nilgiri Mountain Railway in 1899 further opened up this picturesque landscape. According to historians, the Toda, Badaga, Kota, Irula and kurumbas were the original inhabitants of the Nilgiri hills. In the earlier period, the Nilgiri hills were part of Chera Empire. Later, the area came under the patronage of the Western Ganga Dynasty, and then Hoysala Empire in the 12th century. They then became part of the Kingdom of Mysore of Tipu Sultan. Eventually, Tipu Sultan surrendered them to the British in the 18th century. Remarkably, the Nilgiri Hills also have a unique historical link to Chinese convicts who settled in the region during the 19th century, intermarrying with Tamil Paraiyan women and leaving behind a distinctive cultural legacy, as documented by Edgar Thurston. Peaks of the Nilgiri Hills The Peaks of Nilgiri Hills present a captivating topographical profile showcasing several noteworthy summits. The highest pinnacle in the Nilgiris, marking the southern terminus of the range, is Doddabetta Peak, soaring to an elevation of 2,637 meters (8,652 feet). Situated 4 kilometers east-southeast of Udhagamandalam (Ooty), this peak commands a remarkable geographical presence. In the western expanse of the Doddabetta range, there are closely linked peaks, including Kolaribetta at an altitude of 2,630 meters (8,629 feet), Makurni standing at 2,594 meters, Hecuba reaching 2,375 meters, Kattadadu at 2,418 meters, and Kulkudi rising to 2,439 meters. Further to the north, Snowdon Peak, at 2,530 meters, marks the northern extent of the range, while Club Hill (2,448 meters) and Elk Hill (2,466 meters) are significant elevations within this northern region, collectively shaping the picturesque Udhagamandalam Valley. In the south of the Doddabetta range, Devashola Peak stands tall at an elevation of 2,261 meters, renowned for its blue gum trees. To the east of Devashola, Kulakombai at 1,707 meters forms a notable geographic feature. Beyond this, the Bhavani Valley and the Lambton's peak range in Coimbatore district stretch across the landscape. Muttunadu Betta, situated about 5 kilometers north-northwest of Udhagamandalam, reaches an impressive height of 2,323 meters. Tamrabetta, also known as Coppery Hill, stands at 2,120 meters, approximately 8 kilometers southeast of Udhagamandalam. Further west-northwest, Vellangiri, often referred to as Silvery Hill, attains an elevation of 2,120 meters, captivating the region's diverse topography. Some of the peaks in Nilgiri hills are Anginda peak, Chinna Doddabetta, Coonoor Betta, Derbetta, Devashola, Dimhatti hill, Doddabetta Peak, Glulur hill, Gulkal Malai, Hullikal Durg, Kattadadu, Kolaribetta, Kolibetta, Konabetta, Koodal Betta, Kulkudi, Kundah Betta, Kundah Mugi, Nadugani Peak, Nilgiri Peak, and Tamrabetta. Waterfalls in Nilgiri Hills The Nilgiri Hills are graced by a collection of spectacular waterfalls, each possessing its unique charm. Kolakambai Fall, situated north of Kolakambai hill, stands as the tallest among them, cascading with a majestic unbroken descent of 400 feet (120 meters). Nearby, the enchanting Halashana Falls, with a graceful drop of 150 feet (46 meters), adds to the region's allure. Catherine Falls, the second-highest in the Nilgiris, near Kotagiri, offers a captivating sight with its 250-foot (76-meter) plunge. This waterfall is named in honor of M.D. Cockburn's wife, credited with introducing coffee plantations to these verdant hills. The Upper and Lower Pykara Falls present a delightful duo, boasting heights of 180 feet (55 meters) and 200 feet (61 meters), respectively. Kalhatti Falls, with its elegant 170-foot (52-meter) descent, can be found off the Segur Peak. Karteri Fall, located near Aruvankadu, holds historical significance as it was home to the first power station that supplied electricity to the original Cordite Factory. Meanwhile, Law's Fall, nestled near Coonoor, is notable for its association with Major G. C. Law, the engineer who oversaw the construction of the Coonoor Ghat road. Rainfall in Nilgiri Hills The annual rainfall in these hills ranges from 125-700 cm which is fairly distributed all through the year. Summers in the Nilgiri hills have 25 degree to 10degree c, and winters 21degree -5 degree C. Flora and Fauna of Nilgiri Hills The Nilgiri Hills, nestled in southern India, are a biodiversity hotspot boasting an astonishing array of flora and fauna. These hills are home to an impressive 2,800 species of flowering plants, 160 species of ferns and fern allies, and a multitude of flowerless plants, mosses, fungi, algae, and land lichens, making it a botanical treasure trove. The faun at Nilgiri Hills harbor a diverse range of mammals, including the majestic Bengal tiger, Indian elephant, Indian leopard, chital deer, gaur, sambar deer, flying squirrel, wild boar, four-horned antelope, and dhole. The region is also inhabited by the elusive Nilgiri tahr, Indian spotted chevrotain, black buck, and the charismatic lion-tailed macaque. Avian enthusiasts can spot captivating species like the Indian peacock, Nilgiri laughing thrush, great hornbill, and Malabar pied hornbill. Additionally, the hills are home to reptiles like the king cobra, Indian python, and the Malabar pit viper. Apart from the wide range of animals, the sanctuary houses avian species like the peacock, woodpeckers, owls, vultures, buzzards, grey jungle fowl etc. The dominant habitat in the Nilgiri Hills is tropical rainforest, supplemented by montane forests and tropical moist forests. Unfortunately, much of this habitat has faced disruption due to tea plantations, commercial plantings of non-native species, and cattle grazing. Invasive species like Scotch broom have also posed ecological challenges. The Nilgiri Hills are a sanctuary for several threatened plant species, including the vulnerable Miliusa nilagirica and Nothapodytes foetida, rare species like Ceropegia decaisneana and Senecio kundaicus, and endangered species such as Impatiens neo-barnesii and Euonymus serratifolius. This rich tapestry of flora and fauna underscores the need for conservation efforts to preserve the unique biodiversity of the Nilgiri Hills. Tourism Attractions of Nilgiri Hills The Nilgiri hills are surrounded by beautiful hill stations, lakes and falls along with the wide variety of wildlife. Among most sought after tourist destinations are Ooty, Kotagiri, Coonoor, Botanical gardens, Ooty lake, Doddabetta, Dolphin's nose, Pykara, Mukkurthi Peak and National Park, Kodanad viewpoint and Laws Falls. These places are just a few kilometres apart. The beautiful tea gardens of Nilgiri hills also grab the attention of the tourists. The Nilgiri hills have immense spread of tea plantations. The soils are basically of the laterite origin which is red and yellow loam. Tea plucking is an ongoing process being carried on all through the year due to the abundant growth of it. The tea gardens are placed amongst the eucalyptus, cypresses, waterfalls and rivers covering an area of 23,000 hectares. |
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Nilgiri Hills
| The Nilgiri Hills in South India, often referred to as the "Blue Mountains," are renowned for their lush forests, diverse wildlife, and captivating waterfalls. These hills are a haven for nature enthusiasts. |
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