Needle Rock View Point is one of the famous tourist destinations in South India. It is nestled in the Nilgiris District in the Tamil Nadu state of India. It is situated almost 8 kms away from Gudalur and can be located on the way of Gudalur - Ooty road. The Needle Rock View Point provides a 360 degree view of the entire valley and grasslands of the Nilgiris. This place is ideal for those who are looking for peace and serenity.
Etymology of Needle Rock View Point
It has been named Needle Rock View Point for its conical shape. It is also referred to as the Soochimalai viewpoint by the locals.
Features of Needle Rock View Point
The Needle Rock View Point serves as a perfect locale for a view of the sunrise early in the morning. The place remains enveloped with mist during the rainy seasons. Tourists gather here to get a glimpse of the panoramic view of the city from different angles and directions. Needle Rock View Point provides a spectacular view of the Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary is also a declared Tiger Reserve and is home to several endangered and vulnerable species including Indian elephant, Bengal tiger, gaur and Indian leopard.
This view point stands between Pykara and Cuddalore. From Pykara, one can trek along the Ooty - Mysore Road to reach at a forest area opening. Just before the forest, the village of Gudalur is located and it is between Pykara and Gudalur that the Needle Rock View point is nestled. The sight of the Gudalur town, down below serves as a visual treat from this view point.
One can also enjoy the sight of the frog shape of the hill from here. The growth of Eucalyptus trees in the vicinity of the view point enhances the beauty of the place. The Nilgiris and Wayanad districts are also visible from this point. Apart from this, few parts of Kerala and Mysore can be viewed from the Needle Rock View Point. One of the most impressive locations, the `Sleeping Beauty` mountains can be observed from here. The mountain is seen in the form of a sleeping woman and is also known as Aanakkallu.
