St. Catherine’s Falls

St. Catherine’s Falls

              This double-cascaded Falls is the second highest in the district(250 ft) and it waters from the upper stream of the kallar river crossed by the invisible Mettupalyam-Ooty road beyond the mountains in the south-west.
               It is named after the wife of M.D. Cockburn, the pioneer-planter of Kotagiri.    

Foothills Dale River

             



        The native name of the Falls is GEddhehaada Halla meaning “Foothills Dale River”.It presents a lovely view of the sweeps of forests and woodlands, waylaid by tea gardens and yet running to meet the plains in the south-western moorings.The glittering Dolphin’s Nose of Coonoor is also seen across the mighty gap in the hills-one of the three great systems of faults in the geological formation of the Blue Mountains.

History

           Take a pleasant drive on the misty road passing through the tea estates and fragrant pine forests that leads to the stunning Catherine Falls. Also known as St. Catherine, these Falls are located in Kotagiri that is 17 kms away from Coonoor. Cascading from the altitude of 250 ft the Catherine Falls are situated amidst lush green forests where you can enjoy the fresh breeze coming through the Nilgiri Hills. You can enjoy the best view of these Falls from the Dolphin’s Nose view point.

 

           The Catherine Falls are named after the wife of MD Cocburn who was a pioneer coffee planter in Kotagiri and Yercaud. The native name of the Catherine Falls is Geddhehaada Halla. Today these Falls serve as a perfect picnic spot and are visited by tourists visiting Coonoor.

St. Catherine’s Falls

Best time to visit The best time to visit the Catherine Falls in from September to November. The weather during this time is pleasant and the landscape is simply superb.

Trivia Trekking enthusiasts can go trekking in the Longwood Shola Forest, which is 3 kms away from the Catherine Falls and has some popular area amongst adventure enthusiasts. Bear in mind you will have to take prior permission from the District Forest Officer.

Timing You can visit the Falls during any time of the day, but early morning time is preferable.