Kotagiri facts: Nice to know
Longwood Shola is a natural, primeval evergreen forest off Kotagiri town on the road to Kodanad although there are other entrances as well. ‘Shola’ or ‘sholai’ means a forest. It harbours rare and endangered birds like the Nilgiri Laughing Thrush and the Nilgiri Wood Pigeon. You are also likely to spot the Indian bison as well as the flying fox. It is a popular place to visit for nature lovers, bird watchers and those who enjoy trekking.
Trekking
Some of the popular trekking trails of Kotagiri are the St. Catherine Falls trail, the Kotagiri–Kodanad trail and the Kotagiri–Longwood Shola trail. Many smaller trails also exist, winding in and out of the hills and meadows, each affording the trekker a candid view of the heart and soul of the Nilgiris. The Longwood Shola trek, as noted earlier, is great for bird watchers especially.
Getting there
Longwood Shola covers over 100 hectares and you enter it with a short drive from Kotagiri town centre. There is no specific gate or signboard or anything to tell you you’ve reached! Just trust your Google Maps directions knowing that the last branching off the main road is easy to miss. There is hardly anyone there and the place can feel totally yours and yours alone. The views of the valley are fantastic as ever on the one side of the walking path with the thick and dark forest on the other side. Depending on the way you see it, this can be a lonesome place or a blissfully quiet and enchanting environment.
From Triptych Nilgiris this entrance to Longwood Shola is about 25 km away.
Narayan is an avid traveller, writer and photographer who has a home in the picturesque Niligiri hills called Triptych Nilgiris. It is a homestay with a welcoming ambience, a stunning view of a valley and some delicious home-cooked food. You can check availability by sending a WhatsApp message to 98400 78228.
Get to know the Nilgiris in and around Kotagiri. Must-see places are included.
