About Dolphin's Nose View Point near Coonoor
Dolphin's Nose View Point is one of the Nilgiris' most famous viewpoints, known for its nose-shaped rock projection that juts out into a deep canyon-like valley. From the main viewing platforms, you see towering cliffs, tea estates clinging to the slopes and, on clear days, the Catherine Falls twin stream dropping in the distance across the valley.
The viewpoint lies beyond Lamb's Rock on the Coonoor side road and is a staple in Coonoor sightseeing circuits along with Sim's Park, Tea Estate View Points and seasonal Strawberry Farm stops. Expect a short walk from the parking area to the main fenced viewpoints, with a couple of platforms built at the edge for different angles.
Catherine Falls View (Weather Permitting) Deep Canyon & Cliff Views Tea Estates on Surrounding Slopes Key Stop on Coonoor Circuit
Dolphin's Nose View Point Photo Gallery
Timings, Entry Fee & Visit Duration
| Item | Details |
|---|
| Best Visiting Window | Morning 09:00–11:30 AM or clear afternoon 3:00–5:30 PM. Morning is often better to see Catherine Falls clearly before mist builds. |
| Typical Entry Time | Generally open during daylight hours. Staff may temporarily close or restrict access during heavy rain, lightning risk or dense fog. |
| Entry Fee | Expect a small per-person entry ticket plus vehicle parking fee. Exact rates are listed on local boards and can change with rules and season. |
| Walk & Duration | From the gate and parking area, allow a 10–15 minute walk with a few steps to reach the main platforms. Most visitors spend about 45–75 minutes taking photos and enjoying the views. |
Note: Timings and tariffs are controlled by local authorities/forest staff. Always follow on-site notice boards and staff instructions as the final reference.
How to Reach Dolphin's Nose from Coonoor
- By Cab: From Coonoor town, follow the Lamb's Rock / Dolphin's Nose road. The route passes tea estates and bends; Dolphin's Nose is clearly marked with signboards.
- As Part of Sightseeing: Normally covered in a Coonoor circuit with Sim's Park, Tea Estate View Point, Strawberry Farm (seasonal) and Lamb's Rock.
- By Bus/Shared Jeeps: Some local services, jeeps and shared cabs ply this route during peak timings, but private cab or self-drive offers more flexibility for photo stops.
- Self-Drive: The approach road is narrow, winding and scenic. Drive in low gear, honk at blind curves, and only halt at proper lay-bys and the official parking zone.
Parking, Safety & Viewpoint Tips
- Parking: Use only the designated parking area inside/near the Dolphin's Nose gate. Do not leave vehicles on tight bends or narrow stretches outside.
- The walk includes steps, uneven patches and fenced view platforms. Wear comfortable footwear; avoid slippery soles in the monsoon.
- Stay inside railings and fenced zones. Do not climb onto ledges or rocks beyond the safety barriers for photos – the valley drops are steep and winds can be sudden.
- Always hold children's hands near view platforms and avoid pushing against railings during crowded times.
- Carry drinking water and a light jacket; breeze and mist at the exposed viewpoints can feel cooler than Coonoor town.
Best Time to Visit Dolphin's Nose View Point
- For Catherine Falls view: Aim for a clear morning when light falls on the opposite hillside and mist is usually lower.
- For photography: Early morning or late afternoon golden light gives the canyon and tea estates a layered, textured look.
- Monsoon & winter: Mist can sweep in quickly – sometimes you will see only white for a few minutes and then the valley reappears. Keep flexible timing in your schedule.
- On weekends and holidays, start a little earlier from Coonoor to enjoy quieter views before the main crowd time.
- Club with Lamb's Rock and other Coonoor spots so the drive feels like a continuous scenic loop rather than a single isolated stop.
Weather & Season Guide for Dolphin's Nose
| Season | Weather | View Conditions | Tip |
|---|
| Dec–Feb | Cool to cold; breezy | Often good clarity in mornings | Carry a warm layer; canyon wind can feel strong on the exposed platforms. |
| Mar–May | Pleasant; holiday crowd | Generally clear with some haze | Visit early in the day or later afternoon to avoid harsh midday sun and rush. |
| Jun–Sep | Showers & mist | Moody, cloud-filled valleys | Great for dramatic cloudscapes; sometimes Catherine Falls may be hidden behind mist for stretches. |
| Oct–Nov | Post-monsoon | Fresh greenery, balanced skies | Nice mix of revived tea gardens, waterfalls and clearer views; a good time for landscape photos. |
Hill weather can change quickly. If the canyon or falls are fully covered in cloud when you arrive, wait a little while – views often open up in short windows.
Dolphin's Nose Highlights
- Nose-shaped Rock: The rocky projection looks like a dolphin's nose from certain angles, giving the viewpoint its name.
- Deep Canyon View: Look down into a dramatic valley with steep sides and dense vegetation, typical of the Nilgiris' canyon landscapes.
- Catherine Falls: On clear days you can spot the Catherine Falls twin stream dropping across the valley – a favourite frame for photographers.
- Tea Estate Slopes: Tea gardens line many of the surrounding slopes, adding neat green patterns to wide-angle shots.
Please avoid littering, shouting and loud music – let the wind, bird calls and valley ambience remain the natural soundtrack of Dolphin's Nose.
Accessibility & Walk Effort
- The walk to the main viewpoints is short to moderate, with steps and uneven surfaces – not suitable for wheelchairs.
- Elders comfortable with slow paced climbs and short breaks can usually manage with support.
- Families with kids should keep them on the inside of the path, away from any open edges and railings.
- If rain has just passed, be extra cautious on wet steps and rocks, as they can be slippery.
Map & Distance
Dolphin's Nose View Point lies further along the same scenic route from Coonoor that passes Lamb's Rock, making it an easy extension for any Coonoor-side sightseeing plan.
Dolphin's Nose – FAQs
How far is Dolphin's Nose from Coonoor?
Dolphin's Nose View Point is roughly 10–12 km from Coonoor town. By cab it usually takes about 30–40 minutes one way, depending on traffic, curves and any stops you make at Lamb's Rock or tea estates on the way.
Is there an entry fee at Dolphin's Nose?
Yes, there is typically a small entry fee per person plus a parking charge for vehicles at Dolphn's Nose. Tariffs can change with time and local rules, so check the latest amounts on the board displayed at the entrance gate.
Can I see Catherine Falls clearly from Dolphin's Nose?
On a clear day, you can see Catherine Falls across the valley as a thin twin stream falling down the opposite hillside. In monsoon and winter, mist and clouds may hide the falls for some time, so it depends on the day's weather and the time you visit.
Is Dolphin's Nose suitable for kids and elders?
Yes, it is family-friendly with caution. There are railings and fenced platforms, but also steep drops. Walk slowly, hold kids near the edges, avoid leaning on or pushing against railings and do not attempt to go onto rocks beyond fenced zones. Elders may need a bit more time and support for the walk.
Private Cab Packages for Coonoor Side (Sim's Park + Lamb's Rock + Dolphin's Nose)
Doorstep pickup, relaxed Coonoor-side sightseeing with Sim's Park, tea estates, Lamb's Rock, Dolphin's Nose and seasonal strawberry farm stops handled by experienced local drivers.
