Sengottaraayar Peak, Coonoor,
Nilgiris
Sengottaraayar Peak is situated
right on the Border of Tamil Nadu and Kerala and overlooks the Palakkad Silent
valley on the south in the distance and Mukurthi National Park on the West. This
peak is about 1800 meters high. This Peak is known for its trekking and
beautiful terrain. This range is also home to number of tribal settlements
including the Irula, Toda and the Badaga communities.
It is a lesser known peak in the
Nilgiris that offer an awesome view of the Pilloor and Geddai valleys. Do take
a guide or local person with you unless you know very well about the trail
leading to the peak and the surroundings. It is approachable from the Kolacombai
- Manjakombai road. Be cautious during rainy seasons.
The trek begins at the Irula
hamlet called Mooperkaad bordering the forest. The trek to the peak takes us
through mixed terrain including shola forest, tea and coffee estates. One of
the features of this trek is that you will have the opportunity to spot
wildlife including Gaur (Indian Bison), Barking deer, and come across plenty of
signs of Sloth bears. This trek is an excellent choice for first-time trekkers,
nature photographers, children and corporate teams.
Manjakombai Village is situated
at about 30 Kms from Coonoor Town. From Manjakombai Village, travel for another
4 Kms to reach CSI Church Kottakkal. Park the vehicles near to this church and
start the trek. The Trek is about 30 minutes through Tea Estates and Shola
Forests. Manjakombai Village is located at about 24 Kms from Coonoor Railway
Station, 24 Kms from Coonoor Bus Stand, 30 Kms from Coonoor, 32 Kms from Ooty,
51 Kms from Mettupalayam Railway Station, 85 Kms from Coimbatore and 90 Kms
from Coimbatore Airport.
Location