One of the oldest and largest hill stations in Nilgiris, Kottagiri is located in an 'open-terrace' massif at a height of 6511 feet above the sea level. The place is about 30 km. east of Udhagamandalam, 23 km. from Coonoor 33 km. from Mettupalayam and 16kms from Ooty. Earlier known as 'Kota-Keri' or (Kota-gherry) literally means the street or lines of the house of the Kotas was once used to be the summer resort of the British. The kotta settlement there was shifted to Aggal hamlet (2kms away) after the government had acquired the land in 1911. There is a temple dedicated to Kamataraya deity and the annual festival which falls on Arudra Darshan day is of great importance to all the Kotas. 

Kotagiri is a perfect locale for the tourist with several destinations like kodanad view point, longwood shola, rangaswamy pillar and peak etc. Consist of two water falls, Catherine fall located 8kms from Kotagiri, gives a magnificent view of Dolphin's nose and surrounding country. Kodanad viewpoint, the little village offers a stunning view of the plains and the eastern slope of Nilgiris and is situated 18 km east of Kotagiri. From here, one could enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Thengumarahada, the Bhavanisagar dam, the tea estates and the river Moyar. Covering an area over116 hectares, Longwood Shola is a major section of shola forest and an integral part of Nilgiri eco system. The conical and sacred hill, Rangaswamy Peak stands at a height of 5855 feet above sea level has an extraordinary isolated rocky pillar raising to a height of 400 feet. 

One could visit Kotagiri at any time, as the climate is pleasant through out the year. Tourist homes and hotel are available for the accommodation purpose.