Rangaswamy Peak Trek – Apr 26, 2008

Rangaswamy Peak is at a height of 5855 ft and is visible from the Kodanad View Point in Kothagiri. Legend has it that Lord Rangaswamy who lived in Karamadai, between Mettupalayam and Coimbatore, quarreled with his wife and came to live here alone. It is the most sacred peak in the Nilgiris, sacred to the Irulas, Badugas, and Kurumbas. The devotees come here mainly during the summer months, so if you want to trek alone and avoid intense heat, avoid May.

One has to take the road which goes to Kodanad View Point and take a detour halfway. You can find steps for most of way up to the temple at the top of peak and for a small portion of the trek you have to go through tea estates. It is an ideal place for a 1-day trek from Coimbatore.

There is also a small museum in Kothagiri which is housed in the bungalow of the first collector of Nilgiris, John Sullivan.

Distance: 200 km (to and fro)

Route: Coimbatore=Mettupalayam=Kothagiri=Kodanad View Point Road=Rangaswamy Peak

Expenses: Rs.450/= per head

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