Doddabetta

Doddabetta is a mountain peak in the Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu, India. It lies about 9 kilometers north of the hill station of Ooty (Udhagamandalam) and forms part of the Nilgiri Hills range in the Western Ghats. The peak has an elevation of about 2,637 meters (8,652 feet), making it one of the higher summits in the region. The name is derived from Kannada, with dodda meaning big and betta meaning hill.

Geographically, Doddabetta rises above pine forests and shola habitats that characterize the higher Nilgiris. The summit provides panoramic views of Ooty and the surrounding hills, and on clear days distant vistas into the plains of nearby regions may be possible. The area experiences a cool, misty climate, with weather influenced by the altitude and the monsoon cycle.

Tourism and access are well developed around Doddabetta. The peak is a popular stop for visitors to Ooty, accessible by road from the town. A designated viewing area and telescope facilities are located at or near the summit, offering visitors a vantage point over the surrounding landscape. The site is typically busiest during the dry seasons, with common visitors seeking photographs and a vantage of the town below.

Conservation and management are overseen by the Tamil Nadu Forest Department, with the surrounding terrain kept relatively undeveloped to protect the local flora and fauna. Visitors are advised to stay on designated paths and respect the ecological sensitivity of the highland environment.