- Grade
- Tough
- Distance
- 4 km one way
- Walking time
- 2 hours
- Altitude
- 1391 m
- Best months
- Oct – May
- Start point
- Needle Rock Trail Entry Point, Gudalur
- District
- Nilgiris
- Nearest station
- Ooty, ~45 km
- Nearest airport
- Coimbatore, ~127 km
About this trail
Needle Rock, called Oosi Malai locally, is a sharp spur of rock near Gudalur on the western edge of the Nilgiris. Once past the entry gate, the path leaves the forest quickly and climbs hard over rocky, open ground to a viewpoint that sweeps across Gudalur town, the valleys and the hills beyond in every direction.
It is only 4 km, but steep, uneven sections earn it a tough grade. Plan on about two hours and report by 8 AM. Shoes with good grip are essential, and anyone uneasy with heights should take the exposed patches slowly. The guide will explain the exit plan, since the trail is one way.
Highlights
- 360-degree views from Needle Rock
- Short, steep climb
- Rocky and exposed final section
- Views over Gudalur and the valleys
- Quick outing of about two hours
How the day goes
- 8:00 AMReport at the entry point for permits and briefing.
- Forest climbStart the steep climb through forest.
- Rocky sectionCross exposed rock with care.
- ViewpointReach Needle Rock and enjoy the views.
- FinishComplete the trail as directed by the guide.
Getting there and staying over
- By train: Ooty, ~45 km
- By air: Coimbatore, ~127 km
- Stay: Day trek; hotels in Gudalur or Ooty.
What to carry
- Photo ID
- Trekking shoes with ankle support
- Water bottle
- Cap
- Light jacket
- Snacks
Good to know
These are guided trails run with the Tamil Nadu Forest Department, and each has a daily limit on walkers. Book a few days ahead, carry the same photo ID you booked with, and expect a trail to close at short notice after heavy rain or when elephants are active nearby. We book the permit, arrange the car to and from the start point and, if you want, a hotel nearby for the night before.
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Send us your date and group size. We will confirm the slot with the forest team and share the reporting time, car and total cost.
