Coonoor: The Unspoilt Gem of the South Emerges as a Rival to Goa and Alibaug
Discover why Coonoor is becoming a popular second home destination for the urban elite
CoonoorSecond HomeReal EstateNilgiri HillsGoaAlibaugMussoorieRemote WorkReal Estate MumbaiMay 31, 2024
Traditional options include tropical and ‘beachy’ destinations such as Goa and Alibaug, as well as more temperate towns such as Mashobra or Darjeeling. Coonoor is a relatively recent entrant to this club but has quietly become a popular choice among a small clutch of urban elite who are looking for an unspoilt but also convenient location for a second home.
Coonoor’s growing popularity has been driven both by social and logistical considerations. A critical mass of individuals with second homes in Coonoor has meant that it has achieved a certain cachet and reputation. Coonoor is also lucky to enjoy easy access from all major Indian cities, excellent road connectivity and mild and pleasant weather throughout the year. Collectively, these have allowed it to emerge as a sought-after destination for those seeking an escape from the noise and pollution of major Indian cities.
Unlike several of its counterparts, such as Goa, Coonoor has never been a mass tourist destination. The majority of visitors to Coonoor have traditionally been local tourists, primarily day-trippers from nearby districts. In fact, it has more in common with destinations like Alibaug, where the real estate market has been fueled by affluent Mumbaikars looking for weekend getaways. Although this has meant that Coonoor is relatively unknown, not least in comparison to its neighbour Ooty (Coonoor is often confused with Coorg), that has helped it retain a tranquil charm that is often lost when places become major tourist destinations.
Coonoor’s rapidly-growing popularity as an upmarket second home destination rather than a tourist hotspot is evident in the fact that while land prices have increased as much as five-fold over the past decade, the market for rentals is still nascent, as most residents prefer to retain their properties exclusively for personal use. Local regulations that limit the fragmentation of large land holdings are often seen as a hindrance but have also contributed to Coonoor remaining a somewhat exclusive locale. Stringent building regulations have helped it avoid the haphazard development and degradation experienced by some hill stations in the north, such as Mount Abu.
Although its emergence as a sought-after location for second homes is relatively recent, Coonoor and surrounding towns are hardly new developments. Traditionally inhabited by tribal communities such as the Todas, the British began to develop the Nilgiri hills for the purpose of tea and coffee plantations in the early 19th Century. The infrastructure that was created has allowed prominent institutions such as the Indian Defense Services Staff College to be based in the region since independence and memberships of colonial-era clubs and golf courses remain highly coveted.
Coonoor has a rich history dating back to the 19th century when the British developed the Nilgiri hills for tea and coffee plantations. The region has since become a hub for institutions and colonial-era clubs.
Coonoor Estates is a real estate company that specializes in providing exclusive properties in Coonoor and surrounding areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Coonoor becoming a popular second home destination?
Coonoor is becoming a popular second home destination due to its convenient location pleasant weather and exclusive charm
What makes Coonoor different from other hill stations?
Coonoor is unique in that it has never been a mass tourist destination retaining a tranquil charm that is often lost when places become popular tourist spots
What is driving the growth of Coonoor's real estate market?
The growth of Coonoor's real estate market is driven by the demand for exclusive properties from affluent individuals seeking a second home
How has Coonoor's infrastructure contributed to its popularity?
Coonoor's infrastructure including its road connectivity and airport access has made it an attractive destination for those seeking a convenient second home
What is the future of Coonoor's development?
Coonoor's unique trajectory means that its inevitable development will not lead to the kinds of degradation experienced by towns such as Darjeeling and it will continue to forge its own pattern while learning from the mistakes of others
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