Needle Rock Sunset Viewpoint
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Needle Rock Sunset Viewpoint

"360-Degree Panorama & Sunset View Point Near Gudalur"

Essential Visitor Facts

Verified field facts by local Nilgiri resident for 2026
Time Spent

1.5 Hours

Opening Timings

08:00 AM – 06:00 PM

Entry Fee

₹15 per adult, ₹10 per child

Parking Charge

₹30 car parking

From Ooty Center

40 km (1 hour 15 mins drive)

From Coonoor

59 km (1 hour 50 mins drive)

Best Hours

04:30 PM – 06:15 PM (Golden hour sunset)

Crowd Level

Low to Moderate

Best Suited For:CouplesPhotographersNature EnthusiastsStudents
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What is Needle Rock Sunset Viewpoint?

Needle Rock Viewpoint (locally known as Oosi Malai) is a cone-shaped rock peak situated near Gudalur, 40 km from Ooty. It offers a 360-degree panorama over Mudumalai forests, Bandipur reserves, Gudalur valley towns, and the Arabian Sea horizon on clear evenings.

Historical & Cultural Significance

The peak derives its name from its sharp, needle-like rock needle formation visible from the valley floor. It is a peaceful alternative to congested central Ooty viewpoints.

Location & Coordinates

11.4938°N, 76.5125°E

Needle Rock Sunset Viewpoint

Nilgiri Biosphere District, Tamil Nadu, India

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What to See & Special Experiences

360-degree sunset panorama over Nilgiri forest canopy & clouds

Conical 'Oosi Malai' needle rock formation

Views of Sleeping Beauty mountain range contouring the valley

How to Reach & Transport Options

Drive 40 km from Ooty along NH 181 (Ooty-Gudalur Road). Located 8 km before Gudalur town.

Public Bus & Auto Availability:

Ooty-Gudalur buses stop at Needle Rock junction

Parking Guide & Avoiding Peak Crowds

Parking ground at the eco-tourism checkpost. Requires a 500-meter paved uphill walk to the summit railing.

Local Tip for Avoiding Bottlenecks:

Visit during 04:30 PM – 06:15 PM (Golden hour sunset). Parking lots fill up quickly after 11:00 AM on weekend dates.

What to Carry Checklist

Jacket for chilly sunset winds
Camera with wide-angle lens
Water bottle
Flashlight / phone light for post-sunset walk back
Trip Planning Blueprints

Itineraries Featuring Needle Rock Sunset Viewpoint

Follow our resident-vetted, geographically grouped travel blueprints:

Nearby Attractions on the Same Geographic Loop

Resident Knowledge

Frequently Asked Questions About Needle Rock Sunset Viewpoint

Q. Is Needle Rock safe to visit at sunset?

Yes, eco-tourism staff monitor the summit. Begin walking back down to your vehicle by 06:15 PM before darkness falls.