town, western Tamil Nadu (Tamil Nādu) state, southern India. It is situated in the Nilgiri Hills about 7,500 feet (2,300 metres) above sea level, and is sheltered by several peaks—including Doda Betta (8,652 feet 【2,637 metres】), the highest point in Tamil Nadu. Founded by the British in 1821, it was used as the official government summer headquarters for the Madras Presidency until Indian independence in 1947. The town is primarily a tourist resort, but it also contains tea-processing and textile industries and several colleges and institutes. Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary is about 35 miles (55 km) to the north. Pop. (2001) 93,987.