The area also produces eucalyptus oil and vegetables. Parts of many Indian movies are filmed in the Nilgiris.

The altitude of the Nilgiris results in a much cooler wetter climate than the surrounding plains, and so the area was popular as a retreat from the summer heat, particularly in the days of the British Raj. The rolling hills of the Downs look very similar to the Downs in Southern England, and were used for similar activities such as hunting.

The chief town of the area is called Udhagamandalam, although the old British name of Ootacamund, shortened to Ooty, is often used. In the town there are many buildings which look very "British", in particularly the Churches. There is a road junction known as Charing Cross (a well known place in London).

The other main towns in the Nilgiris are Coonoor and Kotagiri.

There are several tribes living in the Nilgiris, whose origins are uncertain. The best known of these are the Toda people, whose culture is based upon cattle, and whose red, black and white embroidered shawls, and silver jewelry is much sought after.