Ooty, Udagamandalam, India
Welcome to Tamil Nadu, Ooty is a hill station located in the Nilgiri Hills situated in Udagamandalam. Upon arriving in Ooty, you will be taken aback by the rolling fields of green, and deep expanses of blue lakes, more reminiscent of the Swiss countryside than what you would expect in India.
Ooty is located 2240 meters above sea level and is considered to be one of the finest hill stations in India. It is aptly named “Queen of the Hill stations” since it is an absolute green gem of a place. Surrounded by bluish-green vegetation, pristine gardens and lakeshores, scenic landscapes and long winding roads turn this destination into a day trip to heaven.
The vegetation includes Conifers and pines as well as eucalyptus trees, so you get that abundant green all year rounds. Weather conditions are also wonderful, where summers are pleasant and not blistering, winters are cool, and the monsoon season is amazing.
Ooty became popular when the British discovered its beauty back in the 19th century, They made it into the Chennai Presidency’s summer capital and enlisted the local Todas tribe to maintain the parks, lakes, and buildings.
Today, Ooty sports some magnificent popular sites including the various lakes, tea and coffee plantations, and the Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary. If you want to see some spectacular natural beauty then go-to Pykara fall or take the Blue Mountain train to Ooty from Mettupalayam. Ooty also has a botanical garden, plenty of shrines and temples as well as churches and a quaint museum. For a more relaxed time, visit the rose gardens and sit by the lakes enjoying some of their local refreshments.
Just as the rest of India has festival days, so too does Ooty.
- February Bokkapuram annual festival
- April Mariamman Temple Festival
- April – May Coonoor Mariamman Temple Car Festival
For foodies, there are many surprises in sort for you, including Ooty’s much loved Chettinad chicken pepper, as well as an assortment of nuts, berries, and chocolates, and let’s not forget the local tea and coffee.
There are some great hotels in Ooty, and these include the more luxurious and wonderful Vinca West Downs Heritage Resort which comes with free WIFI and breakfast, the WelcomHeritage Fernhills Royale Palace, the Sterling Ooty Elk Hill and the Sterling Ooty Fern Hill are all great options for the higher budget range.
If you are traveling on a limited budget then the Sherlock Hotel, Mount ‘n’ Mist, OYO 1353 The Surya Village and the FabHotel Khems Ooty which comes with free WIFI and breakfast might suit your needs. I will mention the Global Village Ooty which is also a free WIFI and breakfast included stay, which sits on the lake and is truly picturesque.
Bottom line: Ooty is a marvel of beauty nestled in the green hills of Tamil Nadu, with perfectly manicured gardens, blue lakes, and green hills, you are in for a special treat when visiting.
