Ooty
Ooty, also known as Udhagamandalam, is a picturesque hill station located in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu, India. It is situated at an altitude of 2,240 meters above sea level and is known for its natural beauty, pleasant climate, and scenic views. Ooty is a popular tourist destination in India, attracting millions of visitors each year.
History and Culture
Ooty was founded in the early
19th century by the British as a summer resort. It was a favorite retreat for
the British officers and their families during the colonial era. The town has a
rich cultural history and is home to a number of historic buildings, including
St. Stephen's Church, the Government House, and the Ooty Club. The culture of
Ooty is a blend of Indian and British influences, which can be seen in the architecture,
cuisine, and lifestyle of the people.
Geography
Ooty is located in the Western
Ghats, which are a mountain range that runs parallel to the western coast of
India. The town is surrounded by dense forests, rolling hills, and scenic
valleys. The climate in Ooty is cool and pleasant throughout the year, with
temperatures ranging between 5°C and 20°C.
How to reach Ooty
Ooty is well-connected to other
parts of India by road, rail, and air. Here are the different ways to reach
Ooty:
By Air: The nearest airport to Ooty is
Coimbatore International Airport, which is about 88 km away. From there, you
can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Ooty.
By Rail: The nearest major railway station to
Ooty is Mettupalayam, which is about 47 km away. From Mettupalayam, you can
take the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to
reach Ooty. The train ride takes about 5 hours and offers stunning views of the
surrounding hills and valleys.
By Road: Ooty is well-connected to other parts
of Tamil Nadu and neighbouring states by road. There are regular bus services
from major cities like Bangalore, Coimbatore, and Chennai to Ooty. You can also
hire a taxi or drive yourself to Ooty, as the roads are well-maintained and
offer a scenic drive through the hills.
Once you reach Ooty, you can
hire a local taxi or take a bus to explore the town and its surrounding areas.
The best time to visit Ooty is between April and June, when the weather is
pleasant and the hills are covered in a blanket of green.
Places to visit in Ooty
There are many attractions to
explore in Ooty, including the following:
1. Nilgiri Mountain Railway: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is a train ride that takes you through the scenic hills and valleys of Ooty.
2. Doddabetta Peak: The highest peak in the Nilgiri Hills, it offers a panoramic view of the surrounding hills and valleys.
3. Botanical Gardens: Spread over an area
of 22 hectares, the gardens are home to a wide variety of plants and flowers,
including the rare Kurinji flower that blooms once every 12 years.
4. Ooty Lake: A popular spot for boating
and fishing, the lake is surrounded by lush green hills and offers a
picturesque view.
5. Government Rose Garden: Home to more
than 20,000 varieties of roses, this is one of the largest rose gardens in
India.
6. Pykara Falls: Located about 20 km from Ooty, the falls are a popular picnic spot and offer a stunning view of the water cascading down the rocks.
7. Avalanche Lake: Surrounded by dense forests and rolling hills, this is a serene and peaceful spot that offers a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Food and Drink
Ooty is famous for its tea,
which is grown in the surrounding hills and is exported all over the world. The
town also offers a variety of local and international cuisine, including South
Indian, Chinese, and Continental. Some popular local dishes include Ooty
Varkey, which is a type of crispy biscuit, and Avial, which is a mixed vegetable
dish made with coconut and yogurt.
Accommodation
Ooty offers a variety of
accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some
popular options for accommodation in Ooty:
1. Resorts: Ooty has a number of luxury resorts
that offer comfortable and spacious rooms, along with amenities like swimming
pools, spas, and restaurants. Some popular resorts in Ooty are the Taj Savoy
Hotel, the Club Mahindra Derby Green Resort, and the Fortune Resort Sullivan
Court.
2. Hotels: There are also many hotels in Ooty that
cater to different budgets and preferences. From budget hotels to mid-range and
luxury hotels, you can find a variety of options in Ooty. Some popular hotels
in Ooty are the Hotel Lakeview, the King's Cliff, and the Sterling Ooty Elk
Hill.
3. Homestays: For a more authentic experience of Ooty,
you can opt for a homestay. There are many families in Ooty who rent out rooms
in their homes to tourists. This can be a great way to experience the local
culture and cuisine of Ooty. Some popular homestays in Ooty are the King's
Cottage, the Garden Manor, and the The Wilds at Northern Hay.
4. Guest houses: There are also many guesthouses in Ooty
that offer affordable and comfortable accommodation. These are often run by
local families and offer a more personalized experience. Some popular
guesthouses in Ooty are the Willow Hill, the Sri Balaji Guest House, and the
Vinayaga Inn.
No matter what your budget or
preferences, you can find a comfortable and convenient accommodation option in
Ooty. It is advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during
the peak tourist season, to ensure availability and to get the best rates.
Conclusion
Ooty is a beautiful hill
station that offers a perfect escape from the heat and humidity of the plains.
With its natural beauty, pleasant climate, and scenic views, it is a must-visit
destination for anyone looking to explore the beauty of South India.