OOTY VACATIONS

Ooty

The lush hills, verdant valleys and the unclouded natural beauty of the pristine hill town of Ooty beckons the holiday makers to come and experience the immense bounties nature has showered upon this tiny heaven which peeps out shyly from behind the mighty Nilgiri mountains. Situated in the south Indian state of Tamil Nadu, the salubrious climate of the place renders a welcome break from the scorching summer heat and the hectic lifestyle of today's urban souls.

An erstwhile summer retreat for the British during colonial times, Ooty was founded by a British collector named John Sullivan who realising its immense potential transformed this tiny hill town into one of the most favoured getaways for people from around the globe. The place was originally called Udhagamandalam, but owing to the difficulty in pronouncing such a tedious name, the British shortened it to a more convenient Ooty...the name has stayed since.

When Do I Plan?

The climate in this part of the globe remains pleasant throughout the year, so the place can be enjoyed 365 days of the year. However, winters are much more favoured as the hazy environment lends a mystic look to the place with the valleys blossoming with flowers and an incredible fragrance filling the air and creating a suitable ambience. Try avoiding the peak season when the place is thronged by visitors and the thrill of visiting some of the more secluded places is somewhat missing.

Sites to Check Out

Botanical Gardens
The sprawling gardens established by Marquis of Tweeddale in 1848, are one of the major attractions for tourists coming to Ooty. Sprawled over an area of 50 acres, the beautifully laid gardens are adorned with lily ponds and bushes clipped in shapes of animals. There are an estimated over thousand species of plants and other hundreds of variety of beautiful flowers each with a unique aroma of its own.

Ooty Lake
The shimmering lake is another major landmark and one of the favourite tourist joints in Ooty. One can witness hundreds of people gathered at the site having a stroll, chit chatting and having a good time. A number of amusement arrangements and eateries keep the crowds engaged.

St. Stephens Church
The revered structure constructed around 1830 is believed to be the oldest church in the region. Designed in a unique architectural fashion, the beam used in its construction is believed to be taken from the palace of the great Tipu Sultan. A cemetery nearby houses the grave of the founder of Ooty, John Sullivan.

Government Museum
The museum situated on Mysore Road houses a vast collection of objects and artefacts that provide useful insight into the history and culture of the area. On display are an assemblage of tribal objects, the ecological details of the area and sculptures from Tamil Nadu.

Doddabetta
Surrounded by dense forests, Doddabetta, situated just 10 km from Ooty is the highest peak in the Nilgiris at an altitude of 2623 mts. The peak affords a panoramic view of the verdant valleys and the Nilgiri hill ranges. A thrilling ride through winding pathways leads to the secluded place.

Hot Getaways

Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary
A fiesta for wildlife enthusiasts, Mudumalai wildlife sanctuary houses a myriad variety of exotic looking animals and a plethora of avian metropolis. The place is a hub for naturalists and wildlife photographers with a thriving population of animals and birds.

Pykara
Pykara is an enchanting place situated about 21 km from Ooty. Some of the major tourist attractions of the area include the Toda settlements, grassy meadows and a flourishing wildlife population. The boathouse and restaurant are other major tourist magnets.