Travel Guide to Ooty

Ooty is famous as a hill station destination with greenery everywhere. While you explore Ooty, you will witness tea plantation and valleys full of eucalyptus trees in abundance. You can also try home-made chocolates as a delight.The Nigiri mountain range toy train is famous for its steam engines and its route through the mountains is worth watching. There’s something for every traveller there.

The houses tell a lot about the British era. The summer capital of that time, Ooty, has been influenced by British era bungalows and houses. It is a perfect location for people of all ages. Ooty has transformed into a thriving tourist destination in South India.

Sightseeing itself is a refreshing thing to do when in Ooty.

What to do?

The Nilgiris Mountain Railway Toy Train

The first thing you should do is take a ride on the toy train. UNESCO declared the Nilgiris Mountain Railway as a World Heritage site. This train is a must-try. Old steam-powered engines are used to pull the coaches of the train, making it unique. The views throughout the 26km long journey are spectacular.

Doddabetta Peak

It is the highest mountain in the Nilgiris Hills at over 2623 meters. It is surrounded by eucalyptus and rhododendron trees. There is also an observatory for a mesmerising view of the valley.

Also read: Travel guide to Jaipur

Emerald Lake

You get the perfect reflection of the surrounding trees and tea plantations in the lake, hence the name Emerald Lake. It is a good place for a picnic and some relaxation. The lake is located in a place called Silent Valley. It does justice to its name, all silent and calm. Sunrise and sunset here are not to be missed.

Kalahatti Waterfall

15km away from Ooty, you will find Kalahatti waterfalls. If you are travelling after the monsoon, then this is a must-visit place. This place is good for birdwatchers. There is also an area that gives you a full view of the fall.

Botanical Garden

This garden is famous for its thousands of flowers and plant species. It is spread over 55 acres of land. It also has a fossil tree trunk which is said to be as old as 20 million years. The variety of flowers makes it interesting for nature lovers.

Ooty Tea Factory-A must-visit place for all tea lovers. The tea factory tells us a lot about the process of making tea leaves, their use across the globe, and their history. The tea factory is spread over an area of one acre overlooking the Nilgiri hills, making it a factory with a view.

Also read: Travel guide to Lonavala

What to Eat?

When in Ooty, you must take sips of tea as they are famous for it and you will find a variety of them. You can try green tea, spice tea, and black tea.

Handmade chocolates are another popular thing you can indulge yourself in. Just like tea, there are a variety of chocolates. A cup of hot chocolate would be best on a cold morning.

Varkey is also popular in Ooty. It is a snack made of wheat, butter and sugar. It is perfect for pairing with a cup of tea. You can also try the local coconut burfi.

How to reach?

By Road

All the major cities are connected to Ooty. You can get there from Bangalore and Kozhikode, which are 295km and 185km respectively. It is linked to the Tamil Nadu State Road Transport Corporation.

By Rail

The Ooty railway station is connected to all the major cities in Tamil Nadu. It is linked to Bangalore, Coimbatore, Chennai, Kochi, Mysore and Chennai.

By Air

The nearest airport to Ooty is Coimbatore, at 100km.

Where to stay?

1. Shiva Shanthi Inn

Location- Kathadimattam, Ooty, Tamil Nadu 643001, Ooty, Tamil Nadu, India, 643001

2. Delightz Inn Resorts

Location- Belmonte Terrace, Tiger Hill Road, Melthalayatimund, Ooty, Tamil Nadu 64300.

3. Ooty Residency

Location-190/A19, Hill Bunk, Club, Road, Ooty, Tamil Nadu 643001

Also read: A Travel guide to Assam

Pack your bags next holiday and head to Ooty to witness it's charm. Ooty has the best climate for a getaway from your busy life. The Nilgiri Mountain Range and its beauty will remain in your memory for a long time after you leave Ooty. Book your stay with MyTravaly and have a comfortable stay. Get deals and discounts on your booking.

This story is written by Amey Mohite : Content Writer, MyTravaly