Ooty : Enchanting Nilgiri Mountains

Ooty also known as the "Queen of hill stations" is part of Nilgiri mountains (Blue mountains) in the state of Tamil Nadu, India. It is one of the most popular tourist resorts in India.

The trip to Ooty from Bangalore in May 2011 was one of the memorable trips. The distance from Bangalore – Mysore – Bandipur – Ooty route is about 280 Kms and the route is overall good except for the road between Gundlupet and Bandipur . The ride through the Bandipur  & Madumalai  forest is interesting as you come across monkeys and wild buffalo. After Madumalai , you start enjoying the journey even more as you drive through the hairpin bends on the mountains to reach  Ooty. You may be tempted to take a break to enjoy the beauty of Nilgiri Mountains tea estates.

You can reach from the nearest airport / railway station at Coimbatore which is 80 Kms from Ooty.

If you really want to enjoy the scenic beauty of nature in peace,  you should explore places nearby Ooty as the town is a commercialised with lot of crowd.

Attractions:

Tea Estates: One of the main attractions of Ooty are the beautiful tea estates spread across the mountains. You can also visit the tea factory in Ooty to see how tea is made.

Toy Train Ride: If you want to experience your childhood days of travelling in train, you must not miss the toy train ride between Ooty and Mettupalyam which passes through many enchanting curves and tunnels along the  lush green countryside. 

Botanical Gardens: Visit to botanical garden is a visual treat. It is spread across 50 acres with wide-ranging varieties of plants and flowers and is one of the most famous gardens in India and is very well maintained.

Government Rose Garden: It is the largest rose garden in India and largest collection of roses. It is worth a visit.

Doddabetta Peak: Located about 10 km from Ooty, it is the highest peak in the Nilgiris mountains.

Pykara Lake: Located between the green valleys of Ooty is the Pykara lake where one can spend peaceful time away from the crowd. Compared to Ooty lake this lake is less crowded and clean.

Emerald Lake: Another beautiful lake located in silent valley is another place where one can enjoy the nature at peace. You may come across some monkeys here.

Ooty Lake : If you are comfortable in crowds, you can explore this place. You can also enjoy boating in the lake. This place is a children’s delight with lot of joyrides available.

Ooty is also famous for chocolates. You can try the chocolates made in Ooty. You can also explore the local market near the Botanical garden and Ooty lake for some shopping.