The Best of Ooty, India

Ooty, shortened for Udhagamandalm and eventually Ootacamund is a quaint and pristine town nestled in the Nilgiri Hills. This hill station has captured the imagination of people since time immemorial. Originally inhabited by the Todas, it came under the rule and governance of several dynasties and kings including the Ganga Kings, Hoysalas and the British Empire. Needless to say, Ooty today is a beautiful amalgamation of cultures, traditions and architecture boasting a rich history. Also, being a tourist-friendly town, it isn't hard to come across good family hotels in Ooty. Here is a compilation of experiences that are truly the quintessence of Ooty:

1. Ooty Botanical Gardens

A trip to Ooty would be incomplete without a visit to the Ooty Botanical Gardens. It was established in 1848 with a view to providing subsidised vegetables to the European population. Spread over 22 hectares and located at the foot of the imposing Doddabetta Hills, the Botanical Garden has more than 1000 species of exotic and indigenous plants, shrubs, ferns and tress. A delight to every nature lover, the Gardens are easily accessible from most resorts in Ooty, making the visit an absolutely must.

2. Doddabetta Peak

The highest peak of the Nilgiri Hills is at a staggering altitude of 8650ft! With a forested peak, the Doddabetta offers panoramic views of the valley that is lush, deep green and simply stunning. The slopes are covered in dense foliage formed by shola and rhododendron trees, shrubs and a variety of herbs. A Telescope House at the very top promises unforgettable sights and views.

 

3. Nilgiri Mountain Railway

The last of the steam locomotives, the Nilgiri Mountain Railway was built by the British in 1908 and was managed by the Madras Railways. It has been declared as a World Heritage Site by the UNESCO in July 2005. A ride in this train takes you back in time and gives you the feel of being in the British era. A memorable experience, indeed!

4. St Stephen’s Church

One of the oldest churches in the entire Nilgiri District, the St Stephen’s Church was built in the early 19th century. The then governor of Madras laid the foundation stone for a Church that was meant exclusively for the British. The architecture is captivating with wooden beams taken from Tipu Sultan’s palace and stunning stained glass paintings.

5. Ooty Lake

An artificial lake was constructed by John Sullivan in 1824 as a culmination of 3 streams that flowed down the hills. It was constructed originally to create opportunities for fishing but has since dried up on several occasions, and greatly shrunk from what it had been. Today, the lake covers an area of roughly 65 acres and is a popular boating destination in Ooty.

6. Mukurthi National Park

The Mukruthi National Park was established in an effort to protect the Nilgiri Tahr. With heavy rainfall, harsh winds, grasslands alternating with shrub lands and extreme cold temperatures, the park is home to several endangered species including the tiger and elephant. Wildlife enthusiasts who wish to visit the park will have to find accommodation elsewhere as the same does not exist within the park premises. You too can find accommodation in the many decent resorts and hotels in Ooty.

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