Ooty is a picturesque and popular hill station which is visited by tourists in both summer and winter. It is wrapped in the mystic blue hue of the Nilgiris and offers a refreshing retreat in the midst of nature. Read on to know more about this place.
Ooty is the short name for Ootacamund hill station which is located in Tamil Nadu. It is a popular summer destination because of its pleasant weather. Ooty is also called Udhagamandalam, which is derived from ‘Othakal-mund’ which translates as house in mountains. At a height of about 7350 m, this former 19th century summer resort of the British is now a famous tourist destination that is visited by thousands of people every year. If you are planning to visit this city, you make online booking in Ooty hotels which are available under luxury and budget range, both.
Ooty is located in the Nilgiris and this is makes the place just more beautiful and enchanting. The weather remains chilly throughout the year and drops to zero in winters. Nilgiris which are a series of densely vegetated rolling mountains are the major highlights of the landscape that Ooty offers to sight of the tourists. There are small hills upon which mostly tea and coffee plantations are done. Then there are the tall Eucalyptus trees all around the hills that give the place a magnanimous appearance. Since care has been taken in preserving the natural beauty of this hill station, you would find many natural reserves around this hill station. For tourists who like to camp, there are marked camping and non-camping areas and hence, if you are interested in exploring the non-camping area, then you need special permits. The best way to explore Ooty in its detail is to hire an autorickshaw and go about the city on an awesome ride. It is also a cheaper option and does not bite on your pockets. Further, there are several off beaten trails leading into the hills from Ooty, which is quite fun to explore if you like. You can get a guide as well if you are in a group, just make a request at the Ooty hotel you are staying.
You can explore a lot in Ooty. The most popular of all attractions in Ooty is the Annamalai Temple which is in the outskirts of the hill town, about 20 km away. This is also known as the 7th house temple for Lord Muruga who is a popular deity around here. The view from the top of this temple is splendid and there is an observatory as well. Doddabetta Peak is another attraction to check out. It is situated at a height of 2623 m. It is about 10 km from Ooty and while going on to this site, you might like to bring your camera along as the site offers some stunning views of the surroundings. If you have a pair of binoculars, it is even better. The sight of Coimbatore and highlands of Mysore are quite visible right from here. Other interesting places to see in Ooty are Dolphin’s Nose, Pykara Lake, Fernhills Palace, Echo Rock, Wax World, etc. Exploring these things in Ooty is really fun.
Ooty is conveniently connected to rail and road. You can also take a flight to Ooty. So, check out the mesmerizing place this holiday. During peak seasons, it is better to make advance reservations as most of the Ooty hotels are full during that time.
