Udhagamandalam

Ooty is a charming hill station situated in the Nilgiri district of Tamil Nadu, India. It's also known as Udhagamandalam, and is surrounded by scenic tea plantations, lush green forests, and misty mountains. The town was established by the British during the early 19th century as a summer retreat to escape the heat of the plains. Ooty has since evolved into a popular tourist destination due to its pleasant climate, cultural heritage, natural beauty, and diverse wildlife. The town is an ideal destination for those seeking respite from city life and a chance to immerse themselves in nature.

• Doddabetta Peak: Standing at an impressive height of 2,623 meters, Doddabetta Peak is a must-visit attraction in Ooty. From the top, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and tea plantations. It's an ideal spot for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts, and a telescope house is available for a closer look at the surrounding landscape.
• Ooty Botanical Gardens: The Government Botanical Garden is one of the oldest botanical gardens in India, established in 1848. The 55-acre garden houses a variety of exotic plants, flowers, and trees, divided into several sections each featuring unique collections. This garden is perfect for botanists, nature lovers, and photographers alike.
• Ooty Lake: Built in 1824, Ooty Lake is a popular tourist spot, offering boating and water activities. The neighbouring hills can be seen beautifully from the lake, which is bordered by thick vegetation. It's an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts, and boating on the lake is a must-do activity for all visitors.
• Rose Garden: The beautiful Rose Garden in Ooty houses over 20,000 varieties of roses and other flowers, and is spread over 10 acres. Established in 1995, this garden is maintained by the Horticulture Department of Tamil Nadu, and also features a small nursery. Nature lovers and photography enthusiasts will love exploring the many varieties of flowers in the garden.
• Avalanche Lake: Surrounded by dense forests, Avalanche Lake is a remote and scenic lake located approximately 28 km from Ooty. It's an ideal spot for trekking and camping, and can only be accessed by four-wheel-drive vehicles or a trekking trail from Emerald village. This location is a must-visit attraction for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
• Pykara Waterfalls: Located about 20 km from Ooty, Pykara Waterfalls is formed by the Pykara River and surrounded by lush greenery. It's an excellent spot for a picnic and visitors can also take a boat ride on Pykara Lake. This waterfall is easily accessible by road and is a must-visit attraction for nature lovers.

• Nature Walks and Hiking: Ooty is known for its lush green hills and scenic beauty, making it an ideal place for nature walks and hiking. Visitors can explore the many trails in the hills, breathing in fresh air and enjoying the stunning views of the surroundings. One can also spot different species of birds, small mammals and flora during the trek. Some popular trekking routes in Ooty include Doddabetta Peak, Mukurthi National Park, and Kotagiri Trek.
• Tea Tasting and Factory Visit: Ooty is famous for its tea plantations, and visitors can enjoy the unique experience of tasting different types of tea, such as Black Tea, Green Tea, and Masala Chai. The tea tasting sessions are often accompanied by a visit to the tea factory where visitors can observe the tea-making process and learn about the history of tea cultivation in Ooty. Some popular tea estates that offer these experiences include the Dodabetta Tea Factory and Tea Museum, Glenmorgan Tea Estate, and Highfield Tea Estate.
• Wildlife Safaris: Ooty is home to a variety of exotic animals and wildlife, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and deer. Visitors can take a safari tour of Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to a vast range of wildlife species, including rare and endangered species. The wildlife safaris provide a unique opportunity to observe the animals in their natural habitat, and visitors can also learn about their behavior and habitat. Some popular wildlife safaris include Elephant Safari, Jeep Safari, and Nature Walks in the Sanctuary.
• Boating in Ooty Lake: Boating is a popular activity in Ooty Lake, which is surrounded by lush green hills and offers stunning views of the surroundings. Visitors can rent paddle boats or motorboats and enjoy a peaceful ride on the calm waters of the lake. The lake also provides a serene setting for picnics and leisurely walks.
• Toy Train Ride: The Nilgiri Mountain Railway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is famous for its historic toy train ride. Visitors can take a ride on the charming train, which travels through the scenic hills and tea plantations, offering stunning views of the surroundings. The train journey provides a unique and unforgettable experience, making it one of the must-do activities in Ooty.
• Hot Air Balloon Ride: Hot air balloon rides are a unique way to explore the stunning beauty of Ooty from the sky. Visitors can soar high above the hills and tea plantations and enjoy breathtaking views of the surroundings. The hot air balloon rides provide a thrilling and adventurous experience, making it a popular activity for tourists visiting Ooty.

• The Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most visited wildlife sanctuaries in Ooty and is home to a variety of wildlife species, including elephants, tigers, leopards, wild boars, and spotted deer. The sanctuary is spread over an area of 321 square kilometers and offers an ideal habitat for a variety of animals and birds. Visitors can explore the sanctuary through a jeep safari, elephant safari, or nature walk.
• Bandipur National Park is another popular wildlife sanctuary near Ooty and is home to several rare and endangered species, including tigers, Indian elephants, and sloth bears. The national park is spread over an area of 874 square kilometers and offers a unique and thrilling wildlife experience to visitors. Visitors can explore the park through a jeep safari or nature walk and can also enjoy bird watching.
• Silent Valley National Park is another popular wildlife destination in Ooty and is located in the Western Ghats. The national park is home to several rare and endangered species of animals and birds, including the Lion-tailed Macaque, Malabar Giant Squirrel, and Nilgiri Tahr. Visitors can explore the park through a guided trekking tour and can also enjoy bird watching and photography.
• Mukurthi National Park is known for its unique shola forests and is home to several rare and endangered species of animals and birds, including the Nilgiri Tahr, Nilgiri Marten, and Nilgiri Langur. Visitors can explore the park through a trekking tour and can also enjoy bird watching and photography.

• St. Stephen's Church is one of the oldest churches in Ooty and was built in 1829 by the British. The church is known for its beautiful architecture and stained glass windows and is a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can attend the Sunday service and can also explore the church's rich history through the old photographs and documents displayed inside.
• Government House is another popular historical landmark in Ooty and was built in 1824 by John Sullivan, the founder of Ooty. The house served as the summer residence of the British governors and is now used as the official residence of the Tamil Nadu Governor. Visitors can explore the house's architecture and design and can also learn about its rich history through the old photographs and documents displayed inside.
• Stone House is another popular historical landmark in Ooty and is the first bungalow built in the area. The house was built in 1822 by John Sullivan and is now used as the Government Arts College. Visitors can explore the house's architecture and design and can also learn about its rich history through the old photographs and documents displayed inside.
• The Tribal Research Center is another popular historical landmark in Ooty and is dedicated to preserving and promoting the culture and traditions of the local tribal communities. The center has a museum that displays the art, crafts, and lifestyle of the tribal communities and also has a library that contains books and documents related to their history and culture.

• St. Stephen's Church: Built in 1820, this is one of the oldest churches in the Nilgiris region. The church's architecture is reminiscent of the colonial era and is worth a visit.
• Mariamman Temple: This temple is dedicated to Mariamman, a popular Hindu goddess, and is one of the oldest and most revered temples in the region. The temple hosts an annual festival in May, during which thousands of devotees gather to offer their prayers.
• Elk Hill Murugan Temple: This temple is located on the Elk Hill and is dedicated to Lord Murugan. The temple's architecture is unique and offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys.
• Toda Temple: This temple is located in the Ooty Botanical Gardens and is dedicated to the Toda community's deity. The temple's architecture is simple, but it offers a glimpse into the Toda community's cultural practices.
• Holy Trinity Church: This church was built in 1858 and is one of the most popular churches in Ooty. The church's architecture is Victorian Gothic, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys.

Ooty's culture is a fascinating blend of indigenous, colonial, and modern influences that have contributed to its unique identity. The indigenous communities of the Nilgiris, including the Toda and Badaga, have their own distinct cultures, traditions, and practices that have been preserved over centuries.

The colonial era also played a significant role in shaping Ooty's cultural heritage. The town's architecture is a testimony to the British influence, with colonial-era buildings such as the Government House, St. Stephen's Church, and the Ooty Club, reflecting the town's rich history. The famous toy train, which takes visitors on a scenic ride through the hills, is another colonial legacy that has become an iconic symbol of Ooty's charm and appeal.

Food is an integral part of Ooty's culture, with traditional cuisine using locally sourced ingredients, such as millet, rice, and vegetables, to create delicious and wholesome dishes. The town's street food scene is also renowned, with vendors offering a variety of snacks and beverages, such as the famous Ooty Chocolate and the refreshing Nilgiri tea.

Ooty's festivals and events celebrate the town's rich cultural heritage and traditions. The Tea and Tourism Festival, held annually in January, is a popular event that showcases the region's tea plantations and culture. The Summer Festival, held in May, features cultural programs, flower shows, and a variety of activities, making it an ideal time to visit and experience the town's lively atmosphere.

• Ooty Lake: The Ooty Lake is undoubtedly one of the most famous lakes in the town, located right at its center. Built in 1824 by John Sullivan, the founder of Ooty, this lake is surrounded by lush greenery and offers visitors the chance to enjoy boating and water sports activities. It also provides stunning views of the hills and the landscapes around it, making it a popular spot for nature lovers and photographers alike.
• Emerald Lake: Another popular lake in Ooty is the Emerald Lake, located approximately 20 km away from the town. Surrounded by tea plantations and dense forests, this serene and tranquil lake provides visitors with the opportunity to enjoy fishing and boating activities while taking in the scenic beauty of the surroundings.
• Avalanche Lake: The Avalanche Lake, situated about 28 km away from Ooty, is known for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque setting. Accessible only by trekking through the dense forests, this lake is a perfect destination for adventure enthusiasts seeking to escape the crowds and enjoy some peace and solitude.

• Canterbury Bar, Taj Savoy Hotel: This bar is located in the Taj Savoy Hotel and is known for its cozy ambiance and vintage decor. It offers a wide selection of drinks, including signature cocktails, wines, and spirits, and serves delicious finger food to complement your drinks. The bar has an extensive collection of vintage wines and single malts that are sure to impress any connoisseur.
• Four Quarters: Four Quarters is a trendy and popular lounge bar located on the main road of Ooty. It is known for its lively ambiance, music, and drinks. The bar has an extensive collection of beers, wines, and cocktails, and serves delicious finger foods and snacks to go with your drinks.
• The Valley: The Valley is a rooftop bar located in the heart of Ooty. It offers a panoramic view of the valley and is a perfect place to enjoy a beautiful sunset. The bar has an extensive menu of drinks, including cocktails, mocktails, wines, and spirits. The Valley also serves a variety of snacks and finger foods to complement your drinks.
• Selbournes: Selbournes is a well-known bar located in the heart of Ooty. It is popular among tourists and locals alike and is known for its cozy ambiance and good music. The bar offers a variety of drinks, including beers, wines, and spirits, and serves delicious finger foods and snacks.
• Alto Espirito: Alto Espirito is a popular bar and restaurant located on Club Road in Ooty. It has a modern and chic decor and is known for its excellent service and great music. The bar has an extensive collection of wines, beers, and cocktails, and serves delicious food to complement your drinks.
• Fern Hill: Fern Hill is a beautiful bar and restaurant located in the Fern Hill Palace Hotel. It offers a stunning view of the hills and has an old-world charm to it. The bar serves a wide range of drinks, including cocktails, wines, and spirits, and has a fantastic food menu to complement your drinks.
• Wild West: Wild West is a bar located in the Sterling Ooty Fern Hill resort. It has a cowboy-themed decor and a fun atmosphere, making it a great place to hang out with friends. The bar offers a variety of drinks, including beers, wines, and spirits, and has a good selection of snacks and finger foods.
• Club Mahindra Derby Green: Club Mahindra Derby Green is a popular resort in Ooty that has its bar. The bar is known for its beautiful ambiance and great service. It offers a wide range of drinks, including beers, wines, and cocktails, and has a fantastic food menu to complement your drinks.
• Pint O Fun: Pint O Fun is a small and cozy bar located on Commercial Road in Ooty. It is known for its laid-back ambiance and friendly service. The bar offers a variety of drinks, including beers, wines, and spirits, and serves delicious snacks and finger foods.

• Aloo Bun: Aloo Bun is a well-liked street food in Ooty. It consists of a soft bread bun that is filled with a spicy potato mixture and accompanied by tangy tomato chutney.
• Corn on the Cob: A prevalent snack sold on the streets of Ooty is roasted corn on the cob, which is seasoned with salt and chilli powder.
• Rajasthan Restaurant, Patna – If you are craving something very spicy, then head to the Rajasthani restaurant to try the authentic Rajasthani meal with delicious starters.
• Ooty Varkey: Ooty Varkey is a savoury snack made from baked wheat flour, served with spicy tomato chutney.
• Egg Bun: Egg Bun is a one-of-a-kind street food in Ooty. It is a soft bread bun stuffed with boiled egg and spicy sauce.
• Murukku Sandwich: Murukku Sandwich is a unique snack that blends the conventional South Indian snack, Murukku, inside a soft bread bun.
• Tibetan Momos: Tibetan Momos are a popular street food in Ooty, which are dumplings filled with various fillings such as vegetables or chicken and served with a spicy sauce.
• Bread Omelette: Bread Omelette is a classic street food in Ooty that combines omelette made with onions, green chillies, and coriander, served with toasted bread.
• Pani Puri: Pani Puri, also known as Golgappa, is a favourite street food throughout India. It is a crispy, hollow shell filled with spicy mashed potatoes and tangy tamarind water.
• Chocolate Fudge: Ooty is known for its homemade chocolate, and the chocolate fudge sold on the streets of Ooty is a must-try. It is made from milk, sugar, and cocoa powder, and comes in several flavours like plain, nuts, and raisins.
• Filter Coffee: No street food tour in Ooty is complete without tasting freshly brewed filter coffee. It is served in a traditional steel tumbler and dabarah and is an excellent way to end your street food adventure in Ooty.

• Taj Savoy Hotel: One of the best hotels in Ooty, Taj Savoy Hotel offers luxurious accommodations amidst the serene surroundings of Ooty. The hotel includes colonial architecture as well as contemporary features including a spa, gym, and pool. It also offers multiple dining options, including the renowned Canterbury Bar.
• Savoy - IHCL SeleQtions: Another top-rated hotel in Ooty, Savoy - IHCL SeleQtions is situated amidst lush greenery and offers stunning views of the Nilgiri Mountains. The hotel features tastefully decorated rooms, a restaurant serving delicious local and international cuisine, and a cozy bar.
• Kurumba Village Resort: Nestled in the midst of tea plantations and surrounded by forests, Kurumba Village Resort is a unique getaway in Ooty. The eco-friendly resort offers luxurious villas and cottages with private gardens and patios. The resort also features a restaurant serving organic food and a spa offering various wellness treatments.
• Sterling Ooty Fern Hill: Located in the heart of Ooty, Sterling Ooty Fern Hill offers comfortable accommodations and excellent hospitality. The hotel features modern rooms with all essential amenities, a restaurant serving delicious meals, and a bar offering a wide range of drinks.
• Club Mahindra Derby Green: Situated in the picturesque town of Lovedale, Club Mahindra Derby Green offers panoramic views of the valley and hills. The hotel features spacious and well-appointed rooms, a restaurant serving delectable cuisine, and a bar serving refreshing drinks.
• Gem Park Ooty: Gem Park Ooty is a luxurious hotel nestled in the verdant hills of Ooty. The hotel features elegant rooms with all modern amenities, a multi-cuisine restaurant, and a cozy bar. It also offers a spa and wellness center, a fitness center, and an indoor game room.
• Accord Highland Hotel Ooty: Accord Highland Hotel Ooty is a charming hotel located in a tranquil neighborhood of Ooty. The hotel offers spacious and comfortable rooms, a restaurant serving lip-smacking dishes, and a bar serving a variety of drinks. It also features a spa offering various treatments and therapies.
• The Gateway Hotel Church Road: The Gateway Hotel Church Road is a beautiful hotel located amidst lush greenery and stunning landscapes of Ooty. The hotel offers well-furnished rooms with all modern amenities, a multi-cuisine restaurant, and a bar. It also features a spa, a gym, and an indoor game room.
• Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Fernhill: Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Fernhill is a luxurious property offering breathtaking views of the Nilgiris. The hotel features spacious and well-appointed rooms, a restaurant serving delectable cuisine, and a bar serving a variety of drinks. It also offers a spa, a fitness center, and an indoor game room.
• The Monarch Hotel: The Monarch Hotel is a luxurious property located in a peaceful neighborhood of Ooty. The hotel offers spacious and elegantly designed rooms, a restaurant serving a variety of cuisines, and a bar serving a range of drinks. It also features a spa, a gym, and a game room.

• Ascot Multi Cuisine Restaurant is an eatery located in the heart of Ooty, serving a diverse range of Indian and international cuisine. This restaurant is recognized for its exceptional customer service and a hospitable ambiance.
• Shinkows, a well-known Chinese restaurant in Ooty, is famous for its scrumptious food and delightful ambiance. They offer a broad menu with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.
• Quality Restaurant, a popular vegetarian restaurant in Ooty, is renowned for its delicious South Indian cuisine. They are recognized for providing excellent food quality at affordable prices.
• Earl's Secret, is a sophisticated restaurant situated in the picturesque countryside of Ooty, providing an upscale dining experience. They offer a blend of Indian, European, and Asian cuisine along with a diverse selection of wines.
• Sidewalk Cafe, a cozy cafe located in the center of Ooty, offers a variety of snacks, sandwiches, and desserts. They are well-liked for their friendly service and welcoming atmosphere.
• Place To Bee, is a trendy cafe on the main road of Ooty, serving delicious coffee, sandwiches, and desserts. They have a beautiful rooftop seating area with an excellent view of the town.
• King Star Restaurant, is a well-known non-vegetarian restaurant in Ooty, recognized for its appetizing biryanis and tandoori dishes. They provide a selection of Chinese and Indian dishes.
• Nahar's Residency Hotel, is a charming hotel in Ooty, offering a restaurant that serves a range of Indian, Chinese, and continental cuisine. The cuisine is wonderful, and the atmosphere in the restaurant is friendly.
• Junior Kuppanna, is a renowned restaurant chain in South India, with a branch in Ooty. They offer authentic South Indian non-vegetarian dishes such as biryani, curries, and seafood.
• Adayar Ananda Bhavan, is a well-known vegetarian restaurant chain in South India, with a branch in Ooty. They serve mouth-watering South Indian dishes, including dosas, idlis, and vadas, and are famous for their excellent food quality and service.

• Charing Cross Market: Charing Cross Market is a bustling marketplace in Ooty, known for its vibrant atmosphere and a wide variety of shops selling clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs. Tourists like to explore and buy there frequently.
• Upper Bazaar: Upper Bazaar is a vibrant market area in Ooty, offering a range of products, including spices, tea, and handmade chocolates. It's a great place to buy souvenirs and gifts for friends and family.
• Commercial Street: Commercial Street is a bustling market area in Ooty, known for its shops selling clothing, footwear, and accessories. The street is often crowded with locals and tourists, and bargaining is a common practice.
• Tibetan Market: The Tibetan Market is a popular shopping area in Ooty, selling a range of products, including clothing, jewelry, and handicrafts. It's a great place to buy souvenirs and gifts, and the shops often have a traditional Tibetan ambiance.
• Ooty Municipal Market: The Ooty Municipal Market is a traditional market area in the heart of the town, offering a range of fresh produce, including fruits, vegetables, and flowers. It's a great place to experience the local culture and buy fresh ingredients for cooking.
• Green Shop: The Green Shop is a popular store in Ooty, offering a range of eco-friendly products, including organic food, handmade soaps, and natural cosmetics. It's a great place to buy sustainable and environmentally friendly products.
• Kurinji Mini Supermarket: Kurinji Mini Supermarket is a popular supermarket in Ooty, offering a range of products, including groceries, household items, and personal care products. It's a convenient place to buy daily necessities during your stay in Ooty.
• Moddy's Confectionery: Moddy's Confectionery is a famous confectionery store in Ooty, known for its delicious handmade chocolates, fudges, and cakes. For those who enjoy sweets, it is a must-go place.

• Ooty Summer Festival: The Ooty Summer Festival is an annual event held in May to celebrate the summer season. The festival features various activities and events, including flower shows, fruit shows, vegetable shows, dog shows, cultural programs, boat races, and a rose show.
• Tea and Tourism Festival: The Tea and Tourism Festival is a three-day festival that takes place in January every year to promote tourism in Ooty and celebrate the region's tea culture. The festival includes tea tasting sessions, cultural programs, and a trade fair that showcases local tea producers.
• Mariamman Temple Festival: The Mariamman Temple Festival is a religious festival that happens every April. The festival takes place at the Mariamman Temple and features traditional music and dance performances. The highlight of the festival is the procession where the idol of Goddess Mariamman is carried on a decorated chariot around the town.
• Diwali: Diwali, the festival of lights, is celebrated in Ooty with great enthusiasm. The festival usually falls in October or November and involves lighting diyas (lamps) and bursting firecrackers. The town is illuminated with lights, and people exchange sweets and gifts.
• Christmas: Christmas is also celebrated with joy in Ooty. The town is decorated with Christmas trees and lights, and people attend midnight mass at the local churches. Families and friends might gather together during the event to exchange presents.
• New Year's Eve: New Year's Eve is a popular event in Ooty, with many hotels and restaurants hosting parties and events. The town is adorned with lights, and people welcome the new year with music, dance, and fireworks.

• Government Museum: The Government Museum in Ooty is a popular tourist attraction that showcases the region's tribal history and culture. The museum has a vast collection of tribal artifacts, weapons, photographs, and other historical items. The museum is also home to a significant display of the region's natural history, including specimens of plants, animals, and birds.
• Wax World Museum: The Wax World Museum is a fascinating museum in Ooty that features life-size wax statues of famous personalities from Indian history, such as Mahatma Gandhi, Mother Teresa, and Rabindranath Tagore. The museum also has a section dedicated to horror and suspense, with wax statues of monsters and vampires.
• Tea Museum: The Tea Museum in Ooty is a popular tourist destination that offers visitors an insight into the history and culture of tea cultivation in the region. The museum has a vast collection of antique tea processing equipment, photographs, and other historical items. Additionally, visitors may sample many kinds of tea and see how tea is made.
• Tribal Museum: The Tribal Museum in Ooty is a unique museum that showcases the lifestyle and culture of the local tribal communities. The museum has a vast collection of tribal artifacts, including weapons, household items, and clothing. Visitors can also learn about the history and traditions of the local tribal communities through photographs, videos, and other exhibits.
• Honey and Bee Museum: The Honey and Bee Museum in Ooty is a fascinating museum that showcases the importance of bees and honey in our ecosystem. The museum has a vast collection of beekeeping equipment, photographs, and other exhibits related to bees and honey. Visitors can also learn about the different varieties of honey and their health benefits.

Ooty is a year-round destination that can be visited at any time of the year depending on the traveler's preferences. However, the best time to visit Ooty is from October to June when the weather is pleasant and comfortable for outdoor activities. The winter season from November to February is the peak tourist season in Ooty when the weather is cold, and the hill station receives a large number of tourists. The monsoon season from July to September is best avoided due to heavy rainfall, which can disrupt travel plans and cause landslides. Overall, the best time to visit Ooty is from October to June, especially if you want to enjoy the natural beauty and outdoor activities the town has to offer.

• By Air: The closest airport to Ooty is the Coimbatore International Airport, which is about 100 km away. From the airport, travelers can either take a bus or hire a taxi to get to Ooty.
• By Rail: The nearest railway station to Ooty is Mettupalayam, which is approximately 47 km away. Once there, visitors can board the Nilgiri Mountain Railway toy train to reach Ooty. This toy train ride is a delightful and scenic experience that takes around 5 hours to cover the distance.
• By Road: Ooty is well-connected to major cities in Tamil Nadu and nearby states via well-maintained roads. Visitors can opt to take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Ooty. The journey is a beautiful one, offering scenic views of the surrounding landscapes.