The Queen of South Indian Hill Stations
Ooty is the celebrated hill station of South India. In fact, it is known as the 'Queen' of the Southern hill stations. Gifted with wonderful location in the picturesque and cool Nilgiri Hills, Ooty was founded by the British collector. The vegetation of the hill station is characterized by dense forest, tea gardens and eucalyptus trees. Previously it was called Udhagamadalam, but the Britishers renamed it as Ooty. It was once the dynasty of the Hoysalas rulers. Later it came under the rule of the British when a treaty was signed with Tipu Sultan at Srirangapatna in 1799.
Ooty Attractions
Scenic beauty of Nilgiri Hills
Nilgiri Hills are the oldest mountain ranges of India. It has beautiful virgin valleys, vibrant flora, rich fauna, mesmerizing waterfalls and large tea gardens.
Ooty Lake
It is a famous picnic spot of Ooty. In the evening people come here to spend some pleasurable moments. It is also a venue for boat race which is held here for two days. Children's park near the lake make it a big hit with children.
Botanical Garden
It is a home to numerous species of birds. Here you can sight several beautiful birds. Colours of some of the birds are so bright and vibrant that it seems as if the birds have straight away come out of aJungle Book. Many colourful flowers belonging to different species attract many a tourists. The annual event the 'Flower Show' is a great opportunity for nature lovers to see a wide variety of flowers under one roof. It is held in May.
St. Stephen Church
It is one of the oldest churches located on Nilgiri Hills. It flaunts a huge? wooden beam, stained glass paintings depicting scenes from the life of Jesus. Some paintings are dedicated to Mother Marry.
Cuisine
Typical South Indian food is famous here including idli, sambhar, dosa, and coconut chutney.
Climate
The climate is pleasant all round the year. Travellers from far and wide flock to Ooty to break the monotony in their lives. You need to carry some woollens if you plan to come here in the winters.
Shopping
The markets of Ooty are stocked with honey, eucalyptus oil, cinchona products, Nilgiri tea, coffee, silver, tribal shawls.
Accommodation
Being a small city Ooty mainly has three star hotels providing great hospitality, facilities and services to the guests. Some of the hotels in the city are The Three Star Fortune Resort, Sullivan Court Hotel, The Holiday Inn and The Hotel Sinchair.
How To Reach
Air: The nearest airport is Coimbatore International Airport located at a distance of 90 km from Ooty.
Rail: Ooty railway station connects Ooty with all the major cities of India. The toy train at Ooty connects the city with Mettupalayam and Coonoor.
Road: The regular bus services connect Ooty with other main cities of South India.