Ooty: The Queen of Hills Ooty, nestled in the Nilgiri hills of Southern India, is a picturesque tourist spot often referred to as the “Queen of Hills.” Its full name is Udagamandalam. It is located 86 km north of Coimbatore and 128 km south of Mysore. Ooty is a highly popular destination, attracting a significant number of tourists from both within India and abroad.
Enchanting Hill Station with Various Names
Ooty goes by various names, such as the “Queen of Hills,” and is often considered a dream destination.
With its grand lakes and old-world architecture, Ooty offers an unforgettable journey.
Best Time to Visit Ooty
The best time to visit Ooty is from April to June and from September to November. During the summers, Ooty has a pleasant climate, making it ideal for a trip.
Monsoon months bring heavy rainfall, so if you enjoy rain, visiting during this time could be enjoyable.
Winter is also a good time to explore Ooty, with temperatures sometimes dropping below five degrees Celsius.
Places to Explore in Ooty
- Nilgiri Mountain Railway
- Built by the British in 1908, this railway line was recognized as an extension of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2005.
- The toy train covers around 46 km, making it a great option, especially if you’re traveling with children.
- Ooty Lake
- Surrounded by eucalyptus trees, this artificial lake is a prime attraction.
- While its size has reduced in recent years, it still offers a memorable experience.
- Ooty Botanical Garden
- Established in 1848, this botanical garden boasts a mix of exotic plant species.
- It’s a place where you can witness the charm of Italy’s heritage garden.
- Thread Garden Ooty
- Home to an impressive collection of artificial flowers, this place was transformed over 12 years to become a natural wonder.
- It’s a must-see for nature enthusiasts.
- Emerald Lake
- Also known as the “Silent Valley,” this area is serene and offers the unique experience of feeding fish. Watching them consume a whole meal can be quite fascinating.
How to Reach Ooty
Ooty, a captivating hill station in Tamil Nadu, is accessible through various means:
- By Air:
- The nearest international airport is Coimbatore International Airport (CJB), approximately 80-90 km from Ooty.
- Taking a cab from the airport to Ooty is recommended.
- By Road:
- You can reach Ooty by bus, cab, or your own vehicle.
- There are different routes from various Indian cities.
- By Train:
- The nearest railway head is Mettupalayam (MTP).
- You can take a train to Coimbatore and then switch to the Nilgiri Express to reach Mettupalayam.
Ooty is a splendid destination for those seeking a peaceful getaway.
Its natural beauty, serene lakes, and historical attractions make it a popular spot for both Indian and foreign tourists.
Whether you travel by air, road, or train, Ooty’s charm is waiting to be explored.