Discover the Hidden Gems: The Top 10 Best Ooty Tourist Places

 

Discover the Hidden Gems: The Top 10 Best Ooty Tourist Places 

Nestled in the picturesque Nilgiri Hills of South India, Ooty is a popular tourist destination that draws nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those in search of a tranquil getaway. The hill station boasts of beautiful gardens, misty mountains, lush tea plantations, serene lakes, and a rich cultural heritage. Here, we bring to you the top 10 best tourist places in Ooty that are sure to delight you.

Top 10 Best Ooty Tourist Places

1.      Doddabetta Peak At an altitude of 2,637 meters, Doddabetta Peak is the highest point in the Nilgiri Hills and one of the must-visit tourist spots in Ooty. The peak offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, forests, and tea plantations. There's also a telescope house at the summit that provides a closer look at the stunning landscapes.

 

best tourist places in Ooty

2.      Ooty Lake The Ooty Lake is an artificial lake situated in the heart of the town and a popular spot for boating. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a serene ambiance, making it a perfect spot for picnics and relaxation.

 

3.      Nilgiri Mountain Railway The Nilgiri Mountain Railway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist attraction in Ooty. The toy train takes you through the scenic landscapes of the Nilgiri Hills, passing through tunnels, bridges, and tea plantations. The train journey is an experience in itself and is not to be missed.

 

4.      St. Stephen's Church Built in 1829, St. Stephen's Church is one of the oldest churches in the Nilgiri Hills and a prime example of colonial architecture. The church boasts of beautiful stained glass windows and an impressive collection of old plaques and tablets.

 

5.      Catherine Falls Located about 20 km from Ooty, Catherine Falls is a breathtaking waterfall that drops from a height of 250 feet. The falls are surrounded by tea plantations and offer a perfect backdrop for some stunning photographs.

 

6.      Avalanche Lake Situated about 28 km from Ooty, Avalanche Lake is a pristine lake surrounded by thick forests and rolling hills. The lake is a popular spot for fishing, trekking, and camping. The clear blue waters of the lake offer a serene ambiance, and the tranquil surroundings make it an ideal spot for a picnic.

7.      Italian Garden The Italian Garden is a beautiful botanical garden situated in the heart of Ooty. The garden boasts of a stunning collection of exotic flowers, ornamental trees, and fountains. The garden is a great place to unwind and relax amidst nature.

 

8.      Fossil Tree The Fossil Tree is an ancient tree that is estimated to be around 20 million years old. The tree is located in the middle of a tea estate and is a popular spot for nature lovers and hikers.

 

9.      Elk Hill Elk Hill is a scenic hill that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and forests. The hill is a popular spot for trekking, hiking, and camping. The peaceful ambiance and lush greenery make it an ideal spot for a relaxing getaway.

 

10.  Murugan Temple The Murugan Temple is a famous temple dedicated to Lord Murugan, located about 15 km from Ooty. The temple boasts of stunning architecture and intricate carvings. The temple is a popular spot for tourists and devotees alike.

 

Outdoor photoshoot places in Ooty

If you're planning a photoshoot in Ooty, there are several outdoor locations that offer stunning backdrops for your pictures. Here are some of the best outdoor photoshoot places in Ooty:

1.      Botanical Garden The Botanical Garden in Ooty is a popular spot for nature lovers and photographers alike. The garden boasts of a stunning collection of exotic flowers, trees, and plants that provide a colorful backdrop for your photos. You can also explore the numerous sections of the garden, including the Italian Garden and the Fern House, for some unique photo opportunities.

2.      Doddabetta Peak Doddabetta Peak is the highest point in the Nilgiri Hills and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and tea plantations. The peak is an ideal location for a photoshoot, especially during sunrise or sunset, when the sky is ablaze with hues of orange and red.

3.      Ooty Lake The Ooty Lake is a serene location that provides a perfect backdrop for a romantic or family photoshoot. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a tranquil ambiance that is ideal for capturing some candid moments.

4.      Tea Plantations The tea plantations in Ooty are an iconic symbol of the hill station's charm and beauty. The vast stretches of tea plantations provide a verdant and serene background that is perfect for nature-themed photoshoots.

  TeaPlantations

 

5.      Avalanche Lake Avalanche Lake is a picturesque lake surrounded by dense forests and rolling hills. The clear blue waters of the lake offer a perfect contrast to the greenery around it, providing a stunning backdrop for your photos.

6.      Elk Hill Elk Hill is a scenic hill that offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and forests. The peaceful ambiance and lush greenery make it an ideal spot for capturing some romantic or family moments.

7.      Pykara Lake Pykara Lake is a tranquil lake surrounded by dense forests and rolling hills. The lake is a popular spot for boating and offers a serene ambiance that is perfect for capturing some candid moments.

8.      Catherine Falls Located about 20 km from Ooty, Catherine Falls is a stunning waterfall that provides a dramatic backdrop for your photos. The falls are surrounded by lush greenery and offer a perfect contrast to the rugged terrain around it.

In conclusion, Ooty is a beautiful hill station that offers several outdoor locations for your photoshoot. From the misty mountains to the serene lakes, Ooty is a paradise for nature lovers and photographers. So, pack your camera and head over to Ooty for a memorable photoshoot.

Hotels in Ooty

Ooty, also known as Udhagamandalam, is a popular hill station in South India and a favorite tourist destination. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty and colonial charm that makes it an ideal vacation spot for travelers. If you're planning a trip to Ooty, here are some of the best hotels in Ooty for a comfortable and enjoyable stay:

1.      Taj Savoy Hotel The Taj Savoy Hotel is a luxurious hotel that offers an elegant colonial-style architecture, set amidst sprawling gardens. The hotel offers well-appointed rooms and suites, a spa, a fitness center, and several dining options that serve Indian and international cuisine.

2.      The Gateway Hotel Church Road The Gateway Hotel Church Road is a charming colonial-style hotel located in the heart of Ooty. The hotel offers comfortable rooms and suites with modern amenities, a spa, a fitness center, and several dining options that serve Indian and international cuisine.

3.      Sterling Ooty Elk Hill Sterling Ooty Elk Hill is a picturesque resort located on a hilltop that offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. The resort offers well-appointed rooms and suites, a spa, a fitness center, and several dining options that serve Indian and international cuisine.

4.      Fortune Resort Sullivan Court The Fortune Resort Sullivan Court is a contemporary hotel located in the heart of Ooty. The hotel offers well-appointed rooms and suites with modern amenities, a spa, a fitness center, and several dining options that serve Indian and international cuisine.

Hotels

 

5.      Club Mahindra Danish Villa The Club Mahindra Danish Villa is a charming heritage-style hotel located in a peaceful residential area of Ooty. The hotel offers well-appointed rooms and suites, a spa, a fitness center, and several dining options that serve Indian and international cuisine.

6.      Savoy Hotel The Savoy Hotel is a historic hotel located amidst lush greenery and offering a tranquil ambiance. The hotel offers well-appointed rooms and suites, a spa, a fitness center, and several dining options that serve Indian and international cuisine.

7.      Gem Park Ooty The Gem Park Ooty is a contemporary hotel located on a hilltop that offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. The hotel offers well-appointed rooms and suites, a spa, a fitness center, and several dining options that serve Indian and international cuisine.

In conclusion, Ooty offers several hotels that cater to different budgets and preferences. Whether you're looking for a luxurious stay or a comfortable budget accommodation, you can find a hotel that suits your needs in Ooty. So, book your stay in one of these hotels and enjoy a memorable vacation in the lap of nature.

Famous food in Ooty

Ooty, also known as Udhagamandalam, is a popular hill station in South India that is known for its natural beauty, colonial charm, and delicious food. The local cuisine in Ooty is a unique blend of Tamil, Kerala, and Karnataka influences, with a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Here are some of the famous foods in Ooty that you should try on your visit:

1.      Ooty Varkey Ooty Varkey is a popular snack that is made from flour, sugar, and ghee. It is a flaky, crispy, and sweet snack that is perfect for munching on during your travels. You can find Ooty Varkey in most local bakeries and sweet shops in Ooty.

OotyVarkey

 

2.      Coorg Pandi Curry Coorg Pandi Curry is a delicious pork curry that is popular in Ooty and the surrounding regions. It is made from tender pork meat that is cooked in a spicy and flavorful masala that includes onions, tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and a variety of aromatic spices. It is usually served with steamed rice or Appam.

3.      Ooty Mushroom Ooty Mushroom is a unique and flavorful dish that is made from locally grown mushrooms. The mushrooms are cooked in a spicy masala that includes onions, tomatoes, garlic, ginger, and a variety of spices. It is usually served as a side dish with rice or chapatis.

4.      Akki Roti Akki Roti is a popular rice flour flatbread that is a specialty of the Karnataka region. It is made from a mixture of rice flour, water, and salt, and is usually served with coconut chutney, tomato chutney, or sambar.

5.      Ooty Chocolates Ooty is known for its delicious homemade chocolates that are made from locally grown cocoa beans. You can find a variety of chocolates in Ooty, including dark chocolate, milk chocolate, and white chocolate, as well as chocolates with nuts and fruits.

6.      Biryani Biryani is a popular dish that is enjoyed all over India, and Ooty is no exception. Ooty has several places that serve delicious biryanis, including vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. The biryanis are usually made with fragrant basmati rice, a variety of aromatic spices, and either meat or vegetables.

7.      Thuppa Dosai Thuppa Dosai is a unique and delicious dish that is a specialty of the Nilgiris region. It is a thin and crispy dosa that is usually served with a spicy coconut chutney and a dal or vegetable curry.

In conclusion, Ooty is a paradise for food lovers, with a variety of delicious and unique dishes that are sure to satisfy your taste buds. So, make sure to try these famous foods in Ooty and explore the local cuisine on your next visit.

Transportation in Ooty for siteseeing

Ooty, also known as the “Queen of Hills,” is a popular tourist destination in South India. The hill station is known for its breathtaking views, colonial architecture, and tea plantations. If you are planning to visit Ooty, it is essential to know about the different modes of transportation available for sightseeing. Here are some of the transportation options available in Ooty for sightseeing:

1.      Private Vehicles The most convenient way to explore Ooty is by hiring a private vehicle. You can hire a car, jeep, or bike from various rental agencies in Ooty. The rates are generally reasonable, and you can negotiate for a better price. With a private vehicle, you have the flexibility to explore the city at your own pace and visit places that are not easily accessible by public transport.

2.      Taxis Taxis are readily available in Ooty, and you can hire one for a half-day or full-day tour. The taxis come with a driver who is familiar with the local roads and can take you to popular tourist destinations. The rates for taxis are fixed and depend on the distance traveled and the duration of the trip.

3.      Auto-rickshaws Auto-rickshaws are a popular mode of transportation in Ooty, especially for short distances. They are cheaper than taxis and are ideal for navigating through narrow streets and alleys. However, the rates are not fixed, and you need to bargain with the driver before hiring one.

4.      Buses Buses are the cheapest mode of transportation in Ooty, but they are not always the most convenient. The buses can be crowded and uncomfortable, especially during peak hours. However, they are a good option if you are on a budget and want to explore the city like a local.

5.      Toy Train The Nilgiri Mountain Railway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist attraction in Ooty. The toy train runs from Ooty to Coonoor and Mettupalayam and offers stunning views of the Nilgiri hills and valleys. However, the train is often crowded, and tickets need to be booked in advance.

In conclusion, there are various transportation options available in Ooty for sightseeing, and it depends on your budget, preference, and convenience. If you want to explore the city at your own pace, hiring a private vehicle or taxi is the best option. However, if you are on a budget, buses or auto-rickshaws are a good alternative. And if you want to experience the beauty of the Nilgiris, taking a ride on the toy train is a must-do activity.

Shopping in Ooty

Ooty, a picturesque hill station located in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, is not just famous for its scenic beauty but also for its shopping options. From handmade chocolates to exquisite handicrafts, Ooty has a lot to offer to the shopaholics. Here are some of the best shopping places in Ooty:

1.      Commercial Road Commercial Road is one of the busiest shopping streets in Ooty. The street is lined with shops selling a variety of items such as clothes, shoes, bags, spices, tea, and souvenirs. You can find some good deals on clothes and footwear, especially during the off-season.

2.      Charing Cross Charing Cross is another popular shopping area in Ooty. The place is famous for its roadside shops selling shawls, scarves, hats, and other winter wear. You can also find shops selling handmade chocolates, tea, and spices.

3.      Main Bazaar Road Main Bazaar Road is a bustling shopping street in Ooty. The street is famous for its shops selling handmade chocolates and aromatic oils. You can also find shops selling local handicrafts such as shawls, pottery, and carved wooden items.

4.      Tibetan Market The Tibetan Market is a popular shopping destination in Ooty. The market is famous for its shops selling Tibetan handicrafts such as prayer wheels, thangkas, and singing bowls. You can also find shops selling handmade jewelry and clothes.

5.      Ooty Municipal Market Ooty Municipal Market is a must-visit for those who love to shop for fresh produce. The market is located in the heart of the town and sells a variety of fruits, vegetables, and flowers. You can also find shops selling local spices, tea, and honey.

6.      Green Shop Green Shop is a unique store in Ooty that sells eco-friendly products. The shop sells a variety of items such as organic food, handmade soaps, and natural beauty products. You can also find a range of sustainable clothing and accessories.

7.      Kurinji Mini Supermarket Kurinji Mini Supermarket is a one-stop-shop for all your grocery needs. The supermarket sells a variety of items such as fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and packaged foods. You can also find shops selling local spices and tea.

In conclusion, shopping in Ooty is a delightful experience. From traditional handicrafts to eco-friendly products, Ooty has something for everyone. So, if you are planning to visit Ooty, make sure to spare some time for shopping and take back some souvenirs for your loved ones.

Flights from other countries to Ooty

Ooty is a popular tourist destination in India and is well-connected to major cities in the country. However, there are no direct flights to Ooty from other countries. The nearest international airport to Ooty is the Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore, which is about 290 km away. From Bangalore, you can take a domestic flight to Coimbatore or take a bus or taxi to Ooty.

Flights

 

Here are some of the airlines that operate flights from other countries to Bangalore:

1.      Emirates Emirates is a popular airline that operates flights from many countries to Bangalore. The airline offers direct flights from Dubai to Bangalore.

2.      Etihad Airways Etihad Airways is another popular airline that operates flights to Bangalore from various countries. The airline offers direct flights from Abu Dhabi to Bangalore.

3.      Qatar Airways Qatar Airways is a well-known airline that operates flights to Bangalore from several countries. The airline offers direct flights from Doha to Bangalore.

4.      British Airways British Airways is a renowned airline that operates flights to Bangalore from London. The airline offers direct flights from London to Bangalore.

5.      Air India Air India is the national carrier of India and operates flights to Bangalore from several countries. The airline offers direct flights from many cities in the United States, Canada, Europe, and the Middle East to Bangalore.

Once you reach Bangalore, you can take a domestic flight to Coimbatore, which is the nearest airport to Ooty. Alternatively, you can also take a bus or taxi from Bangalore to Ooty, which takes around 6-7 hours.

Conclusion

Ooty is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts, and the top 10 tourist spots mentioned above are a testament to the hill station's beauty and charm. From the misty mountains to the tranquil lakes, Ooty has something for everyone. Whether you're in search of some quiet time in nature or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, Ooty is the perfect destination for you.

Apart from these top 10 tourist spots, there are several other hidden gems in Ooty that are worth exploring. Some of these include the Government Botanical Garden, Emerald Lake, Kalhatti Falls, and Pykara Lake.

In conclusion, Ooty is a perfect holiday destination that is sure to captivate you with its scenic beauty, charming culture, and warm hospitality. So, pack your bags and head over to Ooty for an unforgettable vacation.