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Ooty is not so much of a destination in itself as a focal point from where the surrounding hillside can be explored. Very few would be there who would not like to rest in the lap of nature after a long weekend and completely unwind.
Situated at a distance of 297 kilometres from Bangalore, Ooty is the shortened name for Ootacamund, the most charming hill-station in Tamil Nadu, nestled in the Nilgiris. The town was established by the British in the 19th century as a summer headquarters of the Madras government. Hill-tops, mountain ranges, lush green botanical gardens, winding mountain trails, gushing waterfalls and the celebrated ‘toy train' journeys make up this bustling town.
Charming raj-era bungalows and later Indian counterparts jostle for space in what is now increasingly becoming a crowded town but you can head away from the town to quieter places. Head over this weekend and explore this remnant of colonial heritage. Here are some of the destinations that you can explore in and around Ooty.
Note: Ooty has many more attractions nearby and if on an extended weekend be sure to visit Coonoor and the Mudumalai national park to enjoy the sightseeing thrills it has to offer.
Ooty Botanical Gardens
22 acres of lush green property make up the government botanical garden which was set up in 1847. They are home to more than 650 species of plants where place of pride is occupied by a 20 million year old fossil tree.
Take a walk amidst lush greenery. A treat for Botany students the highpoint of the Botanical garden is the annual flower show in the month of May.
PicCredit: WikiCommons
Ooty Lake
The lake and the boat house here attract the tourists who have the option of boating, fishing or simply walking around the periphery of the lake. Summers are a good time to visit as the Ooty lake is the venue for boat races and boat pageantry. Fishing is allowed but requires prior permission from the authorities.
PicCredit: WikiCommons
Doddabetta Peak
The highest point in Ooty (2623 meters) above sea level, Doddabetta peak commands the best views of the entire city. It is located at a distance of 10 km from Ooty and is popular among photography enthusiasts. The Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation also runs a telescope house in Doddabetta Peak which offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
PicCredit: WikiCommons
Nilgiri Mountain Railway
Also known as the Nilgiri toy train, this is a must-do on your Ooty itinerary, sit back and just enjoy the ride as you ride through the steepest rail track in Asia and chortle past tunnels, bridges and sharp bends of mountains from Ooty to Mettupalayam. This rail route is in operation since 1899!
PicCredit: WikiCommons
Kodanadu's View Point
Soothe your eyes and mind with the site of the Moyar river flowing below and the rolling tea estates on the nearby hills from this easternmost point of the Nilgiri hills. There is a watch tower here too which offers breathtaking views of the towering Rangaswamy peak in the distance.
PicCredit: WikiCommons
Glenmorgan
lthough, not at a stone's throw distance from Ooty, this scenic village is very popular among tourists for the views of the tea estates that sprawl on the hills near the village. It is popular as a picnic spot. Another popular attraction here is the ropeway here that can carry four people at once.
PicCredit: Glenmorgan
Avalanche Lake
hot favourite with anglers, tourists come here by the hordes to be part of fishing and trekking in the nearby valley. The lake gets its name from a massive landslide that occurred in the region in 1823.
The lake is well known for magnolias, a trout stream, orchids and shola trees. In the mornings, the clouds seem to descend and merge with the waters of the lake. Trout fishing is the most famous activity on this lake.
PicCredit: WikiCommons
