3 / 5 - 2 reviews
How to get there
3 1/2 hours from Coimbatore by bus
When to go
All year round
Minimum stay
2 to 3 days
Ooty (India)
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Hoffmann Simon
Practical information about Ooty
Reviews of Ooty
Ooty, which is actually named Udhagamandalam, is the capital of the province of Nilgiris, in Tamil Nadu. The city serves as a vacation spot for many Indians who come to enjoy the cool climate of the surrounding area.
My suggestion:
If you go to Ooty, you really must take the Nilgiris mountain railway. The route that this train takes goes through the surrounding mountains and allows for amazing views of the region.
Summary:
Truthfully, the city is not very pretty, but as often is the case, the surrounding areas are what's important and what make the place attractive. The Nilgiris, the "blue mountains that surround Ootyare well-known for the tea that is prodeuced there. The landscapes formed by the tea plantations on the mountain slopes, in addition to the huge eucalyptus trees with bluish leaves, are quite simply astounding.
I particularly liked taking walks on the outskirts of Ooty. Hiking enthusiasts will have a wonderful time here and those who like horseback riding can check out the surroundings on horseback. An unusual activity in Ooty is pedal boating on the lake! Somewhat far from town, there is a small amusement park right next to the lake. It's not just the park, which is a little old, that's funny, but the young couples pedal boating in the middle is downright hilarious.
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Hoffmann Simon
A Tamil Nadu mountain station established at the beginning of the 19th Century by British colonists and surrounded by tea plantations, Ooty has stunning scenery that's perfect for walks.
My suggestion:
Sit down to a cup of tea in the restaurant/cafe with an English garden - a trip back in time guaranteed!
Summary:
If, after the chaos of India's towns, you fancy a bit of peace and quiet during your holiday in India, then Ooty's the perfect place. The town still has some colonial buildings, which give it a wonderful British charm. Arriving from Bangalore, I particularly appreciated the climate and quiet that pervades the place. The tea plantations are stunning - a blend of remarkable green tones. The area's great for walks and hikes.
Get to Ooty by train on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway. A former steam train, it doesn't travel down the entire line, but it's a charming experience. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005. The winding journey takes 3 hours and crosses an amazing verdant countryside. It's incredible! It's well worth the effort, but you'll need to get up early to join the queue!
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Rose Nicolini
344 travellers' photos
