Nestled in the lap of Nilgiri hills at an altitude of 2240 meters, Ooty is a hill station that gives one of the most picturesque escapes in the country to people who love mountains. For reasons too obvious, Ooty once served as the summer headquarters under the British rule and was also called Udagamandalam. However, the city can be enjoyed during all seasons, and not just during summers. This unspoiled hill station in Tamil Nadu is home to some breathtaking views, tea gardens, and scenic waterfalls, which form dynamic landscapes during different parts of the year. Yet, the best time to visit the best tourist places in Ooty is considered to be summers by many.
While families prefer to visit the city during summers, honeymooners and couples often visit during the monsoon and winter seasons. Tourists are recommended to take the toy train ride which guarantees a panoramic view of Nilgiri hills that cannot be enjoyed anywhere else. This ride becomes even more magical during monsoons as one can witness greenery all over, and waterfalls gushing with double force as rainwater adds to its might. It is suggested that one should not take a toy train ride early in the morning during winters due to the freezing weather.
March to May: Given its pristine location, Ooty has a pleasant climate throughout the year. However, Ooty, which is also known as the Summer Capital of Madras Presidency, can be thoroughly enjoyed by the tourists during the Summer season. The temperature ranges between 23 and 31 degrees celsius during Summers, making it the best time to explore the hill station. Tourists can enjoy breathtaking views at Ooty Lake, Doddabetta peak, Ketti valley, Toda huts, Rose garden, botanical garden, and Pykara river. The ride from Mettupalayam to Ooty via Coonoor takes the tourists through some picturesque locations which can be best enjoyed during Summers.
Activities: In addition to giving a plethora of sightseeing opportunities, the Summer festivals organized in the month of May attract and entertain a lot of tourists. There are myriads of interesting carnivals and fairs which make Ooty all decked to host its guests. Every year during May, there is a flower show at the Botanical Gardens, which is one of the most popular activities during this time. For all the nature-lovers, the Botanical Garden in Ooty, which is run by the government, is a treat. It is spread in a wide area of 55 hectares and is home to as many as 650 species of flowers and trees. It is located in Vannarpettai and is open for visitors from 8.30 am to 6.30 pm. Besides, the summer season is also the best time to enjoy some adventure sports such as trekking and hang gliding in Ooty.
October to February: The winter season is the time when chilly winds take over the town of Ooty. The average temperature during the winter months ranges between 5 and 15 degrees Celsius. The climate is dry and cold, thus it is recommended to carry ample woolens, especially if you plan to step out during the night. The hills around the town become misty and foggy making the entire landscape extremely picturesque. The natural beauty of Ooty during the winter season calms the senses. The charm of Ooty in winters is the reason why most honeymooners and couples like to visit the hill station during this season. When fog enters the hotel room, it can also give some couples a fairytale-like experience.
Activities: Although numerous tourists prefer to visit Ooty during the summer, it is also a great idea to visit during the winter season. The winds are chilly; however, the atmosphere is very fresh and perfect to enjoy the landscape. The mountains during this time are covered with dew and have a blanket of fog over them. Here are some of the best things to do in Ooty during winters.
July to September: Monsoon is at its peak in Ooty during these months. Though you can experience some drizzling during June also. To enjoy Ooty in the rains, plan a trip around late June or early July. This way, there will not be any incessant rains to dampen your sightseeing plans and you will be able to see Ooty at its best. Monsoon season is the best opportunity for visitors to experience far greener side of the hill station. The clouds touch the lower altitudes during this time giving the hill station a fairytale-like feel. Also, the place is not overcrowded. The hotel tariffs are lower and the entrance fee for a lot of tourist attractions is also reduced during this season.
Activities: Picture this: You’re on a peak, facing wide mountains on all sides, while you can hear the sweet sound of rain and smell the earthy fragrance. A small tea stall serves you a hot cup of fresh tea picked from the neighborhood tea gardens. You’re listening to the story of his life, and how he’d never trade his life for one in a big city. This is by far the best activity you can look forward to during your stay here. There are several other activities you can look forward to during your trip to Ooty.
Ooty is one of the most popular hill stations in South India. It is easily accessible from most parts of South India as well as other parts of India and abroad.
Ooty by air: The nearest airport is Coimbatore, which is approximately 88 km from Ooty. Aerial routes have been established between Coimbatore and various other big cities of India. It is an international airport, and flights are plying to and from a limited number of other countries as well, including Singapore, Sharjah, and Colombo. For flights to other countries in the world, one may have to travel to Bengaluru International Airport, which is at a distance of 295 km, to board a flight.
Ooty by rail: South India is well connected by rail, and the nearest railway station is at a distance of just 40km. The railhead is at Mettupalayam and can bring tourists to Ooty from Bangalore, Mysore, Coimbatore, Chennai and various other cities of India.
Ooty by road: A car ride to Ooty is one of the most popular modes of conveyance to the hill station. However, one may also choose to board a state corporation or private bus plying from cities such as Mysore, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Kodaikanal.
South India is rich in natural beauty and other pristine hill stations surround every hill station. Ooty, the Queen of Hill Stations, is also naturally blessed with numerous hill stations in its vicinity, and one can easily include other locations in one’s itinerary during a trip to Ooty.
Wayanad is located at a distance of 110 km from Ooty and it takes approx. 3-4 hours to reach the scenic hill station. Wayanad has some of the most breathtaking waterfalls and greenery all around. The small town in the state of Kerala is famous for spice plantations. The weather is pleasant here most of the time. Explore Wayanad with family for unforgettable experiences.
At a 4-hour ride from Ooty, Thekkady boasts of Periyar – the largest tiger reserve in the country. A short visit to Thekkady is one of the best ways to enjoy a jungle vacation. In addition to a visit to the jungle and taking your chances to see the mighty tiger, one may also choose to try bamboo rafting, hiking, and even shopping while exploring Thekkady.
From beautiful gardens and never-ending tea plantations to alluring sunsets and comfortable weather almost round the year, Ooty has it all. This is the reason why it is popular among not only people from around the area, but from across the country. While you can find several attractions in this town in various seasons, there is one thing that is almost elusive in a lot of other cities and you have it here in abundance – clean air.
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