Ooty - Discovering India

Travelling to Ooty

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Ooty, a pretty good destination in India (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Ooty and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Ooty, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through India, here's everything to know about Ooty for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Ooty

Ooty, also known as Udhagamandalam, is a picturesque hill station located in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is located in the Nilgiri Hills, which are a part of the Western Ghats mountain range. Ooty is famous for its scenic beauty, pleasant weather, and tea plantations. It is a popular tourist destination for those seeking a serene and tranquil getaway. The town is situated at an altitude of 2,240 meters above sea level and has a cool climate throughout the year. Ooty is well-known for its heritage toy train that runs on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, connecting it to the town of Mettupalayam. The major attractions include the Botanical Garden, Ooty Lake, and Doddabetta Peak.

What to visit in Ooty

Here are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Ooty and some information about each: 1. Ooty Lake - This beautiful lake was built in the 19th century and is surrounded by lush greenery. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake or enjoy a picnic on its banks.
2. Botanical Garden - The garden is spread over 55 acres and is home to a wide variety of exotic plants and flowers. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through its well-manicured lawns and admire its many colourful blooms.
3. Doddabetta Peak - At an altitude of 2,623 metres, Doddabetta is the highest point in the Nilgiri Hills. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and mountains from the peak.
4. Pykara Falls - Located about 20 km from Ooty, the Pykara Falls is a popular picnic spot and a great place to relax amidst the beauty of nature.
5. Rose Garden - As the name suggests, this garden is dedicated to roses and is home to more than 20,000 varieties of the flower. Visitors can enjoy a fragrant stroll through its many colourful blooms.
6. Avalanche Lake - Located about 30 km from Ooty, the Avalanche Lake is a serene and picturesque place surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills.
7. Tea Factory and Museum - Ooty is known for its tea plantations, and visitors can learn about the process of tea-making and taste some of the finest teas at the tea factory and museum.
8. St. Stephen's Church - This beautiful church was built in 1829 and is known for its stunning stained glass windows and Gothic architecture.
These are just a few of the many tourist attractions in Ooty. There are plenty of other places to visit and things to do in this beautiful hill station, so I would recommend doing some more research to plan the perfect trip.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in India, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Ooty.

When to go on holiday to Ooty

The best time to visit Ooty is between the months of October to June, as the weather during these months is pleasant and cool. The monsoon season starts from July and continues until September, which is not the ideal time to visit Ooty due to heavy rainfall. However, if you enjoy the rain and want to experience the lush greenery of the town, you can plan your visit during this time. Overall, the best time to plan your holiday to Ooty is during October to June.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Ooty

Ooty is a popular hill station located in the southern state of Tamil Nadu in India. Below are the different ways to reach Ooty: 1. By Air: The nearest airport to Ooty is Coimbatore International Airport, which is approximately 86 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Ooty.
2. By Train: The nearest railway station to Ooty is Mettupalayam, which is approximately 47 km away. From here, you can take the famous Nilgiri Mountain Railway train, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to reach Ooty.
3. By Road: Ooty is well connected to major cities in Tamil Nadu by road. You can take a bus or hire a taxi from cities like Coimbatore, Bangalore, and Mysore to reach Ooty.
I hope this information helps you in planning your trip to Ooty.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Ooty, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Ooty

Ooty is famous for its South Indian cuisine, which includes some unique dishes. Here are some typical foods of Ooty with a short description for each of them: 1. Ooty Varkey - It is a baked snack made with all-purpose flour, butter, and salt. It is crispy and has a unique flavor.
2. Coorg Pork - It is a spicy and tangy dish made with pork, onions, pepper, and other spices. It has a unique taste and is a must-try for non-vegetarians.
3. Avial - Avial is a dish made with mixed vegetables, coconut, and yogurt. It has a slightly sweet and tangy taste and is usually served with rice.
4. Masala Tea - Ooty is famous for its tea plantations, and Masala tea is a popular hot beverage. It is made with tea leaves, milk, sugar, and spices such as cardamom, ginger, and cinnamon.
5. Ooty Dum Biryani - This is a mouth-watering dish made with rice, vegetables, and spices. It is cooked in a traditional way where the vessel is sealed with dough to retain the flavor and aroma.
6. Kothu Parotta - Kothu Parotta is a popular street food dish made with shredded parotta, vegetables, egg, and spices. It is a filling and delicious dish.
7. Badam Milk - Badam milk is a popular drink in Ooty. It is made with almonds, milk, sugar, and cardamom powder. It is rich and creamy and is usually served chilled.
These are some of the typical foods of Ooty that you must try when you visit the place.
You can find general info about typical foods in India here.

Is Ooty an expensive destination for tourists?

Ooty (India) can be quite expensive for tourists, especially during the peak tourist season from April to June and from September to November. This is because the demand for accommodations and activities is high during this period. However, there are budget-friendly options available too. You can find reasonably priced accommodations, especially if you are willing to stay outside the town center and you can also hire a taxi for a reasonable rate. Additionally, you can save money by visiting during the off-season months, or by planning your trip well in advance to take advantage of early booking discounts.

Where to find accomodation in Ooty

The best areas to find accommodation for visiting Ooty are: 1) Near Ooty Lake: This area offers a beautiful view of the lake and is close to popular tourist attractions like the Botanical Gardens and Doddabetta Peak.
2) Near Coonoor Road: This area is great for those who want to explore Coonoor, as it is close to the railway station and many tea gardens.
3) Near Charring Cross/Commercial Road: This area is perfect for those who love shopping and are looking for a bustling city center. It is also close to many restaurants and cafes.
4) Near Avalanche Lake: If you're looking for a serene and secluded stay surrounded by nature, then this area is perfect for you. It offers many homestays and resorts with stunning views of the lake.
You can check hotel prices at Ooty here:
Booking.com

Is Ooty a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Ooty is generally considered a safe place for tourists. The crime rate in Ooty is low compared to other cities in India, and the local police take the safety of tourists very seriously. However, as with any destination, it is important to exercise caution and take necessary safety precautions, such as not carrying large amounts of cash or valuables, being aware of your surroundings, and avoiding walking alone in isolated areas at night. It is also a good idea to research the laws and customs of the destination beforehand to avoid any unintentional faux pas.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in India here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Ooty.

What type of travelers will enjoy Ooty the most?

Ooty in India is a great destination for different types of travelers. It's a perfect place for couples, families, and young people looking for fun.
Couples can explore the serene beauty of Ooty and enjoy long walks, romantic dinners, and indulge in various activities such as boating in the Ooty Lake, visiting botanical gardens and trekking to Dodabetta Peak.
Families can enjoy exploring the tea plantations, visiting the Wax World Museum, and taking a ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Young people can indulge in adventure sports like horse-riding, rock climbing, and camping. Also, there are many bars and restaurants in Ooty where they can enjoy the nightlife.
Overall, Ooty has something for everyone, and any type of traveler can enjoy their time here.

How to get around Ooty

The most popular modes of transportation in Ooty are taxis, rental cars, motorbikes, and buses. Taxis are convenient but can be a bit expensive, while rental cars and motorbikes give you more flexibility and freedom to explore the area. Buses are the most affordable option, but they may not be as convenient if you want to travel to specific destinations at your convenience.

What to see around Ooty

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Ooty: 1. Coonoor: Coonoor is a famous hill station just a short drive away from Ooty. It is a scenic spot with lush greenery, tea plantations, and beautiful waterfalls.
2. Kotagiri: Kotagiri is another hill station located near Ooty. It is famous for its tea gardens, scenic views, and trekking trails.
3. Pykara Lake: Pykara is a picturesque lake located near Ooty. The lake is surrounded by dense forests and rolling hills, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing picnic.
4. Dolphin's Nose: Dolphin's Nose is a viewpoint located near Coonoor. From here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Nilgiri mountain range and the Catherine Falls.
5. Doddabetta Peak: Doddabetta Peak is the highest peak in the Nilgiri mountain range and is located just a few kms from Ooty. It offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and hills. 6. Avalanche Lake: Avalanche Lake is a beautiful lake located at a distance of about 30kms from Ooty. It is surrounded by dense forests and is a great place for activities like fishing, boating, and camping.
Hope this helps!
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