Ooty, also known as Udhagamandalam, is a scenic hill station nestled in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu, India. Known for its cool climate, lush greenery, and colonial charm, Ooty is a popular getaway for travelers seeking peace, nature, and adventure.
Key Highlights of Ooty
Natural Beauty: Surrounded by rolling hills, dense forests, and tea plantations, Ooty's landscape is a vibrant mix of lush greenery and misty mountains. The Ooty Lake, a tranquil water body, is perfect for boating and picnics, while the nearby Dodabetta Peak offers panoramic views of the region.
Botanical Gardens: The Government Botanical Garden, a sprawling 55-acre park, is a top attraction with over 650 species of plants, including rare trees and vibrant flower beds. Its a serene spot to enjoy nature walks and admire unique flora.
Tea Plantations: Ooty is known for its expansive tea estates, where visitors can explore tea gardens, learn about the tea-making process, and taste a variety of locally grown teas at the Tea Factory and Museum.
Colonial Architecture: Remnants of the British colonial era, such as the St. Stephen's Church, Stone House, and charming bungalows, give Ooty a distinct historical charm.
Toy Train Ride: The Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a picturesque toy train journey from Mettupalayam to Ooty. Passing through tunnels, over bridges, and along steep slopes, it provides breathtaking views of the Nilgiri Hills.
Wildlife and Adventure: Just outside Ooty, Mudumalai National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary is home to elephants, leopards, and tigers. For adventure enthusiasts, Ooty offers options like trekking, horse riding, and mountain biking.
Day 1: Exploring Ooty Town and Lake
·
Morning:
o Breakfast: Start with a local breakfast at a nearby
cafe
o Ooty Botanical Gardens: Begin at the Government
Botanical Garden, where you can admire a vast variety of flowers, exotic
plants, and trees.
·
Afternoon:
o Ooty Lake: Enjoy a scenic boat ride, then stroll
along the lakeside and visit the mini amusement park.
o St. Stephen's Church: Explore this colonial-era
church, known for its beautiful stained glass and historic architecture.
·
Evening:
o Nilgiri Mountain Railway (Toy Train Ride): Take the
UNESCO-listed toy train to Coonoor (or just ride a segment if short on time) to
enjoy panoramic views of the Nilgiri hills.
o Return and Relax: End the day with a cozy dinner at
your hotel or a popular restaurant in town.
Day 2: Tea Plantations and Coonoor
Excursion
·
Morning:
o Tea Factory and Museum Tour: Start the day learning
about the tea-making process, with opportunities to taste and buy local
varieties.
o Sim's Park, Coonoor: Head to Coonoor (30-minute
drive), where Sim's Park offers unique plant species and stunning views.
·
Afternoon:
o Lamb's Rock: Visit this viewpoint in Coonoor to
enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Coimbatore plains and tea estates.
o Dolphin's Nose: Another great viewpoint, where you
can see Catherine Falls in the distance.
·
Evening:
o Shopping in Coonoor: Explore local markets for
handmade chocolates, teas, and souvenirs.
o Return to Ooty: Head back for a relaxing evening and
dinner at the hotel.
Day 3: Adventure and Scenic Views
·
Morning:
o Dodabetta Peak: The highest peak in the Nilgiris,
offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and towns. Ideal for
photography and hiking.
·
Afternoon:
o Pykara Falls and Lake: Drive to Pykara, a serene
lake and waterfall. Enjoy a boat ride on the lake and explore the peaceful area
around the falls.
·
Evening:
o Shopping and Leisure: Spend the evening strolling
through Ooty's local markets, where you can pick up local tea, chocolates, and
handicrafts.
o Dinner and Departure: Enjoy a final dinner in Ooty,
savoring the local flavours before heading back or preparing for your journey
home.
INCLUSIONS
Pick up and drop from
airport/railway/bus station.
Accommodation on
double/twin sharing basis.
All breakfast
included at hotels.
All transfers and
sightseeing by private A/C vehicle.
Drivers bata, toll,
parking, road tax, fuel charges All applicable taxes.
EXCLUSIONS
Service Tax 5% GST
Extra.
Any air/bus/rail fare
Any other meals not mentioned in package inclusions.
Any other destination
not mentioned in itinerary.
Any personal expenses
such as laundry, room service, mini bar, telephone etc.
Guide charges/boating
charges/entrance fees for any sightseeing
Any services or
activity charges other than those included in inclusions.
Supplementary cost
for festival period, long weekend or peak season.