Ootacamund

Overview:

Situated atop the Blue Mountains of the Western Ghats, Ooty attracts a huge number of tourists every year. Majestic range of mountains, dense green forests, great lakes, miles of tea gardens and eucalyptus trees and sprawling grasslands greet travelers en route to Ooty. It is also known as ‘Ootacamund’ or ‘Udhagamandalam’, sometimes it is abbreviated to Udhagai. Although the origins of the name ‘Udhagamandalam’ is obscure, the earliest reference of it comes from a letter written by an unknown correspondent as Wotokymund, addressed to the Madras Gazette in March, 1821. Historically it was known as Ottaikal Mandu. Another acceptable origin of the derivation of the name Ootaca, appears in the local language where in ‘Otha’ ‘Cal’ literally translates into Single Stone, considered to be a reference to a sacred stone which was revered by the local Toda people. The name gradually changed under British rule from Udhagamandalam to Ootacamund and later shortened to Ooty. The hill station itself is freckled with picturesquely charming picnic spots. During the colonial days, Ooty was a very popular summer and a weekend getaway destination among the British officers and other British entities. Subsequently it was transformed into a summer administrative town. At an average elevation of 2,286 meters above the sea level, the town of Ooty is the district capital and a municipality of the district of Nilgiris in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The au courant Ooty’s economy is solely based on agriculture and tourism along with the manufacturing of photographic film and medicines. Despite being situated in the tropics, Ooty in stark contrast with most of South India features a subtropical highland climate. Due to the year round pleasantly mild climatic conditions, Ooty appears to be eternally stuck in the spring season. While vacationing in Karnataka, tourists should undertake a trip from Bangalore to Ooty to spend a few days in the ‘Queen of Hill Stations’. The distance from Bangalore to Ooty is approximately 270 kilometers. Although the journey takes around seven hours, one hardly feels the stress while enjoying the scenic beauty around. As the cab to Ooty starts ascending and passes through the hilly terrain, the view gets spectacular by the minutes. It is preferable to employ the services of Bangalore taxis or car rentals while commuting from Bangalore to Ooty by car as it is not only an economical option, but also ensures that the journey is smooth and comfortable.

Places of interest:

The drive takes long, so on reaching Ooty and having checked into a hotel, one can visit the Botanical Garden for a refreshing walk amidst some of the most beautiful flowers and imposing trees. The garden also boasts of grass carpets, different types of ferns, orchids, and fashioned flower beds laid out the Italian style.

Next on the list is surely the Lake View. You can go for boating in this artificial lake and feel the last traces of your fatigue ebbing away.

Situated in the cusp of Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, many of the water bodies and forested areas of Ooty are off-limits to most visitors in order to protect the fragile ecosystem. However few areas of the Biosphere Reserve are earmarked for the development of tourism. Necessary steps are being undertaken to open these areas for tourism whilst conserving the region’s eco-system. Rampant commercialization as a result of tourism has already damaged much of Ooty.

However, the best tourist spot in Ooty is none other than Doddabetta, the highest peak of the Nilgiri Hills. Apart from the lush green beauty, it offers a breath-taking view of the suburbs unveiling a landscape so magnificent, it will surely arouse the photographer in you.

Pykara Lake and Pykara Falls are also popular for their natural beauty. The serenity around lets you relax and spend a few peaceful moments with your friends and family. The Rose Graden and Wax Museum are others places that one might want to visit in Ooty. As some of the places are far from the township, it is better to employ Ooty cab or taxi hires as it makes travelling easy. Most cab drivers also know their way around the place, which ensures that one can make the most of his time."

Situated on the road to Mysore in Ooty in the state of Tamil Nadu is the St. Stephen's Church. One of the oldest churches in the Nilgiris district, it dates back to the 19th century. The church was commissioned by the then Governor of Madras Stephen Rumbold Lushington. The church was consecrated by Bishop of Calcutta - John Matthias Turner on the fifth of November 1830. Built exclusively for the British, the cathedral was thrown open to public communion on Easter Sunday 3 April 1831.

Things to do:

Ooty’s diverse landscape proffers an opportunity to explore a myriad of recreational activities and adventure sports, including hang gliding.

A world-class site for hang gliding Kalahatty is situated about 20 kilometers from Ooty. Deep in the mountain ranges of Nilgiris, Kalahatty the launch area can be reached by car. Hang gliding training courses are organised from March to May, in Ooty.

The popular past-time of Angling can also be undertaken at Ooty. Avid anglers can take advantage of goad trout, carp and mixed water fishing at any of the town’s various streams, lakes and other sundry waterways. However, a license from the Assistant Director of Fisheries needs to be acquired for fishing in these areas.

One of the best ways of exploring Ooty and Nilgiris is trekking. The region is a haven for trekking and hiking enthusiasts. Trekking in the region can prove to be thrilling, adventurous and exciting; it also proffers a chance to view impressively scenic landscapes and natural scenery. Numerous trekking routes differing in terms of distance, altitudes and terrain are offered by Udhagamandalam.

Visitors can try their hands at the game of golf at the Gymkhana Golf Course which offers a world class 18-hole facility. Although it is usually open to members only, visitors and guests are permissibly allowed, provided they are given a member referral. Equipments are easily available for hire at and by the club.

With its multitude of restaurants dining or eating out in Ooty can prove to be a delicious gastronomical affair. 

The bakeries of Ooty are highly recommended for their wide variety of scrumptious pastries and breads. The restaurants, larger hotels and the ubiquitous small South Indian establishments along with wayside cafés and restaurants serve a broad spectrum of an eclectic range of delicious dishes.