Top things to do in Ooty

Also known as Queen of Hills, this hill station is a breath of fresh air. With pleasant weather all year round, bounties of natural beauty, lush green tea estates, and a touch of British Colonial charm, this hill station is bound to leave you stunned. Ooty is a great travel destination for romantic couples, group of friends seeking solace, and families alike. The environment of Ooty is definitely a break from the polluted backdrop of larger cities, and when here you will not want to leave. So here we are with some of the best things to in Ooty, and make your holidays worthwhile.

Toy Train Ride – Also known as Nilgiri Mountain Railway Toy Train, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and was built by the British around 1900’s. It covers a distance of 46 km, from Mettupalayam to Ooty in 4 to 5 hours, passing through 250 bridges, 16 tunnels, and 208 curves. It passes through lush green landscapes and picturesque backdrops, which is a great photographic opportunity for travelers.

Avalanche Lake – It is around 25 km away from the center of the town and is one of the most popular tourist spot in Ooty. This lake got its name from an avalanche because of which it was formed in the 19^th Century. The lake is surrounded with forests and flora n fauna. IT is a great place to trek and also do trout fishing. Equipments for fishing are available in a nearby hatchery.

Golf Club – This spot is must visit for sports lovers. The Golf Club of Ooty is owned by Gymkhana Club. It is built on an altitude of 7600 feet and is surrounded by lush green forests, with Blue Mountain in the backdrop, giving it a picturesque set drop. The golf club is spread across 193 acres and consists of 18 holes. It has hosted many tournaments and is also a perfect getaway for sports vacation.

Rose Garden – Also known as Jayalalitha Rose Garden, or Centenary Rose Garden, this picturesque and soul soothing garden is spread across 5 acres, on the slopes of the Elk Hill on an altitude of 2200 meters. It is home to over 20,000 species and variety of Roses, which makes it one of the biggest collection of rose plants in India. The fragrance of this place is treat to senses, and is a great photographic avenue.

Dolphin Nose – IT got its name because of the landscape and structure of this view point that resembles to a nose of Dolphin. It is situated near Tiger Hills, and offers breath taking views from an altitude of over 1000 feet. From here you can also see the Catherine Falls just below the view point. It is a great spot for taking pictures. Sun rise and sunsets views from this point are truly captivating.

Tea Museum – With a country obsessed with tea, this place is a must visit, which is situated on the Doddabetta Road, and is surrounded by lush green plantations of tea. The museum is home to the history of tea plantation in Ooty, right from its origin to the evolution of tea production. It also houses several species of tea, preserved carefully, and offers tea tasting, along with a souvenir shop.

Botanical Garden – Located on the slopes of Doddabetta Peak, this place is one of the most popular tourist spot in Ooty. It spread over 50 acres, and consists of Lower Garden, New Garden, Italian Garden, Conservatory for flowering, marsh plants, and 8 house glasses n terraces. Its origin dates back to 1850’s during the British Raj. It is also popular for hosting Ooty Summer Festival.

St. Stephens Church – It is one of the oldest churches of the Nilgiris, with origin dating back to 19^th Century. It is believed that the wood used in the construction of this church was taken from Tipu Sultan’s palace. The major highlight of this church is the painting of ‘Last Supper’, and the colored glass windows depicting Christ and Mother Mary. The architecture of church is bound to stun you.

Wax Museum – Built inside a 130 year old colonial mansion, and is only 2 km away from the centre of the town. It is a great place to visit especially when with kids. IT houses wax statues of prominent personalities like Mahatma Gandhi, Mother Teresa, and others. IT also has wax sculptures depicting culture and heritage of local area and India. It is a popular tourist spot in the town.

Deer Park – This is a must visit for wildlife lovers, and is just 2 km away from Ooty Lake. It was built in 1986, and is spread across 20 acres of green lush lands. It is blessed with varieties of flora and fauna. Over here you will come across species of deer like Sambar, Chital. It is also home to hares, rabbits, and various species of birds. It has various places to hang out and stay, around the reserve.

Hills are the start of the journey!