Ooty, officially Udhagamandalam, is a picturesque town situated in the Nilgiri hills of Tamil Nadu, India. Established in the early 19th century by British administrator John Sullivan, Ooty served as a summer retreat for British officials seeking respite from the heat of the plains. Over time, it evolved into a popular tourist destination renowned for its scenic beauty and pleasant climate. Today, Ooty blends its colonial heritage with vibrant local culture, making it a charming getaway for visitors from around the world.
The cultural tapestry of Ooty is rich and diverse, influenced by its colonial history and the indigenous tribes like the Todas and Badagas who have inhabited the Nilgiris for centuries. Colonial-era architecture, including churches and buildings, still grace the town, offering glimpses into its past. Local festivals and traditional practices of the native tribes add color and depth to Ooty’s cultural landscape, attracting tourists keen on experiencing its unique heritage firsthand.
Located at an altitude of 2,240 meters (7,350 feet) above sea level, Ooty enjoys a cool subtropical highland climate. Surrounded by the lush Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and the Western Ghats, the town is characterized by rolling hills, tea plantations, and picturesque lakes such as Ooty Lake and Emerald Lake. The region’s elevation ensures cooler temperatures compared to the plains, with summer averages between 10–25 °C (50–77 °F) and winter temperatures ranging from 0–21 °C (32–70 °F). Ooty receives substantial rainfall during both monsoon seasons, nurturing its verdant landscapes and contributing to its allure as a year-round destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Explore Ooty’s charm with its iconic Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2005, offering a scenic 5-hour journey through forests and tunnels. Relax at Ooty Lake, surrounded by eucalyptus trees and hills, ideal for boating and birdwatching. Don’t miss Doddabetta Peak for stunning views of lush valleys and visit St. Stephen’s Church, known for its colonial-era architecture and historic ambiance. Dolphin’s Nose and Kalhatti Falls offer natural wonders amidst the Nilgiri Mountains, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
The Nilgiri Mountain Railway, also called the Toy Train, is a special train in Ooty that tourists love. It’s been around since 1899 and was even declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005. The train takes a leisurely 5-hour journey covering 46 kilometers through stunning landscapes. You’ll see forests, tunnels, and steep hillsides along the way. One of the unique things about this train is its old-fashioned locomotives, some over 50 years old!
Ooty Lake is a peaceful spot just a short distance from the heart of Ooty. Built back in 1824, it covers a big area of 65 acres. Surrounding the lake are tall eucalyptus trees and green hills, making it a perfect place for a relaxing stroll or a boat ride. You can rent paddle boats or rowboats at the boathouse and enjoy the calm waters and the birds that live there. Sometimes, special events like boat races are held here, usually in May.
Dolphin’s Nose is a unique rock formation about 1,500 meters above sea level, located around 12 kilometers from Coonoor. It gets its name because its tip looks like a dolphin’s nose! From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding hills and even catch a glimpse of Catherine Falls in the distance. It’s a popular spot for visitors who want to take in the natural beauty of the Nilgiris.
Kalhatti Falls in Bellikal, Ooty, are known for their natural beauty and serene atmosphere. The falls drop from a height of 400 feet, surrounded by the lush greenery of the Nilgiri Mountains. It’s a paradise for bird watchers, as many exotic birds can be spotted here. The nearby lake is also a favorite spot, where elephants sometimes come to drink water. It’s a great place to unwind and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. These attractions in Ooty offer a mix of natural beauty, history, and relaxation, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and travelers looking to explore South India’s hill stations.
Stay in Ooty at budget-friendly hotels like a low-key one near the Botanical Gardens or another overlooking the Rose Garden. For a cozy stay, choose a simple hotel near Ooty Lake, or enjoy scenic views from a European-style cottage resort on the outskirts of town. Prices range from ₹1,385 to ₹2,912 for a comfortable stay.
This low-key hotel in a forested area is 2 km from the Government Botanical Gardens and 8 km from Ketti railway station.
₹2,573
3 Star Hotel
On a hillside overlooking the Government Rose Garden, this low-key budget hotel is 2 km from Udagamandalam train station and 8 km from Doddabetta Peak.
₹2,912
3 Star Hotel
Set along a tributary of Ooty Lake, this simple hotel in a commercial area is 2 km from the Government Botanical Gardens and 88 km from the Coimbatore International Airport.
₹1,385
2 Star Hotel
In a scenic valley on the outskirts of Ooty, this subdued resort comprises a collection of European-style cottages. It’s 1.3 km from the Government Botanical Garden and 4.3 km from Ooty railway station.
₹2,903
3 Star Hotel
For convenient stays near Udagamandalam train station, choose from budget-friendly hotels close to popular spots like St. Stephen’s Church, Ooty Lake, and the Rose Garden. Options include simple hotels set among shops and eateries or more comfortable residences with high ratings. Prices range from ₹1,205 to ₹3,853 for a pleasant stay.
Set among shops and eateries, this straightforward hotel across the street from leafy Pleasant Park is 2 km from Udagamandalam train station.
₹1,205
2 Star Hotel
Across the road from the Government Rose Garden, this straightforward hotel is 2 km from both Ooty Lake, and Udagamandalam station on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway. The ATC bus stand is 9 minutes’ walk away.
₹1,657
2 Star Hotel
Two Seas Residence | Rooms in a Villa is a great choice for travellers looking for a 3 star star hotel in Ooty. This Hotel stands out as one of the highly recommended hotel in Ooty.
₹3,853
3 Star Hotel
An 11-minute walk from the Mini Car Museum, this low-key hotel is also a 14-minute walk from the Government Rose Garden and 4 km from Ooty Lake.
₹1,534
2 Star Hotel
Enjoy a variety of dining options in Ooty, from budget-friendly eateries offering tasty biryani to pure vegetarian restaurants with open kitchens ensuring quality meals. You’ll find multi-cuisine spots that celebrate the joy of cooking and sharing good food. Meals are available in the range of ₹200–400.
Hotel Blue Hills International is a great choice for travellers looking for a star hotel in Ooty. This Hotel stands out as one of the highly recommended hotel in Ooty. Hotel is rated 3.9 out of 5, which is considered as very good.
₹200–400
Book from 16 Hotels near Hyderabad Biryani House available at Lowest prices from ₹622. Choose from best Budget and Luxury Hotels near Hyderabad Biryani House. Stay in clean, safe and well sanitized hotels amidst Covid-19 scenario.
₹200–400
The best place to dine non-vegetarian food in Ooty. The Only Open Kitchen of its kind in town as a commitment to our consistency in quality.
₹200–400
Cooking good food is a joyous process. That feeling only amplifies when one’s feeling of satiety is shared with those around them.
₹200–400
To reach Ooty, fly to the nearest airport in Coimbatore, which connects to major cities and has international flights. By rail, take the scenic Nilgiri Mountain Railway from Coonoor or Mettupalayam. Ooty is also accessible by road, with frequent buses and taxis from Coimbatore and Tiruppur.
The main railway station in Ooty is Udhagamandalam Railway Station, serving the famous Nilgiri Mountain Railway. You can catch trains from Coonoor.
Ooty doesn’t have its own airport. The nearest one is in Coimbatore, which is well-connected to major cities like Bangalore, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata.
Ooty is 90 km from Coimbatore and 105 km from Tiruppur. There are frequent bus services and taxis available from these locations, making it easy to travel by road
Ooty has frequent local bus services provided by the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Board and private operators. These buses are convenient for both tourists and residents, with many private operators also offering local sightseeing tours.
Starting at Only 5₹/KM
Navigating the vibrant city of Ooty has never been easier. Whether you’re a resident, a student, or a tourist, TransRentals cab services provide the perfect solution for all your local transportation needs.
Starting at only 9₹/KM
Auto-rickshaws are a cheap and popular mode of transport in Ooty, accommodating up to three passengers. However, many drivers may not speak English or Hindi well, so choose rickshaws with this in mind.
Auto-rikshaw is starting From 10.Rs/km
For more freedom and flexibility, you can rent vehicles, including cars, motorcycles, and bicycles. Both self-driven and chauffeur-driven options are available, allowing you to explore Ooty in your preferred way.
Starting at only ₹1499.
Ooty, the Queen of Hills, is a beautiful hill town in southern India. The best time to visit depends on your preference: summer (March to June) for sightseeing and treks, monsoon (July to September) for lush landscapes, and winter (October to February) for a romantic getaway. Ooty’s natural beauty and warm hospitality make it a wonderful destination all year round.
Ooty, known as the Queen of Hills, is a beautiful hill town in southern India, surrounded by the Nilgiri Hills. The best time to visit depends on what you want to experience. Summer (March to June) is great for sightseeing, treks, and escaping the heat with temperatures around 25°C. Monsoon (July to September) brings lush landscapes and flowing waterfalls, perfect for nature lovers, though it can hinder travel plans. Winter (October to February) offers misty mountains and chilly weather, ideal for romantic getaways, despite some adventure activities being unavailable. Overall, Ooty’s natural beauty and warm hospitality make it a delightful destination year-round.
The Distance of ooty to Mumbai is (1,194.0 km) via NH 48.
View more
The Distance of ooty to Delhi is (2,349.7 km) via NH 52.
View more
The Distance of ooty To Bangalore is (270.9 km) via NH 275.
View more
The Distance of ooty to Chennai is (556.1 km) via Chennai.
View more
Firstly, it’s important to plan your trip in advance. Make sure to book your tickets and accommodations early, especially if you’re visiting during the peak season. This ensures you have a place to stay and can avoid the hassle of last-minute arrangements. Ooty is a popular destination, so early bookings can save you from any inconvenience.
While in Ooty, respect the local culture and heritage. Avoid any actions that might harm the environment or disturb historical sites. The town has a rich colonial history and beautiful natural surroundings, so preserving its beauty is essential. Stick to designated paths and follow guidelines at tourist spots to ensure you have a pleasant and responsible visit.
Lastly, take care of your health by choosing clean and reputable places to eat. Avoid street food that may not meet hygiene standards, and opt for cooked and well-prepared meals. Ooty’s cool climate might tempt you to indulge in various foods, but maintaining good hygiene will help you enjoy your trip without any health issues.
Chennai, on the Bay of Bengal in eastern India, is the capital of the state of Tamil Nadu.
View more
Coimbatore is a city in the south Indian state of Tamil Nadu. To the northwest is the centuries-old.
View more
Salem is a city on the Thirumanimuthar River, in the south Indian state of Tamil Nadu.
View more
Madurai is an energetic, ancient city on the Vaigai River in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu.
View more
