Ootacamund or Udhagamandalam, which stands 7,349 feet above sea level in the Nilgiris, is known as the Queen of southern hill resorts of India. Ooty, as it is popularly known, spreads over 36 square miles and offers a picturesque green feast for the eyes. Apart from coffee and tea plantations, trees like conifers, eucalyptus, pine and wattle line the hillside in Udhagamandalam and its environs.

The first inhabitants of this land were a tribe called Todas who had been living here long before the British came in the early nineteenth century. But the credit for modernising Udhagamandalam and making it accessible goes to the British who constructed the first railway line in the area and made it the summer capital of the Madras Presidency.

Prime Attractions of Ooty

» Botanical Gardens
If you are on a sightseeing tour to Ooty, you might want to visit the Government Botanical gardens, which were laid out in 1847.The picturesque gardens that are maintained by the Horticulture department of the state, cover an area of about 22 hectares. The Gardens have well over 650 species of plants and trees, including a fossil of a tree, which is believed to be more than 20 million years old. The garden is very popular with nature lovers and those who long to walk among greenery and see rare ferns and shrubs up close. If you are in Ooty in the month of May, then you can also be a part of the summer festival, which is held here annually. The festival holds flower shows and various cultural programs showcasing the talent of the locals and the renowned artists.

» Ooty Lake
If you love the outdoors, Ooty lake is a must see for you. It was built in 1825 and is about 2.5 km long. Visitors to this lake can go for boating on the lake or enjoy their favorite outdoor activity of fishing. If the latter really appeals to you then remember to get fishing permission before you head to buy baits.

» Dodabetta Peak
The Dodabetta Peak stands at an altitude of 2,623 meters. It is the highest point in the district, making it possibly the best vantage point around Ooty. It is merely 10kms from Ooty so you can simply grab your camera and head straight to the peak, and click amazing pictures of he valley below. Many say that on a clear day, which is honestly not that often, one can see far off areas, even the plains of Coimbatore and the flat highlands of Mysore.

» Lamb's Rock
Lamb's Rock is another vantage point that is ideal for taking pictures and is a wonderful picnic spot. It is merely 9kms. From Coonoor and is known for the splendid views it offers of the plains of Coimbatore and the tea states in the surrounding areas.

» Kodanadu's View Point
Kodanadu is about 16kms from Kotagiri, and is situated on the eastern edge of the Nilgiri range. It is a great vantage point that offers a breathtaking view of the Moyar river and the tea estates. There is a watchtower here that offers a view of the Rangasamy peak.

Events and Festivals
» Tea and tourism Festival
If you are in Ooty in the month of January, you cannot possibly miss the Tea and Tourism festival. At the festival, you can learn more about your favorite drink and possibly taste some of the best cups of tea.

» Makar Pongal
In January, if you find yourself holidaying in Ooty, then do not forget to join the festivities and enjoy the celebrations.

» Flower Show
The popular flower show is held in May at the botanical gardens and is a great event that attracts visitors from all over.

How to get there

» Air
The nearest airport is at Coimbatore (105 km), which has daily flights to and from Madras, Bangalore, Cochin and Trivandrum.

» Rail
For a magnificent view of the hillside covered with forests, a train journey is recommended. The Nilgiri Express leaves Madras at night, reaching Coimbatore in the morning, and continues to the small town of Mettupalyam, at the foot of the mountains. From Mettupalyam, it connects to the Nilgiri Passenger, which takes you to Ooty.

» Road
There is a regular bus service from Bangalore (300 km), Mysore (170 km), Coimbatore (105 km), Calicut (187 km) and Cochin (281 km).