Ooty - The Queens Of Hills

It would be really difficult to make a list of top places to visit in Ooty as the area is so beautiful and when it comes to things to do in Ooty there are a lot of options from beautiful gardens to boating in tranquil lakes. Honeymoon in Ooty is also very popular among couples as the cool weather and the beautiful scenery attract them. So here I have tried to create a travel itinerary from my experience, which is ideal for your next backpacking trip as well as for a family trip.

For those who don't know with its splendid beauty and picture perfect backdrops, Ooty is truly a director's delight for an outdoor shoot. Will try to give you references to some of the famous Bollywood movies that captured Ooty's charms.

How to reach Ooty from Mumbai?

There is no direct connectivity from Mumbai to this town. The nearest railway station is Mettupalayam but there is no direct between Mumbai and Mettupalayam. Coimbatore is the nearest city to Ooty and has good connectivity with Mumbai. Based on the time factor you can decide between train & flight journey. I preferred to go by flight and return by train so that I can save money on extra shopping luggage bags.

By Air via Coimbatore: If you are one of my types who has a 9 to 5 full-time job and loves to travel then the most practical and expedient way to reach Coimbatore is via flight. To save cost I had booked my ticket 3 months in advance which has cost me Rs. 2800 one-way from Mumbai to Coimbatore.

By Train via Coimbatore: Train travel is another utilitarian option if you’re looking to optimise your costs and you’ve got the time to spare. Coimbatore has direct train connectivity from Mumbai.

How reach Ooty from Coimbatore?

Local Bus Services: There are direct bus services from New Coimbatore Bus Depot to Ooty and the frequency is also high, you will get both state transport and private buses. It will take around 3 hours to cover a distance of 85 km via Coonor and the bus ticket will cost around Rs. 50 to 200 per person. Buses are available between 5 am to 8 pm.

Hired Car / Self Driving Car: Probably one of the most expensive options as it can easily cost you around Rs. 2500 to Rs.3000 for a one-way journey, but if you are travelling with your group you can go for this option. Alternatively, you can take a self-driving car from Coimbatore for your entire trip.

Bike On Rent: This is what I did, perfect for solo and budget travellers. Take a bike on rent from Coimbatore for your entire trip, this will cost you between Rs. 600 to Rs. 1200 per day. The curves on the road can bring you all the joy, plus it's super scenic so you can stop at all viewpoint

• Make sure you have your driving license with you.

• Don’t forget to take some warm clothes along with you to overcome the cold climate.

• Wear helmets, both riders – or else you’ll end up being fined by the police.

• Avoid travelling at night

From Odanthurai in Mettupalyam where you will find two ways to climb up the Queen of Hills (Ooty).

1. Via Coonoor → Mostly people prefer this route as the road is big. Maximum all direct public transport to Ooty via Coimbatore and Mettupalyam drive this route. You will find a lot of shops in between. Coimbatore - Mettupalayam - Coonoor - Ooty. To stop at try from dal wada with tea at

2. Via Kothagiri → This is not a busy road. The road is very steep. Bikers generally love this route and they wish to go in this route as this gives a lot of adventures. Coimbatore - Mettupalayam - Kothagiri - Ooty.

Where to Stay in Ooty?

To avoid wasting travel time, I prefer to stay around Main Market and Zostel Ooty is the best option. It's suitable for backpackers and solo travellers like us.

Zostel Ooty is a colonial-era bungalow that is made into a hostel with shared dorms and private rooms. There is even a fireplace inside the dorms, not functional but they have kept it there as such. The windows open to a great view of the valley with colourful houses. For a bed, in a dorm, they charge ₹ 690 per bed/night and for a private room ₹ 3000 per night for double occupancy.

For one night I also stayed at Earl's Secret & King Cliff Hotel this place is an aristocratic mansion surrounded by lush green. The purpose of my stay here was something else, which I have shared in my blog.

Day 1: Ooty - A Place Straight Outta Dream

Breakfast @ Ooty Coffee House

Coming to Ooty and the first thing you do is have breakfast at Ooty Coffee House and try the iconic coffee that enchants you with its aroma not doing so would be nothing less than a crime.

And the buck doesn’t stop here, for you can pair your coffee with some authentic South Indian fare, which is what Ooty food is in a true sense. It’s among the most popular veg restaurant in Ooty, serving splendid food that is light on your tummy and wallet.

Timing: 08:15 AM to 09:30 PM

Needle Rock View Point

One of the most amazing places to get a panoramic view of the Nilgiris and is not frequented too much by tourists. The viewpoint is also known as Soochimalai and gets its name from its conical shape.

Needle Rock is much more than just a viewpoint. Leagues apart from a usual sunrise and sunset point, it's a gorgeous place, with the drive from Ooty being a major draw to come all the way up till here.

Needle View Point forms a wonderful backdrop for a photograph with your special one which can be cherished for the times to come.

This marvellous tourist attraction derives its name from a cone-shaped rock which is one of the main features of this area. This place offers its visitor after a lonely trek a breathtaking view of grasslands and the valley of the Nilgiris. The beautiful landscapes that tourists travelling to Ooty view from this spot make them forget all the worries of a hectic life.

As per the locals, this place also offers a memorable view that visitors can truly enjoy is the sunset which is visible from this spot. But I strongly suggest not to wait until the sunsets. As it is a highly forested area, there is a high probability of wild animals coming out on the prowl after sunset. Be advised to take some warm clothes with you, as the temperatures can drop during the leeward end of the day even during the monsoon.

Ancient Jail Tea Museum

A jail in the tea garden! That was exactly my reaction when I come to know about these places. After all, jail is the last thing anyone would expect in such picturesque surroundings. Sadly, I could not find more about this place because it was close for visitors temporarily. This place will be at my top on my next trip to Ooty, but here are a few images for you to enjoy.

Pykara Lake & Waterfall

Pykara Lake is one of the most beautiful places in Ooty just to enjoy the greenery and serene atmosphere. The Pykara river gives birth to a series of fine waterfalls and the large Pykara Lake. While the drive towards the lake is an idyllic experience in itself, the boating inside is no less joyful.

A few hundred meters north of the lake, the river tumbles down the rocks to form the famed Pykara Falls. The greens around, thick forests at the shores, and the pines in the backdrop, all create an atmosphere to make you hop on the decks. At Pykara Lake and Falls, you have everything you need to enjoy a day out with your friends/family or enjoy a solitary nature walk. Whether you’re a nature lover, photographer or a newly married couple, you shouldn’t miss this attraction.

Pykara Lake and Pykara Waterfall are at different locations approx. 2-3 kms apart. Comparatively, you will find more people at Pyakara Lake as compared to Pykara Waterfall.

A major attraction for the tourists at Pykara Lake is the boathouse, apart from housing a small cafeteria. So do take a boat ride into the shimmering waters, the scenic views from the centre of the lake will literally leave you spellbound and asking for more.

Perhaps the most touching scene of the film Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani where Prem AKA Ranbir Kapoor proposes to his lady love Jenny AKA Katrina Kaif amidst the beautiful lake with boats floating around in the background? That was the beautiful Pykara Lake!

Pyakara Waterfall has a mesmerizing view and photogenic background so you can just sit back, relax and read what all you can do, apart from gorging at the scenic natural beauty.

St. Stephen's Church

A fabulous colonial structure with high-arched stained-glass windows, located in the midst of verdant woodland surroundings – that’s St. Stephen’s Church for you, it was built to coincide with the birthday of King George IV. One of the oldest churches in the Nilgiris region, it is known for its magnificent Victorian-era architecture while the tranquil vibes and spiritual aura of the edifice make it one of the must-visit places in Ooty.

The main beam and all the required timber were taken from Tipu Sultan's palace after the British defeated him in the Mysore War. The timber was bought all the way down from Seringapatanam and carried through the Sigur Ghat. The marvel of British architecture is clearly visible in the church and it also has a painting of the Last Supper.

Dinner @ Hyderabadi Biryani House (HBH)

I know after such an amazing day, you also need an amazing place to fill your stomach. For Hyderabad Biryani House - A Big Outsider's Thumbs Up!

A must-visit place in the town for all the foodies, amazing Biryani, Kebabs and grill chicken especially Alfaham Chicken. Its name is certain to come up when residents or even frequent tourists are asked about the best non-vegetarian restaurants in Ooty. All of the dishes are reasonably priced, which is another factor contributing to their appeal.

Try this: Alfham Chicken, Mutton Biryani & Grilled Chicken.

Day 2: Ooty - The Lake City

Avalanche Forest Reserve - Avalanche Lake & River

Avalanche Lake is counted as one of the star attractions that Ooty houses among nature enthusiasts and photographers. If you are wondering how the lake landed with such a name, it is a misnomer because it was formed by a huge landslide and not an avalanche. You find large varieties of flowers, like magnolias and rhododendrons blooming on all sides of the lake. The waterfalls rushing down the nearby mountains further add to the beauty of this already alluring landscape.

The surroundings of the dam are considered as a sanctuary and it's a part of Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve with a variety of wildlife and offers a beautiful experience to visitors in the lap of nature. Trekking enthusiasts keep flocking here to try their hands at the various trekking trails, the most popular one being the trek along the Bhavani River. One can also trek up to the adjoining hills to enjoy an eagle's eye view of Ooty.

The serenity of the place is breath-taking as it boasts of the marvellous Shola forests, the gurgling rivers, spectacular mountain ranges, plantations and renowned Avalanche Lake.

If you travelling by public transport then to explore this place you can opt for Forest Department Mini Bus / Jeeps covering Lake, Bhavani Temple and Hydropower plant. The bus starts from Forest Department Check Post 3 Kms before Avalanche Lake. The buses are run between 9 am to 3 pm (2 hours ride) at specific intervals. It is advised to take the 9 am bus to have better chances of wildlife sighting. Jeeps are also available for a group of 8 people.

Avalanche Road (Around King Nook)

Apart from the lake Avalanche Road in itself is an amazing stretch to drive, if you love greenery. I took this picture around the King Nook homestay. The location of King Nook homestay is amazing but the place is not maintained well, so I don't recommend staying here. Just a few kilometres ahead of this Instagrammable point is N R Cottage, a pocket-friendly place out of the hustle-bustle of town

Emerald Lake

Emerald Lake is a part of the Silent Valley National Park, it's serene and away from the maddening crowd. The lake and its surroundings are much cleaner and offer a perfect place to enjoy a leisurely time in the vicinity of nature and quietude

It is one of the unexplored & virgin places and an ideal spot in Ooty for nature lovers. Tourists usually flock there for the picturesque scenic beauty of the lake, and the green Nilgiri slopes and tea plantations surrounding it. It is a paradise for nature photography enthusiasts as the delightful landscape offers a perfect subject and composition.

Emerald Lake falls on the way to Avalanche Lake, it's a kind of detour. If you are not able to locate it on GoogleMap just drive up to the Emerald Dam, just go ahead for almost 3 Kms and you get to see a narrow bridge and amazing lake with beautiful landscape.

It is a bird watcher’s paradise, where you can spot them easily without having to wait for a long time.

Emerald Lake is also visited due to its stunning sunrise and sunset views, which is a bonus or takeaway for photographers.

Toda Village

Hills and Chills are okay but did you know about the treasured tribe of Ooty? The Toda Tribe, the indigenous people of Nilgiris have been around since the 3rd century BC. While they used to be one of the high-ranking tribes of the area occupying valleys and forest lands, today they have been pushed to near extinction. The only surviving relic is the Toda Village. Toda huts are curious structures, usually without any windows and in a semi barrel shape. You have to stoop inside the hut but can manage to stand upright once inside.

Approximately, 3 km from Upper Bazaar, you will reach a small hamlet which is now mostly filled with pukka houses. Ask them and they will guide you up to the valley of sacred Toda Temples. These so-called temples were once homes to their people but are now just sacred places. The most interesting part? the huts are placed a little below the ground and the area around it is dug!

It is a must-visit for an architectural or cultural lover! Just remember to take off your shoes as you enter the place since they consider it sacred. Your feet will get muddy but that is when you will feel the attachment that the tribe has with mother Earth. Besides, bare feet surprisingly have the best grip.

Ooty Lake (West Mere)/Ooty Boat House

Ooty Lake also known as the Ooty Boat House, is one of the most visited and major attractions of Ooty. Surrounded by groves of Eucalyptus and the Nilgiri ranges in the background, Ooty Lake is one of the most serene and peaceful tourist attractions in Ooty. But it is not just the beauty of the lake that makes this place so popular - the fun activities for kids and adults alike are also a major crowd puller. Just skip this place if you don't like to visit too crowded and touristy places.

Ramakrishna Math

Ramakrishna Math, Ooty is situated in Elk Hill just opposite Sterling Resorts. This is the first Math started by one of the foremost disciples of Sri Ramakrishna, Swami Shivanand, who was called "Mahapurusha Maharaj" by Swami Vivekananda.

Known as a popular pilgrimage spot and an ashram, the Ramakrishna Math Ashram embraces devotees who are seeking inner peace. The beautiful surroundings of the lush green terrain all around merge with the tranquillity of the ashram to truly offer a calm oasis to those who are looking for spiritual answers. The ashram, established in 1920’s, is loved for its traditional design and architecture while the view of the tea plantations is simply breathtaking. The place is perfect for a small meditation session and to simply walk around the pleasant premises.

But before hopping to the next location, just opposite the Ramakrishna Math, you will see a private estate, request they allow visitors inside and from here you can just enjoy and bird-eye view of the entire Ooty City. Here are some pics for you to enjoy.

Dinner @ Angaara

Another place managed by HBH in this town. A perfect "Mumbai style" or Fine Dining kind of hotel with open air space with a calm and soothing ambience and the decor is a weird mash-up of vintage and modern. The most important is yummy and tasty food. I loved the food soo much that I went twice during my trip and was a lucky one to also see what happens inside the kitchen and you can trust me they maintained the best level of hygiene.

A fancy multi-cuisine restaurant lets you enjoy some of the best food with value for money in Ooty. Its among the few places in Ooty where you can enjoy tasty north indian food. A must visit place to dine for all foodie.

Try This: Kasthuri Kabab, Angara Special Kabab, Chicken Pasta (white sauce), Veg Oneton Soup, Micronal Bali Prawns with sweet chilli chutney, Rava Phirni and mocktails (Pink Lady, Deep Blue Sea & Indian Corolla).

Day 3: The Uncrowned Queen Of Hill Station

Ooty, popularly known as the Queen of Hill Stations is adorned with beautiful mountains, lakes, gardens and forests all around.

Glenmorgan Trek & View Point

Glenmorgan is a picturesque village in Ooty and it’s a rare destination among usual travellers, but it’s a great choice to unwind your vacation amidst the stunning nature. The village is located around 25kms from Ooty and is renowned for its tea estates. Glenmorgan is one of the oldest tea estates in Ooty and a famous spot among off-beat travellers.

Glenmorgan trek is an astonishing experience and you get to see the real natural beauty and stay relaxed in this slice of paradise. It’s a fun trek covering almost all the tribal villages around Glenmorgan and experiences an amazing viewpoint from the top of tea estates.

Glenmorgan's viewpoint is the final destination of your trek journey. It’s situated on picturesque hills next to the Glenmorgan Dam lies a deserted bungalow, there is a narrow winding path that takes you through the most beautiful trek routes in South India. Have a nature-filled walk through the scenic dense forests, refresh and halt in the Todas cultivated land. Enjoy the panoramic view of Bokkapuram, Mudumalai wildlife sanctuary, Masinagudi, certain parts of Mysore, Moyar valley, and the Pykara power plant. The winds are strong enough to take you through the narrow path and get mesmerized with the spectacular views!!

It’s essential to obtain prior permission from TNEB (Tamil Nadu Electricity Board) officials to enter the Glenmorgan viewpoint. Since it’s a restricted area, photography is also prohibited. The trek is organized by several local tour operators takes you through luxurious Eucalyptus forest and hill beauties. The trek comes to an end at the Pykara junction, which is the halt area for buses and vehicles.

Dinner @ Hotel Junior Kuppanna

Hotel Junior Kuppana is known for serving authentic south Indian Kongu style food cooked across Tamil Nadu and they have a branch in Ooty in the main market.

I had a finger-licking experience, I was exclusively looking forward to have Kothu Porotta and well, I wouldn't have asked for anything better. I would certainly recommend Hotel Junior Kuppana for a delicious Non-Veg traditional Tamil Nadu style Dinner.

Try This: Chicken Kothu Parotta + Gravy, Normal Parotta with, Naad Chicken Fry or Chicken Pallipalayam & Nattu Kozhi Chicken Biryani.

Timing: 08:30 AM to 04:00 PM & 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM

Day 4: Otty - Truly Beautiful!

Breakfast @ Earl's Secret & King Cliff Hotel

This little gem is located inside a colonial-era bungalow, which was restored to a hotel. Also known as the glass restaurant, the first thing that scores high for this place is the glass atrium, giving diners a marvellous view of the well-kept lawns. Since the restaurant is a favourite of the locals, booking a table beforehand is always a good idea. It is a good restaurant in Ooty for a candlelight dinner with your loved one.

For the non-guest visitor, the restaurant is only open for lunch. So too enjoy the best time i.e. morning and dinner, i stayed here for one night.

You get a taste of everything at this elegant heritage-hotel restaurant up above Ooty. Half glassed-in conservatory, half tables scattered across Raj-era lounges with roaring winter fires, it does beautifully.

Kalhatti Waterfalls

Situated amidst the beautiful surroundings of the Sigur Plateau on the Ooty-Mysore Road or Sigur Ghat Road, Kalhatti Waterfalls cascade down the verdant Nilgiri mountains from a height of about 120 feet, also known as Kalahasti Falls. It is fabled that Saint Agastya used to live in these parts during his time. Incase you want to explore some more waterfalls around Ooty, but the right time to visit these is just post-monsoon here is the list.

1. Halasana Waterfall

2. Katary Waterfall

3. Law's Waterfall

4. Kolakambai Waterfall

5. Catherine Waterfall

6. Elk Waterfall

The fall viewpoint is accessible from the main road through a private tea estate. Kaltatti Waterfall can be seen at starting point of 36 hair-pin bend road towards Ooty. Due to local entry restrictions, I could not see this place from the viewpoint, but the far view of the fall will make you feel that God is an architect.

Pine Forest Shooting Spot

The Pine Forest in Ooty is a major tourist hub. It is actually a small valley area, where several movies, songs and serials have been shot. The soaring pines, fresh air and picturesque views of the mountains all around make it a very sought after place for shooting.

Who can forget the bromance of our fav characters Amar & Prem in the film Andaz Apna Apna and the perfect comic timings of the two great khans? But did you know that several scenes and shots from the song ‘Elo Ji Sanam Hum Aa Gaye’ were shot here. Also that bus sequence where the two heroes are going to Ooty has actually been shot here.

The Pine forest Ooty location is pretty famous among directors, be it the Hindi Film Industry or the Tamil Film Industry. Visitors here feel drenched in a sense of adventure and excitement, especially during the winter months, when fog envelops the entire area and makes it seem like a scene out of a thriller movie. The peace and tranquillity in the area are palpable and will make anyone at all feel at home.

Barfi, comedy-drama won our hearts because of its marvellous story and fine acting but what’s more interesting is that the "Mein Kya Karoon" song of Barfi when Ranbir and Ileana are on the bicycles besides many other sequences were shot at Pine Forest.The song became an instant hit for its lyrics and melody.

A movie loosely based on William Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet, tragic -romance and it was Aamir Khan’s debut film as a lead actor and established him as one of the finest in the industry. The famous song ‘Gazab Ka Hai Din’ from Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak was shot in the pristine Pine Forest in Ooty.

This is truly a good place for a nature lover to relax but it's too crowded also. It is also an ideal place for families and friends to come over and enjoy a picnic. For honeymooners and couples, it is a great place to spend time with each other in privacy, away from the prying eyes of the world. On heading downhill, you can also see a lake stretching towards the bottom of the hill, which is also a great place to spend some time at.

Wenlock Downs / 9th Mile Point

Wenlock Downs was probably named by the British way back in the late 1800s when they discovered this stunningly picturesque open grassland, undulating gentle hills, lush green grass stretching endlessly it doesn't seem to end no matter how much you walk and untouched panorama that resembles the quintessential Yorkshire Dales of the British Isles.

Once renowned for the Udagamandalam Hunt, Wenlock Downs is now home to the Gymkhana Club of Ooty, the Government Sheep Farm and The Hindustan Photo Films Company. All these do not take away even a little bit of the serenity and peace you get when you walk through the grass.

If you were born in the 90s, there are huge chances that once upon a time, you loved Kuch Kuch Hota Hai and probably still do. Remember the camping sequences?! The green stretches of land adorned with indigenous vegetation and pine trees in the background? Interestingly, the Shimla summer camp in this movie wasn’t actually Shimla. It was the Wenlock Downs in Ooty!

It is famously called ‘The 6th Mile’ and ‘The 9th Mile’ (Shooting Medu). The former is 6 miles from Ooty and the latter is 9 miles from Ooty and that explains the story behind their naming. It is a strikingly spectacular meadowland that gently rises and falls like a flowing silk cloth dressed with an emptiness that exudes an exotic ambience as never seen anywhere else.

An intense drama love story that made Karishma Kapoor the greatest actress of her time, Raja Hindustani, the place that is referred to as Palankhet in the movie is actually Ooty’s Wenlock Downs 9th Mile Shooting Medu!

This place wouldn't qualify as a 'must see' place, when you compare it with the natural beauty of other surrounding places, but this is a totally different type of terrain from the places that you see in Ooty.

The song from a blockbuster romantic action movie Deewana starring Rishi Kapoor, Divya Bharti and Shah Rukh Khan "Aisi Deewangi" was shot at Wenlock Downs Ninth Mile.

It certainly qualifies as an experience of a lifetime for those who like to go on long peaceful walks and contemplate about 'life' and the higher entities of nature.

Benchmark Tea Factory

Benchmark Tea Factory or Tea Museum is situated on Doddabetta Road surrounded by green tea plantations perched at an altitude of approximately 1839 meters. It is a must visit place for all tea lovers.

It houses the Tea Museum as well where visitors can learn about the origin of different kinds of tea leaves that are used across the globe along with the history of tea in India and its evolution in the Nilgiris. While inside the factory, one can learn and appreciate the method of tea processing by CTC (Cut, Twist and Curl) machines. Sip a hot cup of tea as you admire the beautiful surroundings of the place.

The factory is popular for its homemade chocolates too like rum and raisin, fruit and nut, fig and honey, roasted almonds, coffee chocolate, milk chocolate, sugar-free varieties among others.

Government Rose Garden

Located on the beautiful slopes of Elk Hill, Government Rose Garden is a place that will give you the best pictures and most amazing memories. Home to almost 20,000 varieties of roses, it has been one of the most popular tourist spots in the state since 1995. You can also spot black and green rose here. Enjoy a lovely stroll here and spend quality time soaking in the beauty of flowers. Touching the flowers or plants here is strictly prohibited, but clicking them is not! Unleash your photography skills in capturing the most gorgeous roses around.

Government Rose Garden belongs to an elite club of 35 rose gardens around the world which have won the Garden of Excellence Award for South Asia from the World Federation of Rose Societies.

Day 5 - Romantic Paradise Of South India

Nilgiri Toy Train

Nilgiri Toy train is an integral part of every Ooty Tour. It's very rare to find the mention of a railway or a station in the list of places to visit. But in Ooty, the railway line built by the British is one of the popular tourist attractions. Nilgiri Mountain Railway line runs from Mettupalayam to Ooty via Coonoor is also known as an engineering marvel, being built at such a high grade.

Remember the song Chaiyya Chaiyya from the movie Dil Se, where king of romance SRK dancing on the top of the moving train with Malaika Arora was shot on the roof of the Nilgiri Toy Train, a UNESCO heritage facility, with the pristine Nilgiri Hills in the background making the song all the more visually pleasing.

Its major highlight is the views a journey on it offers as the train ascends hills, crosses rivers via bridges, wooshes past lush fields and goes through tunnels is unmatched by any other train ride. No wonder then that it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site! Book your Nilgiri Mountain Railway (Toy Train) tickets well in advance, do check the travel tips section for more tips to experience the town as a local

Good To Know FAQs

Q: What is the best time to visit Ooty?

Ooty remains pleasant throughout the year but depends on what you want to do. The months from March to June are ideal to plan a trip to Ooty if you don't wish to face chilly winds or heavy rains.

March To June: Summer season in Ooty is an ideal time to plan a trip to Ooty if you don't wish to face chilly winds or heavy rains. The weather during this time period is generally pleasant as you can venture out for day sightseeing and other tourist activities. The average temperature during summers does not rise beyond 20°C.

July to September: These months constitute the monsoon season in Ooty. The town receives heavy rainfall and this might disrupt the routine day sightseeing activity. However, nature lovers would love the scenic beauty that embraces Ooty after the rain showers which is worth clicking many pictures.

October to February: During the month of October, the chilly wind enters the town but the overall day temperature is cool and good for sightseeing. November to February constitute the winter season in Ooty. Many couples visit Ooty during the winter season. Sometimes, the temperature can go below 5°C also. Note that the nights in January and February are the coldest.

Q: Best mode of commuting or within to explore Ooty

Public transport in Ooty is good but not that great so would advise coming with your own or private hired car. If you want to hire a private car for local transport avoid hiring in Ooty. They would be quoting you 3 times what you would pay if you hire a car in Coimbatore.

Q: What to Pack?

Ooty is a charming hill escape for those looking for peace and serenity. Its refreshing beauty and invigorating climate make for the perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. A trip to Ooty is guaranteed to recharge your batteries!

• Woollens and a warm jacket are needed all through the year in Ooty. While the days are relatively warmer, the nights are breezy and cold. You knew it, didn't you?

• An umbrella or raincoat to shield you from the rain. You don’t want to be caught by surprise during an unexpected drizzle.

• Motion sickness medication is recommended for those who are prone to sickness on winding roads. Whether getting to Ooty by road or train, the curves can be a stomach churner for some.

Q. Things to keep in mind while visiting Pykara Lake & Waterfall.

A visit to Pykara Waterfall involves walking, so wear comfortable shoes. If you aren’t travelling in a group, be prepared to hitch with others for sharing the boating charges at Pykara Lake. Take care of your belongings and beware of monkeys.

Q. Good to know for Glenmorgan Trek

Since it’s a trek through hill station; it’s significant to carry necessary items. It’s advisable to wear dark coloured clothes preferably brown or dark green. Carry the necessary amount of water and food. Have a good quality pair of walking shoes, sunglasses, and a cap. Get a torch with extra batteries. Also personal medications, energy bars or energy drinks. It’s optional to carry a light sweater or jacket, according to the season of travel.

Q: Where can I go shopping in Ooty?

There are many amazing shopping places in Ooty including Lower Bazaar Road, Commercial Road, Upper Bazaar Road, Charring Cross, Ooty Municipal Market, Tibetan Market, Main Bazaar and Ooty Lake Market. Here are a few things you should buy before leaving Ooty.

• Spices: Epicures can also get fresh spices like cloves, nutmeg, pepper and cardamom from The Green Shop in Ooty.

• Chocolate: Ooty has a sizeable handmade chocolate industry. Indulge your sweet tooth with the truffles, fudges and marshmallows available at King Star Confectioners on Commercial Road, The Modern Store on Botanical Gardens Road and Benchmark Tea Factory on Doddabetta Road.

• Tea: Connoisseurs will find plenty to choose from: dust and leaf; black, green, black and white varieties; and flavours such as masala, jasmine, cardamom and even chocolate at Benchmark Tea Factory.

Q: Travel tips to help you experience Ooty more like a local & less like a tourist!

Ooty travel tips to let you in on the blissful experience…through my eyes!

• Drive slow on Ooty Roads

• Book your Nilgiri Mountain Railway (Toy Train) tickets well in advance on the IRCTC website.

• During the summer Ooty is teemed with visitors, long queues in the boathouses and at ticket counters are a common sight.

• Use caution while taking a pony ride. Check that the horse looks fit. Negotiate the price of your ride before you begin.

Q: Entry Fees & Timing of must visit places in Ooty

Place	Entry Fees	Timing
Needle Rock View Point	Rs. 20 per person	09:00 AM to 05:00 PM
Pykara Lake	Rs. 10 per person + Parking	08:30 AM to 05:30 PM
Pykara Waterfall	Rs. 20 per person	08:30 AM to 05:30 PM
Avalanche Lake	Rs. 20 per person + Parking	09:00 AM to 05:30 PM
Ramakrishna Math	Free	07:00 AM to 01:40 PM and 04:00 PM to 07:00 PM
Ooty Lake	Free	​08:30 AM to 05:30 PM
Pine Forest Shooting Spot	Rs. 20 per person	08:00 AM to 05:30 PM
Wenlock Downs	Rs. 20 per person	07:00 AM to 06:30 PM
Benchmark Tea Factory	Rs. 30 per person for Tea Factory and Rs. 10 per person for Chocolate Factory	09:00 AM to 06:00 PM
Government Rose Garden	Rs. 40 per person	09:00 AM to 06:00 PM
Nilgiri Toy Train (Ooty to Coonoor)	Second Sitting (2S) - Rs. 150 and First Class (FC) - Rs. 350	9:15 AM, 12:15 PM, 2:00 PM and 5:30PM
​Nilgiri Toy Train (Coonoor to Ooty)	Second Sitting (2S) - Rs. 150 and First Class (FC) - Rs. 350	7:45 AM, 10:40 AM, 12:35 PM, 4:00 PM

Q: Where should I go after Ooty?

Every Ooty travel guide suggests that you also explore nearby cities and towns like Coonoor, Coorg, Kodaikanal, Wellington and Coimbatore once you’re done with Ooty.

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