" Planning to visit Ooty this winter season? Well, to make things easier for you, we’ve laid down these suggestions, following which you can have a heavenly holiday in this bewitching hill station couped up in the Nilgiris amidst the “Blue Mountains”. Connect with a famous tour and travel agency Kolkata offering cost-effective holiday packages to have a wonderful vacation in Ooty.
Having a refreshing cool temperature throughout the year and a welcoming setting among mysterious green hills, Ooty is aptly called the “Queen of the Hills” in India. The ancient bungalows and heritage buildings that showcase Ooty’s colonial history also make it an evergreen and popular travel destination in South India "
Beautiful places to see in Ooty
· Emerald Lake – As its name points out, the Emerald Lake is rightfully called so as it charmingly reflects the soothing green mountains surrounding it. This scenic location that’s situated 25kms from the city centre in Ooty is an amazing picnic spot where you can view picturesque sceneries.
· Doddabetta Peak – This is the highest mountain range in the Nilgiris Hillsat a great height of 2600mts that is enveloped by thick forests where rhododendron trees and eucalyptus grow. Do catch panoramic views of the breathtaking surroundings from the observatory at the top of this majestic peak.
· Fernhill Palace – Once resided by Mysore’s Maharaja, the Fernhill Palace was constructed in 1884 across 50 acres of sprawling lovely gardens and eucalyptus forests. Now, the palace has been transformed into a heritage hotel that exudes the grandness of the royal palace it used to be.
· St. Stephen’s Church–Way back in 1830, St. Stephen’s Church was made with wooden beams taken from Tipu Sultan’s palace located in Mysore. The stained glass windows here exhibiting the crucifixion of Christ and a portrait of the Last Supper which are both crafted in Gothic-styled architecture are the prominent masterpieces of this old church.
Fun activities to do in Ooty
· Ride the toy train–Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005, the Nilgiris Mountain Railway runs from Mettupayalam to Ooty as the toy train there passes through 16 tunnels and 250 bridges. As you ride this cute train navigating more than 200 mountain curves, you’re sure to catch a glimpse of spectacular views all through the journey.
· Go for boating in Ooty Lake – The Ooty Lake is undoubtedly the most visited tourist attraction in this hill station. As boating is a common activity at this lake, you can take a boat ride and while doing so, get mesmerized by the magnificent views of the nearby forests and gardens from the middle of the lake.
· Take a tour of the tea plantations – Ooty’s pristine hillsides reflect a wide range of teas flourishing on the plantations spread all over this gorgeous place. Do embark on a tour of these plantations for an interesting experience and if it’s the right season, you may spot the cultivation and harvesting of tea buds in them.
· Go for trekking – As the Nilgiris fall among the top 14 biodiversity hotspots globally, trekking on the trails of Ooty is something adventure-enthusiasts shouldn’t miss out, especially to look at the beautiful natural sights. If you’re a wildlife-lover, you’ll be happy to spot abundant tahr, gaur, Nilgiri langurs and the macaque.
· Enjoy horse riding – Horseback riding is a fun outdoor activity here. Start from the North Lake which is the beginning point for horse trails and ride through eye-soothing hillsides or wander across lush grasslands.
Which are the tidbits you should try out here?
· Varkey– This snack in Ooty that’s made from butter, wheat and sugar is a popular munching item in Ooty. Do try out a freshly baked varkey with tea which you’ll be able to find at any bakery here.
· Handmade chocolate – Handmade chocolates are a sweet and yummy treat in Ooty. Make sure to have some to feel these pure chocolates melt in your mouth and uplift your mood.
· Tea – The best beverage to have in Ooty is hot tea. Have a cup of green, black or spice tea to relax your nerves and beat the cold.
What should you pack for this trip?
Do pack your woollen clothes and warm jackets for yourtrip to Ooty to stay comfortable in the invigorating winter climate. While the daytime is comparatively warmer, nights are chillier and breezier here. Keep a raincoat or umbrella in your packing bag so that you can protect yourself from sudden drizzles.
Contact the best holiday travel agency in Kolkata to spend a rejuvenating vacay in the charming and serene hill station of Ooty!
