Ooty
Tamil Nadu, India
Hill Station·Serene, Scenic, Cool
Ooty, officially known as Udagamandalam, is a picturesque hill station in Tamil Nadu, India. Known as the 'Queen of Hill Stations', it offers breathtaking views of the Nilgiri Hills and a refreshing climate that attracts tourists year-round. Visitors can enjoy exploring the lush tea plantations, the historic Nilgiri Mountain Railway, and the town's rich cultural heritage, which includes colonial-era architecture. Ooty is a haven for nature lovers, with its botanical gardens, hiking trails, and abundant wildlife. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or an adventurous exploration, Ooty provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness.
Highlights
- Stunning views of the Nilgiri Hills.
- Cool, refreshing climate year-round.
- Rich cultural history with colonial influences.
- Popular destination for tea plantation tours.
- Home to the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Things to consider before traveling to Ooty
- Close access to the Nilgiri Hills, ideal for hiking and nature walks.
- Known for its tea plantations and botanical gardens.
- Rich cultural heritage with colonial-era architecture.
Tips
Getting Around
The Nilgiri Mountain Railway offers a scenic and historic way to explore the area.
Local Cuisine
Try local specialties such as homemade chocolates and traditional South Indian dishes.
Best Views
Visit Doddabetta Peak for panoramic views of the surrounding hills.
Shopping
Ooty is famous for its tea and essential oils, which make for great souvenirs.
Travel advice
Spring
Spring is ideal for visiting botanical gardens and enjoying the blooming flowers.
Summer
Summer offers a cool escape from the heat, perfect for exploring the outdoors.
Fall
Fall provides pleasant weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Winter
Winters are chilly but offer clear skies and great views, ideal for photography.
Essentials
Currency
INR ₹
Average Cost
$50-$100 p/day
Population
233,426
Languages Spoken
Tamil, English
Best Time to Visit
April-June, September-November
Occasion Tags
Tourists, Nature Lovers, Cultural Explorers, Families, Photographers
Location
Ooty, Tamil Nadu, India
Where to stay in Ooty
Hotel Adarsh International
3.3(674 reviews)
Davisdale, Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Hotel · Unpretentious, Straightforward, Budget Friendly
Ganga's Sri Balaji Cottage
4.4(888 reviews)
Davisdale, Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Accommodation · Simple, Relaxed, Budget Friendly
Jevis Daffodils rooms and cottage
4.3(83 reviews)
Davisdale, Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Accommodation · Cozy, Peaceful, Nature Focused
Hotel Maneck
3.0(1,4 K reviews)
Upper Bazar, Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Hotel · Simple, No Frills, Budget Friendly
Food & drink in Ooty
The Fern
4.4(44 reviews)
Fern Hill, Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Indian Restaurant · Cozy, Inviting, Family Friendly
Nilgiri Express
4.8(758 reviews)
R.K.Puram, Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Indian Restaurant · Authentic, Local, Welcoming
Spice code Restaurant
4.5(90 reviews)
Fern Hill, Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Fine Dining Restaurant · Elegant, Serene, Upscale
Colonel’s Kitchen - Premium Vintage Dining Experience
4.4(607 reviews)
Thalayathimund, Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Restaurant · Charming, Vintage, Inviting
Khalids Biriyani
4.2(1,6 K reviews)
Southwick, Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Indian Restaurant · Casual, Bustling, Local Favorite
The Pavilion - Restaraunt
4.8(55 reviews)
Bombay Castel, Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Restaurant · Cozy, Welcoming, Local Favorite
Ooty Majlis Restaurant
3.1(337 reviews)
charring cross, Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Restaurant · Casual, Local, Family Friendly
Angaara Restaurant Ooty
4.4(4 K reviews)
Upper Bazar, Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Restaurant · Casual, Family Friendly, Diverse
Things to do in Ooty
Ketti Valley View Point
4.3(3,3 K reviews)
Thalayathimund, Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Tourist Attraction · Serene, Picturesque, Natural
View point
4.6(481 reviews)
Elk Hill, Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Tourist Attraction · Serene, Picturesque, Tranquil
Ooty City Night View Point
4.4(222 reviews)
R.K.Puram, Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Tourist Attraction · Serene, Picturesque, Romantic
Karnataka Siri Horticulture Garden
4.5(14,1 K reviews)
West Mere, Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Botanical Garden · Serene, Lush, Family Friendly
Virgin Earth
4.7(1,2 K reviews)
West Mere, Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Tourist Attraction · Serene, Natural, Peaceful
Thunder World
3.7(6,4 K reviews)
Mani Vihar, Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Amusement Park · Playful, Family Friendly, Adventurous
Ooty Toy Train Tourist Park
4.3(268 reviews)
Kathadimattam, Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Tourist Attraction · Nostalgic, Scenic, Family Friendly