Places to Visit in Ooty Tourist Places List Udhagamandalam

Ooty City is one of the important and Interesting Tourist spots of Tamil Nadu.  This place has very cool and chill climate in summer season so it is one of the best known hill resorts of India.  The other name of Ooty is Udhagamandalam or Ootacamund.  It is also called as the “Queen of Hills Stations”.  Ootacamund is the summer capital of Madras presidency.

Ooty town covers an area of about 36 square kilometers. It is located at the tri-junction of Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka. The city of Udagamandalam is at an altitude of 7350 feet or (2,240 m) above sea level. It has extraordinary natural beauty in the middle of the Nilgiris. The Nilgiris are also known as the Blue Mountains because of the misty blue clouds that accompany its peaceful ranges. Udhagai is part of the Southwest Ghats Rainforest Eco zone. The highest peak in the Nilgiris is Thottapetta (2,623 m). About 10 km from the lake.

Nilgiris is one of the smallest districts of Tamil Nadu. It is about 1616 sq km area. It is a bridge of hills between the ruggedly beautiful Eastern Ghats, famous for their granite and densely forested Western Ghats.

Forests and grasslands combine to form the district. The Nilgiris on the Wayanad (Kerala) side are densely forested and at a lower altitude (average 1,200 m) than Tamil Nadu, where the famous 'hill stations' of Ooty, Coonoor and Kotagiri are situate, amid the lush green meadows of the plateau.

This place have British Buildings and British Names St. Stephen's Church Governor Stephen's Church is named after Governor Stephen Rumbold Lushington, as is Lushington School. Lawrence School and Breeks Memorial School are also named after another age of British. Lady Canning's Seat, Lamb's Rock, Dolphin's Nose, Club Hill and Elk Hill are unmistakably British-sounding and the scenery viewed from these places is decidedly English; Tall pines, conifers and eucalyptus stand proudly next to emerald-green lakes and red-tiled cottages and lush lawns and rose gardens.

Peach and plum orchards, and the terraced tea gardens for which Udagamandalam is famous, are a legacy of the British, who first introduced these crops here. So are English faces; Many of these Britons fell in love with this little England they discovered in India and settled down here. It is, without a doubt, yet best 'hill station' and a must-see tourist destination for anyone visiting India.

Ootacamund City 36 Sq. km in area and at an altitude of 2,240m. Vast plantations of eucalyptus, pine and wattle stretch between some of the untouched grasslands that remain of the pre-British Ootacamund. Forestry in independent India continued the ecological transformation the British had begun in Ootacamund, introducing exotic conifers into the gentle, undulating lowlands to meet the growing needs of the forest-based industries. However, even though it no longer means nature, Ootacamund is still beautiful and a paradise for nature lovers, trekkers and sports enthusiasts.

Ooty Hill Station of Tamil Nadu South India

Udagamandalam Hill Station is situated in Nilgris District Tamil Nadu India. It is a beautiful mountain range which is a part of Western Ghats. Totally there are three places to visit namely Kothagiri, Coonoor and Udhaga mandalam. Among these three Ooti has given the primal importance because of its scenic beauty and excellent climate conditions. Nilgri Hills are older than the Great Himalayas. Like Icing on a cake Ootagamund adds Pride to this mountain range. It is about 556km from Chennai.

Ooti Hill Station was first discovered in 1819 by John Sullivan. He was the Collector of Coimbatore and it was later named as Ootacamund derived from the word Ottakkalmandu, which means the ‘village of a single stone’. The Madras Gazette received the letter Wotokymund in the year of 1821 March. It was first reference got from name. Udaga mandalam is the Tamil name proposed by the government.  The entire region was previously inhabited by the Toda tribal’s.

Hoysala king Vishnuvardhana’s record has references of Toda of Nilgiris and king’s general Punisa dated 1117CE.  Toda people are well known for farming activities and raising of water buffalo.

The Nilgiris of the south are a classed by themselves.  They contain excellent summer resorts such as Coonoor and Kotagiri. The chain of mountains lies between Mysore in the north and Coimbatore in the south.  The highest point is at an altitude of 2619m.  It nestles on the Nilgiri range at an altitude of 2286m. The extraordinary scenic beauty of this place matched by the salubrious climate makes it a most favoured hill sation in the south.  The Rolling Meadows, lush gardens and placid lakes are all reminiscent of the British. It still retains something Indian in its cottages and stone arches, and offers many profiles of nature, each imbued with a distinctive grandeur. The original inhabitants of Udgamandalam were Todas, a colorful pastoral tribe. Other forest tribes found around the Nilgiris are Kotas, Kurubas, Irulas and Panias. Perhaps no other hill station has so much to offer as Ootacamund. There are quite a number of interesting places to see in Tamilnadu.

Nilgiri Mountain Railway Or Ooty Mountain Train or Toy Train

Toy train is a beautiful journey in the Nilgiri Mountain. It gives us a memorable experience. The fresh clean air and the breath taking views are not be forgotten easily. The maximum speed of the train is 33km per hour.  The climb to Udgamandalam from the plain used to be a treacherous journey on a ghat road in bullock carts, ponies and palanquins aided by the Nilgiri carrying company's Mail and Express Tonga Service.  British engineers proposed a mountain railway as early as 1854 but it was not until 1891 that Lord Wenlock, the Governor of Madras, laid the foundation of the Nilgiri Mountain Railway.  in 1899, the first train chugged up the slopes from Mettupalayam (36m/1,069ft) to Coonor (1,712/5,617ft), before the rail link was extended to Ooti (2,203m/7,228ft) in 1903.

The Mountain Railway at Darjeeling and Shimla is not so older than the Udhagamandalam, the 46km train journey is the steepest in Asia, with a maximum gradient of 1:12 (8.33 percent). 

The journey starts at Mettupalaam and covers the 46km in 4hours. The train passes through 16 tunnels, forest-clad hills and lush green tea-plantations and rumbles across tall girder bridges.

The railway link was not just an engineering marvel; it also revolutionized the Nilgiri tea industry with swift transportation from the estates to the plains and back to Britain.  Using a rack and pinion Alternate Biting Teeth (ABT) system, it takes nearly 5hr for the ascent with the engine pushing the train from behind.  The scenic terrain past hills, valleys, forests and plantations changes with every mile as the train negotiates 16 tunnels, 27 viaducts and 208 curves.  From Mettupalaiyam station, the train climbs 7km past betelnut, palm and coconut plantations to Kallar, an elevation of 405m/1,329ft. The train crosses Kallar Bridge over the Bhavani River, Adderley Viaduct, Burliar Bridge and 14 tunnels as it crosses tropical jungles via Hill Grove to Conoor (Adderley, Runnymede and Kateri are no longer stops).

Nilgiri Mountain Railway was depicted in David Lean's 1984 film A Passage to India.  Coonoor railway station, a beautiful Colonial structure built in 1897, was one of the scenic locales.  A steam locomotive, x37390, constructed by Swiss Locomotive Works in 1922 and retired after chugging 7.5km, stands outside! From Conor, the train climbs via Wellington, Aruvankadu, Ketti, Lovedale and Fernhill (the highest point).  The train leaves daily from Mettupalayam at 7.10 am returns at 3pm, completing the downhill journey in 3.5hr.  There are also four daily trains each way between Udgamandalam and Coonoor.  In 2005, UNESCO added the Nilgiri Mountain Railway to its list of World Heritage Sites.  Despite having computerized ticketing systems, the NMR still issues manually stamped Edmondson railway tickets, retaining its old-world charm.

About Ooty City in Tamil Nadu India

It is one of the oldest mountain ranges.  It is older than the Himalayas. It is about 89km via Mettupalayam (54km southeast) and Coonoor (19km).  Sent to investigate the 'fabulous tales' surrounding the Blue Mountains or 'Neilgherries', John Sullivan, the Collector of Coimbatore set up a bungalow at Kotagiri in 1819 and came to this place in 1822.  After his departure, the commandant of Utti moved into Sullivan's house in 1846, which was later occupied by three European schools (including Lawrence, which sifted to Lovedale).  European soon started settling down here. They use the valley for summer stays. The complete valley has become a summer resort. The practice of moving the government to hills during summer months also started.

The large patch of green set up to grow 'English vegetables at reasonable cost' was converted into a Botanical Garden in 1848.  The Stone House served as the Summer Secretariat of the Governor of Madras Presidency till 1937 and Udhagamandalam eventually became what Sullivan had envisioned it to be the Queen of Hill Stations, Scotland of the East.  The 'sweet half-English air of Neilgherry' drew poet Lord Alfred Tennyson while Lord Lytoon, Viceroy of India, raved about Ootahamund's Hertfordshire lanes, Devonshire down, Westmoreland lakes, Scotch trout streams and Lusitanian views'.

Municipal Chairperson : Tmt.M.Vanieshwari

This Nilgiris was originally tribal land and it was occupied by the Todas around is now the Udhaga mandalam area and by Kotas around what is now the Kotagiri area. The Badagas appeared here much later from the Mysore plateau.

Udhagai is located in an amphitheatre of hills stretching over 3km in a northwesterly direction, one of the hill station's most famous sights, the airtifical Lake, it can be found to the south-west of town.  The Boat House is the hub of all activities with boating horse rides, gardens, eateries and touristy amusement parks.  Motorboats are available for 20min and pedal boats for 30min.  Besides horse riding, ornamental plants and seeds are also available near the lake exit.  Thread Garden is a bizarre collection of 15 species of plants recreated out of thread. On the road back towards town, the TTDC run Jolly World Lake Park has slides and go-karting and is popular with families.

Sightseeing Places

Sightseeing places are India’s largest Rose Garden Lies in the Elk Hill of northwestern slope.  We can see Ferns hills on the south. An attractive lake is on the east side of the hill. This Garden was started in 1955 to commemorate the Centenary flower festival.  This Rose Garden’s area is about 4ha/10acres in 5 terraces.  It has 2,241 Rose varieties (best enjoyed in early summer).  This Garden is awarded as Best Rose Garden in South Asia in 2006. It won the Garden of Excellence Award at Osaka.  

Etiennes Road, skirts north of the garden, joins Charing Cross, Ootacamund's main junction. Due east and spreading around Sulivan's original Stone House is the Government Arts College.  Just across the bust SH-15 is Lawley Institute, a club formed in 1911 for upper-class Indians in response to the snobbish attitude of the Utti and Gymkhana clubs.  Ironically, Sri Arthur Lawley, Governor of Madras laid the foundation stone.

North of it, opposite the Tibetan Market off Woodhouse Road, is another famous sight of this hill station, the Botanical Garden Occupying a deep ravine below Raj Bhavan, the summer residence of the Governor.  Designed in 1848 with the help of W.G. Mclvor from the Kew Royal Botanical Garden in England, the 26ha/65-acre garden has various nurseries, terraces and conservatories.  Its chief attractions are a 20 million-year-old fossil tree trunk, the unusual dragon tree, a Toda mund (tribal village), an Italian garden laid by Italian POWs and the kikuyu grass imported from East Africa, on which many a film song has been picturised. Adjacent to the garden is the Hebron School, established in 1899, one of the many historic institutions in the hills.

To the north of town is St Stephens Church with exquisite stained glass windows and the graves of John Sullivan's wife and daughter. Just south of the church, the administrative complex is a clutch of colonial buildings the District Court, Head Post Office and Collector's Office, with iconic shops like Mohans and Higginbotham's in the Oriental Building nearby.  Breeks memorial School, named after James Wilkinson Breeks, the first District Collector of the Nilgiris, was started in a heritage building, was started in a heritage building (now part of the Nilgiris District Court complex), until it was relocated to Charing Cross near Adams Fountain in 1886.  It was here Lord Macaulay coined the syllabus of the modern education system for India.  South of Hospital Road, half-hidden in a grove of eucalyptus, is another institution.  Nilgiri Library, built in 1858. On an adjoining 1.6ha/4-acre plot is the main branch of the State Bank of India, opened in 1866 as the Bank of Madras. These are the well important places in Tamil Nadu.

Botanical Garden

Botanical Garden is one of the important tourist spot in Udhagai Tamil Nadu India. The English styled terraced gardens were founded in 1847, by Marquis of Tweed-Dale. He took the services of W. G. Ivor, a well known horticulturist form the famous Kew garden of England.  The garden sprawls across an area of about 22 hectares, ascending the slopes on the hill at an elevation of 2400-2500 meters above MSL. It has the most colourful collection of flora in Southern India.  There are about 1000 varieties of plants, shrubs and trees.  The beautifully maintained garden also has exotic varieties of orchids, ferns, ornamental and floral plants, alpines, coniferous trees, rock plants, bulbous plants and several species of medicinal plants.  The ‘fern House’ built here is one of the most attractive features of the garden.  Today, varieties of exotic and ornamental plants adorn the garden.  A fossil tree trunk, which is said to be 20 million years old, is found in the midst of the garden.  There are spacious lawns of Kikiu grass, giant exotic trees and huge flowerbeds.  A sprawling Cedrus Dedora tree dating back to 1893 is a favourite of visitors.  The hundred year old Fern House is another attraction in the garden.  The summer festival of flower show is held every year in May, which attracts a large number of tourists. This garden is a favourite of the botany enthusiasts. Botanical Garden is one of the important places to visit.

It is a treasure house of temperate flora, consisting of flowering trees, beautiful shrubs, colourful lilies, bulbous planets, enchanting orchids, curious cacti and succulents, pleasing pteridophytes, breathe taking glass house plants and charming annuals with bright colours.

The garden is also venue for to the famous Agricultural Horticulture Show, Spring Flower Show and Dog Show. It is held annually during the peak tourist season (April-May) and is very popular among tourists.

Children's Park

The Children's park is in the Eastern end of the lake. This park is very lovely and beautiful. The lawn of this park is full of budding flowers and it is full of grass ground. This place attracts every child to enjoy this park happily. We can view the St. Thomas Church, the moving mountain railway station from the park. Boating, rowing and horse race are also available. It is one of the important picnic spot in Tamilnadu.

Lake and Boat House

Lake and Boat House is important tourist place in Ooti Tamil Nadu. This lake is also known as “Outi Lake”.  The collector John Sullivan constructed the artificial lake in 1824. Set amidst scenic surroundings, the lake offers facilities for boating.  A wide range of boats like pedal boat, Row boat, Aqua bike etc.  are available here, dancing car, Mini Train are attractions here. Pony rides along the road are also popular. A toy train is another attraction to the children.  The children's lake garden is located closely.    Located at the high point, a little away from the residential area, is this church, one of the oldest, noted for its stained glass paintings and Gothic style. It has fine boating facilities with row boats, paddle boats and motor boats available on hire.  The lake garden and toy train rides are other attractions.

Thread Garden

We can see the sightseeing of Utti similarly everywhere in the world. It is a very natural looking artificial garden full of beautiful plants, flowers, creepers, grass etc. Exclusively designed using embroidery threads measuring more than 60 million meter in length with highly skillful and strainful. This unique garden full of colourful flowers made from threads is perhaps one of the most amazing sites one could come across.  The plants and flowers are entirely woven by hand without any help from machines; even needles have not been used in creating these wonders. “Thread Garden” a world miracle in art creation moving to Guinness Road, Presenting for the first time in the world.

A minute handcraft man ship of nearly 50 specially trained artists for long 12 years, without touching even a single needle or any other Machinery challenging a computer machine like perfection. We will be more surprised at these wonderful and beautiful art creations. It is the highest and beautiful art creations of manual effort ever born in the world, as beyond human imagination.

Government Museum

A museum was opened in September 1989. Objects unique to the district are kept here. Government Museum is located on the Mysore Road exhibiting various tribal objects, representative sculptural arts and crafts of Tamil Nadu and the ecological details of the Nilgiri district.

They are timber, insects, butterflies, rocks, wood carving, Kurinji flower, stone sculptures, bronze works model of Toda hut and coins.

Timings: 10.00 am to 1.00 pm and 2.00 pm to 5.00 pm. It is closed on Fridays, second Saturdays and Government holidays.

Rose Garden Ootacamund Tamil Nadu India

Rose Garden is one of the important tourist place in Ooti. It is largest Rose Garden of India is perched on the lower slopes of Elk Hill at Vijayanagaram Farms.  It was designed to commemorate the centenary flower festival covering an area of 6 hectares with over terraces.  The initial collections of 17526 rose plants from 1919 varieties include floribundas, hybrid teas, polyanthus, miniatures and creepers.  It is planned to increase the varieties to 5000 by introducing new strains from different centres in India and abroad. Rose Garden is one of the beautiful places to visit.

Recently, it has become the first rose garden in the country to be recognised as a ‘Garden of Excellence’ by the World Federation of Rose Societies.

Raj Bhavan

Raj Bhavan lies on the Dodabetta Ridge, near the famous Botanical Garden.  The majestic building was built in 1877, by the Duke of Buckingham and is now used only for official entertaining, while the grounds are open to visitors.

Fernhills Palace

The first bungalow constructed in Udgamandalam is stone house. John Sullivan built this palace. Tribal call this palace as kal bungalow. It was built in 1822.  He acquired land from the Todas for 1 rupee an acre.   This building is an official residence for principal of Government Arts College now.

Utti Places

Kandal Cross in Udgamandalam

The Roman Catholic Church is believed to enshrine a relic of the ‘True Cross’ on which Jesus Christ was crucified.  It is said to have been brought to India by an Apostle’s delegate.  Special Novena Prayers and Holy Masses are held her on every Friday and an annual feast is organised on May 3rd.

Club

This exquisite relic of the colonial past was built in the 1820’s.  The architecture and lush lawns are quite impressive.  The club still sticks on to the rules and regulations set during the British era.

Stone House

This first bungalow was built by John Sullivan and was called as ‘Kal Bangala’ by the tribals (Kal means stone in Tamil).  Today, it is the official residence for the principal of the Govt. Art College.

Aranmore Palace

Aranmore Palace one of the most important place. This palace is served as the summer capital of Madras Presidency. This place was visited by British Officials on the colonial days. It is popular summer resort now.

St. Stephen’s Church Ootacamund Tamilnadu India

The castle like structure built in Gothic style is the first church of Ootacamund.  There is an old cemetery near the church.

The Nilgiris Library

This excellent library was set up in 1868.  It is well stocked with rich and rare collection of documents, biographies and old books.

The Museum in Udgamandalam

It was established in 1989 and has a fine collection of art facts related to the Nilgiri district.  This museum exhibits   timber, Kurinji flower, insects, butterflies, rocks and wood carvings.  Stone sculptures, bronze works, model of Toda hut and coins can also be seen here.  The museum is under the control of a Curator of Museums.

Wax Museum

Wax museum is housed at a prominent 130 year old bungalow on Udhagai mandalam-Coonoor Road. This museum displays life-size look-alike wax statues of famous people. Wax statue making involves computerized digital imaging techniques, traditional and conventional sculpting and molding methodologies. Depending upon the complexity, the cost of making a wax statue varies between Rs. 3 laksh- 15 laksh.

The statues are made by a business man / Engineer Shreeji Baskaran as a hobby.  He is also famous for making the wax statues of “the last supper” (22 feet in length and 500 kgs of wax) was unveiled and blessed at the Art of Gallery of the SE cathedral in old Goa by his Eminence, cardinal paul poupard, the president council for Inter religious dialogue at the Vatican on 20th November 2006.  Sri Santhosh K. Misra, inaugurated this museum in March 2007. He was the collector of Nilgiris District.  This museum is an important place to see in Ooti. Timings: 9.30 am to 7.30 pm.

Aquarium

Department of Fisheries run this aquarium. I rears exotic fish varieties this aquarium is very close to the bus standard.

Horse Racing

The racecourse is situated in the heart of the city. Its area is about 2.4km long.  It is one of the famous racecourses in India. It is a very popular sport in Nilgiris. We can see this race during the summer months of April may and June.

Kalhatty Falls

Kalhatty falls is about 13km from the city. It is located on the Ootacamund to Mysore road via the Klhatty ghats. This is the best place for trekking. September to November months is good time to visit.

Pykara

Pykara is the largest river in the Nilgiri District. This river rises at Mukurthi Peak.  It passes through hill tract. It is considered very sacred by the Todas. This river is about 20km from Udgamandalam. It gets down in a series of cascades. A wonderful boathouse is maintained by the TTDC.

Todas considered Paykara is a sacred place. It generally keeps to North and turns to west after reaching the plateau’s edge. It gets down majestically in a series of cascades. The last two falls of 55m and 61m are known as Pykara falls. It is about 20km from City.

Tiger Hill

Tiger hill is in the lower lap of Doddabetta peak.  It lies in the east of Otty town. It is a best trekking place. A trek of about 3km leads to the spot where also situated one of the drinking water reservoirs in the town is.  An almost closed cave in the vicinity is associated with religious legends.

Tea Plantation

Tea Plantations are here in a large number of areas. They are present in the lower altitude of Nilgiris. This place attracts large number of tourist for its beautiful nature.

Pine Forest

Pine forest is situated between the Ootacamund and Thalakunda. This is the famous tourist destination for the visitors. This place has many pine trees arranged in an orderly fashion. It is located on a small downhill region.  It is one of famous movie spot.

Palaces

It is also dotted with some fine palaces and stately mansions, which were built by various rulers as their summer palaces.  The most important buildings are of the famous kings of Mysore, Vadodara, Jodhpur and Hyderabad.

Wenlock Downs in Uti Hill Station

Wenlock down is a vast expanse of landscape offering Gymkhana club, the Government sheep farm and Hindustan photo films company besides pleasure of long stroll on quiet road.

This stretch has 20,000 acres of grassland with Sholas or ‘Gallery forest’ on the Gudalur road.  It is about 8 km from the station.  It is the most popular picnic spot.  The undulating landscape is blessed with splendid scenic beauty and rich vegetation.  The Gymkhana Club, the Govt.  Sheep Farm and Hindustan Photo Films Company are located here.

Doddabetta Peak

Doddabetta Peak is about 10km from Utti City in India.   It reaches its highest point at Doddabetta at about 8km East-Southeast from Udgamandalam.  The eminent range of height which runs North-South in the middle of the plateau.  A much frequented place, the highest peak of the Nilgiris, 2636m high. The snow downhill is about 2500m, the club hill is about 2448m and the Elk hill is 2466m along with the Doddabetta from among themselves. Doddabetta offers breathtaking view of the hill ranges, plateau and plain around.  At the top of the peak, there is an observatory fitted with telescopes to facilitate clear view of the distant valleys.

Kalhatti Water Falls

Kalhatti Water Falls is about 14km from the Ooti city. A mountain stream cascading down into the valley from a height of 36m, provides an enchanting view in the calm and quiet surroundings.  It is an ideal place for picnic and trekking.

Avalanche Lake in Uti Tamil Nadu

Avalanche Lake is about 28km from Udgamandalam. A beautiful reservoir surrounded by thick Sholas which abound in many species of birds.  It is not only a nature lover's paradise but also a popular place excellent for Birds Watching and photography. Cairn Hills present an Avalanche of views. It is on the way to Upper Bhavani from Ooti via Emerald camp. The scenery is very gorgeous at every turn, it’s an experience of wonder and delight. The rivers from the top of the hill at Avalanche give a magnificent sight of the Avalanche valley and reservoir. Avalanche Lake is the best picnic spot in Ootacamund.

Cairn Hill

Cairn hill is about 3km from Avalanche cairn hill. It is one of the few surviving original walk.  The hill is flanked by dense cypress trees.  It is a very good picnic spot.

Glenmorgan Valley

Glenmorgan Valley is about 17km from Ootacamund bus stand. It is an ecologically rich forestry spot. The Electricity board carries staff from glanmorgan view point to power house at singara. This is deep valley which has the famous electric power generating stations of Tamil Nadu.  There is an electrically driven which of the Electricity Board to go down and reach the Pykara power house at Singara. This is a unique hydro-electric project in Asia utilizing a steep fall of 1030m.  The Moyar power house is a little away from Singara.  A motorable road can reach Kundah hydroelectric project. Prior permission is necessary to visit these places. The winch travel passes through undisturbed sholas and wildlife habitat. It is about 4km from the Ootacamund city.

Tea Museum

Tea museum gives us a wonderful refreshment of Tea.  It is better to known that it is the Queen of tea growing districts in India. Set atop one of the many blue hills of the Nilgiris District and adjacent to the Dodabetta Tea factor. 

The Tea museum is a must see for all tea lovers. Take a walk down history lane soak in the events and circumstances in history that moulded the Tea industry.  It absorbs the social customs and traditions that various cultures observed with regard to Tea. Tea plantation is a glimpse to our life children and Adults are amazed to drink tea here.

Factory Tour

We can see, how they are manufacturing tea. From where the leaf is brought into the factory for withering, to the rolling, drying and shifting stages. Until the tea grains are repoured into the jute bags for shipment. It is an exciting journey for itself.  A high quality tea is also available at the sales counter.

Mudumalai Wild life Sanctuary

Mudumalai Wild life Sanctuary is about 64km from Udgamandalam and 164km from Coimbatore. Situated on the way to Mysore adjacent to the Bandipur and Wynad sanctuaries. Mudumalai Wild life reserve was the first sanctuary in South India. The terrain is extremely varied with hills, Valleys, ravines, watercourses and swamps. The vegetation comprises of tropical moist deciduous forests, dry deciduous forests and scrub forest compared to the nearby reserves.  The climate is warmer is Mudumalai. The river Moyar that flows along the border of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka separates the two. The 321 Sq. km. reserve is situated in Tamil Nadu.

This has a variety of wild animals including rare species of deer like Langur, Bonnet Macaque, tiger, leopard, wild dong, Hyena, jackal, sloth bear, elephants, gaur, sambar, spotted dear, Indian muntjac, mouse dear, wild boar, rodent and flying squirrel are part of the wildlife in Mudumalai.  It has a rich bird life that life includes Malabar trogan, Grey hornbill, Crested hawk eagle, crested serpent eagle etc.

Tourists can go into Teppakadu in the heart of the sanctuary to see the wealth of wild life.  Watch towers have been constructed to enable wild life enthusiasts to stay overnight in the forest.  There is an elephant training camp at Teppakadu.  Prior permission is necessary to go into the interior of the forest.

The safaris in the Mudumalai Wild life sanctuary

A safari tour to Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary can be very enjoyable. The guides here know their animals every tiger by heart, and each bison is assigned its name by these guides. Sit on the back of an elephant and enjoy a fascinating ride around the park.

The best time to visit reserve is from February to June.  This sanctuary can be reached by the road.  The nearest railway station is Udakamandalam.  The nearest airport is Coimbatore.  Accommodation can be arranged at forest rest house at Masinagudi, Kargudi, Abhayaranam and Theppakkadu.

Mukurthi National Park

Mukurthi National Park is about 40km from Udgamandalam. This national park is located on the high altitudes of the Nilgiris is interspersed with temperate sholas. Mukkurthi national park situated to the west of Nilgiris is one of the most picturesque wild life reserves.  Bordering Kerala and spread over an area of 78 sq km.  Mukurti is the house of rarest of wild life.  The scenic splendor along its path is unparalleled. This park holds the highest population of Nilgiri Tahr in the world, next only to Ernakulam National Park in Kerala.  The park is a paradise for bird livers and abounds in a wide variety of birds.  Mukurti and its surrounding forests offer some of the toughest but most scenic trekking paths in South India. Trekking routes exist from Parsan Valley, Portimund, Pykara etc. 

Trout fishing is recommended in the rivers and lakes of Mukurthi February to May.  September to November are the best seasons to visit.  Wildlife Wardon Mahalingam buildings, Coonoor Road. Prior permission is necessary to enter the park.

Wellington

Wellington Staff College is situated on the way to Coonoor. The military town with rows and rows of barracks. The headquarters of the Madras Regimental centre, the Indian Army and the Defense Staff College located here. It amidst the cool green atmosphere of the Nilgiris.  It is an institution of pride which has served as a model for the British also. Started in 1947, the DSSC is a unique Institution of international repute, which trains personnel from all the three forces together and thus has set up a model for other countries.

Pasteur Institute

Coonoor's most famous Institute is the Pasteur Institute established in 1907, where research work on Rabies is carried on regarding treatment for the victims suffering from the attack.  It also produces and anti-serum vaccine for rabies given to pet dogs and other animals.

Walks and drives at Konor include those of Tiger's Hill and Walker's Hill and Lovedale.

Western catchment

Western catchment is about 20km or 12mile from parson’s valley.  It has Rolling grassy down interspersed with temperature sholas occupying depression and valleys.  The landscape is extremely picturesque.

Places to visit in Kotagiri

Kotagiri is about 20km from Coonoor and 30km from Udgamandalam. Visitors who prefer a milder climate chose to stay at Kotagiri.  The winding roads afford excellent view of the valleys.  This is called as the Little Pearl of the Nilgiris.  Kotagiri has lovely green fields and a fine golf course. This was the first spot to be developed as a summer resort.

Rangaswamy Peak 19 km from Kotagiri.  This is a peculiar formation of rock naturally located at an altitude of 1785m.  Local tradition ascribes divine sanctity to this rock calling it as Rangaswamy Pillar.

Ketti Valley view

Ketti Valley view is located on the road to Connor.  It is considered to be the second largest valley in the world. This spot is a cluster of tiny villages that extended to the plains of Coimbatore and Mysore plateau.

Elk Falls

Elk falls is about 7km from Kothagiri and it is situated below the Uylatti village.  This road passes through Badaga habitations.  It is enrooted at the Kannerimukku village is found.  The first European house is in the Nilgiris built by collector Sullivan in the year 1819. The two story house is now ruined.  The water is full only in the wet months.  So this site is always worth to visit. It commands towards the north, an exquisite view of the valley of Kookal, one known for its famous oranges.

Kadanada view point

Kadanada view point is about 18km from Kothagiri.  The Kodanad Tea factory is situated here. A beautiful view of the river major dividing the Nilgiris and Erode Districts.  We can see the Tamil Nadu and Karnataka borders.  This is a best view point on the Blue Mountains and provides a good view on a bright sunny day.

Bikkapathi Reserve

Bikkapathi Reserve is situated beyond Kookalthorai.  It is about 10km from Kothagiri.  This is an exciting forest reserve under the Jurisdiction of the forest Range officer of Kattabettu at Kothagiri.

Longwood shola

It is a source of pure sparkling water for the people living in Kothagiri town.  The microclimatic conditions contribute to making Kothagiri one of the ideal climatic locations in the world.

Best Places to visit in Coonoor Tourist Places List Tamil Nadu India

Coonoor Sightseeing Places

Coonoor is about 20km from Ootakamund. It is the second largest hill station in the Nilgiris after Udagamandalam, Tamilnadu. At an altitude of 1858m, Coonor, a scruffy bazaar and tea-planters’ town on the Nilgiri Blue Mountain Railway lies at the head of the Hulikal ravine, on the south-eastern side of the Dodabetta mountains, 27km north of Mettupalayam and 19km south of Udhakamandalam, Often considered second best to its more famous neighbour, Conor has luckily avoided Ootacamund’s over commercialization, and can make a pleasant place for a short stop.  In addition to an atmospheric little hill market specializing in leaf tea and fragrant essential oils, there are also plenty of rejuvenating strolls to be taken in the outlying hills and valleys.   Set amidst the backdrop of the Nilgiri mountains, the beautiful plantation town is known as the Queen of Nilgiris. The main attraction of Conoor is the Botanical Garden popularly known as Sim's Park which was established in 1874.  There are lovely flower beds lawns and rockeries. Many rare commercial trees and herbs are grown here.  Breathtaking view points are Dolphin's Nose, Lamb's Rock, and Lady Canning's Seat.  Some of the ancient churches at Konor are worth visiting, particularly for their Gothic art and stained glass panels.  The Fruit Research Station located here conducts annual fruit shows. It is in the state of Tamil Nadu India.  Coonor is known for its production of Nilgiris tea. Coonoor is the second largest hill station in the Nilgiri hills. It is an ideal base for a number of trekking expeditions leading into the Nilgiri hills. The coonoor is surrounded by the several picnic spots.

Droog

Droog is about 4.4km from Coonoor. It takes one into the past with the ruins of the fort.  Which was built by Tipu Sultan in the 16th century. It is also called Pagasuran Kottai. Has to go upto non-such estate and trek down for about 4km and in that spot a dilapidated fort is seen. This fort was used as an outpost by Tippu Sultan.

Lady canning’s seat

Lady canning’s seat is a couple of kilometer from Lambi’s rock.  The husband, viceroy Lord canning was busy mending the after math of the 1857 uprising against the British. Lady canning used to spend her time in the cool niches of Coonoor riding sketching, painting and botanizing and the enchanting crest of the commanding hills here was her seat. It is shouldered by rising hill sides the gorgeous looking below were used to be called ‘Butterfly country’ by the tribal of by olden days.

Dolphins Nose View Point

Dolphins Nose View Point is about 25km from Lake and 4km from Coonoor near Tiger Hills.  We can see the panoramic view of the Nilgiri hills. We can get a beautiful view of the Catherine falls from here.  It is ideal to visit in the morning.

Laws Falls

Laws Falls is about 7km from Coonoor. This place is  a paradise for naturalist. The water fall is very wild and rocky.

Katery Falls

Katery Falls is about 14km from Udgamandalam. The Katery Falls is located on kundha road.  This falls is about 10km from coonoor bus stand.   About 1km from the Kattery village. This is about 60m height. It is the third largest falls in the Nilgiris District.

St Catherine Falls

There are two falls and it is about 5km from kothagiri on the way to Mettupalayam Road.  The Upper fall is 250 feet.  It is the second largest falls in the Nilgiris beautiful view of forest and woodlands, evergreen tea garden and Mettupalayam plains can be seen from here.

Lamb's Rock

Lamb's Rock is about 26km from the City and 8km from Coonor bus stand. It is on the way to dolphin's nose. It is a best place to view the fantastic landscape and the tea and coffee plantation. Lamb's Rock is a view point from where striking panorama for ravines of Buliar and Kallar can be visited.

Pagasuran Hill

Pagasuran Hill is situated in 13km from Coonoor by the name of Thurug hill.  It is also called as Pagasuran Hill.  We can see a Fort built by Tipu sultan.

Sim's Park

Sim's park is located on the upper Coonor Kothagiri Road. It consists well-kept lawns, Ornamental flowerbeds, various species of Plants fence and trees etc. Fruits and vegetable shows are held here during the months of May every year.

Wellington Staff College

Wellington Staff College is on the way to Coonoor. The Indian army and the Defence staff college are located here. The military town is full of rows and rows of barracks. This is an important uti places in India. Phone: 0423-2233770.

Bhavani (Upper)

Bhavani is about 62km from Coonoor, 10km from Korakundah and 20km from Avalanche.  This is Naturalists paradise.  This area is rich with undisturbed with wild habitat.  From Bhangithappal via Sispera.  We can trek to silent valley.

Summer Festival

The annual tourist festivals are jointly organised by the Department of Tourism, Government of Tamil Nadu and Minister of Tourism, Government of India in the month of May, which is reared as the peak tourist season. Colourful cultural programmes, fashion parade, flower and fruit shows are held here during this time.  Boat races, boat pageantry and dog show etc., are other attractions of this grand event.

The Nilghiri Tahr

The Nilgiri Tahr ungulate native to the Nilgiri Hills and the Southern portion of the Western Ghats range in Tamil Nadu and Kerala states of Southern most India.  It is known locally as the Nilgiri Thar or Simply Ibex. It's closest relatives are sheep. It was placed with the Himalayan Tahr and the Arabian Tahr in the genus Hemitragus.  Ropiquet and Hassanin placed it in a new genus Nilgiritragus. It is genetically more similar to members of the genus ovis than to other Tahrs.  The Nilgiri Tahrs are stocky goats with short, coarse fur and a bristly mane. Males are larger than the females and have a dark color when mature. Both sexes have curved horns, which are larger in the males reaching up to 40 cm for males and 30cm for females.   Adult males weigh 80-100kg and stand about 100cm tall at the shoulder. The tahrs inhabit the open montane grassland habitat of the south Western Ghats montane rain forests eco region.  At elevations from 1200 to 2600m the forests open into grasslands interspersed with pockets of stunted forests known as sholas. These grassland habitats are surrounded by dense forests at the lower elevations. The Nilgiri Tahrs formerly ranged over these grasslands in large herds Hunting and poaching in the nineteenth century reduced their population to as few as 100 animals by the early 20th century.  Since that time their populations have increased somewhat and presently number about 2000 individuals. Their range extends over 400km from north to south and Eravikulam National park is a home to the largest population. The other significant concentration is in the Nilgiri Hills, with smaller populations in the Anamalai Hills Periyar National Park, Palani hills and other pockets in the Western Ghats South of Eravikulam, almost to India’s Southern tip.

Gudalur

Cherambadi

Cherambadi is the extreme western corner. It has plantations and mica mines sultan’s battery is very near. It is 35km from Gudalur.

Frog Hill view

Frog Hill view is 14km on the way to Udhagamandalam-Gudalur Road from here we can see the frog shape of a hill.  We can enjoy the panoramic view over Mudumalai Wild life sanctuary and Gudalur.

Needle Rock

Needle Rock is about 40km from Udagamandalam on the Gudalore road.  This point gives you a 360 degree view. The sunset from here on clear days is guaranteed to take your breath from here. We can get a panoramic view of the Mudumalai Wild life sanctuary and Gudalur town from this rock.

Pandalur

Pandalur is about 24km from Gudalur.  A century ago the place boasted a small race course laid in the wake of unsuccessful but hectic stirring up of activities in Connection with the gold boom attempted mining of gold boom attempted mining of gold in the vicinities.

Rangasamy peak and pillar

This pillar is about 24km from Kothagiri.  This conical peak exudes an exhilarating view of the wild yet harmonious semblance of the country lying around. Topping 1785m above MSL, the site is crucially sacred to the Irulas. North by west to the peak is a huge deteched pillar of rock rising abruptly on all rides to a height of about 400feet is unclimbable.

How to reach Ooty Tamil Nadu?

Nearest Airport

Nearest airport is Coimbatore,88km away. Coimbatore has a well-connected airport with all the major cities of India. Mysore airport is about 120km from Udgamandalam.

How to Reach by Road

From Coimbatore through Mettupalayam, at the foot of the hills, there are frequent (98km from Coimbatore) and comfortable bus service is available from Chennai, Bangalore via Mysore, Pondicherry, Kodai and Kozhikode. Udagamandalam can be reached easily by road from Coimbatore or from Mysore.  Excellent roads connect all the places around. State and private buses operate on these routes at regular intervals.  Taxis are available for hire.

How to Reach by Train

Railway line is connected to Mettupalayam. It is about 47km. The railway line directly connects the cities Coimbatore and Chennai. The Toy train is the major attraction of this place. Nilgiri mountain railway connects Udgamandalam with Mettupalayam and Conor.

A number of luxury and moderated lodgings, Tourist Rest House and Youth Hostel provide accommodation to the visitors.  The best season to visit these hill stations would be from March to June and from September to October.

What are the famous places to shop in Udagamandalam? Or Shopping

Udagamandalam municipal market is one of the largest markets. It has more than 1500 shops. This market has 15 entrances. We can get flowers, oils, chocolates etc.

Charring cross is located on the Ooti-Connor Road on the National Highway 67. Cakes, gifts, woollen items and handmade chocolates are available here.

Tibetan market is famous for woollen and shawls in variety of colours. Beadwork necklaces and embroidered jhola bags are also available here.  Tibetan market is located near the botanical garden.

Upper bazaar road is famous for specie market and Nilgiri shops. We can buy spices such as chilli, jeera, pepper and nutmeg powder etc.

Lower Bazaar road is famous for buying Toda jewels, shawls, cookware and essential items are also available here. It is located near the train station and lake.

Main Bazaar has Nilgiri products, shawls, winter dresses, fashion accessories etc. This bazaar is in the centre of the city.

Commercial Street is famous for leather shops, chocolate stores, eucalyptus oil etc.

Higginbothams is one of the oldest bookstore here. We can shop variety of books here. Travels guides, reference books and novels are also available here.

Frequently Asked Question

If you want ask question Contact this Mail Id: gkarthikeyan2k@yahoo.com

When does the flower show start in 2022?
The flower show starts on 20 May to 24 May in Botanical Garden.

When can we see the Fruit show in Udhagamandalam 2022?
We can see the Fruit Show on 28 and 29 of May in the Sim's park of Conoor.

How many Km is from Chennai to Udhaga mandalam?
It is about 560 km from Chennai to Ooti.

Which is the best time to visit Udhagamandalam?
April to May in Summer and December 3rd Week to January 2nd Week are the best time to visit Udhagamandalam.

Which is the Ooty's nearest Airport?
Coimbatore is the nearest airport. It is about 88km.

What are the important places to visit in Udhagamandalam?
Udgamandalam is the best places for sightseeing they are, Botanical Garden, Udhaga mandalam Lake, Rose Garden, Doddabetta, Pykara Lake, Avalanche,  Mudumalai, Ninth Mile, Wax Museum etc.

Where does the elephant camp in Udhaga mandalam?
Elephant camps are in Theppakadu in Mudumalai National Park.

Hiking and Trekking are available in Udgamandalam?
Yes Hiking and Trekking are available in Udgamandalam.

Which Railway station is near Udagamandalam?
Mettupalayam is the nearest Railway Station. It is about 47km away from Ootacamund. However, Coimbatore is the busiest railway station that connects via Mettupalayam.  

Udagamandalam has railway station or Not?
Yes Udagamandalam has a railway station. The train goes from Ootacamund to Mettupalayam. It is called Nilgiri Mountain railway.

Does it rain all time in Ootaca mund?
No it rains in rainy season only.

What kind of weather will be there in Ootaca mund during summer?
The Weather will be 15°C to 25°C during the summer.

Boating is available in Ootaca mund or not?
Boating is available in Udaga mandalam Lake and Pykara Lake.

What kind of weather will be there in Ootacamund during winter?
The Weather will be 5°C to 15°C during the winter.

Which is the best place for film shooting in Udgamandalam?
Nineth Mile,  Sixth mile and Pine forest are the best places for shooting flim.

Which is highest peak in Ootacamund?
Doddabetta (2,637 m) is the Highest peak in Udagamandalam.

What about the weather from march in Udgamandalam?
The weather from March is about maximum 25°C Minimum temperature 10°C.

How many days are required to visit all the places in Udagamandalam?
It takes one or two days to cover in and around all the places of Udagamandalam. If you like to enjoy toy train raid take one more days.

What are summer festivals in Ootacamund?

Ootacamund summer festivals are Flower show, Rose Show, Dog Show, Fruit Show, Spice Show, Vegetable show and Boat Race etc.

Flower Show 2022

Flower Show is one of the most important festival celebrated here. It is celebrated during the month of May in Botanical Garden. We can see more than 150 Varieties of flowers and 1,50, 000 flowers are shown here. 124th Udhaga mandalam Flower Show Date: May 20 to 24(Five Days)

Rose show 2022

Rose show is also the most important summer festival in Ootacamund Rose Garden. Large varieties of rose flowers and rose petals are arranged here in different shapes and sizes. We can see more than 3000 Varieties of roses in this festival. 17th Rose Show Date: May 14 and 15(Two Days)

Fruit show 2022

Fruit show is held in Sims park for two days. We can see different types of fruits arrangement in Conoor during the month end of May. These events are organised by the department of horticulture in every year. It is happening from the past 53 years. 62nd Fruit show Date: May 28 and 29 (Two days)

Dog show

South India Kennel club  organises the Dog show. It is held during the months of May in the Governments Arts College of Ootacamund. We can see varieties of dog and their dances here.

Spice show 2022

Spice show is organised by the department of Horticulture and district administration of Gudalur. It was first held in 2010. We can see the spice show in Saint Thomas Higher secondary. 9th Spices show Date: May 13, 14 and 15 (Three Days).

Vegetable Show 2022

The Vegetable Show is one of the most important shows in Kotagiri. We can see this show in Nehru's Park.  Department of Horticulture organises this show. 11th Vegetable Show Date: May 7 and 8 (Two Days)

Boat Race

Boat Race is also celebrated in Udhagamandalam Lake for last two days of this festival.

How can we enjoy Udhagamandalam trip?

We can enjoy trip by toy train. It is one of the oldest mountain railway. Nilgiri mountain railway was the heritage site of UNESCO.
Dolphin's nose is one of the important sight to visit here. It is about 1500m above the sea level. We can see lot of hairpin bends and tea plantation in this place. It gives picturesque sight to our eyes.
Next we can visit the government Botanical garden. The botanical garden is very beautiful to look the variety of flowers. It has more than 650 species of flowers and big trees. It gives pleasant sight to our eyes.

The highest peak in Udhagamandalam is Doddabetta. It's height is about 8606 feet Doddabetta is one of the important view point.

Pykara is one of the best place in Udaga mandalam to visit its lake. It is a picnic spot to enjoy with our family.   St Stephens Church, Upper Bhavani Lake, Wax World Museum, Avalanche Lake, Homemade Chocolates Shops and Bee Museum etc. These are the important places.

Where is Udagamandalam?

Udagamandalam is in Nilgiris District, Tamil Nadu, India.  

History

The Nilgiri Hills were never under dynastic rule. Behind the blue curtain that surrounds the Nilgiris and gives them the name Blue Mountains, they live in peaceful seclusion, while, at their feet, wars are fought between great dynasties.

 However, history records that the Gangars (mid-10th century), Hoysalas (11th century AD), Mysore kings (1610 – 1792 AD) and the ruling families of Kottayam laid claim to the region during their time. In fact, when the British took over this place, they settled the claim of the ruler of Kottayam by giving him a handsome pension. John Sullivan, who was the Collector of Coimbatore, visited the place in 1819, after which he started developing it. In 1823 a route known as the 'bridle path’ was laid which was the best route from the Coimbatore side to the hill country until the first Coonoor Ghat was laid in 1830-1832. Mr Sullivan built the Stone House in 1822, which was to be his home for many years to come. Between 1821 and 1824 many new tracks were laid. He closed the valley near Bishoptown to conduct agricultural and horticultural experiments. In 1826, further impetus was given to the government's plan to use Udagamandalam as a sanatorium and roads were built around the settlement. The settlement soon expanded. Shops were opened by some Bombay Parsis, the Church Missionary Society started a school for Europeans (1832) and William Rumbold began building his house, which later became a hotel (1831). The foothills of Coonoor led to the settlement of Coonoor. Much development took place in the Nilgiris in 1837 during Stephen Rumbold Lushington's governorship, when coffee estates were established here for the first time.

In 1860, the plateau west of Baikara, the Kunthas and the low country north of the plateau west of Baikara, the Kunthas and the low country north of the plateau were annexed to the Coimbatore district.

In 1868, the Nilgiris were separated from Coimbatore and placed under a Commissioner and Assistant who combined revenue, criminal and civil jurisdiction. Further annexations in 1873 and 1877 resulted in the annexation of the Ochterloni Valley and south-eastern Wayanad district. Large areas are cultivated with tea, coffee and cinchona and the district is now the official summer resort of the government. Due to this, it was put on par with other districts and became a Collectorate in 1882.

British officials and citizens in general longed for their own country and English climate, so when Udhagamandalam was discovered, it became a dream come true for the British who longed for something like 'home' in India. Many new buildings came, and the influx of immigrants did not stop. Indian maharajas followed the English aristocracy and palaces vied for a place with British cottages.

Lavish parties became the order of the day; soon social life is a whirlwind of fun and frolic; And Ooty became the queen of hill stations.

Udagamandalam City General Information

Udhagai Season: April to May and December to January

Height: 2,240 m Or 7,350 feet

Area: 36 sq. km

Rainfall: 121 cms

Railway Enquiry: 0423-2442246

Bus Enquiry: 0423 - 2443970

Post Office: 0423 - 2443791

Ooty to Chennai : 539 kmmm

Government Hospital: 0423-2442212

Tourist Officer: 0423-2443977

Fire Service Station: 0423-2442999

Photo Gallery

Botanical Garden Image
Sims Park Green Grass and Trees Coonoor Hill Station Tamil Nadu India
Beautiful view nilgiris Ootacamund tamilnadu india
Botanical garden Image nilgiris tamilnadu india
Botanical garden Photos nilgiris tamilnadu india
Udhagamandalam City View Nilgiris tamilnadu india
Garden nilgiris Photo tamilnadu india
Hill view city nilgiris tamilnadu india
lake nilgiris tamilnadu india
Places to visit in Pykara Waterfalls Tamil Nadu India
Pykara Lake View Udagamandalam Nilgiris District Tamil Nadu India
Photos at Pykara lake nilgiris Udagamandalam tamilnadu india
Rose garden nilgiris Photo tamilnadu india
Rose garden Ootacamund nilgiris Image tamilnadu india
Rose nilgiris Photo tamilnadu india
 Photos taken at Doddabetta Telescope House Ootacamund
Pykara Lake
Boat House Photos
Rose Garden Photo