Ooty is tranquil
enough for a pair of lovebirds to get lost among the other dreamers who are seeking quiet
havens and parks. Look for secluded corners in the Botanical Garden with its amazing
collection of trees and shrubs, and the beautiful Rose Garden. For times when you want to
join in the action, walk down to the lake and soak in the excitement from the safety of
the banks or venture onto the lake and tandem in pedal boats, rock together in rowboats
and motorboats. And finally, catch the picturesque little Blue Train, a beautiful journey
through tea plantations, eucalyptus forests and hills.
Getting there
The nearest airport is at Coimbatore, 89 km from Ooty, with connections to Bangalore (290
km from Ooty), Chennai (535 km) and Mumbai. You could also take a train up to Mettupalayam
and catch the quaint hill train upto Ooty, 35 kms away, You can also take a bus or hire a
private car or taxi and have the luxury of your own transport.
Accommodation
Ooty has many luxury hotels; some with an old-world charm, wooden furniture, manicured
gardens, rooms with fireplaces that work. Budget accommodation is comfortable and quiet.
There are numerous mid-rung properties with good facilities, and the option of taking a
cottage on the grounds. Prices start at Rs 500 for an economy room and go up to Rs. 3000
and above for deluxe rooms.
Best season
You can come to Ooty at any time of the year, especially in the winter when most tourists
keep away. Ooty is cold in winter, but beautiful nonetheless if you enjoy the clouds and
the mist floating into your face. Summer is peak season and the hill station gets rather
crowded in May and June, especially during the summer festival when there are flower shows
and boat races. Carry light woollens for summer evenings and layers of woollens for
winter.
For detailed information, see Udhagamandalam
(Ooty).
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