Travel Blog 1: Buckle up and roll down the windows!

In 2018, during a leisurely Sunday, my family and I gathered to escape the routine of our busy lives by planning a vacation. In those pre-pandemic times, we used to indulge in frequent travels, but with our current hectic schedules, it has become a bit challenging to organize family getaways like we used to. And eventually in the month of November we loaded our backpacks and began our journey to explore the serenity of Ooty. Today I will try to dig up my memory lane and try to portray some of the amazing moments during our family trip to Ooty. It was indeed a memorable experience that I can cherish.

To beat the Bangalore’s early morning traffic, we quickly finished our breakfast and started our journey with full of excitement and vigor. We enjoyed the road trip with timeless melodies and snacks. We opted for lunch at roadside shops, savoring local flavors along the way. With our travel we took brief and strategic pause to ensure both comfort and enjoyment. We were captivated by the gradual transition of weather from bustling cityscape to a refreshing countryside. After approximately 150 km we crossed the historically important city Mysore which gave us the glimpse of city’s rich culture, heritage and royalty.

While traveling from Bangalore to Ooty, we had the opportunity to witness the enchanting wildlife in their natural habitat in Bandipur Tiger Reserve. We captured those mesmerizing moments through our lens and saved in our memory for lifetime.

Wildlife in Bandipur Tiger Reserve

"Enchanting Ooty: Unveiling the Hillside Paradise"

As we ascend the slopes of Ooty, we were greeted by the refreshing touch of misty cool breeze that swept through the valleys and took away all our exhaustion and tiredness. Ooty, also known as Udhagamandalam is a hill station, nestled amidst the embrace of the Nigiri Hills which are part of the Western Ghats Mountain range of Tamil Nadu, India. It is one of the popular tourist destinations in southern India for its scenic beauty and pleasant climate. I will try to paint a picture of what you can expect when you visit Ooty.

After a long drive, we finally arrived in Ooty, where we rested and recharged for the exciting day ahead. With hearts brimming with enthusiasm, we set out the next morning to explore the enchanting town. To fuel our adventure, we indulged in a mouthwatering breakfast of piping hot and soft idly sambar paired with rejuvenating tea. With every bite of food we embraced the flavors of South India.

Somewhere in the midst of our journey toward Ooty

Ooty has ethereal and serene elegance. We were thrilled by the breathtaking landscapes and the abundant flora and fauna in Ooty. The weather in Ooty remains pleasant throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 20 degrees Celsius on average. Since it was the month of November it was pretty cold, I must say. So, if you are planning to visit around this time pack some warm woolen clothes. The lush greenery of Ooty was mesmerizing. The hills were covered with dense forests, tea plantations, and vibrant flowers, creating a visually stunning landscape. The town was adorned with vibrant flowers. The famous tea gardens of Ooty are a major attraction, and we explored one of those estates, learned about tea production, and even enjoyed freshly brewed tea. As we strolled through the winding roads of Ooty, we caught glimpses of these charming hillside homes dotting the landscape. Roosted on the slopes, those houses created a colorful tapestry against the lush green in the backdrop of the Nilgiri Mountains. Each house boasts its unique palette of vibrant hues, ranging from pastel shades to bright colors'. The combination of the colorful exteriors and unique architectural details enhanced the overall appeal of those hillside abodes.

Beautiful vistas of Ooty Hill station

No travel experience is complete without indulging in the local cuisine. The local cuisine of Ooty was mouthwatering and diverse. We explored a range of different cuisines to satisfy taste buds at local food joints. Ooty is particularly known for its homemade chocolates (Personal favourite!). These chocolates are made using traditional methods and come in various flavors and aroma.

Interacting with the local people added a positive dimension to our overall experience. We were deeply touched by their gracious hospitality. We had meaningful exchanges about our cultural backgrounds while connecting with both locals and other travelers. The town has a peaceful and laid-back atmosphere, allowing us to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty at our own pace.

In addition to the stunning landscapes and friendly locals, Ooty boasts several attractions that draw tourists from all over. Some of the popular places to visit include the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Ooty Lake, Botanical Gardens, Doddabetta Peak, which stands tall at 2,660 m above sea level (the highest point in the Nilgiri Hills), and the Emerald Lake (Save the locations on your checklist!). Pykara Lake, a popular attraction where we enjoyed boating and enjoyed the serene surroundings. Another must-visit destination was Emerald Lake with its sparkling blue waters framed by lush greenery. The calm and composed ambiance and breathtaking views made it a perfect spot for nature lovers.

Pykara Lake

Nature enthusiasts should not miss the Ooty Botanical Gardens, known for its diverse range of flora and well-manicured landscapes. The gardens offer a refreshing escape into nature's lap. We were captivated by the kaleidoscope of hues from the diverse array of flowers. Blossoms of various shapes and sizes, including roses, dahlias, orchids, and lilies, created a feast for the eyes. The garden was a true treasure trove of biodiversity. For panoramic views of the entire region, we head to Doddabetta Peak. The jaw-dropping vistas from the top were truly worth the climb. While we were soaking the beauty of Doddabetta Peak, we took some time to explore the local shops that were offering a wide array of items. As a tea lover, I was super excited to find a variety of flavored teas including Nilgiri tea, black tea, green tea, white tea, chocolate tea, masala tea, and even organic tea. Each variety offers a unique taste and aroma, allowing ones to bring home a piece of Ooty's tea culture.

Doddabetta entry point Way towards Doddabetta peak

Hydrangea plant Some garden-fresh carrots

Additionally, the local shops were selling a range of handcrafted items and herbal oils of best quality. We also bought few items as souvenirs. We also browsed through couple of woolen garment shops as well. Since we had a tight schedule unfortunately, we missed the opportunity to ride the Ooty Toy Train. Our local guide told us that during this joy ride the historic Nilgiri Mountain Railway takes you on a scenic journey through the breathtaking mountains, valleys, and tunnels to the charming town of Coonoor. It remains on our bucket list for our next visit to this heart of Nilgiri. It was a 3day trip to Ooty. Next morning having packed up everything we set forth on the road once again, heading in the direction of ‘The city of Palaces’ Mysore, leaving behind a treasure trove of exotic wildlife and diverse flora.

Fern House, Ooty Botanical Gardens 20 million years old tree trunk, Ooty

Floral symphony

Our journey to Ooty has been an unforgettable experience, filled with natural wonders, gastronomic delights, fascinating and vibrant culture. I hope this travel blog has inspired you to explore this hidden gem and discover the serene beauty, rich heritage, and warm hospitality of these places.