Chennai To Ooty – A Rapturous Journey To The Queen Of Hill Stations

Best Time To Visit Ooty

PC-Ananth BS

Due to its moderate type of climate throughout the year, Ooty is a year-round destination. However, if you are looking to enjoy the best of beauties in Ooty, then it is advisable to visit Ooty from February until the end of September when the nights are not cold and days are comfortable.

How To Reach Ooty From Chennai

For detailed map check here

By Air: You can take a flight to Coimbatore and then from there a cab or bus to Ooty. Coimbatore airport is at a distance of 88 km from Ooty.

By Rail: There are no direct trains between Ooty and Chennai. However, you can catch a train from Chennai station to Mettupalayam and then from there take a cab or bus to Ooty.

By Road: Situated at a distance of about 560 km from Chennai, Ooty is easily accessible by road from Chennai and other major cities. You can either take a cab or bus from Chennai to Ooty.

If you are commuting on your own, then you can take the following route.

Route 1: Chennai - Villupuram - Yercaud - Coonoor - Ooty

Route 2: Chennai - Vellore - Krishnagiri - Salem - Ooty

Route 3: Chennai - Villupuram - Trichy - Karur - Ooty

However, route 1 is the fastest and the most comfortable one. If you desire to reach your destination within minimum time, it is advisable to take route 1.

Once you are on your way to Ooty, you can explore and take a break at the following places.

1) Villupuram

PC- Potato

The history of this town dates back to the period of the Cholas. Villupuram has been an important political centre since its formation and the proud yesteryears of this district can be clearly seen through the ruins and ancient temples present within its boundaries.

Today, it is the largest district in Tamil Nadu and is popular amongst tourists for its age-old Gingee Fort. How about taking a break at this epic fort of Villupuram and knowing about its golden era?

2) Yercaud

PC- Thangaraj Kumaravel

Nestled in the lap of Shevaroy Hills of Salem district, the popularity of Yercaud is increasing day by day on account of its unexplored beautiful regions, ranging from the lakes to the lush green hills. Also referred to as a Poor Man's Ooty, this small yet picturesque hill station is becoming the next destination for all nature lovers.

Looking forward to getting lost in the divinity of nature? Then, do not forget to add Yercaud to your bucket list.

3) Coonoor

PC- Thangaraj Kumaravel

One of the least-explored hill stations, Coonoor has become a synonym to pristine beauty for the travellers who love to explore nature. From evergreen forests to rich tea estates and botanical gardens to water cascades, Coonoor has everything that one can find only through the immaculate lenses of nature.

If you desire to get lost in the valleys of magnificence, then Coonoor should be your next destination this season. Do visit this unblemished instance of beauty.

Major Places To Visit In Ooty

1) Doddabetta Peak

PC- Ananth BS

Settled in the Nilgiri Hills, it is the highest peak in Tamil Nadu. Covered with the rich vegetation of evergreen trees and squashy grass, Doddabetta Peak is a famous destination for tourists and is paradise for adventure seekers and trekkers. It provides its visitors with the commendable views of Ooty at the summit.

Once you're atop this mountain, you will be shouting aloud out of amazement and wonder after witnessing the spectacular views of the forests and plains. If you are looking forward to some adventurous trip amid lush greenery, then Doddabetta Peak is your calling.

2) Botanical Garden

PC- Jeff Peterson

Flourishing over an area of 22 hectares, Botanical Garden of Ooty is one of the most significant tourist attractions. With more than thousands of visitors, this garden has become the most-visited spot in Ooty. Undoubtedly, the beauty and charm of the Botanical Garden lie in its thousands of species of plants and trees spread all across its luxuriant land.

Once you have stepped inside the boundaries of this exquisite garden, you will definitely be resistant to leave this heavenly lawn of Ooty. The divine smell of beautiful flowers and balmy atmosphere make this garden a primary spot of Ooty throughout the year.

3) Emerald Lake

PC- Sankara Subramanian

Situated at an approximate distance of 25 km from the centre of Ooty, Emerald Lake is one amongst the gems settling peacefully on this Queen of Hill Stations. Since its formation, this scenic lake has been alluring tourists from all over the country with its pacific aura and exotic glamour. The major speciality of Emerald Lake is its richness in aquatic as well as surrounding life.

Apart from savouring its never-seen beauty, you can also go for fishing, photography and birdwatching here. How about exploring this paradise outside Ooty?

4) Nilgiri Mountain Railway

PC- Jon Connell

How about passing through the magnificent forests and peaks, showcasing the unimaginable beauty of Mother Nature? Well, you can take a trip to the unexplored beauty of this wonderful hill station in these toy trains of Nilgiri Mountain Railways.

These small journeys over the slopes, through the forests and adjacent to the immortal beauty, will certainly provide you with a salubrious experience and unforgettable memories.

5) Pykara Lake

PC- DARSHAN SIMHA

Ooty is home to numerous dazzling lakes and fragrancing gardens, and one of these beauties is Pykara Lake. Surrounded by rich valleys and home to several migratory and aboriginal birds, Pykara Lake is located on the outskirts of Ooty and if you are looking to spend your time in a serene environment filled with natural wonders, then do not forget to pay a visit to this picturesque lake.

Enveloped in the lush green beauty of valleys and breathtaking views of the sky, Pykara is definitely a year-round destination.