Rightly called the “Queen of Hill Stations”, Ooty is one of the most renowned hill stations in India. Situated in the state of Tamil Nadu, Ooty is also known as Ootacamund or Udhagamandalam. Udhagamandalam is the anglicized version and is said to have been derived from the term “othakal mund” which stands for “house in mountains”. With the Nilgiri hills forming the perfect natural background, Ooty has always been an all time favorite among the tourists. Standing at an altitude of 7,347 meters, Ooty came into being under the rule of the British in the 19th century. It was formed to serve as the summer capital of the Madras Presidency; Ooty still continues to be the traveler’s top pick.

Apart from the thick forests, mighty mountains, lakes and grasslands, sprawling tea gardens are a predominant feature of Ooty. They are what make Ooty famous more than anything else. Nilgiri Tea is one of the best quality teas in the whole world and the Tea and Tourism Festival hold annually is one of the prime highlights of this hill station.

Eating joints and lodging places are available in plenty in Ooty and shopping here is fun. Apart from the Nilgiri tea, visitors can take back other things like natural oils, fruits, delicious baked cakes and sweet items and Toda embroideries. There are two big shopping places to check which includes Municipal Market and Super Market. For handicrafts items Kairali and Poompuhar are best places. The shops, the first one belonging to Kerala Handicrafts and the latter to Tamil Nadu Handicrafts are located near the Super Market Buildings at Charring Cross.

A great summer destination, Ooty is ideal for a family holiday as well as a romantic getaway.