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This is entirely different world , a magical world full of sight that offer unlimited things to do -once you have seen the Taj Mahal of course !

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Ooty - ( Ootacamund )

Crowning the Nilgiri mountains in the south of India is the town of Ooty , as Ootacamund is more popularly known. Viewed from Coimbatore (89 km), the blue mountains, as the Nilgiris literally mean, seem to be permanently enveloped in a hue of blue. This bue could be brought about by the large number of blue gum trees that dot the muntainside, or by the gentle mist, which is so characteristic of the local weather. The traditional way to get to Ooty is by road from Coimbatore , but for those who have the time, the Nilgiri Hill Railway is the experience of a lifetime.

In 1898, after 25 years of hard labour, the first meter gauge train steamed off from Mettupalayam for Ooty. Two additional steel rails with grooves are laid between the track to prevent the carriages from slipping on their steep uphill journey. The five hour ride from Mettupalayam to Ooty is a journey through some of India ’s most spectacular countryside. The vegetation changes as the train climbs higher, often passing through lush green tea estates and over gushing streams. A variety of hill birds and the Nilgiri langur, the most common monkey in these hills, make occasional appearances.

Ooty, at an altitude of 2,286 metres, is characterized by gently undulating downs and neatly planted tea gardens. The soil at Ooty is magical. Almost everything grows here, indigenous or not. It was with this in mind that eh Marquis of Tweedale established a Botanical garden here in 1847. Today there are over two thousand species of plants beautifully laid out it this garden.

Places of Interest

Ooty Lake

Ooty Lake , was constructed in 1824 by John Sullivan, the then Collector of Coimbatore. Set among groves of eucalyptus trees, it offers scenic beauty, as well as boating facilities.

Coonoor

Coonoor, 19 kms from Ooty, is another hill-station set amid green expanses of tea plantations.

Dodabetta Peak


Dodabetta Peak , the highest point (2623 metres) in the region, it offers a panoramic view of the entire hill resort.

Sims Park

Sims Park is noted for its annual fruit and vegetable show.

Lambs Rock
Lambs Rock, a massive granite boulder on which nature itself has etched fantastically intricate patterns.
Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary
Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary offers a leisurely ride on elephant-back through its forest trails, with a view of varied flora and fauna, as well as ever-changing symphonies of birdsong.
Other local attractions are the picturesque Dolphin's Nose and the Pykara Lake

Dolphin's Nose

This view point located 10 Kms from the town, is a unique rock of tremendous proportions, which looks like a dolphin's nose.