The Verdant hills, the lush green valleys and the pristine natural beauty of the hill resort of Ooty offers the urban tired souls a chance to resume their affair with Nature, to whom they truly belong. The heavenly hill resort like a blushing bride peeks from behind lofty Nilgiri hills. The unassuming beauty of this heavenly hill resort beckons you to come and and embrace the tranquility and solace that Ooty has to offer.
The Hill resort of Ooty in Tamil Nadu, India, is located in the midst of four high hills; Doddabetta, Snowdon, Elk hill and Club Hill. These hills belong to the Nilgiri range or the 'blue mountains.' A British Collector by the name of John Sullivan discovered the hill station of Ooty and developed it as a summer resort, realizing its potential. The original name of Ooty was 'Udhagamandalam, but it was shortened to 'Ooty' after the arrival of British, which might have had something to do with the difficulty one feels at pronouncing such a difficult name! Apparently the British Collector was right about Ooty and now it is one of the most popular hill stations in India, particularly of South India.
History in Brief
The earliest that is known of the history of Ooty, is that it was ruled by Vishnu Vardhana, the Hoysala King, from 1104 to 1141 AD. Later, after many years, it came under the rule of the British East India Company, after the company signed a treaty with the brave Tipu Sultan in 1799. This is when John Sullivan started the development of the hill station and promoted it as an ideal summer retreat. Lots of cottages, clubs and other buildings were built to house and provide recreational facilities to the British officials. Soon enough, the hill station was growing tea for its inhabitants, who considered high tea to be an integral part of their day. Now, these tea estates not only produce the favorite drink of millions of Indians but also add to the charm and the beauty of the hill resort of Ooty India.
Climate and the best time to visit
Ooty is a picturesque hill station that is pleasant all through the year, so there is no 'wrong time' to visit this place. Though many consider that the best time is from 'February to May' or else from 'September to November'. If you prefer summers, you can simply pack all your cotton clothing, along with a light jacket, just in case there is a shower or drizzle. The winters are somewhat cold, so it would be a good idea to carry your winter wear or woolen clothing with you on tours to Ooty India.
Inhabitants of Ooty
The Nilgris range which is the junction of the Eastern and Western Ghats, was christened Neelagiri by its inhabitants 850 years ago, because of the blue haze of the clouds enveloping its slopes. Originally, it was inhabited by Todas, Irulas, Kurumbas, Panias and Badagas. Of these, the Todas, who are vegetarians, tall and fair, have dwindled in number. The Badagas, who speak a mixture of Kannada and Tamil, are said to have migrated from Mysore 400 years ago. The Panias and Irulas are confined to Mudumalai sanctuary. Though the Badagas were essentially agriculturists, they are socially, educationally and even economically advanced now. Even the Todas have taken to Government service. The present population of Ooty is 78,277 and comprises of Todas, Badagas, Tamils, Keralites and Mysoreans.
The Tea
he establishment of numerous tea estates made Ooty famous. Lofty mountains, dense forest, sprawling grasslands and miles and miles of tea gardens greet the passengers on most routes. The annual Tea and Tourism Festival attracts crowds in huge numbers. Visit Ooty during this festival, when tea lovers from all over the world converge. An occasion not to be missed!
Shopping in Ooty ( Udhagamandalam )
Just about anything available in the cities can be had at Ooty with the added attraction of leisurely shopping. Exclusive Nilgiri products including Nilgiri tea, fruits, natural oils like Eucalyptas, Toda embroideries, plant nurseries are easily available in the town. Co-operative Super Market and Municipal Market are some of the best places for shopping fruits and general groceries. Kairali of Kerala Handicrafts and Poompuhar of Tamil Nadu Handicrafts have their showrooms near to Super Market Buildings on Charring Cross.
