Ooty - Places of Interest - IV

Interesting Places in & Around Ooty

Doddabetta

Doddabetta is the highest mountain in the Nilgiri Hills at 2,637 metres (8,650 feet). There is a reserved forest area around the peak. It is 9 km from Ooty, on the Ooty-Kotagiri Road in the Nilgiris District of Tamil Nadu, South India. It is a popular tourist attraction with road access to the summit. The Hills can be viewed from the peak.

It lies at the junction of the Western and Eastern Ghats and offers beautiful vistas of the Nilgiri Hill ranges. It is surrounded by dense sholas. One can have a panoramic view of the landscape through the TTDC telescope. TTDC restaurant caters the needs of tourists.

Doddabetta is one of the highest peaks of the Nilgiri mountain range. It stands at a staggering height of 8650 feet, offering a bird's eye view of the whole of Coimbatore and the adjoining regions. One of the most remarkable thing about Doddabetta is its flat summit, which makes you gape and wonder in amazement. 

Stretches of rhododendrons greet the visitors on the roof up to the summit, while they soak in the splendor of nature that's so blissfully splattered all across. The Telescope House at the peak offers an enchanting view of the slopes and the gorgeously rising Chamundi Hills. Ooty looks enchantingly mesmerizing from the Telescope House as curious visitors crowd around to have a go at the two telescopes housed there. The area around the peak is a reserved forest and is home to much of the endangered species of flora and fauna. 

No visitor to the Queen of Hill Stations can consider his or her trip complete without spending an hour experiencing an aerial view of nature's splendor from the Doddabetta peak.

Long considered the diadem of the Queen, Doddabetta (big mountain) is said to be the second tallest peak (8640 feet) south of the Vindhyas. It overlooks Udhagamandalam town from the East. One can get a panoramic view of Udhagamandalam and its environs, Coonoor and Wellington. Even the Coimbatore plains can be seen. Walking up to the peak is also thrilling.

Stretching tall along the Ooty – Kotagiri Road in the Nilgiris District of Tamil Nadu in South India, the Doddabetta Peak is famous for being the highest point in the Nilgiris and South India as well. It offers probably one of the best and perfect vantage points around the entire town of Ooty.

Doddabetta Peak is just a short trekking distance of 10 kms from the main town of Ooty and about 8 kms from the Ooty Railway Station and the Ooty Bus Stand. You can also opt to enjoy a pony ride to Doddabetta Peak, however, the joy of arriving at the highest point in South India by foot is a different experience altogether.

The name of the Doddabetta Peak was derived from the Badaga Tribe word which means ‘Big Mountain’, tracing it roots way back to the Kannada language and Badaga aural based language. Towards the western portion of the Doddabetta Range stand, three close competitors, referred to as the Hecuba peak perched at an altitude of 2,375 meters above MSL, Kattadadu perched at an altitude of 2,418 meters above MSL and Kulkudi peak perched at an altitude of 2,439 meters above MSL that moreover matches with the attitude of Ooty.

Despite the fact that these three Towering Peaks of the Nilgiris are closely linked in their altitudes with the majestic and transcendent Doddabetta Peak, they still are second to the best in terms of the accessibility and the panoramic views the Doddabetta Peak can offer. This is possible as the topography of the Doddabetta Range reveals a remarkable flattened curve at its summit.

Apart from the Doddabetta Peak being the pinnacle of the Plateau of the Nilgiris, it also features thick and dense forest area that covers the entire region as well. The Doddabetta Peak encompasses a collection of Sholas [Patches of small moist evergreen subtropical and tropical broadleaf forest] that cover the hollow sections of the Doddabetta slopes. The somewhat diminutive rhododendron trees spanning amidst the thick coarse grassland including herbal plants and flowering sub-alpine shrubs are a common sight near the Doddabetta Peak.

Etymology

The name "Doddabetta" traces its roots from the Badaga/Kannada language translating into 'Big Mountain'.

Characteristics

The peaks Hecuba (2375 m), Kattadadu (2418 m) and Kulkudi (2439 m) are the three closely linked summits in the west of the Doddabetta range near to Udagamandalam

Flora

The area surrounding Doddabetta is mostly forested. Sholas cover the hollows of its slopes. Slightly stunted, rhododendron trees, in the midst of thick coarse grass, flowering sub-elphine shrubs and herbs are common, even very near the peak.

Telescope House

There is an observatory at the top of Doddabetta with two telescopes available for the public to enjoy the magnificent panoramic view of the whole district. It opened on June 18, 1983 and is run by the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC). The average number of viewers in 2001-2002 was 3500 per day in season and 700 per day in the off season.

Entry Fees & Timings

Entry Fee

Ø  Rs 5 

Timings

Ø  All days of the week

Ø  7:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Visit duration

Ø  1 to 2 hours

Wenlock Downs 

This Vast expanse of undulating landscape has the Gymkhana Club, the Government Sheep Farm and the Hindustan Photo Films Company and provides great pleasure for a long stroll on quiet roads.

Located 17 km from Ooty on the way to Pykara Falls it is a vast stretch of pretty green grassy knolls. People simply walk around drinking in the beauty and the mist. Pony rides are also on offer. On the way to Wenlock Downs lies the Ninth Mile, another picnic spot. A short but steep walk through a cluster of pine trees down from the main road takes you there. There is a small lake below. 

Wenlock Downs is the most renowned shooting spot, situated on the Mysore Road from Ooty. It is famously called as ‘The Sixth Mile’ and ‘The Ninth Mile’ (Shooting Medu). The former is 6 miles from Ooty and latter is 9 miles from Ooty and that explains the story behind their naming. It is a strikingly spectacular meadowland covering a cluster of incessant slopes.

Wenlock Downs, Ooty was probably named by the British way back in the late 1800s when they discovered this stunningly picturesque open grassland, undulating gentle hills and verdant meadows spanning across miles and miles of untouched panorama that resembles the quintessential Yorkshire Dales of the British Isles, a group of Islands situated off the northwest coast of continental Europe that comprise of the Great Britain Islands, Ireland Islands and over 600 smaller isles.

Spanning over a stretch of grassland areas which is typical of the original bio-space of the Nilgiris District, Wenlock Downs, Ooty gently rises and falls like a flowing silk cloth dressed with emptiness that exudes an exotic ambience as never seen anywhere else.

Wenlock Downs, Ooty is often compared with places in Europe that features high altitude grasslands dipped in exquisiteness that even lures popular directors of the Indian Movie Industry to capture a few shots for their movies amidst this verdant expanse.

6th Mile or Sixth Mile is a Shooting Spot in Ooty situated at a distance of just exactly 6 miles away by road. 6th Mile shot to fame as a popular tourist spot in Ooty owing to Bollywood movies being filmed on this very point almost all-year-round. The landscape of Sixth Mile exhibits waves of green expanses surrounded by dense forest lands that lend a picturesque backdrop for movie shots, picnic lunches and to hang out during holidays and weekends especially.

9th Mile or Ninth Mile is similar in its landscape to 6th Mile and hence another Shooting Spot situated at a distance of exactly 9 miles from Ooty. Apt for nature walks, picnics and to hang out, 9th Mile shot to fame as another famous tourist spot in Ooty owing to its vast green forests, gentle slopes and mountains that surrounds this region. Also, referred to as the ‘Shooting Medu’, Ninth Mile is where several South Indian Movies as well as Bollywood Movies are extensively filmed.

Apart from the scenic delights, even the entire 9 kms journey from Ooty to Wenlock Downs will lead you through some of the most unforgettable excursion experiences from Ooty. Spreading across a whopping 20,000 acres of vast landscape and stretching along 80 kms long, Wenlock Downs, Ooty is not only majestic but its landscape seems to roll along endlessly.

Towards the far ends, Wenlock Downs, Ooty is seen dotted with rows of high rising eucalyptus trees adding a scented demure green to the already verdant Greenland. A popular hunting venue of Ooty, at one time, this extensive grassland of Wenlock Downs, Ooty was used as hunting ground by the British and Europeans who tremendously enjoyed this sport.

Today, Wenlock Downs, Ooty home the Gymkhana Club, the Hindustan Photo Films Company and a Government Sheep Farm mainly used for sheep rearing and breeding owing to its unadulterated pasturelands accompanied with a pleasant and scenic locale that extensively helps in maintaining the health of each sheep.

A vast expanse of undulating landscape of Wenlock Downs, Ooty is covered with Sholas Forest and is truly blessed with exotic scenic beauty coupled with a vast land of rich vegetation. This place is sure to remind you of the exquisite landscapes that you must have watched and gaped at in the Blockbuster Movie, ‘Lord of the Rings’, and hence, won’t need to go anywhere else to experience such exotic locales.

Wenlock Downs, Ooty also offers spectacular views of the Nilgiris Mountain Range and vast expanses of meadow covered with scented pine forests, Balsam, Holly, Wild tea bushes including Dandelions and Clustered Summer Gentian flowers with many others adding a vibrant colour and complementing the greens hence making this locale apt for strolling or just lazing around.

Wenlock Downs, Ooty certainly qualifies as an unforgettable tourist destination for visitors who enjoy nature in its purest form. The sight of sheep grazing over an almost never-ending stretch of grassy land will transform you into another world. A virtual paradise on earth, this undulating countryside meadow also overlooks the nose-shaped Mukurthi Peak.

Wenlock Downs, Ooty also captivates the numerous golf lovers owing to its sprawling acres of farmland that lends a spectacular countryside charm to the Gymkhana Golf Club, Ooty. Just a mere 8 to 9 kms drive from Ooty, Wenlock Downs is easily accessible by public transport like buses or by hiring a cab to drive you to this scenic locale. However, Wenlock Downs, Ooty is best reached by walking as you get to completely immerse and soak in the spectacular sights that you cross paths with hence adding to the enjoyment of a pleasurable short excursion experience.

These vast meadows are situated along the Ooty Pykara road, a short distance from Ooty town. In off season and especially on weekdays, it is easy to find a stretch further away from the tourist parking area, with no one else in sight. 

In clear weather, there is a panoramic view of the mountain peaks of the Nilgiris including the distinctive Mukurthi Peak which looks very much like a man’s nose. 

The Downs are a perfect picnic location. In season and on weekends there may be vendors selling snacks and beverages but at other times, it is best to pack a hamper to enjoy on the grass. 

Those who enjoy walking will love meandering through the vast expanse. In spring and just after the monsoons, a variety of Nilgiri wildflowers peep through the grass.

This is one of the best attractions of Ooty and worth spending a few hours at. We make it a point to spend a half day here on every visit to the Nilgiris.

Note: In holiday season, there will probably be hordes of people and vendors and horses here along with the attendant rubbish that tends to accumulate in such places.

Glenmorgan

This is one of a very lonely place in the Blue Mountains of Nilgiris, northwest of Ooty. It’s just a 25 km drive from Ooty center taking the right narrow path next to Pykara falls on Gudalur road. Right oppose to Ooty this place is completely silent and more than a tourist place it’s a picnic spot to spent a day. A small statue of memorial of the chief engineers of the project Sir Henry Howard was kept their behind as lake.

Glenmorgan is a village located at a distance of 25 kilometers from Ooty. This place is known for its tea estates which includes one of the oldest tea estates in the region known as the Glenmorgan tea estate. The Pykara power house is located near the Glenmorgan estate, for which a lake at the foot of the estate forms the fore bay.

It is an ecologically rich forestry spot. There from is an Electricity Board (E.B). Winch carries staff from Glenmorgan viewpoint to powerhouse at Singara. The entire 4 kms of the Winch track passes through undisturbed sholas and wildlife habitat. Prior permission of E. B. authorities should be obtained to enter the viewpoint zone.

Ropeway

One of the attractions here is a 3-kilometre (1.9 mi) rope way from a power house in Singara to Glenmorgan. The ropeway has an inclination of nearly 41° for 300 metres (980 ft) near a stretch called the German Point making the ascent and descent through it difficult. For the purpose of accommodating Electricity Board officials and tourists, rest houses are available at both ends of the ropeway.

Tourist attraction

Glenmorgan is used as a picnic spot by tourists and offers panoramic views of the Mudumalai National Park, Mysore, the Moyar valley and the power house at Singara. Glenmorgan is a scenic countryside in Ooty, which is full of eucalyptus and tea plantations. It is located 25 km north-west of Ooty and is a famous Tea estate. This tea estate is ideal place for picnics and has a big lake constituting the fore bay for the Pykara Power House.

This power house is around 3 km down the hill of Singara and is considered to be the highest plant in Asia. The Pykara Power Plant measures over 38.78 metres in height and is connected with a haulage way (mechanical ropeway). It takes around 1 hour by trolley to reach this power plant from Glenmorgan.

Tourists can get a beautiful view of the Moyar Valley, Pykara Power Plant, certain parts of Mysore and Mudumalai Wild Life Sanctuary. Further, there are many rest houses available at Glenmorgan and Singara for tourists and officers of the electricity board.

Glenmorgan is what Ooty's not. It is quiet, serene, clean and devoid of tourists. The place gets its name from one of the oldest Tea Estates in the Ooty region. Glenmorgan is also an "electricity" town. There is a tiny and scenic lake at Glenmorgan that acts as the fountainhead for the electricity board that was established here. The lake here is unlike any you will see anywhere in Ooty. It is literally nestled in the lap of the Nilgiris with tea gardens encompassing it. The atmosphere is so serene that it will put your mind and body at ease. 

A little ahead from the lake lays a deserted bungalow. A narrow winding path from here will take you to one of the most exciting viewpoints of Ooty. The view from here is absolutely spectacular. From the ranges much higher than where we stand to the deep valley down below, the contrast is quite striking. The color composition is also a distinct feature here. From the green magnificence of nature to the mighty brown ranges to the Azure blue of the sky dotted with the pristine white clouds - its nature at its best.

The winds here are so strong; you can hardly hear the person next to you talking. Apart from this there are (were) two mini architectural wonders here. One, a huge well big enough to swallow Bangalore’s Utility building and two, a cable car that starts here and takes you downhill. Both seem to be out-of-favour now with the authorities and are no longer in operation. The couple of hours we spent here was well worth the time and effort. This is the real Ooty if ever there was one.

Getting-there: Follow the signboards and ask for directions.

Must-Do: Find the deserted bungalow and get to the viewpoint. The Viewpoint is also accessible from the power plant.

Elk Hill

In the olden days there were quite a number of sambars in this area and the earliest European arrivals on the hills used to call these animals as 'Elks'. The hill is about 500 ft. above the town and is less than an hour's walk from the Charring Cross and one gets a panoramic view of Udhagamandalam and its environs.

Elk Hill Murugan Temple is situated on Elk hill, which is one of the picturesque hills located at Ooty in Nilgiris District of Tamil Nadu. This temple is dedicated to Lord Muruga.

Devotees throng this temple during the months of January and February for the Thaipusam festival. They carry with them brass vessels filled with milk, which is meant to be offered to the lord. Some of them also carry kavadi (palanquins) which is decorated with flowers, peacock feathers and brass bells.

Dolphin's Nose Viewpoint

Dolphin's Nose Viewpoint is a tourist spot in Coonoor near to Ooty. Dolphin's Nose is well over 1,000 feet above sea level, 10 km from Coonoor and is a spectacular spot to visit. The tip of the peak resembles a dolphin's nose, hence the name Dolphin's Nose. It is an enormous rock formation that is entirely unique. There are gigantic ravines found both to the left and right of Dolphin's Nose and there is a view of inspiring Catherine Falls with its continuing stream several thousand metres below which is located a relatively short distance away opposite of the Dolphin's Nose. Best parts of spot are the hairpin turns and tea plantations on the way.

Ooty to Dolphin's Nose is one of the inspiring excursions from Ooty. The preferred hill station of tourists Ooty is located 19 km northwest of Coonoor. Dolphin's Nose is located at 10 km from Coonoor with an outstanding surrounding. There is an old road after crossing Pambar Bridge near living stream. An uneven curve rounds to the hill side which guide to a point where a smooth rock projects over an awful chasm of 6600 feet deep. This is Dolphins nose.

Dolphin's Nose present a panoramic sight of the nearby areas include of arrogant mountains, winding streams, and wide tea gardens. Dolphin's nose is place on one of the fault lines in the area and offers a view of the plains in the background, forests on one side and of stunning small villages in among these views. The perfect time to visit the place is between the months of October and March.

In one of the ravine's you can clearly see the awe inspiring Catherine Falls with its continuing stream several thousand meters below. In the other ravine, you can spot where the Coonoor stream meets the Kotagiri stream. Both streams that are contained within these two ravines ultimately feed the Bhavani River which is located a relatively short distance away opposite of the Dolphin's Nose. This place is ideally visited in the morning hours in order to avoid crowds.

Lamb’s Rock

Lamb's Rock, a tourist spot and view point is situated at a distance of 8 km from Coonoor. It was named after the then collector Captain Lamb who developed this place in his interest.
The Lamb's Rock is on the way to Dolphin's nose, another viewpoint in Coonoor. The mountain cliff around Lamb’s Rock stands at a height of 5000 feet above sea level and stand out for its jagged look. Lamb's Rock provides a panoramic view of Coonoor and one can enjoy the sight of green lush forests covered by clouds. 

The drive to Lamb’s rock in itself is memorable. Nature is best enjoyed at Lamb's Rock as it is located away from the hustle and bustle. This view point offers a panoramic view of the Hulical ravines and Coonoor stream. 

For the avid trekker, trekking trails from Lamb’s Rock will take you through the lush tree gardens. Lamb’s rock is easily accessible for visitors as Coonoor is well connected by road and rail. 

Being a calm and tranquil vantage point, this place is best enjoyed by couples. The best time to visit is during the summers, when the weather is clear and the views are ideal.

Lamb's Rock is another vantage point that is ideal for taking pictures and is a wonderful picnic spot & known for the splendid views it offers of the plains of Coimbatore and the tea states in the surrounding areas.  

Lady Canning's Seat

Lady Canning's seat is about 9 kms from Coonoor bus stand and further along the same road as that to Lamb's Rock. It is perhaps the loveliest point in the heart of the woods. Lady Canning, the wife of the Viceroy, was fond of this spot which commands a panoramic view of the numerous tea estates, Lamb's Rock, the Droog, the Lampton's Peak all could be seen one above the other and even Mettupalayam is visible at a distance.

Lady Canning's Seat is major tourist spot in Coonoor. It is situated 9 km from the township Coonoor. The site is named after Charlotte Canning.

The Droog Fort

The Droog Fort lies at the highest peak of the Nilgiri mountain range and is only about 15 kilometers from Coonoor town. It is about 6000 feet from sea level and the weather is always pleasant here so you can easily plan your holiday to this place at any time of the year. The road trip to this peak is a great enjoyable experience.

Once upon a time the Droog fort was used as an outpost by Tipu Sultan in the 16th century. But today only a crumbling wall stands as a remainder of the once proud fortress of Tipu Sultan. Here you can find a watch tower at the top from where one can get amazing views of the misty surroundings. Even the birdwatchers can have a great time as they can see many rare species of birds here.

One of the most popular spot in this place is the Telescope house which is situated at the peak and gives a breath taking view of the hill station and the nearby hills and valleys.

One has to trek for almost 3 kilometres through tea estates and shrubs to reach the summit. Vehicles can go only upto Tan tea estate after which it is a steep climb upwards. The trek may prove a bit difficult for elders and children.

According to imaginary stories, the fort is connected to the local legend of a demon Bakasura. For this basis it is also called by the natives Bakasura Malai.

Some of the other popular tourist spots near to Droog fort are Catherine Falls, Lamb’s Rock, Sim’s Park, Law’s Falls, Dolphin’s Nose, Katary Falls, Wellington’s Golf Course and St. George church.

Kodanad View Point

Kodanad View point is a tourist spot near Kotagiri town, Nilgiri District, Tamil Nadu state, South India. It is located about 18 km east of Kotagiri on the eastern edges of Nilgiris at 11°31’29’ N 76°54’57’ E. Due to the location it is also called the Terminus Country.

Kodanad is placed at the height of near about 6500 ft. Kodanad is 18 kms away from Kotagiri, Tamil Nadu. Kodanad is the best trekking place for mount hiker and tourist. This view point of Kodanad position provides an unbreakable view of the far away plateaus, the tea plantations, Thengumarahada village, and the area peaks Kil-Kotagiri, Moyar River and much more.

It offers a magnificent view of the high plateau of Mysore on one side and the picturesque 50-acre (200,000 m2) farm cooperative called Thengumarahada, which looks like a green lush among the bushes, lazy meanderings of this small village is the river of Moyar. The Moyar River is situated between the plateau of Nilgiri and Deccan, where joins the river Bhavani across the valley. You will certainly get pleasure from the eye-catching and mind blowing gorgeousness of Kodanad viewpoint near the Kotagiri.

This is one of the most spectacular places in the Nilgiri Mountains. A 220 degree view is just the icing on the cake. Kodanad view point is situated about 18 kilometres from Kotagiri, the oldest hill station in the Nilgiris. It should be about 40 kilometres from Ooty. 

The locals of the Nilgiris suggest that Kodanad offers much superior views when compared to the one from Dodda Betta near Ooty or any of the view points at Ooty, Coonoor or Kotagiri. And once you reach Kodanad, you will tend to agree with them. 

One has to cross waves of tea estates and pine trees to reach the Kodanad view point. In fact, there are 3 different view points at Kodanad and decent infrastructure has been provided to reach all the three of them. 

And all three of them provide un-paralleled views of the lower Bhavani Sagar Reservoir, the waves of the Nilgiri ranges, the flat villages below, the Moyar River and the surrounding forest cover. The best time to admire the view here is during sunrise and up to 3 pm in the evening. After 3 pm, the view tends to get misty. 

Apart from admiring the viewpoints here, one can also trek down the hills to the flat below. If you start at sunrise, you can reach the flat below by noon and return by sunset. The return climb can be slightly taxing though. 

In fact, one of the more adventurous treks begins here and follows the course of the Moyar River and ends in at the Mudumalai wildlife sanctuary. This trek is supposed to take about 3-4 days. 

A watchtower is there to view the panoramic view of Rangaswamy peak and pillar. Bus services are available from Kotagiri.

Overall, this is a spectacular place and is a must visit place. So, if you are headed to the Nilgiris, do remember to add this place to your list.

Longwood Shola

The Longwood shola is the source of pure sparkling water for the people living in Kotagiri town. This shola is an integral part of the very fragile Nilgiri eco-system. The preservation of this shola forest is very vital. The micro climatic conditions here contribute to make Kotagiri one of the ideal climatic locations in the world. There is a very picturesque trekking path which goes through this serene shola.

Situated in Kotagiri, this dense wooded forest is home to many species. The forest is the only remains of natural Shola forest left immediate vicinity of Kotagiri in the Nilgiris. It is an important part of the fragile Nilgiris eco-system extending an area of around 116 hectares. Besides, Longwood Shola is also an in habitat of Indian bison and flying fox. Home to many birds, it is also an ideal place for bird watching.

Better known by long time residents of Kotagiri as, ‘Dodda Shola’ the primeval pocket of woods this was just a few km from Kotagiri extended over about 115 hectares. Claiming that it was the last of its kind in the Nilgiris, Around 15 villages and a number of settlements depended on it for water.

Apart from playing a key role in ensuring that the celebrated climate of Kotagiri remained salubrious, the Shola was home to a variety of flora and fauna.

The Longwood Shola is one of the most amazing dense wooded forests in Kotagiri. This isolated tropical evergreen forest is located about 3 Kms from the main town of Kotagiri. The Longwood Shola forest still remains isolated from the crowd and urbanization of other regions in Kotagiri or Nilgiri District.

This calm and beautiful place still provides refuge to many tourists who love nature in its original form.

Pomological Station

The institute is a research centre of the State Agricultural Department for persimmon, pomegranates, and apricot. The Pomological station is a research center of the State Agricultural Department for persimmon, pomegranates and apricot. It is one of the three experimental fruit gardens in the Nilgiri Hills. The other two research centers are Burliar and Kallar.

Coonoor’s Pomological Station is a feast for those interested in horticulture. Many varieties of fruits are grown here for research purposes. Here, one can also purchase fresh apples, plums, apricots and much more. Freshly made fruit jams are produced on a small scale and are delicious gifts for those back home.

Pasteur Institute

Tourists require a special permission to visit this institute. This institute is located near Sim’s park. It was started in 1907. This institute develops vaccination for rabies (dog bite disease) and Triple Vaccine (DPT, DT & TT). In earlier days; it played a vital role in the research of Influenza vaccine. Now it produces Tissue Culture Anti Rabies Vaccine (TCARV) and the DPT group of vaccines.