We recently completed a fantastic trip to Ooty, the Queen of Hill Stations, right in the heart of the monsoon seasonโAugust 2024! If you’re planning a trip to this beautiful destination, grab a cup of tea and read on, as we share our itinerary, crucial driving tips, and some incredible visuals captured along the way.
Hitting the Road in Our ‘Old Black Beauty’
Our journey was a road trip adventure with our trusty companion, the “good old black beauty blue beast.” The drive itself sets the stage for the Ooty experience, particularly if you’re coming through the scenic forests.
Crucial Driving Advice via Bandipur and Mudumalai
For travelers driving through the forest reserves, here are two non-negotiable tips:
- Forest Entry Time: Always keep a close check on the Bandipur Forest entry gate timings. Gates close in the evening, and missing the window means a long wait or a detour.
- The Steep Ascent: Once you cross the Mudumalai Forest, you will face a fork in the road leading to Ooty.
- The Steep Way (Left): This route is extremely steep and involves some seriously dangerous hairpin bends. We highly suggest avoiding this route unless you are a seasoned mountain driver.
- The Easy Way (Straight): Head straight towards Gudalur and then Ooty. This path is relatively easy and more comfortable for most drivers.
As an added bonus on the Gudalur route, you’ll get to enjoy a gorgeous view of the Pykara Waterfall cascading down, a perfect stop for a photo break!
Our Stay: Luxury at Sterling Ooty Fern Hill
We chose the Sterling Ooty Fern Hill for our accommodation, and it was a wonderful choice for a comfortable and luxurious stay. The setting is beautiful, providing a great base for exploring the Nilgiris.
To get a complete virtual tour of the property and see why we recommend it as one of the best places to stay, check out our dedicated video:
A Nostalgic Ride: The Ooty Toy Train
A trip to Ooty is incomplete without riding the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, the famous toy train. We enjoyed a picturesque ride from Kathagodam to Coonoor, winding through the lush green valleys.
Train Booking Tip
The lines at the ticket counter can be long and crowded, leading to unnecessary hassle. To ensure you get a seat and have a smooth experience, make sure to book your tickets in advance through the IRCTC website.
See the picturesque landscapes and lush greenery we enjoyed during this journey:
Top Sightseeing and Mesmerizing Views
Ooty is packed with beautiful spots, from expansive botanical gardens to serene lakes and majestic mountain peaks.
We compiled a comprehensive list and visual guide of all the must-see destinations in the area. Make sure to check this video for a detailed list of all the top sightseeing spots to plan your itinerary:
If you love watching nature’s elements move, you’ll appreciate the sheer beauty of Ooty’s dynamic weather. We captured a stunning timelapse of the clouds and fog rolling over the hillsโa truly mesmerizing visual treat.
Gear We Used to Capture the Magic
For all the incredible footage and photos on this trip, we relied on some reliable gear:
- Cameras: Nikon Z6ii and Nikon Z50
- Lens: Nikon z24-70 mm f4
We hope these details and videos inspire you to take your own trip to Ooty. Happy travels!