My Way On Highway: Day 41, Ooty: Check

The ancient city of Madurai really kept us busy yesterday with its remarkable history and beautiful confluence of different faiths and cultures. Today morning at 5:30 AM, we exchanged goodbyes and started for the Queen of Southern Hills – Ooty. Yep, let’s not forget dear ol’ Shimla holds the title in the North! The six-hour drive stretched a little because we lost our way, then found it again, and then decided to make a stop at the Kallar Horticulture Park. Post that, the drive was a slightly painful one as the narrow roads were not wide enough to fit two vehicles and there were some rash drivers too. Thank God the scenic views of the majestic Nilgiri Mountains against the cotton-candy clouds were not far away.

Flower Power

Ooty was still some 50 kilometres away when we approached the town of Kallar. This small town features on the map courtesy the Horticultural Farm that was established here back in 1900. The detour from the highway took us on a bumpy road in to the jungle for about 10 minutes, before we reached the gates of the farm. We purchased our tickets and made small talk with the Tamil-speaking staff before heading out for a stroll in the park.

Trees of all kinds, ages, shapes and sizes greeted us. Most were duly labeled and it was interesting to observe the fauna that came along with it. The monkeys played on the branches while woodpeckers took to what they do best. But it is the butterflies that will get your attention here. You just wouldn’t realize when a whole bunch of these beauties would come to greet you.

Snooty Ooty

Established by the British as a summer getaway for the Madras government, Ooty aka Ootacamund aka Udhagamandalam attracts folks seeking a pleasant relief from the hot plains. The City Centre is often written off as a typical tourist-y mess with its share of chaotic traffic, touts and endless shops selling the same gimmicky things. However, move away from the rush and your senses will be delighted to uncover the quieter and greener side of this hill station. The rolling mountains caressed by terrace farming, tree plantations and the endless Nilgiri (Eucalyptus) trees complete the picture. Off late, Ooty has developed as a bunking point for travellers keen to explore the surrounding countryside and of course, the neighbouring town of Coonoor and the famous Dodabetta Peak. A word of advice: Carry a light sweater even during summers as a slight nip in the air descends towards the evening.

The Tree Fossil

Ooty’s Botanical Gardens is perhaps the most listed attraction of the destination. Locals and visitors flock here to enjoy the organized floral abundance. The lack of context, inconsistent labelling of plant names and a map garden is missed by the likes of me. The Tree Fossil here is the most popular display with its speculated age of more than 20 million years old. There is a handicrafts shop here that is run by the Toda tribal community. Feel free to pick up hand-embroidered goodies because not only are they beautiful but you would also be encouraging local talent. The slight hunger pangs were satiated right outside the gardens with some fresh Varkey, a flaky and semi-sweet savoury food attributed to Ooty. Loved it with my chai!

Lake Story

The Boat House at the landmark Ooty Lake was next on our itinerary. Buzzing with tourists, this beautiful and well-maintained water body is quite a hit as a boating spot. Its gentle waters can be seen flowing over a massive 65 acres area as per the plans of its maker John Sullivan, who created it as a source of irrigation in 1824. You can choose between motor and pedal boats and enjoy a congenial vantage point to view the many bounties of Ooty. The official timings are from 8 AM to 6 PM but the counter today closed at 5:30 PM. The Boat House has been extended in to an entertainment zone for the family, complete with a horror house, gaming area, several shops and a food court.

We At The Chocolate Factory

Chocolate is an elixir I am guilty of being partial too. I was especially thrilled when a MyWayOnHighway follower suggested that my husband and I pay a visit to King’s Star – the most famous chocolate store in Ooty. Covered by prominent media for serving sinful handmade chocolates since 1942, King’s Star is a chocolate lover’s delight. Located in a cosy spot at Charring Cross, King’s Star is a hit with everyone who steps in. The busy but prompt staff is more than willing to share one delightful chocolate sample after another. There are 40 mouth-watering flavours to keep your taste buds busy though my favourite was Figs & Honey. Surprisingly, the sweet nothings are very reasonably priced and if the gentleman owner at the counter likes you, he gives a bigger discount. Do not miss the coin and currency collection he proudly shows off right next to the cash register.

Really looking forward to the ride aboard the Nilgiri Mountain Railway tomorrow. Cheerios! (P.S: The chase to capture the green butterfly and all these amazing clicks are courtesy Tariq Khan)