OOTY
It is the most famous of hill stations in south India. Ooty attracts thousands of Indians and foreigners every year. Stone Cottages, flower beds, tall eucalyptus trees and terraced botanical gardens make Ooty a perfect retreat for you. In the recent years, Ooty has become more famous for the high standard of its boarding schools. Increase in tourism has changed Ooty a lot.Despite that Ooty still holds its charm. You can sit back and relax and enjoy nature's beauty, which is found in abundance here. You can enjoy a journey in the toy train or go for boating in the lake. If you want the real royal feel, there are palaces that are given for rent now. Ooty is pleasant at any time of the year, but in winter you will need warm clothes. Historically, this region belonged to the Toda community whose beliefs and systems are centered on the Buffalo. Even now you can have glimpse of the Todas, who are still Tribals and there are only about 1500 left. Ooty was the summer retreat for the British during their rule in the 19th century and it was the summer head quarters of Chennai (Madras).
Botanical
Gardens -
These beautiful and well maintained gardens were established way back in 1848.
These gardens are huge with certain sections devoted to Japanese and Italian
style of gardening. In east end of the garden there is a small village (created)
where the Toda community displays its traditional aspects. In the month of May,
the famous flower and fruit show is held here which is something that one must
not miss. Nearly a thousand varieties of flowers are displayed during the show.
The gardens are open from 8.00 am to 6.45 pm.
St. Stephen's Church - This church on Club Road was built in 1829 and is
the oldest church in the Nilgiris.