If you’re searching for the perfect getaway for the upcoming long weekend, look no further than Ooty I would consider this as one of the best Places To Visit near Hyderabad. Nestled in the Nilgiri Hills, Ooty, also known as Udhagamandalam, is a charming hill station in Tamil Nadu that offers breathtaking landscapes, lush greenery, and a tranquil atmosphere. Here’s a detailed account of our unforgettable trip to Ooty.
Day 1 The Places To Visit Near Hyderabad – Self-Experience
The Journey Begins
Our adventure started in Mysore towards the Places To Visit near Hyderabad. We had booked a travel group from Hyderabad, and there were more than 15 members in our group. The package included a mini-bus, accommodation, and sightseeing arrangements, while we took care of our meals. We embarked on our journey by train, which took about 15 hours to reach Mysore. Upon arrival, we checked into a hotel for an hour to freshen up before setting off on our trip.
Exploring Bandipur Jungle
Our first destination was the Bandipur Jungle, a stunning wildlife sanctuary known for its rich biodiversity. The forest officers are strict about not allowing plastic bottles and other toxic items inside. If they catch anyone with such items, they will be confiscated. While we hoped to catch a glimpse of a lion or tiger, we instead encountered deer and elephants, making the jungle trip an incredible experience. The serene environment and the thrill of spotting wildlife made it a memorable start to our journey.
Needle Rock Viewpoint
Next, we visited the Needle Rock Viewpoint. The trek to the viewpoint was short but delightful. Once there, we were greeted by mesmerizing views, with clouds almost touching us and the cool breeze adding to the charm. We savored tea, coffee, and Maggie while soaking in the beauty around us. The camaraderie and the stunning landscape made this part of the trip truly special.
Shooting Point
Our next stop was the Shooting Point, a popular location for photography. The trek to the point was moderate, and once there, we found several shops selling unique items like perfumes and diaries. These items, we were told, were made by the Adivasi community, with government support to help them sustain their traditional way of life. We were happy to contribute by purchasing a few souvenirs.
Relaxing at the Hotel
After a long, eventful day, we returned to our hotel near the Clock Tower. Here are some tips if you plan to visit Ooty:
- Water Bottles: In Ooty, you won’t find the typical 20 Rs water bottles. Instead, they sell glass bottles for 60 Rs, with a 30 Rs refund upon return. Although they claim it’s for environmental protection, it seemed more like a business move since they still sell large plastic Bisleri bottles.
- Hot Water: Hot water is available only once a day around 5 AM for about 30 minutes. If you prefer a hot shower, you need to wake up early as there are no geysers in the rooms.
- Room Amenities: Don’t expect fans, ACs, or heaters in the rooms. The locals believe these are unnecessary due to the pleasant weather.
- Chocolates: Ooty is famous for its chocolates, although I didn’t find them particularly impressive. However, they are a popular local specialty and worth a try.
Check out the video for a close view of the Places To Visit near Hyderabad
A Blissful Day 2 in Ooty and Coonoor Places To Visit Near Hyderabad
Our second day in Ooty began bright and early at 5:30 AM, despite our late-night revelry. Shaking off the remnants of sleep and hangovers, we eagerly prepared for another day of exploration. Our first stop was the breathtaking tea gardens, and I must say, it set the perfect tone for the day.
Morning in the Tea Gardens
The tea gardens were a sight to behold. The lush, green expanse stretched as far as the eye could see, with workers diligently plucking tea leaves and collecting them in bags to be sent to the tea factory, to add more excitement about the Places To Visit near Hyderabad. The experience was incredibly soothing, with the fresh morning air and the delicate scent of tea leaves invigorating my senses. I even plucked a few leaves to keep as a memento of this beautiful place. The serenity of the gardens was only enhanced by the gentle breeze and the picturesque surroundings, making it a moment to cherish.
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The Kallati Road
From the tea gardens, we made our way to Dolphin’s Nose. En route, we traversed the infamous Kallati Road, known for its zigzag pattern and treacherous turns. The road is particularly dangerous during the rainy season due to the slippery conditions. However, our skilled driver navigated the twists and turns with expertise, ensuring our safety and allowing us to enjoy the scenic drive.
Dolphin’s Nose and Playful Monkeys
Upon reaching Dolphin’s Nose, I found the viewpoint itself to be less thrilling than expected. However, the presence of playful monkeys added a fun element to the visit so I can say it’s a Places To Visit near Hyderabad but not so much actually. I shared my oats biscuits with them, and watching them enjoy the treat brought a smile to my face. The monkeys’ antics provided light-hearted entertainment and made the stop worthwhile.
A Delightful Breakfast in Coonoor
Next, we headed to the toy train station in Coonoor. Our train was scheduled to depart at 11:30 AM, giving us ample time to grab some breakfast. We found a nearby eatery and indulged in a delicious meal. I opted for idli with sambar and chutney, and it was a culinary revelation. The idlis were incredibly soft, melting in my mouth, and the sambar was the best I had ever tasted. Other members of our group enjoyed paranthas with sabji, and they too were impressed with the food.
Note: If you plan to ride the toy train, it’s advisable to book your tickets a month in advance. Only one person is allowed to purchase up to four tickets, so plan accordingly to avoid long queues.
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The Toy Train Experience
The toy train arrived right on schedule. We took a group selfie before boarding, capturing the excitement of the moment, so we can remember it forever as a Places To Visit near Hyderabad. As the train chugged along, I succumbed to my sleepiness and took a nap, while others in the group enjoyed the scenic ride, clicked pictures, and made the most of the experience. Upon arriving at the destination, my friend woke me up, and we disembarked, ready for the next adventure.
Shopping and the Boat House
After the train ride, I couldn’t resist purchasing a beautiful hat and a magnet for my refrigerator from a nearby shop. Our final stop for the day was the boat house, conveniently located near our hotel, the boat house is the Places To Visit near Hyderabad because of the beauty nearby. However, exhaustion had set in, and the idea of a pedal boat ride seemed more tiring than relaxing. I decided to skip the boat ride and headed back to the hotel for some much-needed rest.
Wrapping Up Day 2
Day 2 in Ooty and Coonoor was a blend of scenic beauty, delightful experiences, and leisurely activities. From the tranquil tea gardens to the adventurous Kallati Road, the playful monkeys at Dolphin’s Nose, the scrumptious breakfast in Coonoor, the nostalgic toy train ride, and a bit of shopping, the day was packed with memorable moments and that’s what makes Ooty the Places To Visit near Hyderabad during long weekends. Though I missed out on the boat ride, the rest were well worth it. As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn’t help but look forward to what the next day would bring on this enchanting journey.
To be continue with the day 3 of Places To Visit near Hyderabad…
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