Nestled in the Nilgiri Hills, Ooty has long been Tamil Nadu’s most famous tea-growing hub. Once dubbed ‘the Queen of Hill Stations’ by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the town was a popular summer retreat in the days of the British Raj, and heritage aficionados will find its historic buildings and landscaped gardens fascinating. The best places to stay in Ooty tend to be hidden beyond the bustling town centre, perfect for cosy, nature-focused retreats.
Amble around central Ooty on foot to discover bustling markets, sip steaming cups of masala chai, and admire well-preserved heritage buildings. Particular highlights include the Stone House and St. Stephen's Church. The UNESCO-listed Nilgiri Mountain Railway promises marvellous steam train journeys from Ooty to Coonoor passing aromatic tea plantations, and wowing with expansive views of mist-clad mountains and lush valleys.
Nature lovers will delight in touring the magnificent 55-acre Government Botanical Gardens, where all manner of flora adorn the slopes of Doddabetta Peak, or following a plethora of walking and cycling trails through the hills. Guided tours and tastings at striking tea plantations are also not to be missed. Many of the best places to stay in Ooty promise dazzling views of their own — as well as hearty fare, flower-filled gardens and inviting guest rooms for travellers of all ages. This is an especially popular destination in the hot summer months, so book your trip well in advance.
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Ooty (Tamil Nadu)
A six-bedroom B&B offering a chic, contemporary sense of style on a hillside close to Ooty. Think spacious guest rooms with four-poster beds, soft teal, pink and grey tones, cosy armchairs and uninterrupted views of the verdant landscape beyond. Big breakfasts & a friendly team complete the picture.
Ooty (Tamil Nadu)
A century-old former residence, King's Cliff has been transformed into a characterful small hotel with rooms featuring floral textiles, crackling fireplaces & views of flower-filled gardens. The Earl's Secret restaurant has a top-notch reputation & cosy sitting rooms invite post-trek relaxation.
Ooty (Tamil Nadu)
A charming nine-bedroom hideaway with a great restaurant in lovely Ooty. Pale wood panelling, cosy beds & crisp linens make for hugely inviting guest rooms, all of which have views towards lush gardens & the town beyond. An English-style cabin with games room & landscaped lawns complete the picture.
Ooty (Upper Thalayatimund)
Sherlock Hotel in the southern hill station of Ooty lives up to its name. Victorian fireplaces and wooden furnishings feature in two dining rooms, a reading room & a games area. The lovely location & landscaped gardens lend themselves to an activity-filled holiday for the family, or a mini break.
Ooty (Tamil Nadu)
A collection of spacious chalets with stylish mid-century interiors & glorious hillside views on 30 acres of grounds. Expect airy, well-designed spaces with sleek bathrooms and cracking wood-fired stoves. A swimming pool, popular restaurant and vast gardens add to the appeal. Wonderful.
Ooty (Tamil Nadu)
Set amid six acres of lush grounds, Savoy Ooty offers charming, colonial-era rooms and suites in an 1829-built former school. There are on-site activities galore, plus an Ayurvedic spa, art, cooking and yoga classes. A tranquil escape in lovely Ooty, Tamil Nadu's famed former hill station.
