About Ooty

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, steam steaming cups of masala chai, and admire well-preserved heritage edifices. 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 with aromatic tea, and 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 adorning 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.

The Best Places to Stay in Ooty

For a Boutique B&B

  • Clouds Nest By Aanvis Inn offers six spacious guest rooms with four-posters, and teal, pink and grey textiles. Soak up vast views of the lush surrounding hills from your bedroom, or over hearty breakfasts. An intimate B&B for couples or families, with appealingly reasonable rates. 

For Classic Charm

  • Sherlock Hotel offers just nine cosy bedrooms, each featuring wooden furnishings and garden views. Expect crackling Victorian fireplaces, two dining rooms, an inviting reading room and a fun games area. Great for quiet couples or active families. Landscaped gardens are lovely, and prices very reasonable.  
  • Featuring parquet flooring, more antiques than most museums, a billiards table and to top it all off an excellent whiskey list the
  • Savoy Ooty - IHCL SeleQtions was originally built as a school in 1829. Now a hotel with 40 guest rooms in the main house and surrounding cottages, it's a charming choice for those looking to unwind in Ooty. There are activities aplenty on the six acres of grounds, as well as art, cooking and yoga classes. Don't miss soothing treatments at the Ayurvedic spa. 

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel information

  • Fly to Coimbatore International Airport, 88km from Ooty. Continue to your destination by road or rail. Train enthusiasts will adore the iconic ride from Mettupalayam Station to Ooty Station.
  • If you're confident driving in Asia, Tamil Nadu is a fantastic destination for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Travel between March and May - the summer months - when temperatures range from 12°C - 30°C. The monsoon rains last from June until September, and this is a beautiful time to visit.

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The best hotels in Ooty

Clouds Nest By Aanvis Inn

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.

  • Families - Generously proportioned suites are ideal for families with young children, who will adore exploring the area
  • Great walks - Strolls through the flower-filled 55-acre Government Botanical Gardens are a real treat for nature lovers
  • Romantic Break - Romantics will love the B&B's intimate feel, the luxurious interiors and the sense of privacy
  • Other Activities - Rides on the UNESCO-listed Nilgiri Mountain Railway are great fun for the whole family
from $62 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Sherlock Hotel

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.

  • Watersports - Enjoy a boat ride on the beautiful Ooty Lake in the morning or early evening, when the light is at its softest
  • Local exploring - Raised above Ooty and perfect for seeing the hill station's many historic and natural sights
  • Country Escape - A tranquil traditional escape for those looking to reconnect with nature and to unwind
  • Other Activities - Kick back with your favourite book in the beautifully maintained gardens
from $104 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Savoy Ooty - IHCL SeleQtions

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.

  • Country Escape - An idyllic rural escape for those looking to unwind in cooler climes, complete with great cuisine & walking routes
  • Romantic Break - A tranquil, romantic spot for couples seeking classic charm and a quieter break - plus super spa treatments!
  • Great walks - Ooty is criss crossed with wonderful walking routes - speak to the team about their favourite hikes!
  • Other Activities - The plethora of on site activities includes table tennis, badminton, basketball and billiards
from $230 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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