Botanical Garden Ooty

1. Overview

The Botanical Garden Ooty, also known as the Government Botanical Garden ooty, are a captivating attraction nestled in the picturesque hill station of Udhagamandalam (Ooty) in Tamil Nadu, India. Spread across large acres of land, these garden are a horticultural paradise that showcases a numerous series of plant species from everywhere in the world. In this blog, we can delve into the unique records approximately the Botanical Garden in Ooty, imparting you a digital tour of this lush and spell binding vacation spot

The Botanical Garden Ooty were established in the year 1848, during the colonial era of British India. It was initially planned as a trial garden for introducing and acclimatizing various plants from different parts of the world. The gardens quickly attained popularity and became a center for horticultural researchers, and nature lovers.

2. How To Reach

The Botanical Garden is situated in the heart of Ooty, making it relatively easy to reach from different parts of the town. You can ask locals for directions or use navigation apps to locate the garden.

Coimbatore International Airport

The nearest airport to Ooty is Coimbatore International Airport (CJB), located approximately 88 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Ooty.

Mettupalayam Railway Station

The nearest major railway station to Ooty is Mettupalayam Railway Station, which is connected to major cities like Chennai and Coimbatore. From Mettupalayam, you can take the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which offers a scenic and memorable journey up to Ooty.

Ooty Bus Stand

Ooty is well-connected by road to various cities and towns in South India. You can drive to Ooty or take a bus from cities like Coimbatore, Bangalore, Mysore, and Chennai. Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) and private bus operators offer regular bus services to Ooty.

Nilgiri Mountain Railway

As mentioned earlier, the Nilgiri Mountain Railway (Toy Train) is a unique and picturesque way to reach Ooty from Mettupalayam. The train journey takes you through the scenic landscapes of the Nilgiri Hills and is a popular choice among tourists.

Once you reach Ooty, you can use local transportation options like taxis, auto-rickshaws, and rented vehicles to reach the Botanical Garden.

3. Timing & Entry Fee

Timing

The gardens are open to the public from morning till evening.

Day	Timing
Monday	7:00 am – 6:30 pm
Tuesday	7:00 am – 6:30 pm
Wedesday	7:00 am – 6:30 pm
Thursday	7:00 am – 6:30 pm
Friday	7:00 am – 6:30 pm
Saturday	7:00 am – 6:30 pm
Sunday	7:00 am – 6:30 pm

Ooty Botanical Gardens Entry Fee

There is a nominal entry fee for visitors, which may vary for domestic and international tourists. It is advisable to check the timings and entry fee before planning your visit.

• 30 per person for Adults
• 15 per person for Children
• 50 for Still Camera
• 100 for Video Camera

4. Near By

1. Ooty Rose Garden: Located within walking distance from the Botanical Garden, the Rose Garden features a beautiful collection of roses in various colors and varieties.
2. Ooty Lake: This picturesque lake offers boating facilities and a scenic environment for leisurely walks. You can enjoy boat rides and capture stunning views of the surrounding hills.
3. Doddabetta Peak: The highest peak in the Nilgiri Hills, Doddabetta offers panoramic views of Ooty and its surroundings. There’s an observatory deck where you can enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
4. Nilgiri Mountain Railway: If you haven’t taken the Nilgiri Mountain Railway to reach Ooty, you can consider taking a ride on this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The train journey offers stunning views of the hills and forests.
5. St. Stephen’s Church: An architectural marvel, St. Stephen’s Church is one of the oldest churches in the Nilgiris. The stained glass windows and Gothic architecture are worth admiring.
6. Thread Garden: A unique attraction in Ooty, the Thread Garden features a collection of artificial flowers and plants, all made from thread.
7. Wax World Museum: This museum houses wax replicas of various historical and cultural figures. It’s a fun and educational experience, especially for families.
8. Toda Huts: The Toda tribe is indigenous to the Nilgiris, and you can visit their traditional huts to learn about their way of life and culture.
9. Ketti Valley Viewpoint: Offering breathtaking views of the Ketti Valley and surrounding hills, this viewpoint is a great spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
10. Tea Gardens: Ooty is surrounded by lush tea plantations. You can visit one of the tea estates to learn about the tea-making process and enjoy the serene environment.

5. Places to Eat around

1. Café Coffee Day: A popular chain known for its coffee and light snacks, offering a cozy atmosphere to relax.
2. Ooty Food Palace: This restaurant offers a mix of North Indian, South Indian, and Chinese dishes. It’s known for its vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.
3. Shinkow’s Chinese Restaurant: If you’re in the mood for Chinese cuisine, this restaurant offers a variety of Chinese dishes in a pleasant ambiance.
4. Earl’s Secret: Located at King’s Cliff, this restaurant offers a mix of Indian, Continental, and Oriental dishes with a beautiful garden view.
5. Sri Venkateshwara Bhavan: A vegetarian restaurant known for its South Indian thali, dosas, and other regional specialties.
6. The Culinarium: Offering a range of international cuisines and an elegant dining setting, this restaurant is perfect for those looking for a diverse menu.
7. Dominos Pizza: If you’re craving pizza, you can find a Domino’s outlet near the Botanical Garden.
8. A2B – Adyar Ananda Bhavan: A well-known chain of vegetarian restaurants offering a variety of South Indian dishes and snacks.
9. Sidewalk Café: A café offering a selection of pastries, sandwiches, and beverages for a quick bite.
10. Shinkow’s Star Japanese Restaurant: If you’re interested in trying Japanese cuisine, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience.

6. Travellers Tips

Tips

Information Center: The Botanical Gardens ooty have an information center where visitors can gather detailed information about the various plants and attractions within the gardens. Knowledgeable staff members are available to assist and provide guidance.

Nursery: A nursery within the gardens offers visitors the opportunity to purchase plants, seeds, and saplings of various species. This allows enthusiasts to take a piece of the gardens’ beauty home with them.

Refreshment and Relaxation: The gardens also have refreshment stalls and seating areas, providing visitors with a place to relax, unwind, and savor snacks or beverages amidst the serene surroundings.

Photography and Guidelines : Photography is allowed within the gardens, but it is recommended to adhere to the guidelines and regulations set by the authorities. Some restricted areas may have specific rules regarding photography.

Guided Tours :For a more in-depth understanding of the gardens and their unique features, guided tours may be available. These tours provide informative insights into the diverse flora and the history of the gardens.

Best Time To Visit

The Botanical Gardens can be visited throughout the year. However, the months of April to June, when the weather is pleasant and flowers are in full bloom, are considered the best time to witness the gardens’ vibrant colors and fragrances.

7. Additional Information

Lower Garden

The gardens are divided into two sections, with the lower garden being the primary attraction. Here, visitors can wander through beautifully landscaped lawns, flower beds, and ornamental plants. The lower garden houses several notable features, including:

Toda Hill

A separate section of the Botanical Garden ooty is dedicated to the Toda tribe, the indigenous people of the Nilgiri Hills. Known as Toda Hill, this area showcases the Toda lifestyle, culture, and their unique dwellings known as “munds.” It offers visitors a glimpse into the traditions and heritage of this indigenous community.

Conservatory

The Botanical Garden ooty also feature a conservatory that houses a wide range of exotic plants, including orchids, ferns, cacti, and succulents. This enclosed structure provides a controlled environment for delicate plant species to thrive and allows visitors to explore the fascinating world of tropical flora.

Tree Fossil

Another intriguing exhibit in the gardens is a tree fossil, believed to be approximately 20 million years old. This ancient relic is a testament to the geological significance of the region and provides insights into the Earth’s prehistoric past.

Rare Plant Species

The gardens boast an impressive collection of rare and endangered plant species. Visitors can admire magnificent trees, vibrant flowering plants, and unique foliage from different parts of the world. The gardens serve as a valuable resource for conservation and botanical research.