Explore the Gorgeous ‘Blue Mountains’ - The Nilgiri Hills
The Nilgiris often referred to as the Blue Mountains, form a segment of the Western Ghat mountain range, extending across the South Indian states of Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. The British, recognizing the suitability of the gently undulating slopes for tea cultivation and the pleasant climate for summer retreats, established Ooty as their preferred residence during scorching months. In 1827, Ooty earned the distinction of being declared the summer capital of the Madras Presidency. To facilitate travel to and from the hills, the Nilgiri Mountain Railways were completed in 1899. Today, this historical railway remains a captivating tourist attraction, offering a leisurely journey through tea plantations, making it a must for every traveller with an appreciation for scenic beauty.
1. Soak in the tantalizing beauty of the Nilgiri Hills: The Nilgiri Hills boast an extraordinary aesthetic charm, proudly presenting their collection of 24 peaks. Regarded as the oldest mountain ranges in India, these hills cradle enchanting hill stations like Ooty, Coonoor, and Kotagiri. Embarking on a trek through these arresting hills elevates the experience, as steep slopes, pristine valleys, diverse flora and fauna, and cascading waterfalls captivate visitors with their allure.
Witnessing the sun's warm rays greet the hills during the day and the gentle embrace of moonlight enhancing their beauty at night creates a magical atmosphere. The expansive tea gardens, sprawling across acres of land, stand as a mesmerizing spectacle, leaving onlookers enchanted by the scenic panorama. Amidst this natural wonderland lies the Mudumalai National Park, a haven for a diverse array of wildlife, including Bengal tigers, elephants, Indian gaur, leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs, sambar deer, barking deer, langurs, mouse deer, and more. The Nilgiri Hills, with their harmonious blend of landscapes and biodiversity, offer an immersive journey into the lap of captivating beauty.
Top Attractions around Nilgiri Hills1. Ooty Beyond being a haven for visitors, Ooty unfolds as a destination with a rich history. Once a cherished summer retreat during the British Raj in India, Ooty graces the Nilgiris district in Tamil Nadu. Its consistently cool and soothing climate makes it a year-round attraction for tourists from diverse corners. Ooty's allure extends beyond its mountains and hills, offering a myriad of experiences to discerning travelers navigating the winding roads to its summit. From serene lakes, enchanting gardens, and picturesque parks to towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and an array of remarkable accommodation options, Ooty encapsulates a multifaceted charm. It's no surprise that Ooty has earned the moniker 'Switzerland of India,' given the grandeur of its scenic beauty, a quality for which the destination is widely celebrated.
2. Mudumalai National Park Located on the northwestern side of the Nilgiri Hills, the Mudumalai National Park is approximately 150 km northwest of Coimbatore city in the Kongu Nadu region of Tamil Nadu. Sharing its borders with Karnataka and Kerala, the sanctuary is divided into five ranges – Masinagudi, Thepakadu, Mudumalai, Kargudi, and Nellakota. The Best time to visit Mudumalai is during the winter, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the enchantments of the Nilgiri Hills.
This national park serves as a vital wildlife habitat, strategically positioned as a corridor between various protected areas, making it an integral component of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. To the north, it connects with Bandipur National Park and Nagarhole National Park, while to the west, it shares borders with the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. The southern corner is enriched by the presence of Mukurthi National Park and Silent Valley National Park. The Mudumalai National Park stands as a testament to the region's biodiversity and its crucial role in connecting and preserving various ecosystems within the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.
3. Nilgiri Mountain Railways Envision a train journey through this picturesque region, where Nature unfolds its finest vistas. This is the enchanting experience promised by the Nilgiri Mountain Railway. Affectionately known as the 'Toy Train,' this meter gauge railway, captures the imaginations of kids and adults alike. As it gracefully ascends the hills, the train offers a leisurely journey, allowing passengers to immerse themselves in the natural beauty surrounding them. The route winds through tunnels, along sharp edges, and through lush forested landscapes.
The Nilgiri Mountain Railway embarks on its journey from Mettupalayam, culminating in the scenic destination of Ooty. Along the way, it traverses through charming hill stations such as Coonoor, Wellington, Love Dale, and Fern Hill, each contributing to the allure of this memorable rail adventure.
4. Nilgiris Tea Estate Renowned primarily for its expansive tea estates, the Nilgiri Hills distinguish themselves by producing hot beverages year-round, a unique characteristic compared to other major tea-growing regions in India. The key tea varieties cultivated in these plantations are Black tea and Oolong, each offering distinctive aromas and flavors that set them apart from teas produced elsewhere in the country. This distinctiveness is attributed to the high altitudes of the Nilgiri tea plantations. Among the must-visit tea estates in the region are Craigmore, Pascoes Woodlands, Nonsuch Dunsanadale, Parkside, Glendale, Tiger Hill, Colacumby, and Corsley.