Indian rural areas, exemplified by villages like Ullada in Ooty, offer a serene, pollution-free ambiance, making them ideal for tourism. The rural tourism accentuates local art, culture, heritage, and lifestyles, and other facets of rural life. The pillars of rural tourist operations include population densities, agriculture and forestry-dominated landscapes, traditional structures, rural lifestyle, heritage, and nature. Recently, Ullada village in the Nilgiri district gained acclaim as the best tourist village nationwide, recognized for its robust infrastructure, art, culture, cuisine, security, and tourism-friendly environment. Situated in the largest valley in Asia, the Kethi Valley, Ullada village boasts a unique Badaga culture, cuisine, and lifestyle. The village has become a focal point for tourists seeking an authentic rural experience.
Acknowledged by the Union Government in the Bronze category on February 27, 2023, Ullada, a tribal village with 720 residents, stands out for its agriculture-centric lifestyle, particularly tea cultivation and mountain vegetation. The introduction of special mountain train services between Ooty and Kethi has catalyzed tourism in Ullada, promising to boost the village's economy.
Mudumalai National Park: Mudumalai National Park located in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu, India, is a renowned wildlife sanctuary and tiger reserve. Located about 53 km from Ullada, the park is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and numerous bird species. Visitors can experience wildlife safaris, offering a chance to witness the natural beauty and biodiversity of this protected area. Conduct your research about the nearby attractions to map out how to plan Mudumalai.
Doddabetta Peak: Doddabetta, translating to 'Big Mountain' in the Badaga language, stands as the highest peak in the Nilgiris range. Situated at the convergence of the Eastern and Western Ghats, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of verdant landscapes. Tourists flock to the Telescope House established by the Tourism Department at the summit, providing a sweeping bird's eye view of the entire district. Accessible by both walking and car, the mountain top treats visitors to stunning vistas, encompassing Chamundi Hills, the grassy plains of Mysore and Coimbatore. From Doddabetta Peak, one can even glimpse the forests of Bandipur National Park, creating an exhilarating experience for adventure enthusiasts and trekkers amidst the captivating natural beauty.
Avalanche Lake: Avalanche Lake stands as the prime attraction in Ooty, particularly celebrated among nature enthusiasts and photographers. Nestled in a captivating landscape adorned with beautiful flowers and waterfalls, the lake earned its name from a landslide in 1823, not an avalanche as the misnomer suggests. The natural formation of the lake resulted from this event. At Avalanche Lake, visitors can partake in mountain trekking, rafting, and trout fishing, offering a range of outdoor activities in this picturesque setting.
Coonoor: Coonoor, the second-largest hill station in the Western Ghats, is renowned for its captivating landscapes adorned with tea plantations. Its pleasant weather year-round makes it an ideal getaway, attracting tourists who were introduced to the area's charm by the British in the 17th century. Nestled in the Nilgiri hills, Coonoor boasts lush greenery, creating a picturesque setting for activities such as trekking and hiking. Visitors can experience the scenic toy train ride connecting Coonoor with other Nilgiri Hills hill stations. Key attractions for Coonoor sightseeing include Sim's Park, Toy Train Ride, Droog Fort, Law's Falls, and Dolphin's Nose.
Tiger Hill: Tiger Hill presents a captivating panorama from a vantage point nestled near the base of Doddabetta Peak. At its summit, a water reservoir and a cave, steeped in local legends, add to the charm. The sunrise at Tiger Hill is a renowned spectacle, drawing early morning travellers from distant places, while the sunsets offer a more subdued yet equally beautiful view of the valley. For adventure seekers, embarking on a Tiger Hill trek is a thrilling proposition. Whether visitors seek the magic of dawn or the tranquility of dusk, experiencing Tiger Hill's scenic vistas is an essential part of everyone's itinerary in this region.