There is a painful certainty in the Indian tourism industry – where there is demand, there seldom is sufficient supply. The all-famous Ooty is no exception. Referred to as “the queen of hills” and the “blue mountains”, Ooty bites more than it can chew, all year, every year. Being the district headquarters and the hub, it is already overpopulated for its size. And counting the flocking tourists, resources and amenities are scarce in this place most of the time and ends up being too expensive. Here is how you can have a great holiday in Ooty without burning your wallet much.
First things first – Do not travel during the peak season. Not only is it expensive, but also because rather than being a holiday with nature, peak season trips usually become holidays with strange people, a lot of people. It is almost like a huge shopping mall, only more open. So plan your trip when the least amount of crowd is expected – June – November & Feb – March. The parks and gardens may not have all the colors they have in the peak season, but they offer more serene natural experience at these times.
Avoid staying in cottages that are built downtown! Seriously, the idea of cottages used to be privacy and an undisturbed experience. So are the residential hotels. These days, noticing the growing demand commercial properties are set up in the CBD and are charged outrageously. If you are paying much, then you deserve much. If these cottages are in hills like Fern Hill, Elk Hill, Bombay Castle, Sheddon Road, Lovedale, Old Ooty, Tiger Hills etc. then you could count them to be ideal. They are close to the town but not too close. Hotels in the commercial region are for less-leisure stay. They are business-like and not expensive during off-seasons.
Think before spending on food. As someone who was born and raised in Ooty and as a frequent traveler after moving out of it, I guarantee you that Ooty is not for foodies. Very limited North Indian food is available. Even a decent South Indian is not very easy to get. Chinese and tandoors are quite good. But do not fall for ambiances and walk into a restaurant expecting magic. You’ll be disappointed. The only good thing is, the vegetables they cook with are always fresh and mostly because they are homegrown they are very tasty and healthy.
Shopping & Sightseeing – Do not take sightseeing trips. Instead, hire a cab and tell them to take you to places you tell them. And shop less in the seducing places like the charing-cross, commercial road etc. You should ultimately not avoid it, it is part of the experience, but shop less there. Check out the non-touristy places like the market.
