Anna Rajan explores Nilgiris, savouring the magic of tea gardens: Pictures

Malayalam actress Anna Rajan recently took a break to enjoy a rejuvenating holiday in the Nilgiris. The verdant tea estates, majestic mountains and serene nature truly captured her heart, if the pictures are anything to go by. She poses ecstatically with the lofty mountains in the background on her social media handle. Nilgiris is a perfect winter spot to enjoy a relaxing holiday in the company of scintillating nature.

The Nilgiris, which has been included in UNESCO’s World Heritage Site, is home to rare species of flora and fauna. The enchanting forest area that sprawls across the Aralam wildlife sanctuary, Silent Valley and Wayanad district in Kerala, Muthumalai, Mukkurthi and Sathyamangalam in Tamil Nadu, as well as Nagerhole and Bandipur in Karnataka, is part of the majestic Nilgiris. However, most travellers consider the hill station of Ooty and nearby places as Nilgiris, as most parts of the biosphere region are in the Nilgiri district in Tamil Nadu.

Paikkara Dam, Gudallur, Kotagiri, Coonoor, Manjoor and Muthumalai are some of the places that reflect the mesmerizing beauty of the Nilgiris. Ooty, meanwhile, is a dream destination for travel lovers from all over the world. The cool breeze and the fabulous views of nature keep luring you back to Ooty. Botanical Garden, Needle Rock Point, Shooting Point, Pine Forest and the Rose Garden are some of the top spots in Ooty, whose real name is Udagamandalam.

The path to the Paikkara Dam is as beautiful as the dam's vicinity. The giant trees on the sides of the road are home to chirping birds. Paikkara Dam, located in the Ooty – Gudallur route, is one of the first powerhouses in India. Interestingly, the construction of the Paikkara dam had begun before the independence. A boat house, a quaint rest room and an eatery have been arranged here for the visitors. Paikkara Dam is around 21 kilometres away from Ooty on the Gudallur route.

What to see in Gudallur
Gudallur is a beautiful town with great historical significance. The prisons from the British era, the tea museum, Needle Rock View Point and the cinchona tree garden are some highlights here. Gudallur is almost 50 kilometres away from Ooty. The breathtaking views of the enormous Nilgiris can be enjoyed from various viewpoints in Gudallur.

Kotagiri is the third largest hill station in the Nilgiris. Soothing weather and scintillating sceneries make this place a traveller’s haven. Lush tea plantations that spread a carpet of enchanting green hue along the slopes of the hills are the most amazing attraction here. Kotagiri, which is 38 kilometres from Ooty, does not have proper visitor accommodation facilities.

The toy train ride
A dreamy railway station from the past and a unique toy train ride awaits the tourists who visit Coonoor. Sim’s Park, Lamb’s Rock View Point and the waterfalls are some of the most visited places here. Those who travel to Coonoor shouldn’t miss the spectacular Catherine waterfalls, a preferred destination for adventure lovers. Meanwhile, the fruit show at Sim’s Park, where you could see more than 200 varieties of fruits from various parts of India, is a major highlight during the summer holiday season in May.

As the name suggests, Manjoor is the abode of snow and mist. Enjoying the delightful sights, you could happily roam around the streets that aren’t too crowded. Beautiful nature, lush greenery and soothing weather are what attract the tourists. Manjoor, with its countless hairpin curves and smooth roads, is the perfect place for driving enthusiasts to enjoy a fabulous road trip. Tourists need to book accommodation facilities in advance at the hotels in Manjoor, which is 35 kilometres away from Ooty.

Those who prefer to enjoy the charm of the forests could head to Muthumalai, which is 38 kilometres away from Ooty. You could reach Muthumalai by crossing the Kallattichuram mountain pass from Ooty. The mind-blowing road trip through the mesmerizing forest areas and the countryside of Masinagudi will surely grant you an unforgettable experience. Travelers can find lots of amazing accommodation facilities at Muthumalai and nearby places.