OOTY: GRANDEUR IN SIMPLICITY

A journey to Ooty-the 'Queen of Hill Stations'-from bustling metropolis can be described as a soothing retreat to tranquil tea gardens, mesmerising colonial charm, serene lakes, and a whole lot of other soulful encounters; writes Monjit P.

- writes Monjit P.

Ooty, the 'Queen of Hill Stations,' had always been a name whispered in awe among my circle of friends. Tucked away in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu, it had a reputation for pristine landscapes, aromatic tea plantations, and an air of serenity I desperately needed. So, one early summer morning, I packed my bags, dusted off my old camera, and set out to see if Ooty could live up to its grand title.

The journey began from Bangalore, a chaotic yet charming metropolis that often feels like a furnace in summer. I opted for a road trip, hoping the gradual climb into the hills would ease me into the tranquillity of Ooty. The drive through Bandipur National Park was an experience in itself. I remember slowing down near a stretch of dense forest where signs warned us to look out for wildlife. And sure enough, a majestic deer emerged from the underbrush, its antlers catching the dappled sunlight. It froze for a moment, as if contemplating the oddity of humans in metal contraptions, then darted back into the trees. That fleeting encounter felt like a sign - nature was waiting to welcome me.

As we ascended the Nilgiris, the air turned cooler, and the landscape morphed into a painter's dream. Rolling hills gave way to tea gardens, their neatly trimmed bushes resembling lush green carpets. Every turn of the winding road offered a new vista that seemed to demand a pause and a photograph. Somewhere along the way, we stopped at a roadside stall run by an elderly couple who served steaming chai in earthen cups. The tea, flavoured with the faintest hint of eucalyptus, was unlike anything I'd tasted before. The woman, noticing my curiosity, chuckled and explained it was made with leaves from their small plantation nearby. It was humbling to realise that this exquisite brew was just a part of their everyday life.