Introduction: A Journey to the Queen of Hills

Nestled in the lush Nilgiri Hills, Ooty and Coonoor have long been among South India’s most enchanting destinations. With their rolling tea gardens, misty mornings, and colonial charm, these hill stations are ideal for anyone seeking peace and rejuvenation.

For me, this trip was years in the making. Having visited Tirupur multiple times for work, I had always heard about the breathtaking beauty of Ooty and Coonoor but never found the time to visit. Finally, an opportunity presented itself — and I decided to extend my business trip by four days to explore these picturesque hill towns.

Even though most people recommend visiting Ooty between March and June, I chose to travel in late July, right in the middle of the monsoon season. It turned out to be one of the best travel decisions I’ve ever made — especially because I stayed at Nature Valley Stay, a cozy luxury homestay perched amid the hills with panoramic views of Ooty town.

Getting There: From Coimbatore to Ooty

Since Ooty and Coonoor don’t have their own airports, the nearest one is Coimbatore International Airport, about 100 km away. My early morning flight landed at Coimbatore by mid-morning. A friend had advised me to book a radio cab instead of a prepaid taxi from the airport — the fare difference was nearly half.

However, I decided to take a more local and scenic route. Instead of hiring a cab, I boarded a state bus from Mettupalayam Road Terminus to Ooty. There’s a bus every 30 minutes, making it a convenient and affordable option for solo travelers.

The journey took around four and a half hours, winding through lush green landscapes, waterfalls, and misty mountain roads. The monsoon had painted everything emerald — the trees, the tea gardens, even the air felt fresh and alive.

Halfway through, the driver stopped twice for refreshments. I bought a cup of steaming filter coffee and spicy bhajjis, the perfect combo for a rainy hill journey. The narrow, curvy roads and occasional fog added adventure to the ride.

Arrival in Ooty: First Impressions

Before reaching Ooty, I called Nature Valley Stay to confirm my pickup. The staff was courteous and promptly arranged for their driver to meet me at the Ooty Bus Stand.

As we drove up to the homestay, the view became more breathtaking with every turn. Located on a gentle hillside overlooking the town, Nature Valley Stay offered panoramic views of Ooty’s lush valleys and misty horizons.

When I stepped onto the balcony of my room, the sight was magical — rolling hills partially hidden by clouds, raindrops trickling down leaves, and the faint aroma of eucalyptus in the air. The cool monsoon breeze made it even better.

By evening, the town below twinkled with lights, and the distant hills disappeared into fog. I knew right then — this was going to be a memorable stay.

Day 1: Exploring Ooty Town

Since I arrived by afternoon, I decided to spend my first evening casually exploring Ooty town. The homestay had tied up with local transport services — two taxis and a fixed auto rickshaw were available for guests. I opted for the auto to get a more local feel.

My first stop was the main market area, lined with cozy chocolate shops. Ooty’s homemade chocolates are legendary — from dark fudge to fruit-filled varieties, there’s something for every sweet tooth. I bought a small box to savor later by the window at Nature Valley Stay.

The weather turned cloudy and chilly by early evening, so I had an early dinner at a nearby restaurant before heading back. The peaceful silence of the hills, broken only by distant thunder, made it a perfect night in.

Day 2: Day Trip to Coonoor

After a restful night, I woke up to the gentle sound of rain tapping on the window. The team at Nature Valley Stay had already arranged my breakfast through one of their restaurant partners. Within 20 minutes, a delicious hot South Indian breakfast — idlis, vadas, and filter coffee — arrived at my door.

I had booked a cab for a full-day sightseeing trip covering Coonoor and nearby attractions. The drive from Ooty to Coonoor was scenic, with mist swirling over tea gardens and eucalyptus groves lining the road.

The driver stopped midway at Valley Viewpoint, a beautiful spot overlooking the terraced slopes dotted with colorful houses. It was a perfect photo opportunity. However, I was reminded of how some tourists risk their lives for selfies near steep edges — a habit best avoided in such slippery conditions.

Coonoor Adventures Begin: Wellington and Sim’s Park

Entering Coonoor felt like stepping into a quieter, greener version of Ooty. The driver took a route passing through the Wellington Cantonment Area, where photography is restricted due to military presence.

Soon, we arrived at the Wellington Golf Course, one of the most scenic golf courses in India. Stretching across lush green meadows surrounded by misty hills, it looked straight out of a postcard.

Next, I headed to Sim’s Park, Coonoor’s famous botanical garden. Spread across 12 hectares, it houses over 1,000 species of plants and trees, including the rare Queensland Karri Pine and Rudraksha trees. Small ponds, walking trails, and vibrant flower beds made it a refreshing stop.

There were information boards near each tree, describing their origin and unique characteristics — making it not just scenic but also educational.

Lamb’s Rock and Dolphin’s Nose: The Iconic Viewpoints

From Sim’s Park, we drove toward Lamb’s Rock, about 8 km away. The path leading up to it was steep and surrounded by thick forests. Some locals were managing entry and charging a small fee. Though it felt unofficial, I decided to go ahead — after all, I had come this far.

A short 10-minute hike brought me to the viewpoint. The panoramic view of the Coonoor Valley below was mesmerizing — layers of mist, waterfalls in the distance, and endless shades of green.

Next up was Dolphin’s Nose Viewpoint, about 15 minutes away. The viewpoint gets its name from a natural rock formation shaped like a dolphin’s nose. From here, I could also spot Catherine Falls cascading down the hills in the distance.

Ponies were available for short rides, adding a fun local touch to the place.

Lunch Stop at La Belle Vie

For lunch, I stopped at La Belle Vie, a charming restaurant known for its views and continental menu. While the ambiance was delightful, the service was a bit slow — a reminder that hill stations move at their own relaxed pace. The pizza I ordered was average, but the view more than made up for it.

Evening at Nature Valley Stay: A Cozy Retreat

By evening, I returned to Nature Valley Stay, tired but content. The mist had thickened, and raindrops glistened on the balcony railings. I ordered hot tea, wrapped myself in a blanket, and watched the fog roll in.

The peaceful surroundings, personalized service, and scenic location made me realize why Nature Valley Stay is often called one of the best homestays in Ooty. It’s ideal for solo travelers, couples, and families alike — anyone seeking comfort and tranquility away from crowded tourist spots.

Day 3: Leisure and Nilgiri Mountain Train

On my third day, I finally got to experience something I had been waiting for — the Nilgiri Mountain Railway. I had managed to reserve my ticket for the return journey from Ooty to Mettupalayam.

This UNESCO World Heritage train is one of India’s most iconic rides, offering spectacular views of the Nilgiris through tunnels, bridges, and dense forests. The rhythmic chugging of the blue-and-cream train through the mist felt straight out of a movie scene.

After the train ride, I spent the afternoon exploring local tea factories, sampling different tea varieties and learning about the tea-making process.

Reflections on My Ooty & Coonoor Trip

Visiting Ooty and Coonoor in the monsoon might not be the “ideal season” according to travel guides, but it turned out to be a magical experience. The hills were at their greenest, the waterfalls at their fullest, and the crowds were pleasantly fewer.

What made it even more special was my stay at Nature Valley Stay. Unlike typical hotels, it felt personal — like staying with family. From the scenic views to the friendly staff and cozy rooms, everything reflected the warmth of the Nilgiris.

If you’re planning a peaceful getaway to Ooty or Coonoor, skip the commercial hotels and choose a homestay that lets you experience local hospitality and nature up close.

Why Choose Nature Valley Stay

 Panoramic hill views from every room

 Complimentary breakfast with local delicacies

 Easy access to major tourist attractions

 Peaceful location away from the crowds

 Luxury rooms designed for comfort

 Ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers

Nature Valley Stay combines the best of both worlds — the comfort of modern amenities and the charm of homely hospitality. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend trip or a long stay in the Nilgiris, this is your perfect home away from home.

FAQs About Visiting Ooty and Staying at Nature Valley Stay

1. What is the best time to visit Ooty and Coonoor?

The ideal time is from March to June (summer) and September to November (post-monsoon). However, the monsoon months (July–August) offer lush green landscapes and fewer crowds, perfect for a peaceful retreat.

2. How far is Nature Valley Stay from Coimbatore Airport?

Nature Valley Stay is about 100 km (3.5–4 hours) from Coimbatore International Airport. You can reach Ooty by taxi, bus, or the Nilgiri Mountain Train from Mettupalayam.

3. What makes Nature Valley Stay unique among Ooty homestays?

It offers a blend of luxury comfort and homely warmth, panoramic hill views, and personalized service — making it one of the best homestays in Ooty.

4. Are there good sightseeing spots near Nature Valley Stay?

Yes! Popular attractions like Ooty Lake, Botanical Garden, Doddabetta Peak, Coonoor, Lamb’s Rock, and Sim’s Park are easily accessible.

5. Does Nature Valley Stay provide food or kitchen access?

Yes, Nature Valley Stay has tie-ups with local restaurants that deliver hot meals directly to your room. Guests can enjoy freshly prepared South Indian and Continental dishes.