Udagamandalam – the Queen of Hill Stations

Udagamandalam is located in the Western Ghats zone at an altitude of 2240 m. It is the headquarters of the Nilgiri District, where the two mountain ranges meet. Udagamandalam, popularly called Ooty by the tourist, is the Queen of Hill Stations, Centuries ago this was also called as Oththai-Kai[single stone] Mandu [ Mund is a name of Toda Village]. The British started calling it as Ootacamund. Coffee and Tea plantations and trees like Conifers, Eucalyptus, Pine and Wattle dot the hill side in Udagamandalam and its environs. Summer temperature is maximum of 25°C and a minimum of 10°C. During the winter it is a maximum of 21°C and a minimum of 5°C .This area was inhabited by the tribals called Toda long before anybody ventured into this region . Curiously enough, this slice of paradise remained unknown even during the periods of the great Southern Dynasties. It was the British who ventured into the region during early nineteenth century. In search of copier climates development and modernization took place after their arrival . This was the summer Capital of the Madras Presidency during the British Rule. It is the pride of the Blue Hills and center of attraction. This was formed by Mr.John Sullivan, the then Collector of Coimbatore in the year 1824. This is located in an area of 65 acres. Fishing was the major activity in this place. In the year 1973, Tourism Development Corporation, Government of Tamilnadu, on behalf of the Tourism Department took possession of this place for Boating activity , which provides another thrilling entertainment for the tourists.