Nilgiris – The Blue Mountains

Nilgiris is a beautiful range of mountains in the western ghats of India stretching across the states of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Kerala in South India. The western ghats has many hill stations along its length which have always remained a great tourist attractions not only in South India but also for entire India. One among them is the world famous hill station ‘Ooty’ also known as the “Queen of Hills” is situated in Nilgiris District. It is one of the Districts of Tamil Nadu, a southern state in India. The height of the hills in the Blue Mountain range varies between 2,280 and 2,290 metres. The highest peak in the Nilgiri hill station is Doddabetta at a height of 2,623 metres. But for a visit to the National Park in Nilgiris and Wild life Sanctuaries in the western ghats, India tourism will be incomplete for a visitor.

Some of the best picnic spots of India are located here. The steep hills, sprawling valleys, long lines of waterfalls on the sides of steep hills falling down like white cotton and forming rivers and rivulets vading through the vast valleys below make this place a rich habitat for a variety of wild life.

Wild life in Nilgiris contributes to a major share in the total wild life in India. One of the major wildlife attractions in Nilgiri hills is spotting a Nilgiri Tahr (an endangered mountain goat). Elephants, deers, bisons, peacocks, panthers, hynas, bears, wild boars are some of the notable species in Nilgiris.

Nilgiris has to offer untouched natural mountains and forests which attracts trekkers from all over the world. Trekking is so famous in Nilgiris that it is also known as ‘Trekkers’ Paradise’. A trekking in these mountains will give you an insight into the variety of flora and fauna that this heavenly place has to offer.

Nilgiris is also known for its tea cultivation. The steep mountain sides, the climate, humidity are in right proportion to make the ‘Nilgiri Tea’ have a unique fragrance and flavour. The breathtaking views of the sprawling tea estates along the mountain plateaus look as if there is a green carpet on the hills welcoming the visitors.

The region around Nilgiri Hills is famous for its colorful culture. Every year numerous fairs and festivals are held here. Noted among them are 'Tea and Tourism Festival' and 'Summer Festival'. The Ministry of Tourism, Governments of the Tamil Nadu and the Government of India jointly organize the 'Tea and Tourism Festival' during the months of January-February. Held for 3 days, the festival provides you an opportunity to explore and taste wide varieties of tea available there.

Shopping in Nilgiris is a real charm and exciting. Ooty, the headquarters of Nilgirs, is a beautiful town with road side flower shops to big shopping malls with exclusive Nilgiri products including Nilgiri tea, Home-made chocolates, Fruits, natural oils like Eucalyptus oil, Toda embroideries, plant nurseries are easily available

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