If Bangalore heat is too overbearing, then a weekend in Ooty is your best destination.Ooty is better captured in memories than in pictures.The image of white clouds descending on blue peaks, remains etched in your mind, making this an unforgettable experience.The journey to the hill station through Bandipur and Madumallai National Parks is a small vacation in itself.As you leave the dust and heat of the city behind, a range of tiny peaks craning their necks come into view.If you are lucky, then you will also spot a few wild animals in the national parks.Before the steep climb to Ooty starts, you can stop at a small chai shop.Rain drops glisten on the already wet roads and the dark brown sweet liquid gives you a sense of wellness.After the chai you can also try the boiled corn or 'Kuccha aam' sprinkled with spices.The thirty six hairpin bends to Ooty is an exciting experience for adventurers but if you have motion sickness, then you should take some prior precautions as the steep climb can spoil the journey for you.Instead of running around like tourists, trying to do exactly what the website told you, just sit with a cup of hot masala chai in front of the boundless tea estates with the Nilgiris as the backdrop.Automatically you will go into a meditative state, your mind no more a prison of thoughts.Ooty can be breathed in best at six in the morning, when the sun is still asleep and the mountains are a darker shade of blue, a child's painting where the paint strokes have no direction.A walk in the Botanical Gardens is recommended at the early hour.The colourful flowers are still yawning from their slumber and their morning fragrance fills the air, soaking the atmosphere in perfume.After a round of the flower beds, you can head towards the Governor's house.Its a steep climb up with the clouds making the scene a little hazy.On the way you encounter tiny villages and variety of exotic flora bathed in the morning due.A ride in the toy train from Ooty to Coonoor is a must for all.The high pitched nasal whistle of the train and the cloud of smoke takes you back to the 'black and white' era.The train snakes through mountains.You are lucky, if you secure the window seat as the magnificent view of the Nilgiris is not to be missed.Once in Coonoor, you can opt for a taxi or a bus which will show you the local attractions like tea estates and the tiny market in the heart of the town.Don't forget to get a bag of exotic white or green tea on your way out.On your way to Ooty you can buy hill vegetables like carrots sprinkled with spices to pamper your taste buds.A stop at Lovdale is also a good option if you are not time constrained.In the afternoon, instead of retiring to your hotel, take a walk in the Ooty bazaar.Homemade chocolates remain the biggest attraction amongst tourists.You can try a variety of chocolates from King Star, one of the oldest chocolate shops in Ooty located on the Commercial Road in the Bazaar.If you deviate a little from the main road (Commercial Road) you can spot small leather shops, which sell smart pure leather bags, shoes and belts at reasonable prices.A lot of shops also sell 'Toda' jewellery which they claim is made by the Toda tribe.This may not be a good buy as the jewellery is over priced.If you have always pictured yourself playing golf with mountain ranges in the background, then Ooty Gymkhana serves as the perfect evening destination.Built in the British era the club has the old rustic charm.If you are not a member then don't fret.By paying Rs 1000 you can play golf in the beautiful golf course with the Kundah Ranges as the backdrop. You can also stay in the historical club for Rs 2200 per night. Ooty has two sides. Its a busy cluttered hill station for the usual tourists. But if you dare to be different, Ooty will take you by surprise.If you still haven't explored the other side, then the beauty beckons you.
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