Explore These 5 Heritage Spots For A Stroll Through The Enriching Lanes Of Ooty's Rich Past

What makes Ooty all the more fascinating is the fact that it is replete with history and heritage. And so, we bring to you some of the best heritage spots in Ooty that’ll make you travel through the old world charm of the British Raj!

1. Raj Bhawan

Picture Credits: Balamurugan Raju

Built in 1877 by the Duke of Buckingham for his official visit, and a ballroom added in 1900 by Sir Arthur Havelock, this Government House features portraits of George V, Mary, Queen Victoria, Duke of Buckingham and various governors. The Bhawan has some fascinating ornamental gardens spread across about 9 acres and a rich lawn sprawled over 3 acres; this marvel is a real piece of beauty!

Location | Government Houses, Vannarapettai

2. WH Ferrnhills Royale Palace

The erstwhile summer residence of the Maharaja of Mysore, Ferrnhills Royale Palace was built in 1844 by Capt. F. Cotton. Spread over an area of 50 acres, the palace boasts of some stylized gardens and dense woods alongside spectacular views of terraced tea gardens and lush verdant valleys. Now converted into a hotel, the Fernhills Palace has around 19 regal suites, sitting rooms, dressing rooms, spacious baths with jacuzzis and a splendid multi cuisine dining area!

Location | Fernhills Post, Nilgiris
Browse Through Their Website | https://www.welcomheritagehotels.in/hotel-details/fernhills-palace-ooty

3. Stone House

Picture Credits: Shajahan Thathanampally

Ooty Stone House, earlier known as the Kal Bangala, is the very first bunglow of Ooty which was built using stones. What’s fascinating about the place is that this land was bought from the local tribes - the Todas, at a price of Re 1 per acre of land in 1822! Built on a picturesque location, the Stone House is now the official residence of the Principal of the Government Arts College.

Location | Stone House Area, Thalayathimund
Timings | 10 AM - 5 PM

4. St. Stephen’s Church

One of the oldest churches of the Nilgiris in Ooty - the St. Stephen’s Church was founded in the 19th century under the British Raj. It was built to coincide with the birthday of King George IV. The main beam and all the required timber were taken from Tipu Sultan's palace after the British defeated him in the Mysore War. Its dainty wooden architecture including the painting of the ‘Last Supper’ will leave you captivated!

Location | Club Road, Upper Bazaar
Timings | 10 AM - 1 PM & 3 - 5 PM (Closed On Sundays)

5. MRC Golf Club

Colonel Fane Sewell, the then Secretary of the Blue Mountains Tennis and Cricket Club, formed the golf course in March 1891, which initially comprised of 9 holes. Set at an altitude of 7,200 feet and spread over 193 acres, the course now consists of 18 holes, with 9 being blind shots due to the rolling landscape. One can also witness fox hunts at the 13th hole which dates back to 1847! 

Location | Golf Course Road, Finger Post

These resplendent places are sure to leave you spellbound!