During our recent visit to Ooty, I could gather some interesting facts- courtesy Sterling Resorts.

The usage of the word “Nilgiri” has been observed since 1117 CE. According to the folklore, the blue colour of the “Neelakurinji” flowers that abundantly grow in the valleys of this region gave rise to the name “Nilgiri”, literally meaning “Blue Mountain”.

In 1834 tea plants were grown in Nilgiris from seeds brought from China. Nilgiris tea, commonly known as the fragrant one, is mostly grown in high elevations. The tea here tastes of Mint, Lemon and Eucalyptus, as they are grown among other trees like Eucalyptus, Blue Gum and Cypress.

Ooty is the birthplace of snooker. British Army Lieutenant Neville Chamberlain is credited as the inventor of snooker. The rules of the game were solidified in 1875 when he was posted in Ooty. Amateur or rookie cadets of the Military Academy were called as “Snookers”, hence the name.

“Ootacamund” got its name from the green bamboo found in the forests. According to the local folklore, Whotakai(y)mund means the way to the village made of green bamboos.

Whota: Way/bamboo species found in forests of Ooty;    Kai: Fruit/ green stuff; Mund: Village

Todas are the most ancient tribe of the Nilgiris hill. They worship nature and have a rich art heritage. They revered several sacred stones on the hills. It is said that tradition gave rise to the name “Ootaco” or single stone. From this may be the name of Ootacamund derived. Some say the name was derived from the Toda word “Othakal-mund”, which means “House in the mountains”