To the Queen of Hills

Sterling Elk Hill

The roads looked so chiseled all the way up the hill to Sterling Elk Hill hotel, winding through the lush greenery that surrounded us. As we ascended, the narrow road led us deeper into the heart of nature, with towering trees on either side, their leaves rustling in the breeze. Along the way, I even spotted a cabbage field, neatly aligned with cabbages growing at equidistant intervals, their creepers encapsulating each cabbage, awaiting to be plucked. The journey was nothing short of scenic, offering a glimpse of the serenity and beauty that awaited us at the hotel, perched on the tranquil Nilgiri Hills.

As we entered, the waiting lounge was adorned with crisp, warm lighting that illuminated the space, creating an atmosphere of luxury, complemented by the soft blend of Karnatic music in the morning. The lounge extended into a waiting area, where we waited for our rooms to get ready, a neat deck of newspapers and magazines was available for guests. On one side of the hall, there was a massive 3D model of Ooty, with all the important destinations marked, adding an interactive touch to the ambiance.

As we were ushered down the open corridor, we were greeted by a refreshing breeze, chilled by the towering hills that surrounded us on either side. The crisp, cool air of Ooty added to the serene ambiance. The terrace even featured a charming chai counter, which was set to open later, inviting guests to unwind with a warm cup of tea. The terrace led to the lift, and we descended two floors to our room.

The room was intimate and snug, with a plush bed that promised a restful stay. Through the window, we were treated to a view of the dense flora, with vibrant flower beds arranged in cascading patterns, enhancing the beauty of the landscape. It was an idyllic setting.

Soon after refreshing ourselves, we set out to satisfy our hunger. The dining room, located at the end of the left corridor before the reception area, had a cozy, intimate atmosphere, with chairs neatly aligned on four sides of most tables. It also boasted a parallel balcony with additional seating, allowing us to enjoy our meals while relishing the refreshing breeze. The food spread was a delightful mix, offering a typical buffet breakfast that featured both continental and South Indian delicacies, including live counters for dosas and omelette.

 A game room was featured with carrom, chess, table tennis, and other board games, providing a perfect way to unwind. Every corner of Sterling Elk Hill exuded comfort and luxury, offering an unforgettable experience in the heart of Ooty.

Moddys Chocolates

Moddy’s Chocolates was a bustling chocolate haven, more like a large bakery dedicated to everything chocolatey. Drawn in by the inviting aroma of cocoa, I approached the owner, who was busy attending to a few customers but paused to share a moment with me. When I asked about the brand’s origins, he proudly recounted its rich history. Established in 1951, Moddy’s began as a small endeavor to bring premium handmade chocolates to Ooty and has since grown into a renowned name synonymous with quality and flavor. What made the experience even more special was knowing that every single chocolate in the store belonged to their homegrown brand—a true testament to their passion for authenticity.

One of the most captivating sights in the shop was the three large transparent containers continuously churning velvety chocolate. Watching the glossy liquid swirl rhythmically was mesmerizing, a live showcase of the freshness and dedication behind each creation.

The shop offered more than just chocolates. Ice creams, milk drinks, hot chocolates, and gooey brownies adorned the shelves alongside the pyramids of chocolates, all perfectly stacked. It felt like one accidental nudge could send the whole structure tumbling! The variety and vibrancy of the place were a treat in themselves, making Moddy’s an irresistible stop for anyone with a sweet tooth. Satiated by the sweetness, we set out on a leisurely walk, eager to discover the rustic charm of Blue Hills Restaurant.

Hotel Blue Hills

Hotel Blue Hills was one of the best dining spots in the area. The pleasant stroll, amidst the cool breeze and scenic views of Ooty, set the perfect tone for what was to come. As we entered the restaurant, I was immediately taken by the unique, rustic interior—walls lined with dry grass mats that gave the place a homely, earthy vibe. It felt like stepping into a warm, welcoming space, where nature met comfort.

The moment we sat down and ordered, the aromas from the kitchen started teasing our senses. When the Wellington Parotta arrived, its golden, flaky layers immediately caught my attention. As I took my first bite, the crispy parotta, paired with the rich mutton curry, was simply melt-in-your-mouth delicious. It was a perfect blend of textures and spices, so comforting and satisfying.

We also tried the Mutton Biryani, which was light yet full of flavor, topped with crispy fried onions. Each bite was a delicate balance of subtle spices and fragrant rice, offering the kind of hearty yet light meal that I’ve come to associate with authentic South Indian cuisine. It was truly one of those meals that lingers in your memory, not just for the flavors but for the warm, inviting atmosphere of Blue Hills Restaurant. This was a place where every bite felt like a genuine expression of the region's culinary charm.

The Periodic Table

As I was searching for a romantic spot for a special evening, I stumbled upon The Periodic Table restaurant on Google. The reviews and photos instantly caught my attention, promising the perfect atmosphere for a memorable dinner. I didn’t hesitate and immediately called the place to book a table,

The food!

It was a dreamy evening, one of those rare moments when life feels perfect. The charm of the restaurant glowed in its warm ambiance, and to our surprise, we had the entire place to ourselves. I had meticulously planned this evening with the help of Mr. Jeeva, whose exceptional support made the surprise for my husband truly special. Every detail, from the ambiance to the carefully selected dishes from the menu, had been chosen to create a resplendent dining experience.

Life is but a celebration of moments, a collection of fleeting joys and quiet triumphs. It is in reconnecting with your partner after each storm, finding solace in their presence, and knowing that love endures beyond the tempests. Through laughter, through silence, through the simple act of being together, we rediscover the beauty of love—ever resilient, ever profound.

For love begins like a downpour, where emotions surge like waves against the shore, quenching the arid land of longing. But love is also the stillness that follows—the quiet presence that lingers when the storm has passed. Let me sit here while the world collapses around us, for in this moment, I have you, and that is enough.

We were served by a graceful waitress, her presence subtle yet attentive, as the occasional clinking of luxurious dinnerware filled the air. The soft melodies of his favorite songs played in the background, each note weaving through the evening like a gentle reminder of our journey. With every song, a memory surfaced—a moment in time where I had fallen for him all over again, reliving the love that had only grown deeper with time.

I am unsure if I could ever recreate something like this again, but I know this evening will forever remain etched in my heart—a perfect symphony of love, warmth, and togetherness.

Pykaar

Drawn by the promise of serene landscapes and peaceful surroundings, we booked a package to experience the beauty of the Pykaar.

Far from the madding crowd, we were craving a calm and peaceful getaway, so we decided to book a package to Pykara. The allure of the serene surroundings, the promise of nature's tranquility, and the chance to disconnect from the hustle and bustle made it the perfect escape. The walk to Pykara Falls was a long but serene journey, immersing us fully in the natural calmness of the surroundings. As we made our way through the lush greenery, the sound of the cascading water grew louder, guiding us closer to the falls. Upon reaching the spot, the water was hitting and trickling down the rocks in a beautiful, rhythmic flow. The sight of the water splashing over the rocks, surrounded by dense foliage, was truly mesmerizing. The cool mist from the falls added to the refreshing atmosphere, making it a peaceful and rejuvenating experience, far removed from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The entire trip to Pykara was a perfect blend of nature, relaxation, and adventure, offering a much-needed retreat into nature's embrace.

After enjoying the falls, the driver halted at a viewpoint, where we climbed up a hill-like slope to reach the summit. The effort was well worth it as we were greeted with a breathtaking panoramic view. From the top, we could see the vast expanse of the lush Nilgiri hills, dotted with forests and valleys stretching as far as the eye could see. The cool breeze and the stunning landscape made the climb feel even more rewarding, offering a perfect opportunity to pause, reflect, and appreciate the beauty of nature surrounding us.

This was followed by speed boating in Pykara Lake, which was both exciting and sporty. As the boat zipped through the water, there was a perfect blend of thrill and chill that kept us on the edge, with the wind rushing past us. The ride had a way of tickling our stomachs with every sharp turn, adding an element of fun and adventure to our peaceful retreat. It was the perfect way to wrap up the day, combining the calmness of the lake with the rush of adrenaline, making for a truly memorable experience.

Ooty Toy Train

Ooty Toy Train

We arrived at the toy train, excited and eager for the adventure ahead. Though the journey down would only take an hour, we were determined to experience one of the most beautiful train rides in India. Waterfalls cascaded down the hills, their glistening streams cutting through the vivid greenery—so vibrant it almost hurt my eyes. The gentle thud of the wheels reminded us of the toy trains at a carnival, adding a whimsical touch to the historic ride. Even the gloom that encapsulated us, with mist swirling around the hills, only added to the charm of the journey. And with no doubt, it was well maintained, ensuring that every moment of the ride felt as magical and timeless as the landscape itself.