Cairn Hill Reserve Forest Ooty,History,Timing,Address,Contact Number,images,Best time to visit
Cairn Hill Ooty Reserve Forest :
Cairn Hill came into
existence in the 1860s when it was developed as an eco-tourism site by the
British,Reminiscence of the British Era ,
The forests of Cairn Hill are spread over 168 hectares and have a few of the original surviving cypress plantations in the Nilgiris (planted in 1868) from the British era.
The name 'Cairn Hill' has
been derived from the English word 'cairn' which means 'a mound of rough stones
built as a memorial or landmark, typically on a hilltop'.
Originally, the hillock
was a prehistoric burial site of the tribes and had a pile of stone accumulated
at the top for the same, It is said that the Todas and the Kurumbas used to
build such cairns.
However, the site is
popular because of its serene, natural beauty. The woods are spread over an
area of 168 hectares ,It is one of the oldest converted forests in the Upper
Nilgiris Plateau, This eco-center has an interpretation center and an
orchidarium.
The highlight of the spot
is a trekking trail that is at the center was one of the few original walks
enjoyed by the Britishers,the attraction, that is a calling for the several
tourists, enthusiasts and nature lovers for its solitude and picturesque setting.
Undertaking this soulful
trek is one of the prime things to do at Cairn Hill,In addition to that, it has
a watchtower which can let you enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding hills
and facilities available jeep safari activities
.
Things to Do at Cairn Hill :
Birdwatching :
Nilgiris is considered
the hotspot when it comes to exotic avifauna and bird species.
Haven for the
birdwatchers and nature lovers, the place is a breeding ground and home to some
of the most exotic species of the birds
which include Amur
Falcon, Pied Bushchat, Canary Flycatcher, White Throated Kingfisher, Kestrel,
Black and Orange Flycatcher, Crested Serpent Eagle, Indian Hornbill, Malabar
Pied Hornbill etc.
Trekking :
Known to be a perfect
place to trek and hike, the Cairn Hill has a popular trekking trail in the
heart of the property which was earlier used as the walking trail by the
Britishers.
There are several treks
conducted across the same route which takes you through a dreamland of dense
woods, filtering sunlight,
dainty brooks and
innumerous flora and fauna,The route followed is Interpretation Centre to Watch
Tower to Bird Watching area and back.
Watch Tower:
The prime objective of
the Watch Tower is no doubt to offer beautiful panoramic vistas of the
surrounding beauty- the mountains and the emerald forests and a 360 degree
bird’s eye view of the valley from the vantage point.
However, besides the
tourists, it is also used by the management to spot forest fires, animal
movements, unnatural activity in the nearby woods, watching birds and nearby
attractions like Parson’s and Avalanche etc.
Safari :
Cairn Hill has the
facility to book private in- house vehicles to go on a safari of the area.
The safari takes you
through routes unexplored where you can admire and adore the magnanimous
natural beauty and luscious scenery.
Through hills and
valleys, woods and meadows, the safari offers views which are truly a visual
treat.
Stay- in in the Eco Huts :
The premises also house
eco- friendly tourist huts and you can experience the joy of staying in one of
these properties amidst dense woods and bounteous nature.
Tribal Products Exhibition :
You can also browse
through an assortment of products made by the tribals which are put on sale
here.
Some of the items include
wicker basket, wood works, local candles etc. Purchase some to take back home
with you as souvenirs.
Hanging Bridge Walk :
Cairn Hill has a hanging
bridge within the premises and taking a walk atop the bridge is one amongst the
most thrilling and entertaining activities available at the site.
Make sure you climb up
this bridge and cross it atleast once while you are there.
Eco-Shop :
Eco- Shop is the souvenir
shop at Cairn Hill which sells little knick knacks and cutesy stuff which is
all made from eco- friendly material. You browse through the products and pick
some up to take back home with you.
Canteen :
The canteen at Cairn Hill
sells simple but delicious food, all very reasonably priced.
And while you are here,
you should definitely try and taste some of it.
Cairn Hill, Ooty Timings:
6 AM - 6 PM
Cairn Hill, Ooty Entry Fees :
Rs. 20 for Adults, Rs. 10 for Children,
Rs. 10 for Car, Rs. 50 for Bus,
RS. 350 for Trekking & Rs. 1350 for Eco - Cottage
Cairn Hill Ooty Address :
5 kilometres away from Udhagamandalam, MDR1071, West Mere, Ooty, Tamil Nadu 643004, India.
Previous
Post -
Older Post - https://travelguideplan.blogspot.com/2022/05/ooty-thread-garden.html
Thanks For Reading