Ooty, or Udhagamandalam, is the capital of the Nilgiris district in Tamil Nadu and one of the most popular hill stations in India. It is known for its scenic beauty, pleasant climate, and rich biodiversity. It is also a city of golf, with one of the oldest and most scenic golf courses in the country.
Ootacamund Gymkhana Golf Club
The Ootacamund Gymkhana Golf Club (OGGC) is the oldest golf club in South India and one of the finest natural golf courses in the world. It was founded in 1896 by a group of British officers and civilians who wanted to enjoy the game of golf in the high altitude. The club is situated on the rolling Wenlock Downs at a height of 7000 feet above sea level, and covers an area of 193 acres.
The OGGC is an 18-hole par-70 course that measures 6,235 yards from the men’s tees. The course is known for its lush green fairways, challenging bunkers, and spectacular views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The signature hole is the par-3 13th, which requires a tee shot over a valley to a green guarded by a stream and a bunker. The club has hosted many prestigious tournaments, including the All India Amateur Championship, the South India Open, and the Gymkhana Golf Tournament.
The OGGC also has a clubhouse that offers various facilities and amenities for its members and guests. These include a pro shop, a driving range, a caddy service, a locker room, a bar, and a restaurant. The club also organizes various social and cultural events throughout the year.
Wellington Golf Club
The second golf course in this region , is the Wellington Golf Club, which is located in the Nilgiris district, about 3 km from Coonoor. The club was founded in 1873 and is affiliated with the Indian Golf Union. The club has a 18-hole, par 72 course that covers an area of 150 acres. The course is set at an altitude of 6,000 feet and has a stunning parkland setting. The course has many trees, streams, bridges, and hills that add to its beauty and difficulty.
Both these golf courses are open throughout the year and offer a memorable golfing experience in Ooty. You can enjoy the natural beauty of the hills while playing your favourite sport. You can also explore the other attractions of Ooty while you are there. One of the most popular things to do in Ooty is to take a ride on the toy train that runs between Mettupalayam and Ooty via Coonoor. This is a world heritage train that travels through some of the most idyllic scenery in the region. You can see the green valleys, mountains, forests, and tea plantations along the way. The train passes through 16 tunnels, 250 bridges, and 208 curves while climbing an altitude of 2,200 meters above sea level. The train ride takes about 4.5 hours and is a must-do for anyone visiting Ooty.
Another thing to do in Ooty is to try the local cuisine that reflects the diversity and richness of the culture. Ooty has a variety of street food joints that serve delicious dishes from different cuisines. You can find kebabs, Chinese food, pizza, South Indian food, desserts, and more in Ooty’s streets. Some of the best places to try these are Kebab Corner, Shinkow’s Chinese Restaurant, Nahar Restaurant, Sidewalk Café, Quality Restaurant, Hyderabad Biryani House, and Cocoapods. You can also try some of the local specialties like varkey (a type of biscuit), chocolate cake (made with homemade chocolate), avalose (a sweet snack made with rice flour), and badaga (a spicy curry made with lamb or chicken).
Enjoy a 2 night and 3 day golf holiday to Ooty, a hill station in South India that offers a pleasant climate, scenic views, and a historical golf course. You will stay at a heritage hotel, play 18 holes at the Ootacamund Gymkhana Golf Club, and explore the local attractions. This package is brought to you by Indian Golf Safari, a travel company specializing in golf tours in India.
