Botanical Garden Ooty

Established in 1848, the Botanical Gardens in Ooty stand as a notable landmark for tourists visiting India. Nestled on the lower slopes of Doddabedda Peak, this expansive garden covers over 22 acres. It is meticulously managed by the Tamil Nadu Horticultural Department.

Originally developed to provide vegetables & fruits for the British royals during their summer stays, the garden has since transformed into a diverse collection of plant species, now open to the public. The layout of Botanical Garden is divided between an upper and a lower section.

Today, it showcases a rich array of local herbs, shrubs, ferns, bonsai plants and trees. The transformation took nearly a decade to complete, turning the area into an established garden. Positioned at an elevation of 2250 meters above sea level, its temperate climate & frequent monsoon rains make it an especially appealing location for day-long picnics.

Among its numerous draws, one standout is a fossil tree trunk believed to be 20 million years old. This tree was excavated from the National Fossil Park at Tiruvakkarai in Tamil Nadu’s South Arcot District and continues to be preserved within these gardens.

This specimen is a prime example of a polystrate fossil. Attractions like New Garden, Italian Garden, Public Conservatory, Nurseries, Terrace Gardens and Glass house Gardens add to its allure. Another intriguing feature found in the lower section is Toda Mundi; it depicts both the abode and lifestyle of Todas—the indigenous tribal community from the Nilgiris region.

Visitors are encouraged to dedicate a full day for explorationg every part of the Botanical Gardens; here nature’s narratives await to captivate one’s imagination repeatedly.