One of the first things I noticed after setting foot in Ooty, or Udhagamandalam, is how dreamlike it looks, the crisp mountain air and striking blue skies a welcome change to my city-worn senses. I was also curious about the tribal communities and indigenous culture in the area and my arrival at Sterling Ooty Fern Hill–Resorts and Hotels did not disappoint. I was greeted by a welcoming band from the Badaga community, the most well-known among the Nilgiri tribes. Dressed in their signature white, their warm welcome was continued by the general manager and Sterling staff. I was whisked off to one of the 180-odd rooms at the property. This was followed by a scrumptious lunch that incorporated local cuisine in unusual ways. What stood out? Dandelion muffins, koozh (pearl millet porridge), spinach millet momos and spicy fish (meen varuval).
This story is from the December 2019 edition of Outlook Traveller.
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This story is from the December 2019 edition of Outlook Traveller.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
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