The Blue Mountains of India
Expat Living Singapore|July 2023
HARNOOR CHANNI-TIWARY takes a diversion from the usual tourist trail in India and heads into the hills instead
The Blue Mountains of India

India has everything in abundance, from history and warm hospitality to amazing cuisine, art and architecture. That’s why the lure is strong to stick within the safety net of the Golden Triangle, a much-talked-about tourist circuit.

The historical heritage of Delhi, the grandeur of Jaipur’s Palaces and the crown Jewel in Agra – the stunning Taj Mahal, each of these is worthy of a trip in itself, a story worth writing about. But, if you ask any Indian, they will tell you that it doesn’t even scratch the surface.

If you’re flying into India from Singapore, here’s a secret that most people don’t know. Within five hours of departing from Changi, you could be driving up lush plantation-covered hills into the heart of a secret gem of the country: The Nilgiris.

Why do the done and dusted tourist trails like every other traveller? Head to the Nilgiris to experience the magic of India a different way, far from the cluttered lanes and cacophony of touts.

Translated as the Blue Mountains after the purplish-blue kurinji flowers found here in abundance, the Nilgiris are arguably India’s best-kept secret. Devoid of the scars of over-commercialisation that the mighty Himalayas in the north bear, the Nilgiri Hills in the southern state of Tamil Nadu are a breath of fresh air. Whether it’s a long weekend getaway or a three-month sojourn, the hill station of Coonoor in the Nilgiris is sure to cast a spell on you.

Getting there 

The best part about Coonoor is its accessibility. Direct flights fly daily between Singapore and Tamil Nadu’s Coimbatore International Airport. It’s a small and efficient airport, and you’ll be walking out in no time. Then, get into your pre-booked cab and head off towards the hills.

Bu hikaye Expat Living Singapore dergisinin July 2023 sayısından alınmıştır.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

Bu hikaye Expat Living Singapore dergisinin July 2023 sayısından alınmıştır.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

EXPAT LIVING SINGAPORE DERGISINDEN DAHA FAZLA HIKAYETümünü görüntüle
Perfect Pearly Whites!
Expat Living Singapore

Perfect Pearly Whites!

Knowing you have white, sparkling teeth beneath your lips is a sure-fire way to make you smile with confidence. If you've noticed your teeth looking more yellow than \"hello\" lately, perhaps it's time for a visit to a dental clinic for a teeth-whitening session.

time-read
2 dak  |
November 2024
Save your Spine at Work!
Expat Living Singapore

Save your Spine at Work!

Sitting in an air-conditioned office has its benefits in steamy Singapore. But, long, sedentary days can play havoc on our necks and backs. Here, orthopaedic surgeon DR YILUN HUANG talks about spinal issues faced by office workers, and how to treat and prevent them.

time-read
4 dak  |
November 2024
Festive Fashion Show!
Expat Living Singapore

Festive Fashion Show!

As the year draws to a close, now's a good time to stock up on festive fashion. White Ginger has released a fab new line just in time for party season. Plus, it's hosting a fun multilabel fashion soiree so you can view the looks with tasty bites and a glass of vino in hand!

time-read
1 min  |
November 2024
Finding Eco-Luxury in Fiji
Expat Living Singapore

Finding Eco-Luxury in Fiji

Here's a destination that's often a little bit off the travel radar for people in our region - but definitely shouldn't be!

time-read
3 dak  |
November 2024
48 Hours in Patong
Expat Living Singapore

48 Hours in Patong

CHERRY LAI checks into the sparkling new M Social Hotel Phuket for a weekender full of food, fun and relaxation.

time-read
5 dak  |
November 2024
Ticket to Thailand
Expat Living Singapore

Ticket to Thailand

Are you physically here but mentally on a beach in Thailand? We've found destinations for two types of holiday-goers: one for someone looking for a place to chill, and another where you can also let loose!

time-read
2 dak  |
November 2024
Laying Out Memories Through Food
Expat Living Singapore

Laying Out Memories Through Food

YASMIN, JESSICA and PEARL are the local co-founders of The Plattering Co. They share their favourite parts of doing business with each other and a few of their hobbies outside work hours.

time-read
4 dak  |
November 2024
Curry, Spice & Everything Nice
Expat Living Singapore

Curry, Spice & Everything Nice

Craving a curry? Whether you're dreaming of a creamy korma or a biryani, the EL team went all in, indulging in everything from buttery parathas to tangy papdi chaat. We explored the best of Singapore's Indian dining scene, and trust us-these spots will spice up your life!

time-read
4 dak  |
November 2024
Is It Really Backed Up in the Cloud?
Expat Living Singapore

Is It Really Backed Up in the Cloud?

SARAH and BO PINEL of Tekkie Help break it to us that cloud storage is not a data backup. Here's why that's the case and how we can rectify the problem.

time-read
2 dak  |
November 2024
A Musical Community
Expat Living Singapore

A Musical Community

The new Pops Chorus and Orchestra at Marlborough College Malaysia (MCM) has students, parents, staff and even the Master involved. SIMON BURBURY tells us more - including where you can catch their performances.

time-read
2 dak  |
November 2024