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The Fernhills Palace
Erstwhile Maharaja of Mysore used Fernhill Palace in Ooty for the residential purposes during summertime to enjoy the pleasant atmosphere and climatic condition in this region. It was in 1844 that the very first Fernhills bungalow had been constructed as a private residence in the Ooty’s hilly areas. Since then, this region of Tamil Nadu emerged into one of the most sought after tourist destinations. Resembling Swiss Chalet, this palace is the important center of attraction in this region.
As a prominent holidaymaking destination, Fernhill Palace, Ooty is well equipped with the Burmese teak and splendid ballroom appeals all the nineteen regal suites with bedrooms. Sitting and dressing rooms and the spacious baths appeal with Jacuzzi are other facilities to enjoy. Multi-cuisine dining and bar area is other notable attraction here.
History
Having been built in the huge complex area of 50 acres of land, Fernhill Palace in Ooty is an attraction of sorts. It reminds the past history of this region. It was during 1844 that this beautiful palace came into existence. The builder Capt. F Cotton is still remembered for the mastery shown for such innovative designs of this palace in the wonderful area. Ownership of this palace has changed over the decades. Mere few years after it was built, this palace had other ownership in 1860 and so was its name changed to Moonesami then. The palace had remained one of the earliest country clubs of Ooty for many decades.
By the year 1873, it came under the control of its local royal owner, Chamarajendra Wadiyar X who had the distinction of being the first Indian Royal to buy the English holding in Ooty region. From then it remained the property of regional rulers of Wadiyar dynasty and their descendants post-independence. With the British rule starting in entire India, this palace served as a holiday spot for several English elites in Ooty.
Soon after India attained freedom from British rule, this palace once again changed its nature to serve the holidaymakers arriving from various parts of the country. It became a lovable place for the holidaymakers and honeymooners alike, so has this place attracted educational tourists and film units. It also facilitates the filmmakers to portray natural beauty and capture splendid interior and exteriors of this palace.
Architecture
Fernhill Palace in Ooty still leaves an impeccable impact on visitors due to wonderful architectural richness to impress all and sundry. Structure from the carved wooden barge boards make it highly appealing. Elaborately casted irons are used to increase the beauty of this palace to look vibrant. Besides the huge structure, other aspects keep this palace in notice including alpine trimmed gardens with unique firs and cedars making it worth appealing. The palace complex also has a tiny church. This palace is worth exploring due to its innumerable architectural elements which makes it a powerful place to enchant visitors. Lawns with greeneries, dense woods and the stylish gardens offer crucial view of this palace located in the midst of tea gardens where lush green valley attract hundreds of thousands of visitors every day. Other attraction is its nestling in the Nilgiri Hills.
Best Time to Visit
Ooty can be visited throughout the year as this place maintains a pleasant weather and climatic conditions round the year. Best time to visit here is during summertime to spend the best moments in moderate temperature.
Visitor Information
How to Reach
By Air
At a distance of 105 kilometers from Ooty, the nearest airport is Coimbatore Airport that connects this place with various domestic and international destinations.
By Rail
Several railway stations operate from nearby Ooty. Mettupalayam railway station is the nearest at a distance of 36 kilometers. With a distance of 72 kilometers, Coimbatore is another nearest station connecting the region with other parts of India. One may also visit Mysore by train which is located at the distance of 126 kilometers from Ooty.
By Road
Interstate buses operate on national highways crossing near Ooty to link almost all southern cities through roadways. Mysore, Bangalore and Chennai are located at the reasonable distances so do buses operate to link with Ooty by the roadways.
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