For A Stunning View And A Victorian High, Check Into Ooty’s Kluney Manor

Fit seamlessly into the days of yore at Ooty’s Victorian hotel, Kluney Manor, and its vast 150 acre estate.

Located on the appropriately-named Mount Pleasant in Ooty, Kluney Manor is a piece of the region’s history. Dating back to the 1820—from the original owner, Captain Macpherson of the British Army, to the more recent royal family of Patna—it’s been an aristocratic house through and through.

There’s three types of accommodation, and you’ll want to stay in them all. The Vintage Rooms really steal the show, though. High ceilings decked out in wood, solid brass four-poster beds, neatly draped curtains that give way to windows, and a view so spectacular you’ll want to pinch yourself; we can really go on and on here.

Our Classic Cottage Rooms were straight out of Downtown Abbey, and were decked out in period furniture, along with a cosy living room with a fireplace to boot. Slightly further off the main house and nestled in the woods are another set of rooms great for large families or groups. Privacy and space are a given here, in addition to Victorian beds and furniture.

Cute and cosy, their dining rooms are comfortable, and the food, though not regional, covers quality Indian, Chinese and European fare. We suggest trying out a mix of them; a Chinese soup, Indian starters and perhaps a steak or baked pasta for mains, and thank us later. After all, you need your carbs and protein to go trekking.

Apart from hiking up to the top of a few mountains {it’s not as intimidating as it seems}, they also offer a thrilling jeep ride through the jungles. Even more so if you spot a few wild animals like bison, porcupine and elephant.

While it’s beautiful in the monsoon, it is a bit restricting. Load up on books, board games and cards for a super time.

Price: INR 2,500 upwards off-season; INR 4,000 during peak season