A little-known fact about Ooty is that it is a gourmand’s paradise. Its pleasant climate is nearly perfect for growing spices, tea, plants that produce oil and even for cheese-making. One of the best things to do while in this charming hill station is to shop for some of the many organic products available here.

• Organic Cheese

If you are looking for exquisite cheeses and cheese products, make it a point to visit Acres Wild, a family run farm-stay in Coonoor. Located at a 45-minute drive from Ooty, you can visit here to purchase some vegetarian and organic cheese that is made with milk from Holstein and Jersey cows.

• Bringing back some Local Flavours

Ask your hotel in Ooty for recommendations for the best spice shops in town. Make your dreams of becoming a home-chef a reality by heading to The Green Shop. It is a unanimous favourite to purchase some nutmeg, cloves, pepper, and cardamom, among other local spices.

• Sinful Handmade Chocolates

Ooty has a significantly busy handmade chocolate industry. This means that people with a sweet tooth simply need to head to the King Star Confectioners on Commercial Road or visit the Botanical Garden Road, home to the popular Modern Store. You will be able to indulge in mouth-watering marshmallows, fudges and truffles.

• Shop for Aromatic Oils

Ooty is known for its eucalyptus, citronella and camphor plantations, allowing them to produce some of the best aromatic essential oils in the region. These can be used for medicinal purposes as well as personal relaxation.

• On the Tea Trails

Ooty is also very famous for its tea plantations. Here you will be able to choose from CTC and leaf, black, green and white varieties of tea. You can also pick flavours including cardamom, jasmine, masala and even chocolate! The Benchmark Tea Factory and Museum is worth a visit during your time here.

Local Shopping When in Ooty

If you wish to pursue some local street shopping in Ooty, then consider visiting the Tibetan Market. Here, you will be able to find some great woollen apparel at reasonable prices. Commercial Road is a famous roadway that passes through the foothills into the township. While passing by, make it a point to stop at Higginbotham’s Bookstore that is treat for any book lover. The Main Bazaar, as the name suggests, is also an important shopping area for locals as well as tourists.