The Nilgiris now resemble a distant alpine landscape rather than South India’s well-known blue mountains. Over the last ten days, a harsh cold wave has affected the district, pushing temperatures below freezing. Thalaikundha recorded a shocking minus 1 degree Celsius, a rare and intense winter phase that has caused widespread frost across the hills.
What Does This Unusual Cold Spell Look Like on the Ground?
The scene has changed dramatically. Thick white frost has settled over places like the Ooty Government Botanical Garden, Kanthal, and the Thalaikundha–Avalanche road stretch. The icy blanket has transformed grasslands, plants, and even vehicles into glittering frozen views. Images are circulating widely on social media, with one user noting, “Frost sends shivers down the spine in Nilgiris.”
How Are Tourists and Locals Reacting to the Frost?
Despite the harsh cold, the rare sight has sparked a tourist rush. Thousands of visitors from Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka are arriving before dawn each day to see the frost up close. Videos show travelers amazed by the view, with some even scooping frost with their hands. Kritika, a local, said it had been four years since she last saw such heavy frosting. A tourist who reached at 6 AM called it “totally freezing” but admired the beautiful, crowded scene.
What Steps Have Authorities Taken in Response?
Official safety measures have been taken in response to the extreme conditions. Due to the dangers of the icy terrain, the Tamil Nadu Forest Department has prohibited tourists from accessing the plains next to the Kamaraj Sagar dam, a well-liked sight. Many guests’ plans have been affected by this change, and those who arrived overnight have been sent away. Instead of reaching their destinations, they were left to take pictures of the frost-covered scenery from the side of the road.
What Does This Mean for the Region?
Even as the frost adds an unusual winter charm and boosts tourism, it also signals a rare and sharp temperature decline in the region. Authorities continue to warn people about the risks posed by below-freezing weather and icy conditions. The event highlights how extreme weather can reshape well-known landscapes, causing both fascination and practical issues in places like Ooty.
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FAQs:
Q: How cold did it get in Ooty?
A: The temperature in the Thalaikundha region of the Nilgiris dropped to -1°C, with other nearby areas recording around -0.1°C.
Q: Why is this frost considered unusual?
A: Locals who haven’t experienced this level of intensity in years have noticed that the Nilgiris district rarely experiences such broad and dense frost, with temperatures continuously below freezing.
Q: Can tourists still visit all areas in Ooty?
A: No. The forest department has limited access to some regions, such as the plains next to the Kamaraj Sagar dam, due to safety concerns due to the icy conditions.
Q: Are tourists still visiting despite the cold?
A: Yes, in large numbers. Thousands are flocking daily, especially in the early morning, specifically to see the frost-covered landscapes.
Disclaimer: Visitors are urged to check official advisories and exercise caution due to the ongoing cold wave and related travel restrictions.