Aruvankadu Travel Guide

Explore the charming town of Aruvankadu with this comprehensive guide that includes must-see attractions, hiking, and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture and customs, and much more.


Introduction to Aruvankadu

Located in Western Tamil Nadu, Aruvankadu is a quaint town blessed with breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The town is renowned for its tea plantations and stunning views of the Nilgiri mountains. From natural wonders to historical landmarks, Aruvankadu has something to offer for every type of traveler. In this comprehensive tour guide, we will take you on a journey through the top attractions, outdoor adventures, local culture and customs, and much more.

List of Places to Visit in Aruvankadu

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Aruvankadu boasts an array of museums and historical sites that reflect its rich cultural heritage:

  • The Pasteur Institute: A renowned research center for infectious diseases that is famous for its distinctive French architecture and historically significant contributions to the field of immunology.

  • The Highfield Tea Factory: A colonial-era tea factory that offers an insightful tour through the process of tea production, including tasting sessions.

  • The Government Silk Farm: A silk production facility that has been producing high-quality silk for decades.

  • The Wellington Cantonment: A military cantonment that was established during the British era and has played a significant role in the development of the town.

Natural Attractions of Aruvankadu: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Aruvankadu is blessed with natural beauty that offers visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in a range of outdoor adventures, including hiking, biking, and wildlife watching. Some of the top attractions include:

  • The Nilgiri Mountain Railway: A historic mountain railway that offers a scenic ride through the Nilgiri mountains, including the famous UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Ooty Lake.

  • Ketti Valley: One of the largest valleys in the world, Ketti Valley is situated between the towns of Coonoor and Ooty, and offers stunning views of the surrounding tea plantations and rolling green hills.

  • Doddabetta Peak: The highest peak in the Nilgiris, Doddabetta Peak offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Aruvankadu

Aruvankadu is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, and offers an array of hiking and biking routes that allow visitors to explore the natural beauty of the region. Some of the top routes include:

  • The Mukurti Peak Trek: Located in the Mukurti National Park, this trek offers a thrilling experience through the lush forests, hills, and valleys of the Nilgiris.

  • The Nilgiri Mountain Bike Ride: One of the most scenic bike rides in the region, this route takes you through the winding roads of the Nilgiris, with spectacular views of the valleys and mountains.

Best Things to Do in Aruvankadu: Activities and Tours

Aruvankadu offers an array of activities and tours that cater to visitors of all ages and interests. Some of the best things to do in Aruvankadu include:

  • Tea Tasting Sessions: Learn about the world-renowned tea production process and taste some of the finest teas in the region.

  • Wildlife Safaris: Take a tour through the lush forests and valleys of the Nilgiris and spot wildlife such as elephants, tigers, deer, and more.

Week-Long Itinerary for Aruvankadu

Day 1: Arrival, check into your hotel, and visit the Highfield Tea Factory.

Day 2: Take a ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway and explore the Ooty Lake.

Day 3: Relax and unwind at Ketti Valley.

Day 4: Take a wildlife safari at Mukurti National Park.

Day 5: Explore the Pasteur Institute and Government Silk Farm.

Day 6: Take a hike or bike ride through the rolling hills of the Nilgiris.

Day 7: Departure day.

Food and Drink Scene of Aruvankadu

Must-Try Dishes

Aruvankadu is famous for its authentic South Indian cuisine, and some of the must-try dishes include:

  • Idli and Sambar: A classic South Indian breakfast dish made with rice and lentils, usually served with chutney and sambar.

  • Dosa: A crispy pancake made with fermented rice and lentil batter, usually served with a variety of chutneys and sambar.

Local Beverages

Aruvankadu is famous for its tea production, and other refreshing local beverages include:

  • Filter Coffee: A popular coffee beverage made from freshly ground coffee beans and served with milk.

  • Nannari Sherbet: A refreshing summer drink made from the roots of the nannari plant, served chilled.

Where to Stay in Aruvankadu: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Aruvankadu offers a range of accommodation options that cater to different budgets and tastes:

  • WelcomHeritage Fernhills Palace: A luxury heritage hotel that offers stunning views of the surrounding tea plantations and mountains, with world-class amenities and services.

  • Tabernacle Hill Resort: A mid-range resort that offers clean and comfortable accommodation, with great views of the surrounding landscape.

  • Green Cottage Homestay: A budget-friendly homestay that offers personalized services and a cozy atmosphere.

What to Buy in Aruvankadu: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Aruvankadu offers an array of local products and souvenirs that make for great gifts and keepsakes, including:

  • Tibetan Handicrafts: Handicrafts made by the Tibetan refugees settled in the region, including woolen shawls, carpets, and other textiles.

  • Tea: Assorted tea blends that are famous worldwide, including the classic Nilgiri tea.

Local Culture and Customs of Aruvankadu

Aruvankadu has a rich cultural heritage and is home to various communities that follow their traditions and customs. Some of the important festivals celebrated in the region include:

  • Pongal: A harvest festival celebrated in January, where farmers pay homage to the sun god and offer thanks for a bountiful harvest.

  • Brahmotsavam: A Hindu religious festival celebrated in May, that is famous for its vibrant procession of decorated chariots.

Best Time to Visit Aruvankadu

The best time to visit Aruvankadu is from October to June, which is the dry season and offers pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Aruvankadu

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.

  • Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites.

  • Try the local cuisine and products.

Don’t:

  • Engage in any illegal activities.

  • Disrespect local customs and traditions.

  • Litter or pollute the environment.

Safety and Health

Safety in Aruvankadu

Aruvankadu is a safe town for travelers, but it is essential to take standard precautions, such as:

  • Avoid venturing out too late at night.

  • Avoid carrying too much cash or valuables.

  • Beware of pickpockets and scam artists.

Health in Aruvankadu

It is advisable to carry basic medications and first aid supplies when traveling to Aruvankadu. The region is malaria prone, so it is essential to take adequate precautions, such as using mosquito repellents and sleeping under mosquito nets.

Getting to Aruvankadu: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Aruvankadu

The nearest major airports to Aruvankadu are:

  • Coimbatore International Airport: 75 km away.

  • Peelamedu Airport, Coimbatore: 82 km away.

Bus Stations Near Aruvankadu

Aruvankadu is well-connected by bus to various towns and cities in the region, including:

  • Ooty Bus Station: 14 km away.

  • Coonoor Bus Station: 24 km away.

Other Options

Taxis and private cars are also available from major cities like Coimbatore and Bangalore.

How to Get Around in Aruvankadu

The best way to get around Aruvankadu is by hiring a private car or arranging for a taxi. Buses and shared autos are also available but may not be suitable for all travelers.

Where to Go Next from Aruvankadu: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Aruvankadu is surrounded by other beautiful destinations that offer unique experiences, including:

  • Ooty: A picturesque hill station that is famous for its tea plantations, botanical gardens, and scenic views.

  • Coonoor: A charming town that is renowned for its colonial architecture, tea plantations, and stunning waterfalls.

Conclusion

Aruvankadu is a hidden gem in Tamil Nadu that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and adventure. With this comprehensive tour guide, we hope to have inspired you to explore this beautiful town and its surroundings, and create memories that will last a lifetime.