Tamil Nadu Tourism

A Significant Milestone

We are delighted to share that OOTYULTRA has achieved a significant milestone by welcoming Tamil Nadu Tourism as our Tourism Partner. The support of Tamil Nadu Tourism, along with the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC), is something we value deeply because it enhances the #ultramalaivasi experience for runners, sponsors, partners, volunteers, and the local community.

OOTYULTRA Tamil Nadu Tourism Partnership

Celebrating Our Roots

Tamil Nadu is a state of extraordinary diversity, stretching from the Coromandel Coast to the Western Ghats. Many of us at OOTYULTRA were born and raised in the Nilgiris, and this partnership is especially meaningful because it allows us to showcase the beauty, culture, and uniqueness of Ooty to the world.

As organisers of one of India's most challenging and scenic ultramarathons, we have always believed that OOTYULTRA is more than a race. It is an opportunity for runners to discover the charm, landscapes, and hospitality that define this region.

Explore Destination OOTY

Through this partnership with Tamil Nadu Tourism and TTDC, we will explore new ways to enhance the experience of participants and promote tourism in the Nilgiris.

Iconic Venues & Locations

TTDC Expo Venue

Since the beginning, we have been using TTDC as the venue for the #ultramalaivasi expo. This is where runners collect their race kits, meet fellow participants, and immerse themselves in the OOTYULTRA community spirit.

Tamil Nadu Tourism Boat House

Since 2022, the iconic Tamil Nadu Tourism Boat House has served as the official start point for OOTYULTRA. This picturesque location, set beside the Ooty Lake, sets the tone for every runner's journey through the Blue Mountains.

Ooty Botanical Gardens

At around 3.5 km from the start point, runners pass the historic Ooty Botanical Gardens. This landmark is known for its terraced layout, wide variety of plant species, and cool shaded sections that carry over 150 years of horticultural history. As runners glide past this stretch, they get a brief glimpse of one of Ooty's most visited attractions.

Doddabetta Peak

Located at 10.5 km mark from the start, the route opens into the climb toward Doddabetta Peak. The entire ascent from the 4-roads junction through the forest section is a memorable experience. The dense greenery, sharp bends, cool air and steady elevation gain make this part of the course both challenging and rewarding. Doddabetta, the 2nd highest peak in South India and the highest point in all OOTYULTRA courses at 2640 m above sea level, stands as a symbolic milestone for every runner. All by walking and running, it is exciting—the climb from Ooty town to Doddabetta (~400 m) can be killing and testing the limits of all the runners.

Battarakambi Tea Park

The Battarakambi Tea Park is where all category finishes take place. Surrounded by tea estates and sweeping valley views, this location gives runners a strong sense of arrival. The finish area captures the charm of the Nilgiris and creates a fitting end to the OOTYULTRA journey.

Contributing to Tourism in the Nilgiris

Over the years, OOTYULTRA has significantly contributed to tourism in Ooty and the surrounding region:

Our event attracts runners from across India and abroad, leading to increased hotel occupancy
Local transport use and business for restaurants, homestays, markets, and service providers
Many runners visit with their families, often extending their stay to explore the Nilgiris
This has helped create year-on-year visibility for Ooty as an adventure, wellness, and travel destination
Our partnerships with local communities, hotels, artisans, and service providers have strengthened this positive impact
We contribute to sustainable, responsible tourism that benefits the entire region

Looking Forward

We look forward to growing this partnership and creating even more enriching experiences for everyone who visits the Nilgiris through OOTYULTRA. Together with Tamil Nadu Tourism and TTDC, we will continue to showcase the best of what Ooty and the Nilgiris have to offer—from the challenging mountain roads to the warm hospitality of the local community.

Join the #ultramalaivasi Movement

Experience the beauty of the Nilgiris and the challenge of OOTYULTRA. Register now and be part of an event that celebrates both running excellence and the rich heritage of Tamil Nadu.