Viral 'Masinagudy vazhi Ooty' route closed for tourists: New route announced
Although Masinagudi is a small town, it has shops, hotels, and ATM counters.
Although Masinagudi is a small town, it has shops, hotels, and ATM counters.
Although Masinagudi is a small town, it has shops, hotels, and ATM counters.
The hilly town of Ooty has been reeling under the strain of overcrowding and tourism explosion this vacation season. The authorities have imposed strict rules since May 1 to ease traffic congestion. Vehicles that have more than 12 seats should be parked outside the town. Here are the details of the new route, both ways, from Ooty.
Route to Ooty: Mettupalayam – Coonoor – Ooty
From Ooty: Ooty – Kothagiri – Mettupalayam
Entering Ooty via Masinagudi, the viral route that many movies have also popularised has been completely banned by the authorities.
Why Masinagudi route banned
The 20-minute-long ride from Theppakadu to Masinagudi is truly mesmerising. The forest sheds its wild nature and assumes the role of a beautiful enchantress. Tourists may easily spot wild animals on the route. The spotless tarred road meandering through the beautiful forest elicits a mystical vibe. Although Masinagudi is a small town, it has shops, hotels, and ATM counters. Besides, tourists generally hire private jeeps to explore the fabulous countryside and interior villages of Masinagudi. Travellers find rows of jeeps parked along the roadside, waiting for the guests. Up to six passengers are allowed in a jeep for an hour of off-roading. The deserted forest path, except a lone outlet of the famous Café Coffee Day awaits you once you leave Masinagudi.
The Ooty road from Masinagudi, which stretches for up to 30 kilometres, has 36 hairpin curves and steep slopes. The authorities have banned entering Ooty via this route due to its precarious nature. However, local residents' vehicles are allowed to go this route. The trip via the Kallatti mountain pass is an unforgettable journey for those who love road trips.