Plastic water bottles are prohibited in Ooty. As a result, the hill station has set up water ATMs to refill resuable bottles.

Ooty has always been one of those hill stations that feels easy on the heart. Tucked away in the Nilgiris, this charming town is loved by families, couples, solo travellers, and even first-time hill explorers. Whether it is sipping hot tea while watching clouds roll in or taking quiet walks through pine forests, Ooty has a way of making you slow down and enjoy the moment. But beyond its beauty, Ooty is also quietly setting a good example when it comes to responsible tourism.

A few days ago, travel content creator Bhargavi Silaparsetty shared a video from her Ooty trip on Instagram, showing something many travellers found interesting and useful. Since plastic bottles are banned in Ooty, the town has installed water ATMs that help visitors stay hydrated without harming the environment. In the now-viral video, Bhargavi reaches a water ATM kiosk and hands over her reusable bottle to a woman inside. When she asks the price, she is told it costs just Rs 10. The woman then fills the bottle with warm drinking water.

"This is why Ooty is special. Plastic bottles are banned, so they provide warm drinking water through water ATMs. Small idea. Big impact. 'Travel tip for Ooty' Carry a reusable bottle. Rs 10 water ATM gives warm drinking water - eco-friendly & thoughtful," read the text attached to the post.

Here's how people reacted to the viral post:

A user wrote, "These should be implemented on every tourist location."

Another one added, "Hope this spreads at major tourist destinations all across India."

"I wish this was a standard practice all over the country!" read a comment.

Someone said, "I have seen the water ATMs at railway stations, metro etc. But dispensing warm water is a step ahead."

These water ATMs are undoubtedly a smart move. While you're in Ooty, there's plenty to see and do beyond these thoughtful initiatives.

1. Ooty Lake

This is one of the most popular spots in town. You can go boating, take a relaxed walk around the lake, or just sit and enjoy the view. It is lively but still calming.

2. Nilgiri Mountain Railway

The toy train ride is a must-do. It moves slowly through tunnels, forests and tea gardens. Perfect for clicking photos and soaking in the scenery.

3. Tea Gardens and Tea Factory

Ooty's tea estates are beautiful and peaceful. Walk through the green fields and visit a tea factory to see how tea is made. Do not forget to buy some fresh tea.

4. Botanical Garden

Well-maintained and full of colourful flowers, this garden is great for a calm stroll. It is especially nice in the morning or late afternoon.

5. Doddabetta Peak

The highest point in Ooty offers wide views of the Nilgiris. On a clear day, the view is worth the short climb.

Ooty proves that travel can be beautiful and responsible at the same time.