Ooty (short for Udhagamandalam) is a resort town in the Western Ghats Mountains, in southern India's Tamil Nadu state. Founded as a British Raj summer resort, it retains a working steam railway line. Other reminders of its colonial past include Stone House, a 19th-century residence, and the circa-1829 St. Stephen’s Church. Its 55-acre Government Botanical Garden lies on the slopes of Doddabetta Peak. Ooty is most famous for its tea plantations. Connoisseurs will find plenty to choose from: dust and leaf; black, green, black and white varieties; and flavours such as masala, jasmine, cardamom and even chocolate. Though Ooty has good climate all year round, the best time to visit Ooty is in the summer months between March and June. The day time temperatures creep up and the air is less misty as compared to the winter and monsoon seasons. Also, the roads are easier and safer to drive on during this time.