REPORT ON TWO-DAYS STAFF PICNIC TO KOTAGIRI & OOTY

The two-day staff picnic to Kotagiri and Ooty was organised on 27 and 28 October 2026 to provide staff members with an opportunity for relaxation, recreation, and team building. The journey began at 4.00 a.m. on 27 October 2026 from Tirupattur, with an opening prayer led by Rev. Dr. Shanmugam, Director, DEEDS. Breakfast was served on the way, and the we reached Black Thunder Amusement Park at 10.15 a.m. The staff members spent the day enjoying various recreational activities and thrilling rides at the amusement park. The attractions included water slides, wave pools, roller coasters, family rides, and other adventure activities. The staff members enthusiastically participated in the rides and enjoyed the opportunity to relax, interact, and strengthen their bonds outside the regular work environment. At 6.00 p.m., the team began its journey towards Kotagiri. The group reached Mount Don Bosco at 8.20 p.m., where dinner was served. The staff members stayed overnight at Mount Don Bosco, enjoying a comfortable and pleasant evening together.

The second day began with a morning prayer at 8.00 a.m., followed by breakfast at Mount Don Bosco. A photo session was organised to capture memorable moments of the staff picnic. At 9.30 a.m., we proceeded towards Ooty, one of the popular hill stations in the Nilgiris. The first destination was Doddabetta Peak, the highest viewpoint in the Nilgiri Hills, where the staff members enjoyed the scenic beauty of the surrounding mountains and valleys. We then visited a tea and chocolate factory in Ooty, where the staff members had the opportunity to learn about tea processing and chocolate production. Following this, we visited the Government Botanical Garden, Ooty, which is well known for its beautiful landscapes, diverse plant species, colourful flower beds, and lush green surroundings. The staff members enjoyed exploring the garden and visiting other tourist attractions in Ooty.

Lunch was served in Ooty, followed by time for shopping and purchasing local products and souvenirs. The staff members made the most of the opportunity to explore the town and bought various things for their family members. At 4.45 p.m., we began its return journey from Ooty to Tirupattur. Tea was served on the way, followed by supper at 7.45 p.m. After a long and enjoyable journey, the team reached Tirupattur at 1.30 a.m. on 29 October 2026.The two-day staff picnic to Kotagiri and Ooty was a memorable and refreshing experience for all the staff.