Uncategorized

10 Places to Visit in Ooty

Admin

With plenty of tourist places to visit in Ooty and its nearby areas, you can make a memorable trip on a tight budget. Known as one of the largest hill stations in India, Ooty stands out as the most popular destination among them. However, planning a trip to cover all the beautiful locations can be overwhelming. But fret not! We have curated a list of the must-visit places in Ooty for you.

Best Places to Visit in Ooty

1. Toy Train

A key attraction of Ooty tourism is the Nilgiri Mountain Railway Toy Train, also known as the Nilgiri Mountain Railway. This toy train was founded in the year 1899, which now is one of the best tourist spots in Ooty with stunning views of forests, tunnels, sloes, fog, and birds. A must-try for all travelers, this toy train ride is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Ooty.

Timings:

  • The train operates daily between Mettupalayam and Ooty via Coonoor.
  • First Train: 7:10 AM
  • Last Train: 11:55 AM.

Entry Fee:

  • First Class: ₹290 per person
  • Second Class: ₹80 per person
  • Unreserved Category: ₹15 per person.

Things to Do on the Toy Train Ride:

  • Scenic Views: Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Nilgiri Mountains, lush forests, and charming tunnels.
  • Photography: Capture the train’s journey through 16 tunnels, 250 bridges, and 208 curves.
  • Relaxation: Choose first-class for a quieter experience and to fully appreciate the serene surroundings.
  • Historical Experience: Experience the nostalgic charm of the blue and cream carriages, often featured in South Indian movies.
  • Summer Escape: During peak summer, train frequency increases to accommodate more tourists.

Best Time to Visit:

  • The train is delightful year-round, but the best time is during the summer months (March to June) when the weather is pleasant and the landscapes are lush.

Other Highlights:

  • Botanical Gardens: Visit the Government Botanical Gardens in Ooty for a wide variety of exotic plants and flowers.
  • Ooty Lake: Enjoy a boat ride on Ooty Lake, surrounded by eucalyptus trees and scenic views.
  • Doddabetta Peak: Head to Doddabetta Peak for panoramic vistas of the Nilgiri Hills and surrounding valleys.
  • Rose Garden: Admire the vibrant collection of roses at the Ooty Rose Garden.
  • Tea Plantations: Explore the tea estates around Ooty and learn about tea production.

2. Ooty Lake

For those who enjoy gaiety lake excursions, Ooty is the place to be. With its stunning and sparkling lakes, Ooty is a paradise for water enthusiasts. The well-known attraction among them is the Ooty Lake, an artificial “L” shaped body of water. It was created by John Sullivan, the town’s founder, who built a dam to block the streams running through the hill station. Undoubtedly a highlight of the top places to visit in Ooty, this lake draws tourists as an ideal destination in Ooty.

Timings:

  • Open daily from 7:10 AM to 11:55 AM.

Entry Fee:

  • ₹10 per adult
  • ₹5 per child

Things to Do:

  • Boating: Enjoy paddle boats, row boats, or motorboats on the tranquil lake.
  • Visit the Boathouse: Offers boating facilities, a garden, a mini-train, and an amusement park.
  • Fun Activities: Features a mini-train, 7D cinema, horror and mirror houses, dashing cars, break-dance, and a Columbus ride.
  • Pony Rides: Available in front of the boathouse.
  • Explore the Surroundings: Stroll along the lakeshore amidst Eucalyptus trees and near the Nilgiri mountain railway line.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Summer, especially in May, when boat races and pageantry take place.

Other Highlights:

  • Stone House: One of Ooty’s oldest buildings.
  • Mariamman Temple: A beautiful temple to explore.
  • Ooty Golf Course: Ideal for golf enthusiasts.
  • St. Stephen’s Church: Notable for its architecture.
  • Doddabetta: Offers stunning views from the highest peak in the Nilgiris.
  • Botanical Garden: Features a diverse range of plants.
  • Rose Garden: A vibrant spot for flower lovers.
  • Thread Garden: Unique garden made entirely of thread.
  • Thunder World: Located 1 km away with various attractions

3. Ooty Botanical Gardens

Operated by the Horticultural Department of Tamil Nadu, Botanical Gardens of Ooty is undoubtedly a top tourist spot in Ooty. Covering 55 acres of land, it is divided into five distinct sections including Fern House, Lower Garden, Italian Garden, Conservatory and Nurseries. The renowned Ooty Summer festival also hosts a stunning flower show here. Additionally, visitors flock to see the famous Fossil Tree Trunk, estimated to be over 20 million years old. With a diverse range of plants to discover, the gardens are certainly worth a visit.

Timings:

  • 7:00 AM to 6:30 PM.

Entry Fee:

  • Adults: ₹50
  • Children: ₹20
  • Still Camera: ₹50
  • Video Camera: ₹100

Things to Do:

  • Fern House: Explore a collection of 127 fern species.
  • New Garden: Visit the rose garden, natural floral carpets, and serene ponds.
  • Italian Garden: Admire the garden originally laid out by Italian prisoners of war during World War I.
  • Conservatory: Discover various flowering plant groups.
  • Nurseries: See exotic plant varieties in the glass houses.
  • Fossil Tree Trunk: View a 20-million-year-old fossil tree trunk.
  • Toda Hill: Enjoy the scenic views.

Best Time to Visit:

  • The Ooty Summer Festival, usually held in May, is an ideal time to visit for the captivating flower show.

Other Highlights:

  • Monkey Puzzle Tree: Look out for this unique tree species.
  • Rare Paper Bark Tree: Admire its distinctive appearance.
  • Floral Diversity: Enjoy the extensive variety of plants and flowers throughout the gardens.

4. Doddabetta Peak

Doddabetta Peak rises to 2623 meters, making it the highest peak in the Nilgiris. It is located about 10 km from Ooty at the junction of the Western and Eastern Ghats. The peak is covered in dense sholas and is a favourite of trekkers. The view from the top of the peak is absolutely mesmerizing, there is a telescope house at the peak with two telescopes presenting captivating views of the valley around. Doddabetta Peak also has a rich variety of flora and fauna.

Timings:

  • Open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Entry Fee:

  • The entry fee is generally nominal. For the most accurate and current information, check the official website or inquire locally.

Things to Do:

  • Trekking: Enjoy hiking to the highest peak in the Nilgiris and explore the dense sholas.
  • Telescope House: Use the telescopes at the peak to view the surrounding valley and landscapes.
  • Flora and Fauna: Observe a rich variety of plants and animals.
  • Sunrise and Sunset: Visit early or late to witness spectacular sunrises and sunsets.
  • Bird Watching: Arrive early for a chance to spot unique bird species.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Ideal months are March to May and September to November for pleasant weather and clear views.

Other Highlights:

  • Bandipur National Park Views: Enjoy expansive views of Bandipur National Park from the summit.
  • Coimbatore Plains: On clear days, see the plains around Coimbatore.

5. Kamaraj Sagar Dam

This is another splendid picnic spot in Ooty; therefore a popular tourist spot. As well as being a popular picnic spot, the dam reservoir is home to a variety of aquatic life, making it a popular angling spot as well. The area is covered in dense mango and coconut trees. Aside from that, the dam is a popular spot for environmentalists and nature lovers who spend hours here doing research.

Timings

  1. Open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Entry Fee:

  1. Free for all visitors.

Things to Do:

  1. Picnic: Enjoy a relaxing picnic with family amidst serene surroundings.
  2. Bird Watching: Spot various bird species around the reservoir.
  3. Angling: Try fishing, especially for trout, in the reservoir.
  4. Nature Study: Explore the diverse flora and fauna in the area.
  5. Scenic Views: Experience the misty winter mornings and picturesque landscapes.

Best Time to Visit:

  1. Winter (November to February) is ideal for its misty mornings and cool weather.

Other Highlights:

  1. Film Location: The dam’s scenic beauty makes it a popular film shoot location.
  2. Wenlock Downs: Nearby rolling grasslands offer breathtaking views.

6. Mukurthi National Park

In addition to its enthralling scenic beauty and rich nature, Mukurthi National Park is a part of Nilgiri Bio reserve and promises a memorable experience for everyone. There are various streams and rivers that run through this national park, which contribute to its attraction overall. There are several watch towers located within the national park, and it is surrounded by many animals and birds.

Timings:

  • Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
  • Tuesday: Closed
  • Wednesday to Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM

Entry Fee

  • Adults: ₹15 per person
  • Children (5-12 years): ₹10 per person
  • Students: ₹2 per person
  • Still Camera: ₹25
  • Video Camera: ₹150
  • Free for children under 5 years

Things to Do

  • Trekking: Explore unique montane grasslands and sholas.
  • Wildlife Spotting: Look for Barking deer, Indian Elephant, jungle cat, wild dogs, panther, and Indian leopard.
  • Bird Watching: Spot eagles, vultures, exotic parrots, and migratory birds.
  • Visit Watch Towers: Enjoy views from forest department-built towers.
  • Explore Valleys: Discover lush green grass fields in the valleys.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Year-Round: Pleasant throughout the year.
  • Monsoon (June to September): Brings lush greenery.
  • Winter (October to February): Offers clear skies and cool weather.
  • Avoid: Heavy rainfall or extreme cold.

Other Highlights:

  • Nilgiri Tahr: Endangered species found here.
  • High-altitude Ecosystems: Unique montane grasslands and sholas.
  • UNESCO World Heritage Site: Part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.

7. Rose Garden

Another popular attraction in Ooty is the Rose Garden. This garden is maintained by the Tamil Nadu government and stands on four hectares of land. In addition to being a well-maintained garden, it has won the World Federation of Rose Societies’ Garden of Excellence Award for South Asia. Roses offer a visual treat and make an ideal setting for a photo shoot.

Timings:

  • 7:30 AM to 6:30 PM.

Entry Fee:

  • Adults: ₹40
  • Children (5-10 years): ₹20
  • Still Camera: ₹50
  • Video Camera: ₹100

Things to Do:

  • Stroll Among Roses: Enjoy a leisurely walk through the garden, featuring over 20,000 varieties of roses arranged in captivating designs.
  • Discover Rare Roses: Explore rare and exotic roses, including unique colors like black and green.
  • Romantic Setting: The garden’s sunset views and multitude of roses create a romantic atmosphere.
  • Photography: Capture stunning photos of the diverse rose collection.
  • Horticultural Interest: Observe the garden’s well-maintained rose varieties and learn about horticulture.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Visit between March and June when the roses are in full bloom. The annual Flower Show in May adds to the garden’s appeal.

Other Highlights:

  • Centenary Celebration: Established to mark the centenary Flower Show at the Botanical Gardens.
  • Government-Maintained: Meticulously cared for by the Tamil Nadu Government.
  • Terrace Layout: Spread across five curving terraces covering four hectares.
  • World Recognition: Awarded the Garden of Excellence for South Asia by the World Federation of Rose Societies.

8. Pykara Waterfalls

Around 20 kilometers away from Ooty, this waterfall can be found on the Ooty-Mysore road. It was developed as a picnic spot and it is ideal for relaxing while admiring the waterfall and surrounding greenery. A boat house and restaurant are also near the waterfall, where you can enjoy snacks while admiring pristine streams of water. Toda settlements are also prevalent in the surrounding area.

Timings:

  • Open daily from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm.

Entry Fee:

  • Visiting the waterfalls is free.
  • Boating on Pykara Lake costs ₹175 per person.

Things to Do:

  • Admire the Waterfalls: View the two majestic cascades of the Pykara River—the first is 55 meters high, and the second reaches 61 meters.
  • Boating: Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on Pykara Lake, with rentals available at the nearby boat house.
  • Picnic Spot: Relax in the lush surroundings, ideal for picnicking and soaking in the natural beauty.
  • Toda Settlements: Explore nearby Toda settlements to experience the local community’s traditional lifestyle.
  • Photography: Capture the stunning views of the waterfalls and the surrounding landscape.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Visit during the summer months (March to June) for pleasant weather.
  • Avoid the monsoon season (July to September) due to heavy rains and unpredictable conditions.

Other Highlights:

  • Pykara River: Originates from Mukurthi Peak, adding to the area’s charm.
  • Hydroelectric Power: The dam and powerhouse provide electricity to the region.
  • Heritage Site: Pykara Lake is recognized for its natural beauty and cultural significance.

9. Needle Rock Viewpoint

You can conclude your trip by visiting Needle Rock Viewpoint and capture impeccable vistas of dusk. You can capture glimpses of the sunset casting its golden hues over the rolling hills and the deep valleys below, creating a mesmerizing scene. It offers stunning views of the rolling hills and the deep valleys below.

Timings: Needle Rock Viewpoint is open daily from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. Plan your visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the stunning scenery.

Entry Fee: There is no entry fee; visiting Needle Rock Viewpoint is free of charge.

Things to Do:

  • Marvel at the Panoramic Views: Enjoy 360-degree vistas of lush valleys, mist-covered hills, and distant villages. The changing clouds add a magical touch to the landscape.
  • Photography: Capture the breathtaking views and the unique needle-shaped rock formation that the viewpoint is named after.
  • Nature Walk: Take a short, refreshing trek (about 1 kilometer) through a forested area to reach the viewpoint, with opportunities to spot wildlife.
  • Sunset Delight: Arrive before sunset to experience the golden hour, when the sun casts a beautiful glow over the hills and valleys.
  • Stargazing: For a memorable experience after dark, enjoy stargazing under the clear night sky, far from city lights.

Best Time to Visit: Visit Needle Rock Viewpoint during the day, preferably in the morning or afternoon. Avoid late evenings to minimize encounters with wildlife.

10. Toda Huts Ooty

Among the most interesting and unique sightseeing spots in Ooty are the Toda Huts. In the huts, the Toda people reside, one of the indigenous tribes of Ooty. These huts are shaped like semibarrels. The huts have no windows and very low doors, so one has to stoop to enter. Once you enter the hut, you will have ample room to stand. These close-knit Toda people primarily live off cattle herding and farming.

The Toda Huts, traditional homes of the Toda people, are located on the Nilgiri plateau in Southern India, about 5.6 kilometers from Ooty. These unique structures, also known as Todas Hamlets, offer insight into the ancient Toda community’s lifestyle and architecture.

Timings: The Toda Huts are open to visitors daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Entry Fee: There is no entry fee; visiting the Toda Huts is free.

Things to Do at Toda Huts:

  • Explore the Village: Take a guided tour of the Toda Village, about 15 kilometers from Ooty, and learn about Toda culture, including their food, clothing, and community life.
  • Visit the Toda Temple: Observe the Toda temple, similar in design to the huts, though entry is restricted to men. It provides insights into Toda’s religious practices.
  • Observe Toda Life: Witness the tight-knit Toda communities, where each group has a few huts for living, storage, and cattle.
  • Admire Hut Design: The semi-barrel-shaped huts, with no windows and low entrances, offer a unique architectural experience.
  • Learn About Dairy Farming: Discover how dairy farming is central to Toda life, providing their primary livelihood.

Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit is from October to February when the weather is cool and pleasant.

Other Highlights: While visiting Toda Huts, explore nearby attractions such as the Botanical Gardens, Ooty Lake, Doddabetta Peak, and the Nilgiri Mountain Railway.

Best Season to Visit Ooty

You can find enchanting hills, magnificent valleys, tea plantations, and beautiful lakes in Ooty. A unique view of exotic flora and fauna is provided by the meeting of the Western and Eastern Ghats. Throughout the year, Ooty’s weather is beautiful, making it a great place for a family vacation.

1. Ooty in Summer

Ooty, India’s beloved hill station, offers the perfect escape during its summer season. With cool mountain breezes and endless sunshine, it serves as a refreshing break from city life. Unlike other parts of the state, Ooty’s summer months (March to June) are not unbearably hot and humid.

Temperatures typically range between 20°C to 30°C, with pleasantly cool nights. For families seeking a memorable summer vacation with their children, Ooty is the ideal destination. Indeed, Ooty can be dubbed as the ultimate family getaway during this time of year.

2. Ooty in Monsoon

Sightseeing Ooty during the monsoon season is truly a treat for the senses. The town is transformed by the refreshing rains, with trees appearing more lush, mountains glistening, lakes brimming, and grey skies adding a touch of magic with rays of sunlight shining through.

It’s hard to envision a more picturesque setting than this. The monsoon typically lasts from July to September in Ooty, boasting steady temperatures around 20°C. While it may not be considered the prime time to visit, there is undoubtedly a unique charm to experiencing Ooty during the monsoon.

3. Ooty in Winter

The winter season in Ooty offers a refreshing break from the heat of summer. From October to February, the temperature ranges from 15°C to 5°C, with chilly nights. It is important for travelers to pack warm clothing for venturing out at night in Ooty’s cold and dry weather. Even during sightseeing in the daytime, it is advisable to bring some light woolens.

The foggy mornings and misty hills make winter an ideal time to visit Ooty for a serene and rejuvenating experience. And let’s not forget the joy of sipping hot beverages and indulging in snacks amidst the cold weather – something every seasoned traveler knows well. In fact, winters are also considered the perfect time for a honeymoon trip to Ooty.

Conclusion

Therefore, there are amazing places to visit in Ooty that cater to diverse interests, from the scenic Nilgiri Toy Train to the serene Ooty Lake and the lush Botanical Gardens. Whether you are seeking adventure, relaxation, or a glimpse into local culture, this charming hill station near Coimbatore provides memorable experiences year-round. With its cool climate and stunning landscapes, Ooty is a destination that truly enchants every traveler.