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Things To Do In Ooty

Last Updated At: 13-Mar-2024

15 Best Things To Do In Ooty | Activities List With Location

Ever wondered what makes Ooty, nestled in Tamil Nadu's Nilgiri hills, so special? Ooty is known as the "Queen of Hill Stations," It is a dream destination with its green tea gardens, big meadows, and tall mountains. When it comes to things to do in Ooty, there's plenty! Thanks to its lovely weather all year, it's a favourite spot for honeymooners in South India. The famous Botanical Gardens and Ooty Lake show the area's rich culture. The Nilgiri Mountain Railway adds a unique touch to your visit.

Ooty's weather is best from October to June, making it a great time for exploring. It's easy to reach Ooty by road or train. The nearest airport is in Coimbatore. Read more to discover why Ooty is so famous and how to enjoy a day filled with its culture and nature!

List Of 15 Popular Things To Do In Ooty

Ooty caters to a range of travellers, from those on a budget to those seeking a more luxurious escape. The town's legacy is deeply rooted in its tea plantations, offering visitors a chance to delve into the intricate process of tea production. Beyond this, Ooty's allure lies in its various activities, from leisurely strolls in the botanical wonders to scenic train rides. So, let’s learn more about Ooty's tourist attractions.

  • Nilgiri Mountain Railway: Famous for Its Scenic Journey
  • Ooty Lake: Surrounded by Eucalyptus Trees and Green Hills
  • Emerald Lake: Pristine Water Body Surrounded by Lush Greenery
  • Pykara Lake: Scenic Reservoir Formed by the Pykara River
  • Botanical Gardens: Feature a Fossilised Tree Trunk
  • Dolphin's Nose: Scenic Viewpoint of the Nilgiri Hills
  • Rose Garden: Largest Rose Garden in India,
  • Avalanche Lake: Lake Surrounded by Rolling Hills and Dense Forests
  • St. Stephen's Church: Colonial-Era Anglican Church
  • Thread Garden: Showcasing Meticulously Crafted Artificial Flowers
  • Kalhatti Falls: Captivating Waterfall
  • Tiger Hill: Popular Vantage Point
  • Kamraj Sagar: Surrounded by Scenic Landscapes and Tea Plantations
  • Annamalai Temple: Dedicated to Lord Murugan
  • Droog Fort: Offers Historical Charm and Panoramic Views

1. Nilgiri Mountain Railway| Famous for Its Scenic Journey

The Nilgiri Mountain Railway in Tamil Nadu, India, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its scenic journey through the Nilgiri Hills. The narrow-gauge train covers a picturesque route, offering breathtaking views of tea plantations, forests, and valleys. The historic railway, dating back to 1899, connects Mettupalayam to Ooty, providing an enchanting and nostalgic travel experience through the lush landscapes of the Ooty sightseeing tours.

  • Top attractions: Coonoor Station, Doddabetta Peak, Ooty Station
  • Best time to visit: September to November
  • Nearby spots: Ooty Botanical Gardens, Rose Garden, Doddabetta Peak

2. Ooty Lake| Surrounded by Eucalyptus Trees and Green Hills

Ooty Lake, nestled in the charming hill station of Ooty, Tamil Nadu, is an artificial lake constructed in 1824. Eucalyptus trees and green hills surround it and offers boat rides and scenic views. The lake features a charming boat house, a children's park, and a mini-garden. Ooty Lake is a popular destination for the best activities in Ooty, like picnics, boating, and enjoying the serene beauty of the Nilgiri Mountains.

  • Top attractions: Boat Ride on Ooty Lake, Ooty Rose Garden, Thread Garden
  • Best time to visit: September to November
  • Nearby spots: Botanical Gardens, Thread Garden, Nilgiri Mountain Railway

3. Emerald Lake| Pristine Water Body Surrounded by Lush Greenery

Emerald Lake, situated near Ooty in Tamil Nadu, India, is a serene and pristine water body surrounded by lush greenery. The lake, formed naturally and adorned with colourful blossoms, offers a tranquil escape. Boating and picnicking by the lakeside are popular activities. The scenic beauty and the peaceful atmosphere make Emerald Lake a charming spot for nature lovers seeking a quiet retreat in the Nilgiri Hills.

  • Top attractions: Pristine Lake Views, Nature Walks, Bird Watching
  • Best time to visit: September to November
  • Nearby spots: Pykara Lake and Waterfalls, Doddabetta Peak, Scenic Views

4. Pykara Lake| Scenic Reservoir Formed by the Pykara River

Pykara Lake, located near Ooty in Tamil Nadu, is a scenic reservoir formed by the Pykara River. The lake, encompassed by dense forests and rolling hills, offers boat rides amidst picturesque surroundings. The Pykara Lake is known for its serene ambience, and the nearby Pykara Falls adds to the natural beauty of the area, making it a popular destination for outdoor adventures in Ooty.

  • Top attractions: Boat Ride on Pykara Lake, Pykara Waterfalls, Shooting Point
  • Best time to visit: September to November
  • Nearby spots: Avalanche Lake, Emerald Dam, Doddabetta Peak

5. Botanical Gardens| Gardens Feature a Fossilised Tree Trunk

The Government Botanical Gardens in Ooty, Tamil Nadu, showcases many exotic plants, flowers, and trees. Established in 1848, the gardens feature a fossilised tree trunk, an Italian-style garden, and a variety of horticultural specimens. Popular for its vibrant Ooty local experiences, the gardens offer a peaceful setting for strolls and exploration of diverse plant life in the charming hill station.

  • Top attractions: Fossilised Tree Trunk, Diverse Plant Collections, Toda Hill
  • Best time to visit: September to November
  • Nearby spots: Rose Garden, Dolphin's Nose, Dolphin's Nose

6. Dolphin's Nose| Scenic Viewpoint of the Nilgiri Hills

Dolphin's Nose in Coonoor, near Ooty, offers panoramic views of the Nilgiri Hills. The viewpoint gets its name from its shape, which resembles a dolphin's nose. Accessible by a short trek, it provides breathtaking vistas of lush green valleys and tea estates. Dolphin's Nose is a popular spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers seeking stunning landscapes in the Western Ghats.

  • Top attractions: Panoramic Views, St. Catherine Falls, Tea Gardens
  • Best time to visit: September to November
  • Nearby spots: St. Catherine Falls, Sim's Park, Lamb's Rock

7. Rose Garden| Largest Rose Garden in India,

The Government Rose Garden in Ooty, Tamil Nadu, is the largest rose garden in India, spanning 10 acres. Established in 1995, it features over 20,000 varieties of roses, including hybrid tea and miniature roses. The garden hosts an annual rose show, attracting visitors with its vibrant colours, manicured lawns, and pleasant fragrance. It provides a delightful retreat for nature lovers and enthusiasts who appreciate the beauty of roses.

  • Top attractions: Vibrant Rose Varieties, Terraced Layout, Statue of Dr. J.H. Nicolas
  • Best time to visit: During the flowering season
  • Nearby spots: Ooty Botanical Gardens, Ooty Lake, Doddabetta Peak

8. Avalanche Lake| Lake Surrounded by Rolling Hills and Dense Forests

Avalanche Lake, nestled near Ooty, is a serene freshwater lake surrounded by rolling hills and dense forests. The lake, formed naturally, offers a picturesque setting for nature lovers and trekking enthusiasts. Visitors can engage in boating or enjoy a peaceful walk along the lakeshore. Surrounded by lush greenery and mist-covered peaks, Avalanche Lake is a tranquil escape, providing a soothing ambience amidst the natural beauty of the Nilgiri Mountains. This is one of the best family-friendly things to do in Ooty.

  • Top attractions: Scenic Lake Views, Nature Walks, Fishing Activities
  • Best time to visit: September to November
  • Nearby spots: Emerald Dam, Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, Upper Bhavani Lake

Read More : Hill Station Near Ooty 

9. St. Stephen's Church| Colonial-Era Anglican Church

St. Stephen's Church, established in 1830, is one of the oldest churches in Ooty, Tamil Nadu. This colonial-era Anglican church features Gothic architecture, stained glass windows, and a serene ambience. The church's picturesque surroundings and historical significance make it a notable landmark, attracting visitors interested in exploring Ooty's colonial heritage and architectural charm.

  • Top attractions: Colonial Architecture, Stained Glass Windows, Historical Graveyard
  • Best time to visit: September to March
  • Nearby spots: Ooty Botanical Gardens, Rose Garden, Ooty Lake

10. Thread Garden| Showcasing Meticulously Crafted Artificial Flowers

Thread Garden in Ooty is a unique attraction showcasing meticulously crafted artificial flowers made entirely from colourful threads. The garden features a diverse collection of thread-based floral art, offering a vibrant and visually stunning experience. Each flower is intricately handcrafted, contributing to the garden's artistic appeal. Thread Garden offers visitors an unusual and fascinating glimpse into the world of craftsmanship and creativity.

  • Top attractions: Artificial Flower Displays, Thread Craftsmanship, 3D Effect
  • Best time to visit: September to March
  • Nearby spots: Ooty Botanical Gardens, Rose Garden, Ooty Lake

11. Kalhatti Falls| Captivating Waterfall

Kalhatti Falls, located near Ooty in Tamil Nadu, is a captivating waterfall cascading amidst lush greenery and rocky landscapes. Formed by the Kalhatti River, the falls offer a serene retreat for nature enthusiasts and trekkers. Surrounded by dense forests, the area provides a peaceful ambience, making Kalhatti Falls a scenic destination for those seeking a refreshing escape in the Western Ghats. This is one of the best Ooty weekend getaways if you want to relax from the bustling streets.

  • Top attractions: Kalhatti Falls, Surrounding Landscape, Shiva Temple
  • Best time to visit: September to November
  • Nearby spots: Kemmanagundi, Baba Budangiri, Hebbe Falls

12. Tiger Hill| Popular Vantage Point

Tiger Hill, situated near Ooty in Tamil Nadu, is a popular vantage point offering stunning panoramic views of the Nilgiri Hills. Accessible by a short trek, the hill provides a picturesque setting for sunrise and sunset views. The captivating landscapes, rolling hills, and cool climate make Tiger Hill an ideal spot for nature lovers and photographers seeking the natural beauty of the Western Ghats.

  • Top attractions: Sunrise Views, Kanchenjunga Range, Observation Deck
  • Best time to visit: April to June
  • Nearby spots: Darjeeling Town, Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Centre, Happy Valley Tea Estate

13. Kamraj Sagar| Surrounded by Scenic Landscapes and Tea Plantations

Kamraj Sagar Dam, also known as Sandynallah Reservoir, is near Ooty. Built across the Kamraj Sagar River, scenic landscapes and tea plantations surround it. The dam provides a serene atmosphere for picnics and leisurely walks, offering panoramic views of the Nilgiri Hills.

  • Top attractions: Scenic Reservoir. Tea Plantations, Dam Site Views
  • Best time to visit: September to March
  • Nearby spots: Ooty (Udhagamandalam), Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Rose Garden

14. Annamalai Temple| Dedicated to Lord Murugan

Annamalai Temple, situated atop Annamalai Hill in Ooty, is dedicated to Lord Murugan. The temple's Dravidian architecture and spiritual ambience attract devotees seeking blessings and panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

  • Top attractions: Sacred Sanctum, Panchamuga Vinayagar Shrine, Arunachala Hill Views
  • Best time to visit: October to March
  • Nearby spots: Arunachala Temple, Sri Ramana Ashram, Virupaksha Cave

15. Droog Fort| Offers Historical Charm and Panoramic Views

Droog Fort, perched on a hill near Coonoor, offers historical charm and panoramic views. Built by Tipu Sultan, the fort provides a glimpse into the region's colonial history. Trekkers enjoy the journey to the fort, exploring its ruins and savouring the scenic beauty of the Nilgiri Mountains.

  • Top attractions: Historical Charm, Panoramic Views, Watchtower
  • Best time to visit: October to March
  • Nearby spots: Nandi Hills, Tippu's Drop, Yoga Nandeeshwara Temple

Read More : Places To Visit In Ooty

But Ooty’s magic isn't just in its grand landscapes. It's in the clinking of teacups at charming hilltop cafes, the echo of laughter at bustling bazaars, and the quiet contemplation amidst Gothic churches. It's in the warmth of local smiles, and the stories whispered by ancient Toda huts. So, when you leave this haven in the hills, you carry more than souvenirs. You carry a piece of Ooty’s soul woven into the fabric of your being. And you know, with a certainty that warms your spirit, you’ll be back someday. For the mountains, once they call, never truly let you go.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do In Ooty

Q1. What are the top tourist attractions in Ooty?
A1. The top tourist attractions in Ooty are:

  • Botanical Gardens: Explore the diverse plant life.
  • Ooty Lake: Enjoy boating amidst scenic landscapes.
  • Nilgiri Mountain Railway: Take a nostalgic train journey.
  • Doddabetta Peak: Enjoy panoramic views of the Nilgiris.
  • Rose Garden: Admire a vast collection of roses.

Q2. Can you suggest some adventurous activities to do in Ooty?
A2. Some adventurous activities to do in Ooty are:

  • Trekking: Explore the trails to places like Doddabetta and Nilgiri Hills.
  • Boating: Enjoy boating at Ooty Lake or Avalanche Lake.
  • Mountain Biking: Experience thrilling rides through the hills.
  • Rock Climbing: Engage in rock climbing activities around Ooty.

Q3. What are the best places to visit in Ooty for nature lovers?
A3. The best places to visit in Ooty for nature lovers are:

  • Emerald Lake: A serene spot surrounded by greenery.
  • Pykara Lake and Falls: Enjoy the scenic beauty.
  • Botanical Gardens: Explore a variety of plant species.
  • Rose Garden: Delight in vibrant colours and fragrances.

Q4. Are there any popular events or festivals in Ooty that I shouldn't miss?
A4.
Below are the events that you should not miss:

  • Ooty Summer Festival: Showcasing flower shows and cultural events.
  • Tea and Tourism Festival: Celebrating the region's tea culture.

Q5. What are some kid-friendly things to do in Ooty?
A5.
Some kid-friendly things to do in Ooty are:

  • Toy Train Ride: Enjoy a ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway.
  • Boating at Ooty Lake: Family-friendly boat rides.
  • Children's Park: Playful activities in a scenic setting.
  • Thread Garden: Fascinating display of artificial flowers.
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--- Published By  Adotrip

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