Top 15 Popular Places to Visit in Ooty
Explore the enchanting beauty of Ooty, also known as Udhagamandalam, a renowned hill station cradled in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu, India. If you’re eager to discover the top places to visit in Ooty, you’re in for a treat! With its captivating landscapes, delightful climate, and diverse biodiversity, Ooty has become a sought-after destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the places to visit in Ooty, unraveling the top 15 places to visit in Ooty that promise unique experiences and will undoubtedly leave you in awe of nature’s wonders.
1. Botanical Garden – Top Popular Places to Visit in Ooty
The Botanical Garden in Ooty is a paradise for botany enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Spread across 55 acres, this well-maintained garden houses a vast collection of exotic plants, including rare species from around the world. As you stroll through its pathways, you will encounter a diverse range of plants, flowers, and trees. The highlight of the garden is the fossilized tree trunk, estimated to be over 20 million years old. It’s a must-visit spot for anyone who wants to escape into the tranquility of nature.
Entry fee and timing:
The Government Botanical Garden in Ooty operates from 7 AM to 6:30 PM every day. Admission fees are Rs. 30 for adults and Rs. 15 for children. For camera entry, an additional charge of Rs. 50 is applicable for still cameras, and Rs. 100 for video cameras.
Location and contact details :
Contact Ooty Botanical Gardens at 0423 244 2545. The address is Nilgiris, Vannarapettai, Ooty, Tamil Nadu, 643001, India. You can find the location
Google Map:
How to reach?
To reach the Botanical Gardens, it’s conveniently located 3 km from Ooty Railway Station. You can walk, take an auto-rickshaw, or opt for a bus or cab for easy access.
2. Ooty Lake – Top Popular Places to Visit in Ooty
A visit to Ooty is incomplete without spending some time at the Ooty Lake. This man-made lake is a perfect spot for boating and offers a serene ambiance amidst the lush green surroundings. Rent a paddleboat or a rowboat and enjoy a leisurely ride while taking in the breathtaking views of the lake. There are also horse rides available for those seeking a bit of adventure. The Ooty Lake is an ideal place to unwind and soak in the natural beauty that surrounds it.
Booking.comEntry fee and timing
Entrance fees for Ooty Lake: For Indian visitors, the entry fee is Rs. 13 per person, while foreigners are charged Rs. 560 per person. Additionally, fees for camera usage include Rs. 30 for a still camera and Rs. 150 for a video camera
Boating charges at Ooty Lake:
- 2 seater pedal boat: Rs. 240 for 30 minutes
- 4 seater pedal boat: Rs. 260 for 30 minutes
- 4 seater row boat: Rs. 250 for 30 minutes
- 6 seater row boat: Rs. 290 for 30 minutes
- 8 seater motor boat: Rs. 560 for 20 minutes
- 10 seater motor boat: Rs. 680 for 20 minutes
- 15 seater motor boat: Rs. 990 for 20 minutes
Location and contact details :
Contact Ooty Lake at 0423 2443 977. The lake is located at Ooty Lake, Ooty, The Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu, 643001, India. Find it on
Google Map:
How to reach?
Situated close to the city center, Ooty Lake and Boat House can be easily reached, with both the bus stop and the railway station located within a 2 km radius. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available at both points to transport you to the lake.
3. Needle View Hillpoint – Top places to visit in Ooty
For panoramic views of the entire Ooty town and its surroundings, head to Needle View Hill Station Point. Located on the way to Doddabetta Peak, this vantage point offers a bird’s eye view of the lush valleys, dense forests, and distant mountains. The name “Needle View” aptly describes the thin, pointed rock formations that dominate the landscape. It’s a perfect spot to watch the sunrise or sunset, with the colors of the sky painting a breathtaking backdrop against the peaceful hillside.
Entry fee and timing:
Operating Hours: 8 AM to 6 PM
Admission Fee: Rs. 10 per person
Location and contact details :
Contact for Ooty Needle View Hillpoint: 075984 87515
Location of Ooty Needle View Hillpoint: Gudalur, Ooty Main Road, National Highway 67, Ooty, Tamil Nadu, 643212, India. Find us on
Google Map:
4. Nilgiri Mountain Railway
Embark on a nostalgic journey aboard the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This century-old steam locomotive chugs its way through the picturesque Nilgiri Mountains, offering mesmerizing views of tea gardens, winding tunnels, and cascading waterfalls. The train ride from Ooty to Coonoor is especially popular as it takes you through breathtaking landscapes at a leisurely pace. Be sure to keep your camera ready to capture the scenic beauty along the way.
Entry fee and timing:
Ooty Toy Train Admission Rates:
- First Class: Rs. 290 per person
- Second Class: Rs. 80 per person
- Unreserved Category: Rs. 15 per person
Operating Schedule: As of now, the Nilgiri train schedule indicates a departure at 07:10 hours, arriving in Ooty by 11:55 hours. The return journey from Ooty typically commences around 14:00 hrs, reaching Mettupalayam by approximately 17:30 hrs. It is advisable to verify these timings before your visit.
Location and contact details :
Address for Ooty Toy Train: Mountain Railway, Ooty, The Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu, 643003, India Contact Ooty Toy Train at 139, 0755-6610661, 0755-3934141
Reservation Information:
For bookings on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, you can utilize the Indian Railways website at www.irctc.co.in. Enter your boarding station and destination to check ticket availability. Alternatively, tickets for the toy train can be purchased at the station counter. Please note that a maximum of 4 tickets per person is allowed at the booking window.”
5. Rose Garden – Top Popular Places to Visit in Ooty
If you have a fascination for roses, then a visit to the Rose Garden in Ooty is a must. Spread across 10 acres, this garden is home to more than 20,000 varieties of roses, making it one of the largest rose gardens in India. Stroll through the well-manicured pathways, immersing yourself in the captivating fragrance and vibrant colors that surround you. The Rose Garden also hosts an annual flower show, attracting visitors from far and wide to admire the beauty of these delicate flowers.
Entry fee and timing:
- Adults: Rs. 30 per person
- Children: Rs. 15 per person
- Still Camera: Rs. 50
- Video Camera: Rs. 100
The Ooty Rose Garden is open to visitors from 7:30 in the morning to 6:30 in the evening, seven days a week.
Location:
135, Vijayanagar Palace Rd, Bombay Castel, Ooty, Tamil Nadu 643001
Google Map:
How to Reach?
There are various transportation options from Rose Garden to the City Center, approximately 17 Km away. The most economical choice is the local bus service. The nearest bus stop from the City Center is Filmistan, with frequent buses to Milap Talkies. From there, it’s a 1km walk to Rose Garden, taking about 40 minutes.
Alternatively, visitors can opt for a local taxi service from the City Center for a quicker journey. Luxury cab services are also available, but for budget-conscious travelers, shared cabs or buses are recommended. Families may find booking a private cab a more comfortable option for traveling from the City Center to Rose Garden.”
6. Emerald Lake – Top Popular Places to Visit in Ooty
Hidden amidst tea plantations and rolling hills, Emerald Lake is a hidden gem in Ooty. This serene lake offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling town, with its crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding greenery. Take a leisurely walk along the lakeside or simply sit back and enjoy the tranquility. It is an ideal spot for nature photography, with a plethora of flora and fauna to capture in your lens. A visit to Emerald Lake will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Entry fee and timing:
The lake welcomes visitors throughout the year, allowing exploration at any time of the day. Operating hours are from 8 AM to 5 PM, and entry to Emerald Lake Ooty is complimentary for all.
How to Reach?
Situated approximately 20 km from Ooty, the nearest bus stand is in Ooty itself, around 19 km away. The closest railway station is in Mettupalayam, which is 66 km away. For air travel, the nearest airport to Emerald Lake is in Coimbatore, approximately 110 km away.
Directions from Ooty:
- Taxis/Cabs: The most convenient mode of transport to reach Emerald Lake is by taxis or private cabs, readily available throughout Ooty. Travelers can book one for the day from leading car rental companies in Ooty to explore the lake and other popular sights in the area.
Address:
Emerald Village, The Nilgiris, Ooty, Tamil Nadu, 623704, India
Google Map:
7. Wenlock Downs – Top places to visit in Ooty
Wenlock Downs, also known as the Shooting Point, is a vast meadow that stretches over miles, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and verdant grasslands. The cool breeze and calm atmosphere make it the perfect destination for a picnic or a leisurely walk. It’s an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers, providing ample opportunities to capture the beauty of the landscape. As you explore the meadows, keep an eye out for the resident wildlife, including deer and rabbits.
Timing: 9:00 am – 6:30 pm
Google Map:
8. Kalhatti Falls – Top Popular Places to Visit in Ooty
Nature’s beauty reaches its peak at Kalhatti Falls, a magnificent waterfall located amidst the picturesque Kalhatti Village. The gushing water cascades down from a height of around 120 feet, creating a stunning spectacle. The falls are surrounded by lush green forests, adding to their charm and serenity. Enjoy a refreshing dip in the cool waters or simply sit by the falls, immersing yourself in the tranquility of the surroundings. Don’t forget to capture this natural marvel in your photographs to cherish the memory forever.
Contact: 0423 2538 3333
Location: Sholur, Tamil Nadu 643206, India
Operating Hours: 8 am to 6 pm Admission Fee: Free
Google Maps:
9. Tiger Hill – Top Popular Places to Visit in Ooty
Tiger Hill, with its breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The hilltop offers a vantage point to witness the captivating sunrise and sunset, with the golden hues of the sky casting a magical spell. As you ascend to the top, trekking through the scenic pathways, keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife that call this place home. Tiger Hill is a nature lover’s paradise that promises to leave you spellbound.
Entry Fee and Timings:
There is no entry fee to explore Tiger Hill in Ooty. The site welcomes visitors throughout the day, with the recommended visiting hours being from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, seven days a week.
How to Reach?
located at a distance of 5.1 km from Ooty Center, Tiger Hill is accessible by road through various local transportation options. Based on your budget, you can choose to take a local bus, an auto-rickshaw ride, or simply hire a cab.
Google Maps :
10. Dolphin’s Nose – Top places to visit in Ooty
Dolphin’s Nose is a unique rock formation that resembles the shape of a dolphin’s nose, perched at an altitude of over 6,000 feet. A short trek from the main road takes you to this viewpoint, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and tea estates. The thrill of standing at the edge and witnessing the sheer drop below is an experience like no other. It’s a photographer’s delight, with the beautiful landscape providing an opportunity to capture mesmerizing shots.
Entry Fee and Timings :
To enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views from Dolphin’s Nose Viewpoint, the entry fee is INR 15 per person. The viewpoint is open from 9 AM to 6 PM, welcoming visitors throughout this period, with the suggested exploration time being approximately 1 hour. If you plan to bring your camera, there is an additional charge of INR 20 for a Still camera and INR 50 for a Video Camera.
Contact: 099878 50625
Address: Dolphin’s Nose, Coonoor, Tamil Nadu, 643103, India
Google Map:
11. Kamraj Sagar Lake – Top places to visit in Ooty
Kamraj Sagar Lake, also known as the Sandynalla Reservoir, is a tranquil oasis located amidst the lush tea plantations of Ooty. The calm waters of the lake and the picturesque surroundings make it an ideal spot for relaxation and rejuvenation. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride or simply sit by the lakeside, listening to the soothing sounds of nature. The Kamraj Sagar Lake is a hidden gem that offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Location:
Kamaraj Sagar Dam, Sholur, Tamil Nadu 643005, India
Google Map:
Operating Hours:
9:00 am – 6:00 pm
12. Kotagiri in Coonoor
Venture beyond Ooty and explore the charming town of Kotagiri, nestled in the Coonoor region. Surrounded by tea estates, lush greenery, and serene waterfalls, Kotagiri offers a perfect blend of tranquility and natural beauty. Take a leisurely walk through the tea gardens, visit the Catherine Falls, or embark on a thrilling trek to the Kodanad View Point. Kotagiri is a paradise for nature lovers, providing a serene retreat away from the crowded tourist spots.
Distance from Ooty: 29 Kms Transportation
ways to reach: Bus / Cab
13. Doddabetta Peak – Top places to visit in Ooty
Rising to a height of 8,606 feet, Doddabetta Peak stands tall as the highest point in the Nilgiri Mountains. A visit to Ooty is incomplete without a trek or drive to this majestic peak. As you reach the summit, be prepared to be spellbound by the panoramic views of the mist-covered valleys and distant mountains. On a clear day, you can even spot the neighboring states of Karnataka and Kerala. Doddabetta Peak offers a breathtaking experience that will leave you awe-inspired.
Timing and Admission Fee:
Doddabetta Peak is open for visitors daily, and you can explore it anytime between 9:00 am and 6:30 pm. The entry fee is Rs. 6 per person for adults, while children below 5 years of age can enter for free. Additionally, there is a charge of Rs. 10 for a still camera and Rs. 50 for a video camera at the peak.
How to Reach?
- By Road: Doddabetta is approximately 9 km from Ooty City Centre and 8 km from Ooty Bus Stand, accessible by both bus and car.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Ketti Railway Station, about 14 km from Doddabetta Peak. Another option is Mettupalayam, connected by the Nilgiri Mountain Railway Toy Train, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering an enjoyable journey for tourists.
Google Map:
Contact: 0423 2538 3333
14. Droog Fort – Top places to visit in Ooty
For history enthusiasts, a visit to the Droog Fort is a must. Located amidst dense forests and mountains, this ancient fort offers a glimpse into the bygone era of the region. The trek to the fort is adventurous, with scenic trails leading you to the ruins. Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and villages. It’s a perfect spot for a picnic or simply to immerse yourself in the serenity and historical significance of the place.
Entry Fee and Timing :
Visitors can explore Droog Fort in Coonoor without any entry fee. While the fort is open throughout the day, the recommended time for exploration is from 6 AM to 6 PM on all days.
How to Reach?
Situated just 30 km from the Queen of hill stations, Droog Fort is easily accessible by local train, bus, or cab. Most tourists prefer road travel to Coonoor, but alternative transportation modes are also available for reaching this destination.
Address:
8R8H+RP6, Unnamed Road, Huligal, Tamil Nadu 643238.
Google Map:
15. Upper Bhavani Lake and Avalanche Lake
Situated at an altitude of over 6,000 feet, Upper Bhavani Lake and Avalanche Lake are two pristine lakes that offer a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Surrounded by lush green forests and majestic mountains, these lakes provide a perfect setting for a relaxing day amidst nature’s wonders. The calm waters and serene ambiance make it an ideal spot for fishing, boating, or simply enjoying a picnic by the lakeside. Upper Bhavani Lake and Avalanche Lake are truly nature’s gifts, inviting you to unwind and connect with the beauty around you.
Entry Fee and Timings:
There is no entry fee to visit the Upper Bhavani Lake viewpoint. The only cost is for the bus safari ticket, priced at ₹150 per person. For groups, a jeep option is available at ₹1200 for eight people. The visit timings for Upper Bhavani Lake are from 9 AM to 3 PM, and safaris begin around the same time as the buses start filling. Each safari lasts approximately 2 hours.
How to Reach?
The distance from Ooty to Upper Bhavani Lake is about 60 km. Visitors can drive to the forest department check post, beyond which private vehicles are not permitted. From the check post, minibuses and jeeps offer safaris to Upper Bhavani Lake and surrounding areas.
Address:
Upper Bhavani Lake Ooty Location: Address: 6GHF+WC3, Dam Rd, Tamil Nadu, 643209, India.
Google Map :
Avalanche Lake – Top places to visit in Ooty
Timings and Entry Fee:
There is no entry fee to visit Avalanche Lake Ooty, and it is accessible throughout the year. However, a government vehicle charge is applicable at the checkpoint, with private cars not permitted. The bus service, running at fixed intervals, charges ₹200 per person. Alternatively, a jeep option is available at ₹2000 per trip, accommodating eight people. The visit timings for Avalanche Lake Ooty are from 9 AM to 3 PM. Note that the forest department may restrict access on certain days due to uncertain weather conditions, so it’s advisable to check before planning any activities.
Conclusion
Ooty, with its breathtaking landscapes and natural wonders, is a paradise for every nature lover. From the serene lakes and botanical gardens to the majestic peaks and historical forts, each place offers a unique experience that will leave you captivated. So, pack your bags, embark on a journey to this enchanting hill station, and explore the top 15 places that Ooty has to offer. Witness the beauty of nature unfold before your eyes and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Places to visit in Ooty in 1 day
Tour No:1 OOTY & COONOOR
OOty
- Lake (Boat House)
- Thread Garden
- Botanical Garden
- Doddebetta Peak
COONOOR
- Valley View
- Wellington Golf Club (outer View)
- Madras Regimental Central (outer View)
- Tea Garden
- Sim’s Park
- Lamb’s Rock
- Dolphin’s Nose
- Cathrine Water Falls
Tour No: 2 – AVALANCHI TOUR
- Tree Park
- Carnhill (Eco Awareness Centre)
- Tribal Museum
- G.S.P.I.S . School (outer view)
- Emerald DamOuter View
- Tea Estate
AVALANCHI NATURE PLACE
- Upper Bhavani(Forest Dept Vehicle) (Extra Charge)
- View of Lakdi Peak
- View of Cauliflower Moutain
- Bhavani Water Falls
- Bhavani Amman Temple
- Karnatake Horticulture Garden
Tour No.3 – (PYKARA- MUDUMALAI)
- 9th Miles, Wenlock Downs
- Pine Forest
- Devils Down
- Kamaraj Sagar Dam
- School Mundh
- Pykara Dam
- Pykara Boat House
- Nilgiri Nayagara Water Falls
- Frog Hill View
- Mudumalai Wild Life Sanctuary
(Elephant Camp, Jungle Ride)
(Forest Dept Vehicle, Extra Charge)
Tour No.4
- Rose Garden
- 9th Miles
- Wenlock Downs
- Pine Forest
- Devils Down
- Kamaraj Sagar Dam
- School Mundh
- Pykara Dam
- Pykara Boat House
Places to visit in Ooty in 2 days package
Trip 1 – Ooty TO Mysore Package
Day – 1 Any of the above trip
DAY-2
Mysore Sight Seeing
- Jaganmohan Palace
- Chamundhi Hills
- ZOO, Tippu’s Fort
- Art Gallery
- Bull Temple
- Maharaja Palace
- St. Phillomena’s Church
- Brindavan Garden
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