Ooty! the “Queen of the Hills”, nestled amidst the stunning Nilgiri Mountains in Tamil Nadu, India. The Diverse tourist places in Ooty will leave you captivated. Ooty, also known as Udhagamandalam, is more than just a hill station – it’s a heaven for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle life. The enchanting town of Ooty sits gracefully at a remarkable height of 2,240 meters (7,350 feet) above sea level! Ooty is located in the Nilgiris district, southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It’s about 86 kilometers (53 miles) from Mysore and 126 kilometers (78 miles) from Coimbatore.
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Ooty is known for its scenic beauty has a lot of adventures. Ooty overflows with captivating sights and memorable experiences. Hence there are many tourist places in Ooty. Explore this tourist places in Ooty by going on a trek to Doddabetta Peak for breathtaking views or take a boat ride on Ooty Lake and many more to do. Enjoy the chill weather, cool climate, pleasant stay, scenic beauty with your loved ones and immerse yourself in the charm of Ooty’s adventures! Plan Your Trip with These Must-See Tourist Places in Ooty!
How to Reach – Ooty
Bus route – Udhagamandalam Central Bus Stand.
Flight – The nearest airport is Coimbatore International Airport, about 88 km away.
Railway – Coimbatore Railway Station, about 87 km away. Alternate way to reach Ooty is to take the Toy Train from Mettupalayam via Coonoor.
Best Time to Visit
Oct-Mar – Peak season, More Crowd, Chilly and windy weather
Apr-May – Moderate season, Average Crowd, Pleasant and cool weather, Scenic views and sightseeing
Jun-Sep – Off-season, Less Crowd, Heavy rainfall
Though Ooty can be visited any time of the year, the best time is the summer month between March and June.
Top tourist places in Ooty
Doddabetta Peak:
Doddabetta Peak is one of the mesmerizing tourist places in Ooty. For adventure lovers, mountain climbers who love trekking can go to the highest point in the Nilgiris for panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Flirting with the clouds above the Nilgiris is Doddabetta, the highest peak in Tamil Nadu which is must visit tourist places in Ooty. A spectacular trail with an unparalleled vantage point of Ooty makes Doddabetta a marvellous trekking experience and the perfect spot for a fun-filled day out with family.
Doddabetta address
Ooty Kotagiri Road, Ooty, The Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu, 643002, India.
(9 kms from Ooty)
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Timings: Monday to Sunday – 9 am to 6 pm (Daily).
Doddabetta peak entry fees
Entrance Fees: Rs.6/- per adult and free for children below 5 years.
Still/Digital Camera: Rs.10/-
Video Camera: Rs.50/-
Best time to visit -The supreme time to visit the Doddabetta Peak is in the winter months starting from October to January.
Temperature:-
In Summers: Max 21 degree Celsius. Min 10 degree Celsius.
In Winters: Max 21 degree Celsius. Min 5 degree Celsius.
Doddabetta peak height
Doddabetta Peak is the highest in the Nilgiri mountain range as well as it has the pride to say one of the highest mountains in Southern India is a well-known tourist places in Ooty. It is situated at an altitude of 2,637 meters (8,650 feet) above sea level.
How to reach
Bus route: Nearest bus stop to Doddabetta Peak is Kotagiri.
Rail route : Ketti Raiway Station (14.5 km) is the nearest railway station to Doddabetta Peak.
Airways: Coimbatore International Airport (95.5 km) is the nearest airport to Doddabetta Peak.
Ooty Lake
Constructed in 1824 by John Sullivan, the then Collector of Coimbatore, Ooty Lake was initially intended for fishing and transportation. Over time, however, it shrunk in size and gradually transitioned into a popular recreational spot. The Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation took over the lake in 1973 and transformed it into a bustling tourist hub, complete with boating facilities, a mini train, and an amusement park. Things to do in this lake are boating, mini train ride, horse riding along the shore, cycling the periphery and enjoy the amusement park located near the lake provides various fun-filled rides and games. Experience the Magic of these Tourist Places in Ooty!
Ooty Lake Address: Ooty Lake, Ooty, The Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu, 643001, India
Timings – 9 to 6:30 pm all days
This tourist places in Ooty has an entry fee
The entry fee for Indians Rs.13 per person
For Foreigners it is Rs. 560 per person
Rs. 30 for Still Camera
Rs. 150 for Video Camera
Rs.240 for 2 seater pedal boat for 30 minutes
30 minutes, Rs.260 for 4 seater pedal boat
30 minutes, Rs.250 for 4 seater row boat
30 minutes, Rs.290 for 6 seater row boat
20 minutes, Rs.560 for 8 seater motor boat
20 minutes, Rs.680 for 10 seater motor boat
20 minutes, Rs.990 for 15 seater motor boat
How To Reach
Ooty Lake is situated close to the city center which is just 2 km away and can be reached within 10 to 15 minutes. You can take local transport like auto or a private taxi to reach ooty lake.
Best Time to Visit Ooty Lake
The perfect time to visit these kind of tourist places in Ooty and Ooty lake would be between the months of October and May where the sky remain clear. Probably plan a trip during the may not only you can escape from the hot summer but also enjoy the colourful boat race event.
Botanical Gardens:
Here you can explore the diverse plant species and enjoy a leisurely walk in these well-maintained gardens. It is spread across 55 acres and features landscaped gardens, a fern house, and an Italian-style garden.The Ooty botanical garden also known as the Government Botanical Garden boasts several unique features like rare and exotic plants, themed gardens, fossil tree and toda mund- a hill shaped by the toda tribe for ceremonial purposes. Don’t Miss Out watching out this amazing tourist places in Ooty.
Ooty Botanical Gardens Address: Nilgiris, Vannarapettai, Ooty, Tamil Nadu, 643001, India
Ooty Botanical Gardens Entry Fee
Rs.30 per person for Adults
Rs.15 per person for Children
Rs.50 for Still Camera
Rs.100 for Video Camera
Best time of the year to visit: April, May & Sept.
How To Reach this tourist places in Ooty
The local mode of transporation in Ooty is autos and taxis. Ensure to hire a taxi on a daily basis or to book near the hotel you stay for a fair deal and avoid spiked up rates.
Timings
The timings are from 7:00 am to 6:30 pm. The best part is that it is open on all days of the week.
Rose Garden:
It’s a true paradise for any flower lover, a must see tourist places in Ooty. Boasting the title of one of the largest and most beautiful rose gardens in the country. Here’s what makes it so special: It is an explosion of blossom with more than 3,000 varieties of roses, from classic hybrids to miniature wonders and unique black and green species.
Colourful spectacle: Imagine walking through a wonderland of vibrant hues – crimson, blush, ivory, yellow, and every shade in between – creating a visual feast beyond compare.
The park has natural floral carpets, natural ponds, about 20,000 plants from 2,241 varieties. Brace yourself for over 300 varieties of hybrid tea roses, floribunda and polyantha roses.
Address Government Rose Garden, Horticulture House, Elk Hill Road, Bombay Castle, Ooty, Tamil Nadu, 643001
Timing – 7:30 AM to 6:30 PM everyday
Best time to visit – March and June
Entry fee Rs 30 for adults, Rs 15 for children below 10 years
Rs.50 for Still Camera
Rs.100 for Video Camera
Best way to reach these tourist places in Ooty:
- Nearest airport – Coimbatore
- Nearest major railway station – Coimbatore
- Distance from Ooty Bus stand -3 Km
By air: The distance of approximately 88 km from the Coimbatore International Airport.
By rail: Visitors can take a train to Ooty from Coimbatore, Bangalore, Chennai or Mysore.
By road: Best way is to take a bus or a taxi to Ooty from Bangalore, Chennai, Coimbatore or Mysore to reach the rose garden.
5.Kalhatti Falls in Ooty
It is one of the stunning tourist places in Ooty and it is easily accessible waterfall situated about 13 kilometers away, making it a popular excursion for visitors to the charming hill station.
The falls plummet down a height of around 400 feet, creating a mesmerizing spectacle of cascading water and mist. The force of the water crashing against the rocks below sends up a refreshing spray,perfect for a cool respite on a warm day.
The abundant foliage around the falls attracts a diverse range of bird species, making it a haven for birdwatchers. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a curious beginner, you’re likely to spot several colorful feathered friends flitting through the trees.
Kalhatti Waterfalls Ooty Address: Sigur Ghat Road, 13 km from Ooty, Ooty, The Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu, 643001, India
Timings : 8 am to 6 pm everyday
Entry Fee : Free
The best time to visit the falls will be during the months of September and November.
How to reach
Kalhatti falls is 13km away from the Ooty city. It is on the road to Mysore road or Sigur Ghat Road. Need to travel 2 miles from kalhatti village to reach the Kalhatti falls.
Emerald lake
Tucked away in the Silent Valley, about 25 kilometers from Ooty, this scenic tourist places in Ooty offers a tranquil escape into the embrace of nature. Here’s what makes Emerald Lake special: the serene beauty, tranquil waters, lush surroundings, Untouched farm with unique experience of boating, picnic heaven, birding and wildlife spotting.
Emerald Lake Ooty Address: Emerald Village, The Nilgiris, Ooty, Tamil Nadu, 623704, India
Timings: 8. 30 AM – 6 PM everyday
Entry fee : Free
Best Time to this tourist places in Ooty
Preferred time to visit emerald lake starts from October to march as the winter season starts.
How to Reach Emerald Lake
Emerald Lake is about 20 km away from Ooty. This tourist places in Ooty is about 19 km away from the Ooty bus stand. The nearest railway station is in Mettupalayam (66 km away). The nearest airport to Emerald Lake is in Coimbatore, about 110 km away.
Deer park
Ooty Deer Park, nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Nilgiris, offers a charming encounter with some of nature’s gentle creatures. It is one of the hottest tourist places in Ooty. Home to spotted deer, Sambar and Chital are the primary houses of two species of deer. More than just deers there are diverse varieties of other animals like hares, rabbits and numerous bird species.The unique feature of this park is that it is one of the highest altitude animal parks in India offering a unique perspective on wildlife viewing.
Deer Park Ooty Address: Near Ooty Lake, Ooty, Tamil Nadu, 643004, India
Deer Park Ooty Entry Fee – 0 (No Entry Fee)
Timings – 10 am to 5 pm all days
How to reach
By Bus: Through bus from Ooty Main Bus Stand.
By Train: Nearest railway head is the Fernhill Railway Station.
For visiting these tourist places in Ooty people can take an auto-rickshaw or taxi/ cab to reach Deer Park from Ooty city centre.
Best time to visit – October to June.
To stay and admire all these breath-taking tourist places in Ooty, there are a couple of Ooty hotels and restaurants and also some Ooty resorts nearby.
Needle View Hillpoint/Needle Rock View-point
It is also known as Soochimalai, is a stunning natural wonder – tourist places in Ooty is located about 8 kilometers from Ooty in the Gudalur district of Tamil Nadu, India. It’s not actually in Ooty itself, but the breathtaking views and unique experience make it a worthwhile excursion for visitors to the charming hill station. The panoramic views are breathtaking vistas, stunning sunrises and sunsets, unique needle shaped peak with geological marvel. Pykara lake, Mudumalai national park and Soochimalai falls are situated near this tourist spot so you can explore those tranquility view points.
Ooty Needle View Hillpoint Address: Gudalur, Ooty Main Road, National Highway 67, Ooty, Tamil Nadu, 643212, India
Ooty Needle View Hillpoint Entry Fee – Rs.10 per person
Timings – 8 am to 6 pm all days
How to Reach Needle Rock View Point
By Bus: Naduvattam Bus Stop (6.7 kilometers away) or by tourist Cabs or by renting a Car/Bike.
Best time to visit this tourist places in Ooty
The months between October and June are considered to be the best period to embark upon a journey to this area.
Pykara water falls
One of the longest river in the district is more than just a scenic water body. It’s a haven for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone seeking a picturesque escape. Whether you prefer a leisurely paddleboat ride with loved ones, the thrill of a motorboat journey, or the quiet exploration of kayaking, the lake has something for everyone. Feel the cool water spray on your face, the wind in your hair, and the exhilaration of gliding across the smooth surface.
Pykara Waterfalls Ooty Address: Pykara, Sholur, Tamil Nadu, 643224, India
Pykara Waterfalls Ooty Entry Fee – 0 (No Entry Fee), Rs.175 per person for Boating
Timings – 8:30 to 5 pm all days
The best time to see the falls is in July.
Parking fees:-
Before embarking on your Pykara Lake adventure, it’s important to know the parking fees:
- Two-Wheeler: Rs 10
- Car: Rs 20
- Van or Bus: Rs 40
How to Reach
By Air:
The nearest airport is Coimbatore.
By Train:
Ooty is connected to Mettupalayam by a meter gauge rail.
The nearest broad gauge station is Mettupalayam. The main railway junction is Coimbatore.
By Road:
The pykara falls 20km from the Ooty bus stand.
Mudumalai National Park:
Mudumalai National Park is one of the Best Tourist Places in Ooty. It’s a protected paradise, teeming with the diverse flora and fauna, offering thrilling encounters with majestic creatures and breathtaking landscapes. Glimpsing into the captivating world of mudumalai national park is the elephant paradise which is renowned for its asian elephant population. The rich tapestry of habitats foster a remarkable array of life with over 500 species of animals, 260 species of birds and numerous reptiles and insects calling it home.Tiger territory has elusive 100 tigers to thrill the undeniable allure to the park.
Mudumalai National Park Address: NH 67, Gudalur NH 67, Gudalur, Devarshola, Tamil Nadu, 643223, India
Mudumalai National Park Entry Fee
Rs.30 per person Entry fee
Rs.53 for Still Camera
Rs.315 for Video Camera
Rs.340 per person For Bus safari
Rs.4200 per trip For Jeep safari
Rs.1120 per trip For Elephant safari
Timings: The opening hours for visitors is from 7:00 am to 9:00 am in the morning and from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm in the evenings.
Best Time to visit: The most ideal time to visit this park is from February to June.
During the cooler temperatures, you can visit the park during September and October. But with the fall in temperature, the chances of animal sightings also decreases.
Avoid visiting the park during the monsoon season which usually prevails during July and August. Because the trails are muddy and unsuitable for trekking and other activities.
Best way to explore this tourist places in Ooty:- Mudumalai bus safari takes you for a one-hour ride in the jungle. But during rush hours or weekends, you might need to wait for more than an hour. Hence, to spend time in the jungle safari in Mudumalai National Park, 2-3 hours would be enough.
How To Reach
The Mudumalai National park is situated at a distance of 41 Km from the city centre. Book a cab that drop you at the National Park without any hop off and hop on in between the journey. If you are new to this place, then better hire a rental cab to the National Park.
Start Exploring those above mentioned amazing tourist places in Ooty today. “Ooty – the Queen of hills” as the name suggests it is undoubtedly the scenic natural place with panoramic views which all the nature lovers urge to visit. It would definitely create an unforgettable experience creating nostalgic memories and assure you that everyone can spend some quality time with the family and loved ones.