From Scenic Lakes to Majestic Peaks: Local Spots In Ooty You Cannot Miss

Ooty, sometimes called Udagamandalam, is the most popular hill station in South India, and it is tucked away in the foggy embrace of the Nilgiri highlands. Known as the ‘Queen of Hill Stations’, Ooty's undulating hills, dotted with colorful flowers, thick forests, and expansive tea estates, makes it a perfect getaway. While Ooty is considered a year-round destination, you can make the most out of this scenic holiday from April to June or September to November. So, if you’re planning a trip to the Queen of hills, here’s a guide that will help you tick off the bucket list.

1. Ooty Lake

Constructed in 1823, this man-made wonder has remained a top attraction in Ooty and how! The main attraction at the lake is the Boathouse, which offers a range of water sports, including motorboats, paddle boats, and rowboats. It is beautifully located in a picturesque setting. Besides, the lake boasts the majestic Nilgiris in the backdrop, providing several photo opportunities for the shutterbugs.

2. Rose Garden

Unquestionably Ooty's pride and top summertime destination is the magnificent Rose Garden, which is home to over 20,000 different types of roses. The Ooty Rose Garden, regarded as one of the world's most enchanting and mesmerising gardens, has been recognized by the World Federation of Rose Societies with the "Garden of Excellence Award" for South Asia.

Ooty's warm, tropical highland climate is ideal for plants to flourish and reach their full potential. The Ooty Rose Garden, which stretches over ten acres of lush vegetation, is a sight to behold for both plant enthusiasts and photographers.

3. Doddabetta Peak

Located at about 10 km from the Ooty bus station, Doddabetta is the highest mountain peak in South India. Standing tall 2,623 meters (8650 feet), the summit, offers stunning views of the entire district, the Chamundi Hills, and the Bandipur National Park woodlands. The popular summer getaway draws visitors from all parts of India. The stunning views of the Nilgiris from above are a visual feast on a clear day. Doddabetta Peak also provides a range of easy trekking and hiking pathways for adventure-seekers.

4. Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary

Home to wild boars, panthers, tigers, barking deer, gaurs, and many more, this national park, is only 2 kilometers from the Nilgiris District. Visitors will also be able to spot rare birds such as the Malabar Whistling Thrush, Brown Dove, Grey Jungle Fowl, Bulbuls, peacocks, and many others across the 32,155-hectare wildlife refuge. Mudumalai, the premier sanctuary in Southern India, was founded in 1940. In addition to seeing wildlife, visitors can feed the elephants at the Theppakadu Elephant Camp or take a leisurely break at the Mayar waterfalls on the property.

5. Wax World Museum

Need a little break from hills and valleys? Head to the Wax World Museum! Located close to Ooty Lake, the museum is tucked inside a 130-year-old Colonial mansion. You can spot numerous life-size wax replicas of well-known Indian figures from history, culture, and heritage. Spending time at this entertaining and educational museum is worthwhile, especially for children.

6. Avalanche Lake

Located 28 kilometers from Ooty, the Avalanche lake is regarded as one of the prettiest spots to visit during the summer. This location is unique, surrounded by breathtaking scenery and an abundance of flora. The name Avalanche comes from the fact that the lake was formed following a significant landslide in the 1800s. The location is especially well-known for trout fishing, and the trout hatchery has the necessary gear for this activity. In addition, the area is well-known for other pursuits like walking, rafting, and camping.

7. Kalhatty waterfalls

One of Ooty's most beautiful waterfalls, the Kalhatty Waterfalls is a two-mile hike from the Kalhatti town. According to locals, this is the former home of the great Hindu saint Agastya. Photographers and nature lovers who want to see the area's varied birdlife and tumbling water often visit this site, which is home to a wide variety of plants and animals.

8. Pykara Waterfalls

Looking for a quiet spot to spend a relaxing time in Ooty? Pykara waterfalls might be your best bet! Located around 20 kms from Ooty, the waterfall allows you to enjoy quiet and calm, away from the city’s hustle. The scenic spot also has a boathouse that lets you enjoy a boat ride around the Pykara Lake.

9. Nilgiri Mountain Railway

Young or old, there can be no one who won’t enjoy a train ride amidst Ooty’s lush greenery. Constructed during the British rule, the UNESCO world heritage site is a popular attraction even today. You can take a train ride from Mettupalayam to Ooty, Coonoor, Wellington, Ketti, Lovedale or Aruvankadu. The little blue train takes you through the mountains, making this a one-of-a-kind experience.

10. Cairn Hill

Cairn Hill is an excellent location for a revitalizing nature walk. Tall, majestic trees covered in moss, chattering birds, and clear indications of abundant wildlife is what one will spot along the walk. It is home to one of the oldest plantations of Cyprus trees, which dates back to the 1860s. Crucially, the microclimate here exhibits a decrease in temperature relative to the outside temperature. When here, the British Era watchtower, the dangling rope bridge, and the interpretation center are not to be missed.