Ooty – one of the most loved and visited Hill stations of South India offers some majestic Himalayan views that can hypnotize anyone. The destination is filled by tea plantations, serene beauty and magnificent mountains that will surely make your heart skip a beat. There are so many Best Places to visit in Ooty that will totally amaze you to the fullest. Ooty is perfect for those who are looking for something different and surprising. It will keep you hooked as well as admire you to the core. So, today we will rundown top 18 tourist places in Ooty.
18 Best Places to Visit in Ooty
If you are planning to visit Ooty anytime soon then here are top 18 best Ooty sightseeing that you must visit for an enthralling experience. If you did not explore these places then your trip to the destination would be incomplete.
1. Botanical Garden
The Botanical Garden which was constructed in 1847 is draped in around 55 acres of the land. It is considered as one of the best Tourist attractions in Ooty to visit for the globetrotters. The garden has been made in such a way that it depicts sections namely Lower Garden, New Garden, Italian Garden, Conservatory Garden, Fountain Terrace and Nurseries. The garden is dotted with numerous kinds of herbs, ferns, shrubs, herbal, orchids and bonsai species. Botanical garden is also for nature lovers and also for the family outing.
Location: Vannarapettai, Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Major attractions: Cork Tree, Paper Bark tree and Monkey Puzzle tree
2. Ooty Lake
Yes, you heard that right! Ooty has a mesmerizing lake which offers some picturesque views with the backdrop of beautiful Nilgris. The lake is flanked by the green valley from where you will not be able to take off your eyes. At summers, the well-known Ooty summer festival is organized here in the month of May and at that time a lot of boat races are organized here. The lake also works as an amusement park. So, do visit the place and enjoy boating in Ooty.
Location: Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Major attractions: Pedal, motor, row boating and mini toy train
3. Doddabetta Peak
Said to be one of the highest peaks in Ooty, Dodabetta Peak offers several breath-taking vistas. It is one of the most visited places in Ooty. Boasting serenity and thick forests, Doddabetta Peak is quiet popular amongst the globetrotters and if you love trekking then you are going to love this place as a lot of trekkers across the globe come here to enjoy the adventure activity.
Duration: 1 day
Major attractions: The Telescope House for a stunning view
4. Shooting Point
Shooting Point in Ooty is visited by everyone but the people that are attracted more towards the place are movie buffs. As its name suggests, Shooting Point, a lot of Bollywood movies have been shot in the mesmeric Nilgris. Locally known as ‘Shooting Medu’, this place is an ideal destination for relaxation, family picnics and for the stunning views. Shooting point is also popular for boasting serene views and that is why it is considered the best place for photographers. So, get your camera ready!
Major attractions: Horse riding and trekking to tribal villages nearby
5. ST. Stephen’s Church
Nestled in Upper Bazar Road, St. Stephen’s Church is also one of the popular destinations to visit in Ooty. The interior of the church has been made in a view to depict the ancient times art and craft when it was made. Now the government of Ooty is taking care of the church and it is still intact as it was back then. Considered as one of the oldest churches in the region, St. Stephen’s features painted window glasses, wooden elephants of the colonial era. It also depicts a lot about the history of Ooty and if you are a history buff then you must visit here.
Major attractions: Stunning painting of Last Supper
6. Wax World Museum
Wax World Museum in Ooty is one of the best places to visit in Ooty with family. The museum is said to be 130 years old colonial mansion which is nestled near Ooty Lake. The museum also houses a lot of fascinating wax statues of historical and political personalities. The best part about this museum is that it also depicts the rural life of the local village in Ooty and everything has been made out of wax.
Location: Vannarapettai, Nilgiris, Ooty
Major attractions: Wax statues of Mother Terrassa, APJ Abdul Kalam, and Mahatma Gandhi
7. Thunder World
If you visit Ooty with your family then do add Thunder World to your list. This is one of the Major Tourist places in Ooty that will keep your kids hooked as it is kind of amusement park. Also well-known as Dinosaur and Bigfoot, the amusement hub comprises of around more than 20 models of dinosaurs with the couple of sound effects. Not only this, the place also has man-made rain forest and hainted house that are for both children as well as for the adults.
Location: N Lake Rd, Mani Vihar, Kathadimattam, Ooty
Entrance Fees: INR 210/person for adults and INR 130/person for kids.
8. Kalhatty Waterfalls
If you love seeing waterfalls then do not worry as Ooty also offers mesmerizing views of Kalhatty waterfalls that is just 15 km away from destination. It also attracts a lot of adventure junkies as after visiting the waterfall, they can also go for a 2 mile trek from the village Kalhatty. There is a story behind this region and it is said that saint Agastya used to live here. While you go for the waterfall, you have to be careful as there are too many wild animals in this area.
Major attractions: Lush greenery and species of animals like black panther
9. Mudumalai National Park
If you love visiting national parks then do not fret as Ooty also offers Mudumalai National Park that are visited by many tourists. Nestled in the district of Nilgris, the national park has immense population of Tigers and other endangered species that you must have never seen before. It is one of the Best places to visit in Ooty. One of the best times to visit at the time of starting of the summers and you can go here till monsoon. Enjoy watching the activities of the animals that can make your day amazing.
Major attractions: Moyar River where you can find a lot of animals to drink water
10. Stone House
It is one of the oldest buildings that was constructed at the time of British Empire in Ooty. The Stone House will display the ancient architecture and splendor. The place has enormous artifacts and items that represent that British ruled here years ago. You will also find some weapons used by the people of that time. It is an extraordinary place for the historians, archeologists and art lovers as you get to see a lot of things that were used back then.
Location: Stone House, Stone House Area, Ooty
11. Tea Estates and Factory Tours
Ooty is popular for its sprawling tea estates offering a glimpse into the tea production process. The visitors can take a tour of the tea plantations and witness the skilled workers plucking tea leaves with precision. Learn about the various stages of tea processing, from withering to fermentation, and finally, the creation of aromatic teas. Also, while here, don’t forget to savor a cup of freshly brewed tea while enjoying the serene surroundings of the tea gardens.
Your visit to Ooty will not be complete without exploring the tea plantations and experiencing the fascinating tea-making process.
Location: Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Major attractions: Dodabetta Tea Estate, Glenmorgan Tea Estate, Highfield Tea Factory, etc.
12. Pykara Falls and Pykara Lake
Both Pykara Falls and Pykara Lake, located close to Ooty, are two breathtaking natural attractions that showcase the beauty of the Nilgiri Hills.
If you are a nature lover, you must explore the picturesque Pykara Falls and the adjacent Pykara Lake. The falls, cascading down in multiple layers, offer a breathtaking view of the place. Get lost in the immersing beauty of the place while listening to the soothing sound of water gushing through the rocks. Also enjoy a boat ride on Pykara Lake, surrounded by dense forests and rolling hills, and witness the enchanting beauty that abounds in this serene oasis.
Location: Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Entry fees: INR 10
Major attractions: picnics, leisurely walks, and capturing beautiful moments.
13. Emerald Lake
Head straight to the serene beauty of Emerald Lake, located in the middle of tea estates and rolling hills. The emerald-hued waters and the lush surroundings create a captivating setting. Take a leisurely walk along the shores, indulge in birdwatching, and let the peaceful ambiance rejuvenate you.
The pristine beauty of Emerald Lake can’t be explained in just a few words. The untouched natural beauty of the surroundings adds to the allure of the lake and provides a sense of tranquility.
Location: Ooty, Nilgiri district of Tamil Nadu
Entry fees: Free
Major attractions: Birdwatching, photography, picnics, etc.
14. Rose Garden
Rose Garden, which is commonly known as the Government Rose Garden, is a stunning botanical garden located in Ooty, Tamil Nadu. The garden is known for its vast collection of roses and is a paradise for flower enthusiasts and nature lovers where one can explore a huge variety of roses in myriad hues. Stroll through the well-designed pathways, admire the vibrant blossoms, and let the sweet aroma freshen your soul. The garden also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills, making it a perfect spot for a tranquil retreat.
Also, this well-maintained garden, with its picturesque landscapes, is an ideal place to click photos.
Location: Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Entry fees: INR 30 for adults; INR 15 for children
Major attractions: hybrid teas, miniature roses, floribundas, and climbers
15. Needle Rock Viewpoint
Located at an elevation of about 3600 feet, Needle Rock Viewpoint offers mesmerizing views of valleys and verdant landscapes of the Nilgiri Hills. The viewpoint derives its name from a rocky pillar resembling a needle that juts out into the sky, adding a unique charm to the scenery. Marvel at the rocky pillar resembling a needle and let the sweeping vistas leave you in awe of nature’s grandeur.
The place is home to a variety of bird species, making it an ideal destination for birdwatchers
Location: Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Entry fees: free
Major attractions: boating, bird watching, etc.
16. Avalanche Lake
Avalanche Lake, located at a distance of 28 kilometers from Ooty in the Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu, is a pristine and picturesque lake offering a scenic view to all. The lake is surrounded by dense forests and majestic mountains, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
Escape to the pristine beauty of Avalanche Lake, surrounded by dense forests and snow-capped mountains. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the tranquil shores, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and lose yourself in nature’s serenity.
Location: 28 km from Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Entry fees: Free
Major attractions: boating, bird watching, trekking, etc.
17. Dolphin’s Nose
Dolphin’s Nose is a famous tourist hub located in Coonoor, close to Ooty in the Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu. The place is popular for its stunning viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and the Catherine Falls.
Here you can also embark on a thrilling trek to enjoy the top view of the surrounding valleys and Catherine Falls. The rock formation resembling a dolphin’s nose adds to the charm of this scenic spot.
Location: Coonoor, Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Entry fees: INR 15 for adults
Major attractions: Nilgiris hills
18. Glenmorgan
Visit the picturesque village of Glenmorgan, known for its tea plantations and the tranquil Glenmorgan Reservoir. The tea plantations offer a serene and picturesque setting that is perfect for nature enthusiasts and photography lovers. Enjoy a leisurely walk amidst the tea estates, take in the serene beauty of the reservoir, and indulge in a peaceful picnic.
Location: Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Entry fees: Free
Major attractions: tea plantations, tranquil Glenmorgan Reservoir, and wildlife spotting.
So, these are some of the best places to visit in Ooty, and make sure that you do head to these locations for a memorable honeymoon trip.
Frequently Asked Questions – Best Places to Visit in Ooty
What is the best month to visit Ooty?
The best time to visit Ooty is between October to June. A lot of people visit the place at this point of time due to the pleasant weather.
How many days are required to visit Ooty?
The standard days to spend in Ooty can be 2-3 days as there are places where you can visit in these days like Doddabetta Peak, Boat House, and a lot more.
What is the budget required to visit Ooty?
The budget would be 10-20 thousand if you stay in a medium-ranged hotel. It can also go up according to your comfortability.
What are some best places and things to do while visiting Ooty?
One of the best places to visit in Ooty would be Ooty Lake, Emerald Lake, Ooty Botanical Gardens, Deer Park, Doddabetta Peak, Kalhatty Waterfalls, and Kamraj Sagar Dam. On the other hand, the things to do would be heading to the Botanical Garden among others.
What are the things to buy in Ooty?
There are several things that you can buy from Ooty like Chocolates, tea, coffee, spices, woolen, handicrafts, and much more.
