Have you ever dreamed of a place where emerald-green hills stretch as far as the eye can see, the air is crisp and smells of eucalyptus, and every nook and corner seems to hold a story?
Welcome to Ooty, also known as the “Queen of Hill Stations.”
This is a place where nature’s beauty is limitless and where history can be heard in the wind. As you travel through this beautiful hill town in the middle of the Nilgiris, you will be mesmerized by its timeless charm.
In this helpful blog, we’ll talk about the top 17 places to visit in Ooty, as well as the best time to go and how to get there.
Here are the 17 best tourist attractions in Ooty
1. Pykara
Our journey begins with Pykara, a tranquil paradise located about 21 kilometers from Ooty. Pykara boasts a beautiful reservoir, Pykara Lake, surrounded by lush green forests.
A boat ride on this pristine lake is an experience you won’t want to miss, as it offers breathtaking views of the Nilgiri Hills. Just a short drive away lies the Pykara Waterfalls, where you can witness nature’s raw beauty in the form of cascading water amidst dense woods.
The combination of the lake and waterfalls makes Pykara an enchanting destination that’s perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
How to reach
By Train: The nearest railway station is Ooty Railway Station, about 20 km away.
By Bus: Regular bus services from Ooty, approximately 20 km.
By Air: Coimbatore International Airport, around 100 km away.
Timings: 10:00 am to 6: 30 pm
Entrance fee: INR 10/person for Indians and INR 560/person for foreigners
Also read: A Complete Travel Guide To Munnar Hill Station
2. Mudumalai
Next, Mudumalai National Park. It is a must-see for people who like seeing wild animals and beautiful places that haven’t been tamed. This refuge is about 50 kilometers from Ooty and has a wide range of plants and animals.
The park is famous for its elephant population and offers exciting safaris where you can see these gentle giants in their native environment. Mudumalai is a great place for nature lovers and people who want to try new things because it has a lot of grass and a lot of wildlife.
How to reach
By Train: The nearest railway station is Udagamandalam (Ooty) Railway Station, approximately 30 km.
By Bus: Ooty to Mudumalai bus route, around 40 km.
By Air: Coimbatore International Airport, approximately 120 km.
Timings: 7:00 am – 9:00 am and 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Entrance fee: INR 14 per person, INR 150 for a video camera, INR 25 for a camera, and INR for a jeep safari
3. Doddabetta
If you’re seeking panoramic views that will leave you awestruck, Doddabetta is the place to be. Standing tall at 2,623 meters, it’s the highest peak in the Nilgiri Hills and offers an unobstructed 360-degree view of the surrounding landscape.
On a clear day, you can see all the way to the fields of Coimbatore and the Mysore Plateau. The drive to Doddabetta is an adventure in itself, as you wind your way through tea plantations and dense forests. It’s a sunrise or sunset spot that photographers and nature lovers will cherish.
How to reach
By Train: Ooty Railway Station, about 10 km.
By Bus: Ooty to Doddabetta bus route, approximately 10 km.
By Air: Coimbatore International Airport, around 90 km.
Timings: 7:00 am to 6:00 pm
Entrance fee: INR 10/person
4. Tea Estate Viewpoint
Ooty is synonymous with tea, and a visit to the Tea Estate Viewpoint is a tribute to the region’s rich tea culture. Located in the heart of the Nilgiri tea plantations, this viewpoint offers a glimpse into the meticulous process of tea plucking and processing.
You can take guided tours through the tea factories, where you’ll learn about the nuances of tea production. And of course, don’t forget to sip on a hot cup of Ooty tea while taking in the mesmerizing views of rolling tea gardens stretching as far as the eye can see.
How to reach
By Train: Ooty Railway Station, around 5 km.
By Bus: Ooty to Tea Estate Viewpoint bus route, about 5 km.
By Air: Coimbatore International Airport, approximately 80 km.
5. Manjoor
If you’re looking for an offbeat destination away from the tourist crowds, Manjoor is a hidden gem. This small, unspoiled village, located about 30 kilometers from Ooty, is known for its pristine landscapes and the surreal beauty of the Upper Bhavani Lake.
The journey to Manjoor is a delightful one, taking you through winding roads and dense forests. Once you arrive, you can soak in the serenity of the lake, surrounded by emerald-green hills. It’s the perfect place for a peaceful picnic or a leisurely nature walk.
How to reach
By Train: No direct train service; consider bus or taxi.
By Bus: Ooty to Manjoor bus route, roughly 25 km.
By Air: Coimbatore International Airport, approximately 110 km.
6. Emerald Dam
Emerald Dam is another hidden treasure tucked away in the Nilgiris. This serene reservoir, encircled by lush tea plantations and eucalyptus groves, is a great spot for a quiet escape. You can take a short trek to the dam and enjoy a picnic by the waterside while marveling at the serene beauty of the surroundings. The name “Emerald” perfectly captures the shade of green that dominates the landscape here.
How to reach
By Train: Ooty Railway Station, approximately 25 km.
By Bus: Ooty to Emerald Dam bus route, around 25 km.
By Air: Coimbatore International Airport, about 105 km.
Timings: 9 am – 6 pm
Entrance fee: Free entry
7. Ooty Lake
A visit to Ooty would be incomplete without a leisurely stroll around Ooty Lake. This artificial lake, constructed in the early 19th century, is a hub of activity. You can hire a paddleboat or rowboat and spend a serene afternoon on the water.
The lake is in the middle of a well-kept park, which makes it a great place for families to spend the day. The Ooty Lake area also hosts a variety of entertainment options, including a mini-train ride and a children’s park.
How to reach
By Train: Ooty Railway Station, about 3 km.
By Bus: Ooty Lake is in Ooty town.
By Air: Coimbatore International Airport, approximately 85 km.
Timings: 9 am – 6 pm
Entrance fee: INR 15 per person
Also visit: Top 7 Places To Visit In Nainital- The Queen Of Lakes
8. Botanical Gardens
The Government Botanical Gardens in Ooty are a testament to the town’s colonial past and its enduring love for horticulture. Established in 1848, these gardens are home to a stunning array of exotic plants, rare trees, and vibrant flower beds.
The highlight of the garden is the fossilized tree trunk, estimated to be over 20 million years old. A visit here is not only educational but also visually enchanting, especially during the annual flower show held in May.
How to reach
By Train: Ooty Railway Station, approximately 3 km.
By Bus: Ooty Botanical Gardens are within Ooty town.
By Air: Coimbatore International Airport, around 85 km.
Timings: 7:00 am to 6:30 pm
Entrance fee: INR 15/person for children and INR 30/person for adults
9. Ooty Rose Garden
Our trip starts at the beautiful Ooty Rose Garden, a work of horticulture that has more than 20,000 different kinds of roses. At 2,240 meters above sea level, this park is a paradise for people who love nature and flowers.
As you walk along the well-kept paths, you’ll be drawn in by the bright colors and sweet smells of the flowers. The Ooty Rose Garden is beautiful to look at, especially when the roses are in full bloom in the summer.
How to reach
By Train: Ooty Railway Station, about 2 km.
By Bus: Ooty Rose Garden is in Ooty town.
By Air: Coimbatore International Airport, approximately 85 km.
Timings: 8:30 am to 6:30 pm
Entrance fee: INR 20/person
10. Dolphin’s Nose
Dolphin’s Nose is a spectacular lookout point that is just a short drive from Ooty. From there, you can see the nearby hills and valleys in a wide panorama. Named for its unique shape resembling a dolphin’s nose, this vantage point is perched at an altitude of 1,550 meters above sea level.
The view from here is nothing short of mesmerizing, with the Catherine Falls cascading in the distance and the lush tea gardens below. It’s an ideal spot for nature photography and a peaceful escape from the city’s clamor.
How to reach
By Train: Ooty Railway Station, around 10 km.
By Bus: Ooty to Dolphin’s Nose bus route, roughly 10 km.
By Air: Coimbatore International Airport, about 90 km.
Timings: N/A
Entrance Fee: N/A
11. Kalhatti Falls
For those seeking adventure and natural beauty, Kalhatti Falls is a must-visit destination. This majestic waterfall is tucked away in the Nilgiri Mountains, about 13 kilometers from Ooty. It is a secret gem.
The falls are surrounded by dense forests, making the journey to reach them an exciting trekking experience. The sight of water gushing down from a height of 120 meters is a sight to behold, and the tranquility of the place is truly refreshing.
How to reach
By Train: No direct train service; consider bus or taxi.
By Bus: Ooty to Kalhatti Falls bus route, approximately 13 km.
By Air: Coimbatore International Airport, around 95 km.
Timings: 8 am to 6 pm every day.
Entrance fee: N/A
12. Annamalai Temple
Steeped in spirituality and history, the Annamalai Temple is a revered pilgrimage site in Ooty. Dedicated to Lord Murugan, this temple is known for its unique Dravidian architecture and intricate sculptures. On top of Annamalai Hill, it has a peaceful environment and beautiful views of the land around it. The temple attracts devotees and tourists alike, making it a significant cultural landmark in Ooty.
How to reach
By Train: No direct train service; consider bus or taxi.
By Bus: Ooty to Annamalai Temple bus route, roughly 15 km.
By Air: Coimbatore International Airport, approximately 100 km.
Timings: 5 am – 12 pm and 4 pm – 9 pm every day.
13. Droog Fort
For history enthusiasts, a visit to the Droog Fort is an intriguing journey back in time. Also known as the Bakasura Malai, this fort has a rich history dating back to the 18th century when it served as a military outpost. Perched atop a hill, it provides commanding views of the Nilgiri Hills and the surrounding plains. The trek to the fort is an adventure in itself, passing through dense forests and offering a glimpse into the region’s historical past.
How to reach
By Train: No direct train service; consider bus or taxi.
By Bus: Ooty to Droog Fort bus route, around 15 km.
By Air: Coimbatore International Airport, about 105 km.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entrance Fee: None
14. Elk Hill Lord Murugan Temple
Another spiritual gem in Ooty is the Elk Hill Lord Murugan Temple, dedicated to Lord Subramanya. Situated atop Elk Hill, this temple is not only a place of worship but also a vantage point that provides panoramic views of Ooty and its picturesque surroundings.
The tranquility of the temple and the breathtaking views make it a perfect spot for both spiritual reflection and sightseeing.
How to reach
By Train: Ooty Railway Station, approximately 2 km.
By Bus: Elk Hill Temple is in Ooty town.
By Air: Coimbatore International Airport, around 85 km.
Timings: 8 am to 5 pm
Entrance Fee: Free entry
Also read: Mysterious Temples- Entry is Restricted for Men
15. Mariamman Temple
Ooty’s spiritual diversity is further enriched by the Mariamman Temple, dedicated to the goddess Mariamman. This temple is a vivid example of the region’s religious harmony, as it attracts devotees from different faiths who seek the blessings of the goddess.
The temple’s colorful architecture and the vibrant festivities during festivals make it a unique cultural experience for visitors.
How to reach
By Train: Ooty Railway Station, approximately 3 km.
By Bus: Mariamman Temple is in Ooty town.
By Air: Coimbatore International Airport, approximately 85 km.
Timings: 6:00 am to 8:00 pm
Entrance Fee: N/A
16. Nilgiri Mountain Railway
One of the most iconic attractions in Ooty is the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This charming toy train takes you on a mesmerizing journey through the Nilgiri Hills, passing through tunnels, lush tea gardens, and quaint villages. The slow-paced ride allows you to savor the beauty of the Nilgiri Mountains at a leisurely pace, and it’s an experience that should not be missed.
How to reach
By Train: Ooty Railway Station is the starting point for the Nilgiri Mountain Railway.
By Bus: N/A
By Air: Coimbatore International Airport, around 85 km.
Timings: 9 am to 5 pm
Entrance fee: INR 30 per adult, INR 15 for kids
17. Mukurthi National Park
Nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers will find solace in the Mukurthi National Park, situated in the western part of the Nilgiri Hills. This protected area is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the Nilgiri tahr, a rare and endangered mountain goat species.
The park offers trekking opportunities and a chance to connect with nature in its purest form. Birdwatchers will also be delighted by the numerous avian species that call this park home.
How to reach
By Train: Udhagamandalam 44 km.
By Bus: Ooty to Mukurthi National Park bus route, roughly 50 km.
By Air: Coimbatore International Airport, approximately 90 km.
Timings: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Entrance fee: 15-20 rupees
Please keep in mind that these distances are estimates that can change depending on where you are in these places. Check the schedules and availability of area transportation before you plan your trip. Also, prices and times may be a little different. Check the place’s main website before you go there.
The best time to visit
The best time to visit Ooty, a popular hill station in southern India, depends on your preferences and what you want to experience.
Here are the key factors to consider for each season:
Summer (March to June)
- The temperature ranges from 15°C to 25°C, which is a nice range.
- Ideal for outdoor activities like trekking, boating, and sightseeing.
- This is the busiest time for tourists, so prices will go up and places will be full.
Monsoon (July to September)
- Lush greenery with frequent rainfall.
- Fewer tourists, making it a peaceful and budget-friendly time to visit.
- Hiking and nature enthusiasts can enjoy the scenic beauty, but landslides are possible.
Post-Monsoon (October to November)
- Clear skies and cool temperatures.
- Great time for sightseeing as the landscape is refreshed after the rains.
- Relatively fewer tourists compared to the summer season.
Winter (December to February)
- Cold weather with temperatures dropping to 5°C or lower at night.
- Ideal for couples and those seeking a cozy, romantic getaway.
- Occasional mist and fog can add a mystical charm to the scenery.
- Limited outdoor activities due to the cold.
Recommended Time to Visit Ooty
For outdoor activities: Post-monsoon season (October to November) or the summer season (March to June)
For enjoying the rainy season: July to September