Places To Visit In Ooty

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43 Things to Do In Ooty

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1. Nilgiri Mountain Railway

Nilgiri Mountain Railway
Top Things To Do 4.7 /5

1 km from city center

Things To Do

The Nilgiri Mountain Railway (NMR) is a UNESCO World Heritage narrow-gauge railway that runs between Mettupalayam and Udhagamandalam (Ooty) in Tamil Nadu. Built in the early 1900s, the train covers a scenic 46 km stretch through the Nilgiri Hills, passing dense forests, tea plantations, tunnels, and arched bridges. Its highlight is the rack-and-pinion system, essential for steep climbs, especially (Read More) between Mettupalayam and Coonoor.

2. Ooty Lake

Ooty Lake
Top Attraction 4.4 /5

1 km from city center

Lake

Ooty Lake is a scenic artificial lake spread over 65 acres in the heart of Ooty, originally constructed in 1824 by John Sullivan. Surrounded by eucalyptus trees and rolling hills, the lake offers a peaceful atmosphere ideal for boating, picnics, and photography. Visitors can enjoy pedal boats, rowboats, and motorboats from the boat house, along with attractions like a mini train, amusement park, a (Read More)nd pony rides nearby.

3. Dolphin's Nose, Ooty

Dolphin's Nose, Ooty
4.3 /5

15 km from city center

Viewpoint

Dolphin’s Nose is a prominent cliff-top viewpoint located about 12 km from Coonoor in Tamil Nadu, perched at around 1,550 m above sea level. The rock formation resembles a dolphin’s snout jutting into the air and offers spectacular views of the Nilgiri Hills, lush valleys, and the cascading Catherine Falls far below. The drive to the viewpoint winds through scenic tea plantations, and a short walk (Read More) leads to the edge for panoramic vistas.

4. Emerald Lake, Ooty

Emerald Lake, Ooty
Top Things To Do 4.3 /5

12 km from city center

Lake

Emerald Lake (also known as Emerald Dam) lies about 20 km from Ooty in the Silent Valley region of the Nilgiris. Nestled amid tea plantations and rolling hills, it stretches across a serene landscape with emerald-hued waters attracting birdlife and offering tranquil views. Entry is free, and the site is open daily from early morning until late afternoon—making it a perfect half-day escape from Oot (Read More)y’s crowds

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5. Pykara Lake

Pykara Lake
4.4 /5

12 km from city center

Lake

Pykara Lake is a serene waterbody located about 20 km from Ooty, formed by the Pykara River amidst the Nilgiri Hills. It is known for its clean surroundings, boat rides, and scenic beauty, making it a popular day-trip destination. A government-run boathouse offers motorboat and speedboat services, along with basic amenities like a canteen and rest area.

6. Ooty Botanical Gardens

Ooty Botanical Gardens
Top Attraction 4.3 /5

2 km from city center

Garden & Park

Ooty’s Botanical Gardens, established in 1848, span over 55 acres on the lower slopes of Doddabetta Peak. The garden is divided into themed sections such as the Lower Garden, Italian Garden, Conservatory, and Toda Hill, and features over 650 species of plants including exotic trees, ferns, orchids, and medicinal plants. A standout attraction is a 20-million-year-old fossilized tree trunk.

7. Doddabetta Peak

Doddabetta Peak
4.3 /5

5 km from city center

Hills & Valleys

Doddabetta Peak, at 2,637 meters, is the highest point in the Nilgiri Hills and one of the most popular viewpoints near Ooty, located just 9–10 km from the town. The drive to the peak passes through dense forests and tea plantations, and a short 2 km trek from the base leads to the summit. From the top, visitors are rewarded with panoramic views of the Nilgiri landscape, and on clear days, even th (Read More)e plains of Coimbatore and Mysore are visible.

8. Ooty Rose Garden

Ooty Rose Garden
Instagram Worthy 4.1 /5

2 km from city center

Garden & Park

The Government Rose Garden in Ooty, also known as the Centenary Rose Park, is located on the slopes of Elk Hill and is the largest rose garden in India. Spread over five terraced levels across 4 hectares, it houses over 20,000 rose plants representing nearly 2,800 varieties, including hybrid teas, floribundas, ramblers, and rare colored roses like green and black. The garden features rose tunnels, (Read More) pergolas, landscaped paths, and an observation point called Nila Maadam. It is best visited during the blooming seasons between March to June and September to November, with a popular rose show held in May during the Ooty Summer Festival. With minimal entry fees and stunning floral displays, it's a top attraction for families, garden lovers, and photographers.

9. Kotagiri, Coonoor

Kotagiri, Coonoor
4.3 /5

17 km from city center

Landmark

Kotagiri, the oldest hill station in the Nilgiris, is located about 29 km from Ooty and 20 km from Coonoor. Nestled at an altitude of nearly 1,950 m, it is known for its rolling tea estates, pleasant climate, and tranquil charm. Less commercialized than Ooty, Kotagiri offers a quieter experience with scenic trekking trails, panoramic viewpoints, and indigenous culture. It’s ideal for those looking (Read More) to explore nature, trek through shola forests, or simply unwind in the peaceful hills.

10. Thread Garden, Ooty

Thread Garden, Ooty
4.1 /5

1 km from city center

Garden & Park

The Thread Garden in Ooty is a one-of-a-kind indoor art installation where all plants—flowers, foliage, lawns—are meticulously handcrafted from colored threads, canvas, and wire using a unique hand-winding technique. Conceived by Antony Joseph and his team, this labor-intensive craft took over a decade to complete, resulting in more than 150 artificial plant species preserved in a temperature-cont (Read More)rolled greenhouse. The garden amazes visitors with its lifelike textures, vivid colors, and intricate details achieved entirely without needles or machinery.

11. Thunder World

Thunder World
4.1 /5

1 km from city center

Amusement & Theme Park

Thunder World in Ooty is a family-friendly amusement park located near Emerald Lake, offering an array of thrilling indoor and outdoor attractions. Highlights include a 5D cinema, laser tag arena, mirror mazes, and bumper cars, alongside traditional carnival-style rides for children. The park is complemented by a toy train that runs through themed zones, creating a fun and immersive experience. Wi (Read More)th on-site dining options and clean facilities, Thunder World suits visitors looking for entertainment beyond natural sightseeing. It's best visited during afternoons when the weather is cooler and shops are open.

12. Wax Museum Ooty

Wax Museum Ooty

2 km from city center

Museum

Ooty’s Wax Museum offers a unique and entertaining indoor experience, showcasing life-sized wax figures of historical icons, celebrities, and fictional characters. Visitors can pose alongside meticulously crafted figures ranging from movie stars to political leaders, making it a fun photo destination for families and tourists. The museum combines entertainment with light educational content throug (Read More)h captions and display plaques. It’s an ideal stop if you're looking to break up a scenic trip with a quirky, indoor activity. The museum is air-conditioned, easy to access, and provides a pleasant alternative during rainy or chilly weather.

13. Trekking in Ooty

Trekking in Ooty

0 km from city center

Trekking in Ooty offers a blend of scenic trails, misty forests, and panoramic viewpoints that cater to both casual walkers and seasoned hikers. Popular routes include the trek to Doddabetta Peak, Kotagiri trails, and the forest paths around Parsons Valley. The region's lush tea plantations, eucalyptus groves, and wildlife-rich hills make for a refreshing and immersive outdoor experience. Most tre (Read More)ks are best undertaken during early mornings or late afternoons between October and May for pleasant weather and clear views. Guided treks are available for those interested in learning about local flora, fauna, and tribal culture.

14. Tiger Hill Ooty

Tiger Hill Ooty
4.1 /5

4 km from city center

Hills & Valleys

Tiger Hill in Ooty is a serene viewpoint located about 6–10 km from the town center, near the base of Doddabetta Peak. Known for its panoramic views of the Nilgiri hills, it’s a popular spot for watching sunrise and sunset. The area features a small reservoir, colonial-era graves, and a mysterious old cave, offering both natural beauty and historical interest.

15. Ooty Flower Show

Ooty Flower Show

Fairs & Festivals

The Ooty Flower Show is an annual horticultural event held in May at the Government Botanical Gardens, showcasing elaborate floral displays, exotic blooms, and creative themed panels. Drawing thousands of visitors, the event highlights regional and international plant varieties, along with gardening techniques and sustainability exhibits. It combines a festive atmosphere with educational sessions, (Read More) attracting plant enthusiasts, families, and photographers alike. With live music, cultural performances, and gardening stalls, the show is a major highlight of Ooty's summer tourism calendar.

16. Kalhatti Falls, Bellikkal

Kalhatti Falls, Bellikkal
4.1 /5

8 km from city center

Waterfall

Kalhatti Falls, located near Bellikkal about 13 km from Ooty, is a 120-foot waterfall nestled amidst the dense forests of the Sigur Plateau. Known for its serene natural beauty, it attracts trekkers, birdwatchers, and wildlife enthusiasts, with occasional sightings of elephants, deer, and wild buffaloes in the area. A short 2-3 km trek or descent from Kalhatti village leads to the base of the fall (Read More)s, while a nearby viewpoint offers scenic views from above. The best time to visit is between October and May, especially just after the monsoon when the waterfall is at its fullest. While the area is open to visitors throughout the year, basic facilities are limited, so carrying essentials is recommended.

17. Avalanche Lake

Avalanche Lake
4.4 /5

15 km from city center

Lake

Avalanche Lake nestled in the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve emerged naturally after a massive landslide in the early 1800s. It is known for its untouched natural beauty and serene environment. Formed due to a landslide in the early 1800s, the lake is surrounded by lush forests, rhododendrons, and vibrant flora, making it a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. Access is restricted to forest department (Read More)vehicles, which enhances its tranquility and ecological protection.

18. St Stephen's Church Ooty

St Stephen's Church Ooty
4.5 /5

1 km from city center

Church & Cathedral

St Stephen’s Church in Ooty is a charming colonial-era Anglican church built in the mid-19th century, blending Gothic architecture with serene hill-station ambiance. Located close to the town center, its stained-glass windows, wooden pews, and tranquil gardens evoke a quiet sense of history and spirituality. Visitors appreciate its well-preserved design and peaceful interior, offering a reflective (Read More) pause amid Ooty’s bustling tourist circuit. The church remains active, holding regular services and occasional choir events that add cultural depth to a visit.

19. Mukurthi National Park

Mukurthi National Park
4.3 /5

National Park

Mukurthi National Park, located in the western Nilgiris of Tamil Nadu, spans around 78 km² and forms part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Established to protect the endangered Nilgiri tahr, the park is known for its unique blend of montane grasslands and shola forests. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including leopards, elephants, Bengal tigers, and several (Read More)endemic bird species.

20. Shopping in Ooty

Shopping in Ooty
Shopping in Ooty offers a mix of local handicrafts, homemade chocolates, aromatic oils, and fresh produce. Charing Cross and the Tibetan Market are popular spots for woollens, souvenirs, and handicrafts. Don’t miss the Nilgiri tea varieties and essential oils like eucalyptus and camphor. Local bakeries and chocolate stores sell handcrafted treats that make great take-home gifts. You can also explo (Read More)re the government-run stores for authentic tribal crafts and textiles.

21. Kamraj Sagar Lake

Kamraj Sagar Lake
Temporarily Closed 4.1 /5

6 km from city center

Lake

Kamraj Sagar Lake, also known as Sandynalla Reservoir, is situated approximately 20 km from Ooty on the Mysore–Ooty road, making it a peaceful retreat en route to Pykara. Surrounded by dense pine and eucalyptus forests, the lake’s calm waters reflect the hillside landscape, offering a serene backdrop for picnics and photography. A small causeway and viewing platform allow visitors to enjoy lakesid (Read More)e walks, birdwatching, and occasional fishing. Ideal during March–June and September–November, the lake is a quiet stop for those seeking a blend of nature and relaxation on their journey.

22. Droog Fort, Coonoor

Droog Fort, Coonoor
4.4 /5

16 km from city center

Forts & Palaces

Droog Fort, located about 13 km from Coonoor, is the remnant of a strategic 17th-century watchtower built by Tipu Sultan. Perched atop a rocky hill at around 2,000 m, it requires a roughly 5 km trek through shola forests and tea estates to reach the ruins. The site offers sweeping views of the Nilgiris and nearby valleys, making it a rewarding and less-crowded trekking destination. Ideal for histo (Read More)ry buffs and trekkers, Droog Fort is accessible best between October and May when trails are clear and the weather is pleasant.

23. Simi's Park, Coonoor

Simi's Park, Coonoor
4.3 /5

13 km from city center

Garden & Park

Sim’s Park in Coonoor is an elegantly landscaped botanical garden set across a hill slope, featuring terraced lawns, flower beds, and diverse tree species. Spanning around 12 hectares, it houses exotic plants, shrubs, and an aviary, making it a tranquil retreat for plant enthusiasts and birdwatchers. Seasonal bloomers include magnolias, camellias, and rhododendrons, with peak floral display during (Read More) the annual summer flower show. Accessible via a scenic walk from Coonoor’s town center, Sim’s Park is a peaceful and family-friendly destination, best enjoyed between October and June.

24. Halashana Falls

Halashana Falls

1 km from city center

Waterfall

The very beautiful and mesmerising Halashana Waterfalls are located in the Nilgiris near the cities of both Ooty and Coonoor. The silvery water falls down a height of 150 feet above the sea level. The area around the falls is owned by a private estate.

25. Catherine Falls, Coonoor

Catherine Falls, Coonoor
3.3 /5

18 km from city center

Waterfall

Catherine Falls, also known as St. Catherine's Falls, is situated in the area that surrounds Coonoor. This magnificent waterfall falls from an impressive height of 250 feet.

26. Annamalai Temple

Annamalai Temple
3.3 /5

16 km from city center

Temple

Annamalai Temple is a situated about 20 km away from Ooty. This place has with time turned into as a famous temple of Lord Muruga, known as 7th Hill house of the lord.

27. Lamb's Rock, Coonoor

Lamb's Rock, Coonoor
3.3 /5

12 km from city center

Viewpoint

A popular picnic spot in the region, this place is consistently visited by tourists. The view from this spot is spectacular and a major crowd puller! It is possible to see the Coonoor stream some 5000 feet below. This vantage point also provides you with an excellent view of the Coimbatore plains.

28. Upper Bhavani Lake

Upper Bhavani Lake
3.0 /5

109 km from city center

Lake

The Upper Bhavani Lake is a mesmerising and breathtaking lake that is located above the Avalanche Area in the Nilgiri Hills. This beautiful lake, which was previously ignored and consequently unexplored, is now gaining some popularity and credit for its charming beauty and picturesque scenes. 

29. Bison Valley, Bellikkal

Bison Valley, Bellikkal
3.2 /5

9 km from city center

Hills & Valleys

Bison Valley gained its name from the Indian bison that roams throughout this area. Splendid views of the cardamom forests and momentous possible from this beautiful valley.

30. Wenlock Downs

Wenlock Downs

9 km from city center

Garden & Park

Wenlock Downs is a famous picnic spot in the outskirts of Ooty. People seeking a spot to escape the polluted environment and the world of concrete often head to this attraction. At Wenlock Downs, they find a vast expanse of lush green meadow over the natural landscape with rolling mountains all covered in dense vegetation.

31. Ketti Valley View

Ketti Valley View

3 km from city center

Hills & Valleys

Located at a distance of 4 kms from the Ooty Bus Stand on the Ooty Coonoor road, Ketti Valley View is a popular vantage point in Ooty. Boasting of utter tranquillity and surreal setting, the place offers mesmerising views of the resplendent valley below with gushing waterfalls, meandering streams and flourishing wildlife.

32. Cairn Hill

Cairn Hill

3 km from city center

Hills & Valleys

Situated in the hill town of Ooty, Cairn Hill is an eco-tourism and a reserved forest site which came into existence in the 1860s and sprawls over a massive area of approx 168 hectares.

33. Adam's Fountain

Adam's Fountain

2 km from city center

Landmark

Adam's Fountain is a gorgeous fountain situated at the Charring Cross junction in Ooty. The fountain was built in 1886 as a memorial to the then Governor of Ooty. The cost of the total construction was between INR 13,000 and INR 14,000 and was collected through public funding. It is a very important tourist landmark in the city.

34. Elk Hill Murugan Temple

Elk Hill Murugan Temple

2 km from city center

Temple

Perched atop the Elk Hill in Ooty, amidst picturesque backdrop and a resplendent setting, Elk Murugan Temple is a revered Hindu temple enshrined by Lord Muruga. Besides the gorgeous landscape and astounding panoramic vistas, the hill also boasts of rich and flourishing wildlife and bounteous nature.

35. Kandal Cross Shrine

Kandal Cross Shrine

2 km from city center

Church & Cathedral

Situated on the outskirts of Ooty, Kandal Cross Shrine is a beautiful church popularly known as the Jerusalem of the East. The church houses a life size bronze crucifix and a relic in a small glass case which is believed to be from the original cross that Christ carried. Sacred prayers are offered every Friday.

36. Stone House Ooty

Stone House Ooty

2 km from city center

Museum

Stone House in Ooty is famous for being the first bungalow in the town. Also known as Kal Bangala in Tamil, it was built in the early 19th century by John Sullivan, an Englishman, the first Collector of Udhagamandalam and the founder of the British Settlement in Ooty.

37. Government Museum

Government Museum

2 km from city center

Museum

The Government Museum in Ooty was built in 1989 to maintain and promote the culture of Ooty in the form of exhibits and information. The attraction houses an extensive collection of the culture, history, the tribes, tribal objects, sculptures, paintings, handicrafts, nature and the ecology of Udhagamandalam.

38. Pykara Falls

Pykara Falls

12 km from city center

Waterfall

Pykara Falls are set amidst the backdrop of a lush green forest and are an absolute delight to witness. Pykara is the name of a village which lies at a distance of around 19 kms from Ooty, in the state of Tamil Nadu. It is also the name of a river which runs through the Pykara village, which is sacred to the natives of this land. The Pykara river flows downstream from the mountains, over a series (Read More)of waterfalls, and these are known as the Pykara falls.

39. Children's Park

Children's Park

1 km from city center

Garden & Park

Children's' Park in Ooty is one of the most prominent and popular parks of the city. Blanketted in a lush green grassy carpet, the park has several rides and swings for children. In addition to that, the park also facilitates boating, rowing and horse riding etc as recreational activities.

40. Lake Park Ooty

Lake Park Ooty

2 km from city center

Garden & Park

Lake Park in Ooty is situated adjacent to the Ooty Lake. Adorned with vibrant flowers and a glossy green carpet, the park is a hot spot for leisure evenings and sunbathing. It also has dinosaur statues and entertaining games for kids.

41. Katari Falls

Katari Falls

9 km from city center

Waterfall

Known to be the third highest waterfalls in the Nilgiris, the mesmerising Katari Falls is situated at Adikarratti in Ooty, 10 kms from Coonoor. Boasting of a magnificent height of 180 m, the silvery water gushing down to form a pool at the base is also a popular picnic spot in the region.

42. Tea Factory

Tea Factory

Museum

Ooty Tea Factory or Tea Museum is situated on the Doddabetta Road in Ooty. Surrounded by emerald green tea plantations, the museum takes you on a tour of tea evolution from the origin to the present. It has a variety of preserved tea leaves on display. It also has an adjacent souvenir shop where you can try and buy various kinds of tea leaves.

43. Honey & Bee Museum

Honey & Bee Museum

Museum

Honey & Bee Museum is situated on the Sargan Villa Club Road in Ooty and aims to provide in depth knowledge about the anatomy of a bee and the manufacture of honey from its nascent stage. The tour is a very informative one. And while the other things are common to most hill stations, a tour in this museum is unique and among the most unique things to do in Ooty.

FAQs on Ooty

How can I commute within Ooty?

One can hire a cab or rickshaw on day to day basis.
Read More

What are the top hotels in Ooty?

There are 313 Hotels in Ooty which can be booked through Holidify. The most popular hotels in Ooty are OYO 15479 Vista Suites Kalatty, Luxury 2BHK Dwell in Ooty Town, Rahamath Cottage, OYO 28586 Silver Oak Annexe, Pine forest view residency, Silver Mist by Vista Rooms. You can see all the hotels in Ooty here

What are the top activities in Ooty?

The top activities in Ooty are Adventure Camping in Ooty, Heritage Bungalow in Ooty, Stay in Bungalow, Ooty, Cottage Homestay in Ooty, Pykara and Mudumalai Sightseeing Tour, Hilltop Camping with Adventure Activities, Ooty.

What are the top sightseeing places in Ooty?

The top sightseeing places in Ooty are Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Ooty Lake, Emerald Lake, Ooty, Ooty Botanical Gardens, Ooty Rose Garden, Avalanche Lake.

How much does a package cost for Ooty?

The packages for Ooty start at INR 21458 which can be further customized based on number of people, days, hotel category, vehicle type and customizations. You can have a look at all packages here

Can you suggest an itinerary for Ooty?

Day 1: Reach Coimbatore early in the morning and get a bus or taxi to Ooty. There check into your hotel and gear up for the day. Head out straight to Avalanche lake, a natural reservoir surrounded by hills and a thin forest line, is a fun destination for trekking, camping and kayaking. It has amazing scenic beauty and natural touch. Head back to Doddabetta Peak, which presents most of the Ooty below with a marvellous sunset, which must be enjoyed with a cup of tea with your family and friends.
Day 2: Take a 2 hour govt. safari by the forest department to get to the amazing Upper Bhavani Lake, which is 20 km away from Ooty. Return to the city to visit the botanical garden, which is full of various species of plants and trees and a must visit for the nature lover and a photographer. Later visit the Wax World Museum and Dodabetta Tea Museum. Spend the evening at St. Stephen's church and the Ooty city market to know more of the culture.
Day 3: Visit the nearby Elk hill by a hired vehicle and enjoy the morning at the divine temple here. By noon be back in the city and reach the station. Cross check the Toy Train timings to Mettupalayam. If time is left, visit the nearby Murugan temple which is just at the walking distance from the station. Otherwise enjoy the 2 pm Toy Train to Mettupalayam. On the way, you would come across the most beautiful falls and bridges ever.

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