Ooty, officially known as Udhagamandalam, is a picturesque hill station situated in the Nilgiri district of Tamil Nadu, India. Dubbed the "Queen of Hill Stations," Ooty is celebrated for its stunning landscapes, agreeable climate, and colonial-era architecture. The weather remains generally mild, with comfortable summers, cool winters, and a rejuvenating monsoon season. Renowned for its tea plantations, Ooty produces high-quality Nilgiri tea. The ideal time to visit is between March and June and September and November, when the climate is at its most enjoyable.

Nearest Rail head: Mettupalayam – 52 Kms away

Nearest Airport : Coimbatore – 90 Kms away

Top Places to visit in Ooty

Ooty Lake

3 Kms from Ooty Railway station. A man-made lake surrounded by Eucalyptus trees and greenery, perfect for boating and picnics. The lake was created in 1824 by John Sullivan, the then Commissioner of the Nilgiris. It was originally designed for irrigation purposes but has since become a major tourist attraction. Rent a boat and explore the tranquil waters of the lake.

Entry fee: 20 Rs Indian

Timing : 9 AM to 6 PM

Botanical Gardens

3.5 Kms from Ooty Railway station. Spread over 55 acres, this garden is home to a wide variety of plants, trees, and flowers, including a 20-million-year-old fossilized tree.

Entry fee: 100 Rs Indian

Timing : 7 AM to 6.30 PM

Doddabetta Peak

10 Kms from Ooty Railway station. The highest peak in the Nilgiris, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and on clear days, even glimpses of the Coimbatore plains. An observation tower is available at the peak, which provides a 360-degree view of the landscape, enhancing the viewing experience. The best time to visit is in the early morning to avoid crowd and frequent afternoon mist.

Entry fee: 10 Rs Indian

Timing : 7 AM to 6 PM

Rose Garden

3.5 Kms from Ooty Railway station. One of the largest rose gardens in India, featuring over 20,000 varieties of roses. Best time to visit is between March and June when the flowers are in full bloom.

Entry fee: 40 Rs Indian

Timing : 7.30 AM to 6.30 PM

Tea Museum and Factory

Learn about the history and process of tea production in the region, and enjoy tasting some fresh Nilgiri tea.

Entry fee: 20 Rs Indian

Timing : 9AM to 6.30 PM

St. Stephen's Church

2.5 Kms from Ooty Railway station. One of the oldest churches in the Nilgiris, known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere located on the Ooty-Coonoor Road. The church features a classic Gothic architectural style with a simple yet elegant design. It is constructed with stone and has a distinctive clock tower.

Entry fee: No

Timing : 10:00 am – 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm . Sunday - 9 AM to 2.30 PM

Pykara Falls and Lake

23 Kms from Ooty Railway station. A scenic spot with a waterfall and a lake, ideal for boating and enjoying nature. Boating facilities are available on the lake, allowing visitors to enjoy a peaceful ride on the water.

Entry fee: No

Timing : 8.30 am – 5 pm

Nilgiri Mountain Railway

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this toy train ride offers stunning views of the Nilgiris as it travels through tunnels, bridges, and lush greenery. The railway line connects the town of Mettupalayam to Ooty, with a branch line to Coonoor. Tickets can be booked online through the Indian Railways website or at railway reservation counters. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Emerald Lake

A serene lake located about 20 km from Ooty, offering a peaceful environment and beautiful views, especially at sunrise and sunset. It’s located near the town of Glenmorgan and is part of the Silent Valley National Park.

Entry fee: Free

Timing : 8 am – 5 pm

Avalanche Lake

Another tranquil spot, about 24 km from Ooty, It is located in the Avalanche area, close to the base of the Nilgiri peaks. It is known for its stunning scenery and opportunities for trekking, fishing, and camping. The lake's clear blue waters and the surrounding green landscape create a picturesque scene that reflects the natural charm of the Nilgiris.

Entry fee: Free

Timing : 9 am – 3 pm

Mudumalai National Park

47 Kms from Ooty. Located on the outskirts of Ooty, on the border of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka this wildlife sanctuary is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including tigers, elephants, and leopards. There are many activities available inside the national park for nature enthusiast.

Entry fee: 30Rs

Timing : 6 am – 6 pm

Murugan Temple, Elk Hill

Murugan Temple on Elk Hill is a popular spiritual destination in Ooty, Tamil Nadu. Perched on Elk Hill, this temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan, the Tamil god of war, and is a significant place of worship for devotees. The temple is particularly vibrant during festivals like Thaipusam and Panguni Uthiram, attracting devotees from across the region. Besides its religious significance, the location of the temple provides a peaceful retreat for visitors, offering a chance to enjoy both spiritual solace and the natural beauty of the area.

Entry fee: No

Timing : 8 am – 5 pm

Shooting Point (Ketti Valley View)

A popular spot for Bollywood film shoots, this viewpoint offers breathtaking views of Ketti Valley, the second largest inhabited valley in the world. It is on the way to Coonoor. The area is known for its lush greenery, rolling hills, and mist-covered valleys, making it an ideal spot for photography and nature walks.

Entry Fee: Free

Timing: 6 AM to 6 PM

Pine Forest

A popular location for photography and films, the Pine Forest offers a tranquil environment with tall pine trees creating a mystical atmosphere. Try horse riding while you are there.

Entry fee: 30 Rs

Timing : 8 am – 6 pm .

Kalhatty Falls

Located 14 kilometers from Ooty, Kalhatty Falls is perched on the slopes of Kalhatty Mountain at an elevation of approximately 2,000 meters above sea level. A short trek from the main road leads to this serene waterfall, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and trekking enthusiasts. Visitors are advised to bring water and snacks, as facilities near the falls are limited. Kalhatty Falls offers an ideal escape into nature, where one can enjoy a tranquil hike and take in the unspoiled beauty of the Nilgiris.