Top Things to Do in the Ooty | Must-See Attractions & Experiences

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Places To Visit In Ooty

Lake Park Ooty

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.

The culturally rich South-Indian state - Tamil Nadu – calls out tourists from all around the globe, and there is more than one reason to it. Be it the extravagance of architectural excellence in the form of magnificent temples, the serenity of the scenic beaches and the magical charm of the hill stations, Tamil Nadu is an absolute vacationers’ paradise. With an astonishing assortment of rich flora and beguiling fauna, this state stays buzzed with wildlife enthusiasts as well, and the Mukurthi National Park is the living manifestation of this fact. Previously known as the Nilgiri Tahr National Park, Mukurthi National Park is situated in the western corner of Nilgiris Plateau. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was established with the prime motive of conserving its keystone species – the Nilgiri Tahr. Read More

Ooty Botanical Gardens lie on the lower slopes of the Doddabetta peak, the Government Botanical Garden is a splendid garden in Udhagamandalam, near Coimbatore in the state of Tamil Nadu. Sprawled over an area of 22 hectares, the garden is divided into several sections that are trimmed beautifully to present an endearing sight. Visitors are greeted with astounding colourful natural beauty from the moment they pass through the gates. For more than 160 years, foreign and local travellers have visited the lush green lawns of the garden, admiring the stunning variety of flowers, ferns, and orchids present here. Another highlight of the Botanical Garden is the Toda hill, known as the Toda mund, which gives the visitors an insight into the lives and culture of Todas (a tribe of the Nilgiris). Read More

The Ooty Flower Show is an annual event which is held in the Ooty Botanical Gardens. Often referred to as ‘The Showstopper of the South’, the Ooty Flower Show has been successfully setting the bar to grasp the global trends in floriculture for the past 123 years. Their main aim remains to exhibit a rich and varied heritage of flora. This annual event is organised by the Department of Horticulture and Plantation Crop under the Government of Tamil Nadu.Several different species of beautiful flowers, indigenous and exotic are displayed here. The elaborate arrangements add to the beauty of the floral exhibits and serve as a visual treat to gardening aficionados. Apart from flaunting their flora prowess, the Flower Show also focuses on creating awareness among the gardening and farming community by hosting garden competitions before the start of the show. Ooty Flower Show 2023 - Dates and Duration May(dates yet to be announced), 2023 at Ooty Botanical GardenThe flower show of Ooty is a 5-day event and is usually held in May. It takes visitors at least 4 to 5 hours to cover all the exhibited attractions. However, the ticket that is purchased is valid for the entire day. Ooty Flower Show - Venue and Architecture Source The Flower Show takes place annually in the famed Botanical Gardens of Ooty - the Queen of Hills. William Graham Mc Ivor was the primary architect of these gardens and had trained in the Royal Botanical Gardens of London. The garden is home to around 1000 species of both exotic and indigenous plants, ferns, shrubs, trees, herbal and bonsai plants. Several accommodation facilities are available, ranging from a single bed in a dormitory to a luxury deluxe suite. The tariffs will vary according to the time of the year, but one can be sure to find suitable accommodation for any budget group.In case of any queries or information, the Tourist Office of the Government of Tamil Nadu can be contacted. It is located on Wenlock Road (Ooty) and can be reached via a call on 0423 - 2443977. Entry Fee and Tickets to the Ooty Flower Show Tickets for the Flower show can be booked online from the horticulture department’s website or taken in person at the counter. However, it is recommended that one book their tickets online owing to the long queues at the venue.There is a nominal entry fee of 50 INR for adults and 30 INR for children in the age group on 5 to 10 years. In addition, there is a fee of 50 INR for each camera that will be carried and 100 INR for a video camera. Main Attractions of the Ooty Flower Show Source This festival comprises of major exhibitions ranging from music to dance and flowers to fruits, each display throwing light on the culture and lifestyle of Ooty. Close to 10000 flower pots of over 150 types and 52 varieties are put on display. Their several different hues decorate the landscapes of the Botanical Garden. The other major attractions to watch out for on the show days include Indian and Japanese flower arrangements, flower rangoli, vegetable carvings and bonsai among others. Another highlight is the exclusive cut flower stalls from public and private gardens. History of the Ooty Flower Show Source The very first Flower Show was organised by the Nilgiri Agricultural Society, way back in 1896. It was inaugurated by Mr J H Tremenhere, who served as the Collector and Chairman of the Society during that period. The Government of Tamil Nadu acquired the Flower Show in 1980 and also celebrated the centenary in 1995. How to Reach Botanical Gardens, Ooty The airport in Coimbatore is the nearest one from Ooty. The Bengaluru airport, which is 295 km away, is connected with most of the cities from all around the world. Several taxi and bus services are available from the airport which can be used to reach Ooty. Mettupalayam is the nearest railway station, which is 40km away. Apart from that, there are several buses which run from all the major cities. Ooty is also well connected by road and hence, taking a taxi would also be a good option. Once you reach the town of Ooty, it will be quite easy to reach the Government Botanical Gardens. Being a popular tourist attraction, there are several public transport options available, both in the form of buses and auto rickshaws. The roads in the town are generally well maintained and well lit, so opting for a self-driven vehicle could also be a good idea.One is advised to keep in mind that vehicles are usually stopped 1 km away from the entry to the Botanical Gardens, so be prepared to walk a bit. The Flower Show of Ooty, indeed is a showstopper event, flaunting such a splendid variety of flora and modern floral craftsmanship. It encourages young artists and gardening enthusiasts through its majestic exhibitions and competitions. The Botanical Garden transforms into a Paradise during the show days, donning all the beautiful colours of nature and offering us a sight to behold. Read More

Ooty Lake is one of the most refreshing and beautiful places to visit in Ooty. It lies at a distance of approximately 2 km from Ooty city in the green hills of the Nilgiris district. The stunning lake is spread over an area of 65 acres, and its foundation was laid down by John Sullivan who was the collector of Coimbatore in 1824. Ooty Lake is surrounded by Eucalyptus trees and greenery all around and is a great place to experience the beauty of this hill station. One can also spot numerous streams coming out through the hills. This is a perfect place to capture people who are genuinely interested in photography. The lake is filled with beautiful water birds with the exotic Nilgiri mountain ranges in the background.Ooty Lake is pretty fun as well activity-filled place. One can hire paddle boats, rowing boats and motor boats from the boathouse here. There is a mini train too for kids to hop on and take a quick tour of the lake. Boat races, as well as other events, are also organized here for two days in May. Since there are a lot of visitors during weekends, it is advisable to visit the lake during weekdays. The romantic song 'Dil Deewana' from Maine Pyaar Kiya (1989) too was shot here along with a few scenes of Ajab Prem Ki Gazab Kahani (2009). Read More

Ooty Rose Garden is a mesmerizing garden in the heart of the town of Ooty, in Tamil Nadu. It is also known as the Jayalalithaa Rose Garden, the Nootrandu Roja Poonga and the Centenary Rose Park. Nature lovers are drawn to the Rose Garden like bees to honey. The view of the lush green garden with areas dedicated to captivatingly fragrant roses is a sight to remember. The flowers add more than just colour and attract visitors from all age groups, especially those who are interested in the study of Botany. You are bound to feel like you have entered a different world as you stroll leisurely across the beautifully landscaped garden. The beautiful Ooty Rose Garden is located on the Elk Hill slopes in Ooty and was established in 1995 to commemorate the Centenary Flower Show. The garden is also known to be one of the most famous botanical gardens maintained by the Horticulture Department of Tamil Nadu. It occupies a vast expanse of over four hectares on the hill slopes. Here one may find a variety of roses in different colours and sizes. Families prefer visiting the garden over a picnic with their kids while couples find this place a romantic and quick getaway from a busy schedule. If you are visiting during the peak flowering season in summer (March to June), one may catch the flower show at the Ooty Rose Garden. The flower show is the time the country has the highest production of colourful and fragrant roses. Visitors can purchase saplings or buy bouquets for their loved ones. Read More

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 of waterfalls, and these are known as the Pykara falls. These falls drop into two separate sections of 55 metres and 61 metres and the sheer beauty and magnificence of the spectacle makes for an exotic weekend getaway. A perfect amalgam of clouds, water, scenic beauty and mountains, Pykara Falls are among the majestic and mesmerising sights, you will ever get to witness. Read More

Pykara Lake is a popular getaway that is at a distance of about 20 kilometres from Ooty, in the Nilgiri district of Tamil Nadu, India. The Pykara village, along with a beautiful river by the same name, also houses a dam and a power plant. Because of the construction of the dam, the backwaters have formed an enormous lake, which is now known as the Pykara Lake and has become a significant tourist attraction that is visited by large numbers of people all year round. It has everything that a person on vacation can ask for, right from ambience and comfort to scenic beauty. Nature lovers, photographers and adventure seekers should definitely not miss out on this unique and fun-filled place. The best time to visit the lake is of course during the monsoons, in the months of July and August. The Pykara is the largest river in the district and is revered by the Todas, an Adivasi community, who consider it to be sacred. The river originates from the Mukurthi peak and then navigates through the hilly terrain to reach the edge of the plateau, where it falls delightfully in a succession of breathtakingly beautiful waterfalls. The last two waterfalls are known as the Pyakara Falls and fall from the heights of 55 metres and 61 metres. The marvellous lake is just 2 kilometres away from these waterfalls. The area in the vicinity of the Pykara Lake is surrounded by the shola forests, which is the local name for the forests here. Numerous Kollywood or Tamil Cinema filmmakers have shot movie scenes and songs here, around this picturesque lake. The Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC) also runs a boathouse, rest house and a restaurant in this area. Speedboats and motorboats can be hired to enjoy exciting rides in the lake. The boathouse is a fantastic place to sit back, relax and gorge on some delicious food. Read More

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. The climate is cool, sometimes foggy and the clouds can be seen hovering over the mountains at a distance. This location is picturesque and perfect for a quick weekend getaway. Nature lovers and photographers are sure to find it delightful. Therefore, Wenlock Downs represents tourism in this part of Tamil Nadu. The name of the attraction is derived from a British Soldier and the third Baron Wenlock, Beilby Lawley. The site covers an area of over 8000 hectares somewhere in between Ooty and Pykara. It served as a hunting ground for the Europeans and the British back in the time. The place is also referred to as the Shooting Point around Ooty as several blockbuster movies were shot amidst the scenic beauty of Wenlock Downs. People who know this often head to those locations for event photography and filmography. Several personal and public videos can be shot amidst the scenic surroundings of Wenlock Downs. Read More

St Stephen's Church Ooty

The St. Stephen's Church in Ooty is indeed a marvellous and breathtaking architectural marvel built in the colonial times. It follows a similar style of architecture and is one of the prettiest places to visit in Ooty. Located on the road to Mysore in Ooty, in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, the St. Stephen's Church is one of the earliest churches that you will find in the Nilgiris district. The structure dates back to the 19th century and was built by the British government. The date of the commencement of construction was cleverly chosen to coincide with the birthday of King George IV. The fabulous pale-yellow building of the St Stephen’s Church bears testimony to the marvels of British architecture that existed during those times. This grandeur is also reflected in the painting of 'The Last Supper' that can be found in the Church. Various attractions that appeal to visitors and tourists in the church include pretty stained glass windows that depict a myriad of different scenes, such as Mother Mary holding Jesus in her arms; the exquisite wooden architecture and the painting of The Last Supper. The St Stephen's Church continues to attract tourists from all across the nation and is till date one of the prime attractions of Ooty. For all those people who intend to visit Ooty, the 'Queen of Hill Stations', during the holiday season, a visit to this wonderful house of worship is indeed a delight. Read More