Ooty, also known as Udhagamandalam, is a picturesque hill station located in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu, India. It is a popular tourist destination known for its scenic beauty, pleasant weather, and tea plantations. Ooty has several attractions that are worth exploring. Here are 18 places to visit in Ooty:
1. Ooty Lake
Ooty Lake is a man-made lake situated in the heart of the city. It is a popular tourist spot where you can go boating and enjoy the scenic surroundings.
2. Doddabetta Peak
Doddabetta Peak is the highest peak in the Nilgiri Hills and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. It is a popular spot among tourists and trekkers.
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3. Pykara Falls
Pykara Falls is a scenic waterfall located on the Pykara River. The waterfall is surrounded by lush green forests and is a popular picnic spot.
4. Rose Garden
Rose Garden is a beautiful garden situated in the heart of the city. It is home to several varieties of roses and is a must-visit for nature lovers.
5. Government Botanical Garden
Government Botanical Garden is a well-maintained garden located in the heart of the city. It is home to several species of plants and is a popular spot among nature lovers.
6. St. Stephen’s Church
St. Stephen’s Church is a beautiful church located in the heart of the city. It is a popular tourist spot known for its beautiful architecture.
7. Avalanche Lake
Avalanche Lake is a picturesque lake located amidst the Nilgiri Hills. It is a popular spot among nature lovers and is known for its scenic beauty.
8. Emerald Lake
Emerald Lake is a beautiful lake located in the Nilgiri Hills. It is a popular spot among tourists and is known for its scenic beauty.
9. Mudumalai National Park
Mudumalai National Park is a popular wildlife sanctuary located in the Nilgiri Hills. It is home to several species of animals and is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts.
10. Needle View Hillpoint
Needle View Hillpoint is a popular tourist spot known for its scenic beauty. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
11. Tiger Hill
Tiger Hill is a popular tourist spot known for its scenic beauty. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and is a must-visit for nature lovers.
12. Ooty Botanical Gardens
Ooty Botanical Gardens is a well-maintained garden located in the heart of the city. It is home to several species of plants and is a popular spot among nature lovers.
13. Kamaraj Sagar Dam
Kamaraj Sagar Dam is a popular tourist spot known for its scenic beauty. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and is a must-visit for nature lovers.
14. Kalhatti Falls
Kalhatti Falls is a picturesque waterfall located amidst the Nilgiri Hills. It is a popular spot among tourists and is known for its scenic beauty.
15. Mukurthi National Park
Mukurthi National Park is a popular wildlife sanctuary located in the Nilgiri Hills. It is home to several species of animals and is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts.
16. Ooty Tribal Research Center
Ooty Tribal Research Center is a popular tourist spot known for its cultural significance. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to learn about the history and culture of the local tribes. The center is located in Muthorai Palada, about 10 kilometers from Ooty town.
The center houses a museum that displays the artifacts, photographs, and paintings that depict the lifestyle and culture of the tribes in the region. Visitors can also interact with the tribal people and learn about their way of life, customs, and traditions.
The center also conducts workshops on tribal art and craft, tribal music, and tribal dance. Visitors can participate in these workshops and learn some of the traditional skills and crafts that have been passed down from generation to generation.
17. Pykara Lake and Pykara Falls
Pykara is a beautiful village located about 21 kilometers from Ooty. It is a popular tourist spot known for its scenic beauty and the Pykara Lake and Pykara Falls. The lake is surrounded by lush green forests and is a popular spot for boating.
Visitors can also take a short trek to the Pykara Falls, which is located about 6 kilometers from the lake. The falls cascade down from a height of about 55 meters and offer a breathtaking view.
18. Wenlock Downs
Wenlock Downs is a beautiful grassland located about 16 kilometers from Ooty. It is a popular spot for picnics, trekking, and horse riding. The grassland is surrounded by forests and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Visitors can also visit the Shooting Point, which is located in Wenlock Downs. It is a popular spot for photography and offers a stunning view of the valley below.
Conclusion
Ooty is a beautiful hill station that offers a wide range of tourist attractions. From scenic spots to historical sites, from adventure activities to cultural experiences, Ooty has something for everyone. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or an adventure enthusiast, Ooty is sure to captivate your heart with its beauty and charm.
FAQs
- What is the best time to visit Ooty? The best time to visit Ooty is from October to June when the weather is pleasant, and the hill station is at its greenest.
- What are some of the adventure activities available in Ooty? Ooty offers a range of adventure activities such as trekking, mountain biking, camping, and rock climbing.
- What are some of the popular festivals celebrated in Ooty? Some of the popular festivals celebrated in Ooty include the Ooty Summer Festival, the Tea and Tourism Festival, and the Mariamman Temple Festival.
- What are some of the famous shopping destinations in Ooty? Some of the famous shopping destinations in Ooty include the Commercial Street, the Charing Cross Road, and the Tibetan Market.
- What are some of the must-try dishes in Ooty? Some of the must-try dishes in Ooty include the Ooty Varkey, the Ooty Chocolate, and the Ooty Mushroom.
Travel Tips:
- Plan your trip during the offseason: Ooty can get crowded during the peak season, which is from April to June and October to November. So, if you want to avoid the crowd and enjoy a peaceful vacation, plan your trip during the offseason.
- Book your accommodation in advance: Ooty is a popular tourist destination, so it’s always better to book your accommodation in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.
- Pack appropriate clothing: Ooty is a hill station, so the weather can be unpredictable. It’s always advisable to pack warm clothes, especially during the winter months.
- Carry necessary medication: If you have any medical conditions, don’t forget to carry your medication with you.
- Be respectful of the local culture: Ooty is home to many indigenous tribes, and it’s important to be respectful of their culture and traditions.
- Hire a local guide: If you want to explore the local culture and heritage, it’s always better to hire a local guide who can provide you with in-depth knowledge and insights.
- Try the local cuisine: Ooty is known for its delicious local cuisine, so don’t forget to try the local delicacies.
- Carry cash: While there are many ATMs in Ooty, it’s always advisable to carry cash, especially if you plan to visit remote areas.
- Be mindful of the environment: Ooty is a beautiful hill station, and it’s important to preserve its natural beauty. So, be mindful of the environment and avoid littering.
- Stay hydrated: Ooty is situated at a high altitude, so it’s important to stay hydrated to avoid altitude sickness.