Ooty
The Queen of Hills
There are many tourist spots to visit and explore in India during summers. However, when it comes to South India, Ooty is one of the most sought-after summer destinations of the country. Ooty is swarmed by travellers from all over India and abroad due to its pleasant weather around the year, exquisite landscapes, unpolluted environment, pure and fresh air and streams and viewpoints that are breath-taking. There are several such places to visit in Ooty that will make your tour worthwhile.
6 Reasons Why Ooty Is A Unique Place To Visit
For engraving the name of the place as one of the best destinations to visit in India, the place needs to offer the visitors number of reasons to visit. Different people have different reasons and look out for various elements that would fulfil their requirements for a memorable tour. Ooty in India, is one place that should not be given amiss. To know more you must visit to experience Ooty your way. Here are 6 elements that makes Ooty one of the most desirable places for the travellers:
Clean Air
Forgotten what it was to like breathe unpolluted, clean and fresh air? Ooty is the perfect place to remind you of that. The natural intoxicating fresh air exemplifies purity that can work wonders on one’s mind, body and soul.
Mountain to One Another
Ooty is a town that resides in the lap of Nilgiri hills. Hence, undoubtedly there are lots of peaks to climb and explore. On the other hand, simply capturing the mesmerizing view of the mountains will take you to the peak of ecstacy.
The Weather
One of the most popular reasons people go to Ooty is the weather of the place. Either it is cloudy, freezing cold or raining. One can even have bonfire in night to have fun and enjoy the weather.
Boat Rides
If you are in Ooty then having boat rides are a must. The lakes are spread across the town that will take you in and around Ooty. Irrespective of your love for boat rides it is a must do activity in Ooty.
Botanical Gardens
The unparalleled beauty of Ooty gardens is something to look out for in the town. The vast array of flora and fauna in the gardens leaves you spellbound and joyful. You will be left craving for more after visiting these gardens.
Food & Safety
Ooty has some of the best eateries and hotels around for all budgets. It is specially a delightful treat for people who relish South Indian cuisine. The hotel staff ensure that your stay is comfortable and the visitors get five-star treatment in literal terms.
Places to Visit in Ooty
There is plethora of options available for places to visit in Ooty. The major factor for tourist attraction are the blue mountains. Also, the name originates from blue misty haze of the eucalyptus trees that covers the town. Below mentioned is the Ooty tourist places list with their brief description to help you make an informed decision.
Botanical Gardens
Located at the slopes of the Doddabetta peak is the government Botanical gardens that was laid out way back in the year 1848. The terraced garden is spread across an area of 22 hectares, well-maintained by the horticulture society of Tamil Nadu. You will be amazed to discover the diverse flora of the place. Be prepared for long walks and avoid monsoons to visit the place.
Tea Factory
A visit to a tea factory is a must if you are in Ooty. The small tea factory is swarmed by frequent visits by tourists. Smelling the aroma of fresh tea leaves and watching the tea in making is a new and unique experience for visitors itself. You can also buy the tea processed at the factory from a nearby shop. The place is ideal to impart knowledge to children about how the tea is processed from the tea leaves
Doddabetta Peak
One of the primary reasons why travellers want to visit Ooty in the first place is Doddabetta peak. From picturesque Nilgiris to amazing views, this place has a lot to offer. Standing tall at a height of around 8,650 feet, it is one of the highest peaks in South India. It also offers lots of amazing trek spots, a treat for adventure lovers. For maximum enjoyment carry a good pair of binoculars with you.
Avalanche Lake
If you want to indulge in nature and bask in its beauty then you must pay a visit to Avalanche lake situated in the heart of Nilgiris, 28 kms from Ooty. It can be called as wanderer’s heaven due to its unparalleled beauty. Camp beside the lake, go for tout fishing or trekking, you are bound to experience adventure in the place. The landslide that occurred in the early 1800’s is the reason behind its name.
Rose Garden
Situated at an altitude of 2200 meters on the slopes of the Elk Hill in Vijayanagaram of Ooty town in Tamil Nadu, India, the Rose garden never fails to amuse its visitors. It has five curving flower covered terraces spread across four hectares. Maintained by the Tamil Nadu Horticulture department, the garden is swarmed by thousands of visitors every year even when it is not the flowering season. It has collection of variety of rose plants assembled from different parts of the world.
Deer Park
Located about a kilometre away from the Ooty lake is the Deer Park. One of the most accessible tourist spots in Ooty, the Deer Park promises a lot of excitement and adventure. The sightseeing in the park offers you a rendezvous with some of the exotic species of deer such as Sambhar and Chithal, hares and rabbits. It also houses a wide variety of birds. The park can be visited around the year and has a lot to offer to its visitors.
St Stephen’s Church
Located enroute Mysore in Ooty, St. Stephen’s church is one of the oldest churches of Nilgiris. Dating back to the 19th century, the church was established by Stephen Rumbold Lushington, the then Governor of Madras on April 23, 1829 as he felt the dire need for a church in Ooty for the British. The spectacular architecture of the church speaks a volume about it and will let you relive the British era for a while.
Kalhatti Hills
Situated on the Ooty-Mysore road also known as the Sigur ghat road is the kalhatti falls. The Kalhatti waterfalls is located 14 km away from Ooty. It is one of the most attractive waterfalls of Ooty. The Kalhatti falls cascades down from a height of 120+ feet from the slopes of Kalhatti mountain which is an ideal destination for trekking as well. If you love to explore the wild life then Kalhatty-Masinagudi slope is an ideal place as it houses Panthers, wild buffaloes, dogs, Sambars and various kind of hill birds.
Ketti Valley
Nestled in a large valley of the same name Ketti valley is located in the Nilgiris District of Tamil Nadu State, South India. Along the Ooty-Coonoor highway, the valley is the last major valley en route to Ooty. It is the second largest valley in the world. The lush green fields, gorgeous tea plantation views and the small hills adds up to its beauty and hence, is the main attraction for thousands of tourists across the world. It is also renowned as “Switzerland of Nilgiris”.
Adam’s Fountain
It is always a delight to watch a fountain dance and shower water in its own rhythm. Its exuberance makes the environment come alive and make everyone want to dance along with it. Adam’s fountain in Charring cross, Ooty is one such public display fountain. Built in 1886 as a memorial to the famous Governor of Ooty of that time, Adam’s fountain is an important tourist landmark of the town.
Wax World Museum
If you are looking for an alternative for adventurous activities and long walks then you need to pay a visit to wax world museum which is situated just 2 Kms away from main city. A must-see place in Ooty. The experience of visiting the wax world museum is unusual and an unforgettable one. The trip to world wax museum is an informative one especially for children.
Needle Rock
Needle rock, a tourist spot in Gudalur, Tamil Nadu is located 51 Km on west Ooty. About 8 km from Gudalur on the way of Gudalur-Ooty National Highway-67 lies the Needle rock viewpoint. The spectators get a 360 degree view of the Nilgiris from the viewpoint. Due to its conical shape it is also renowned as Soochimalai. The spectacular view of sunrise and sunset from this spot has made it one of the most sought-after places of Ooty.
Thunder Rock
Ooty is travel destination that offers something for the people of all age groups. To add up to the variety of sightseeing destinations in Ooty, a novel and exciting park has been added to the list recently. The park famous as Thunder world is a special attraction for children. It has a collection of 23 animated models of dinosaurs that replicate the actions of the original ones. It is in itself a different and thrilling experience to be a part of their world for some time.
Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary
Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary – the famous tiger reserve is also an abode for several wildlife and bird species. The sanctuary is divided into five ranges viz. Masinagudi, Mudumalai, Thepakadu, Nellakota and Kargudi. The tourists get a chance to see several vulnerable and endangered species here. The list includes Bengal tiger, gaur and Indian leopard, Indian elephant and 266 species of birds. Some of them are rare to see and are critically endangered ones.
Thread Garden
As the name suggests, thread garden includes plants and flowers made of thread and it look so authentic and real. A popular tourist spot in Ooty, the thread garden will amaze you with creative work that exemplifies the power of creative human mind. It is located opposite to the boat house in Ooty. All the creation is hand-made and no machine or needle is used. Only a technology called ” Four Dimensional hand -wound Embroidery ” is behind the aesthetically amusing garden.
Boat House
Located in Ooty, Ooty lake is spread across an area of 65 acres. One of the prime reasons for tourist attraction for this place is the Boat house that adjoins the lake. Groves of Eucalyptus trees surrounds the lake while a railway line running along one shore adds up to the excitement and beauty of the place. It offers boating facilities like paddle boats, motor boats and row boats.
Honeymoon Boat House
Situated on the west side of the Ooty boat house is one of the emerging sightseeing spots of Ooty, the Ooty honeymoon boat house. As the name suggests, it is one of the best places to spend quality time together with your partner and make your trip a special and memorable one. The main attractiton of this tourist spot is the kashmiri Shikara boat rides that makes one’s honeymoon trip even more special.
Children’s Park
Whether it is the child in you who wants to relive his/her childhood or whether it is your children who wish to have lots of fun during their Ooty tour. The children’s park has been made to fulfill your wishes to have loads of fun. Located at a distance of 1Km from Ooty lake it is considered as the pride of Ooty. With swings, parks and boat rides there is so much to enjoy.
Tree Park
Extending over 3.45 acres near the Ooty Lake and the Ooty bus stand is the Tree park that is home to variety of exotic trees found across the globe. The place is a treat for nature lovers and bird lovers as it is full of serenity. Both native and migratory birds are natural inhabitants of this place. Hence, you will get to hear many birdsongs that would delight your soul as well as senses.
Pykara Lake and Falls
Pykara river is located about 21 kms from the city on the Ooty-Mysore road in the Niligiri district. It is the largest river and the area around the lake is surrounded by Sholas – the local name for forest. This adds up to the natural beauty of the lake. Also, towards the end the river falls down from two different heights viz. 55 meters and 61 meters. These two falls are renowned as Pykara Falls that are located 1.5 kms away from the lake.
Pine Forest
Situated between Ooty and Thalakunda is a famous tourist spot popularly known as Pine forest. The skyrocketing pine trees are arranged in a downhill area that gives the forest a delightful scenic view. The place is a pleasure for peace lovers as the atmosphere is very tranquil. The place has got bollywood connect as many fims have scenes shot in the Pine forest.
Kamaraj Sagar Dam
Also known as the Sandynallah Reservoir, Kamraja Sagar Dam is another main attraction for tourists in Ooty. If you are looking for a spot to have wonderful picnic with your family and friends in Nilgiris then this is the place. Frequently visited by a lot of bird watchers, Kamaraj Sagar Dam has variety of flora and fauna that attracts many nature study groups as well. Many different varieties of fish are also found in the reservoir that can amaze anyone.
Golf Course
A Golf Course that is set at an altitude of 7200 feet and owned by the Gymkhana Club of Ooty is spread across 193.56 acres and comprises 18 holes. It is a treat for the golf lovers and is a perfect alternative to the adventurous activities in Nilgiris. You can enjoy playing the sport at the back drop of thick forests that sourround the course. There are many different types of trees like fir, eucalyptus, oak, etc. that add to the scenic beauty of the course
Mukurthi Peak
Situated at a distance of 36 Kms from Ooty is a scenic landscape renowned as Mukurthi. Tourists prefer to make excursions to this place while on their vacation in Ooty. Mukurthi peak that is situated at a distance of 4 Kms from the Mukurthi town features granite cliffs that stretches from a height from the plateau and gradually slopes downhill to the plains. The place has its own unprecedented charm and beauty.
Cairn Hills
Cairn Hill is situated en route Avalanche Cairn hill. If you are looking for a great place for trekking in Ooty that too deep inside the jungle then Cairn hill is a must visit. It dervies its name from a Cairn, piled stone circle which is also a pre-historical burial site of the tribal. You will also get the oldest Cyprus plantation here. Hence, this place is a perfect blend of unique features.
Emerald Lake
Located about 25 Kms away from Ooty is a region called the Silent Valley. Emerald lake is located near Emerald village in silent valley. It is merely a journey of 1.5 kms from there to the Emerald dam. One can cover two more dams in the nearby vicinity viz. Avalanche and Upper Bhavani dams to have tripple fun at the most desirable picnic spot of Nilgiris. It is also one of the major water supplies to Kundah Hydro Electric Power station.
Tribal Museum
The seemingly endless list of places with major tourist attractions of Nilgiris is incomplete without tribal museum. Also renowned as government museum, the museum is set at Mysore road 10 Kms away from Ooty. It showcases and throws light on the lifestyle of tribal people and reflects their culture. This entice travellers across the globe and hence, is worth a visit.
Shooting Spot 6th Mile
Located at a distance of 9.66 Kms from Ooty is a shooting spot known as 6th Mile. It is named so because of the 9.66 kms of distance which when converted into miles comes out to be exactly 6 miles. It is a popular tourist spot and filming point for Bollywood movies. One can enjoy lots of fun filled activitieso here at the backdrop of wave of green expanses and dense forest areas.
Shooting Spot 9th Mile
Another shooting spot in Nilgiris is the Shooting Spot (9th Mile). It is 14.49 or exactly 9 miles away from Ooty and hence its name. It entices travellers due to the green forest areas and mountains that envelope the region. Also referred to as the ‘Shooting Medu’, this place has been filmed in many South Indian and Bollywood movies. The tranquility of the place makes it a perfect hangout zone.
Places to Visit in Coonor
MRC Military Training Camp
Located near Coonoor is a MRC Wellington Camp built with a purpose to provide training to the candidates selected for joining the South Indian army. Next to it, a military college is also located. What entice travellers to visit this place are the morphological structures of the army soldiers that are set at the entrance of this place. Most tourists who visit the Kerala and Karnataka states travel to Coonoor’s Sims park via MRC center. With special permission tourists are allowed to take photographs here. They are also allowed to visit the camp.
Sim’s Park
Dating back to more than hundred years, Sim’s Park – a park-cum-botanical garden is one of the major tourist attractions in Coonoor. Established in the year 1847, the garden is fully surrounded by creepers and shrubs. It is spread across an area of about 12 hectares and located at north of Coonoor railway station. It is famous for Rudraksha (the bead tree), Queensland Karry Pine and Handsome Ornamental trees. It is a destination of tremenduous significance for botanists as numerous temperate plants of India can be found here.
Dolphin’s Nose
Located 10 Kms from Coonoor and 1000 feet above sea level is a spectacular viewpoint known as Dolphin’s nose. It is named so as the tip of the peak resembles a Dolphin’s nose. An uniquely enormous rock formation, it has become one of the famous tourist destinations of the Nilgiris. The inspiring Catherine falls can be seen from this viewpoint.The gigantic ravines on both left and right side of the Dolphin’s nose is something to watch out for. The journey to the spot is thrilling due to the tea plantations and hairpin turns on the way.
Lamb’s Rock
Located on the slopes of the Nilgiri hills and at a distance of 8kms from Coonoor, Tamil Nadu, is a renowned tourist spot, Lamb’s Rock. Now, a tourist spot and viewpoint, the place was named after the then collector, Captain Lamb. He developed the place in his interest. You can find the place on the way to Dolphin’s Nose another spectacular viewpoint of Nilgiris. If you are in search of a panaromic view of Coonoor then this is an ideal place to visit. You can enjoy the panaromic view of clouds cladded green abundant forests here.
Lady Canning’s Seat
Located at a distance of 9 Kms from Coonoor is one of the oldest mansions that has become a tourist place now. Named after the better half of the then British Viceroy, Charlotte Canning, the place renders a beautiful view of surrounding mountains and valleys.The place is near to the Lamb’s Rock and hence, it is easy to reach this spot from Lamb’s Rock. It is a unique experience in itself hence, this place is a must visit.
Tea Estates
Coonoor Tea Estates showcases tea plantations of Nilgiri Hills in a way that has made it a great tourist spot of Nilgiris. Different types of aromatic teas are planted here as the weather and climate of the place is ideal for their growth. You can particularly view wildflowers and various species of birds which include Cuckoos, Bulbuls, Robins, Larks and even Vultures. It is an ideal place for long walks as you breathe in the fresh air of the Nilgiris and take in the spell binding views of hilly areas.
Places to Visit in Kothagiri
Catherine Falls
Located on the Mettupalayam road is a double cascaded waterfall in Kothagiri, Nilgiris district, Tamil Nadu. It serves as a major tourist spot in Kothagiri as the waterfall is the second highest in the Nilgiri hills with the height of water falls about 250 ft. The waterfall is named after the spouse of M.D.Cockburn. The coffee plantation in Kothagiri was believed to have been introduced by his wife only. The complete view of Catherine falls can be clearly seen from Dolphin’s Nose top that should not be given amiss.
Longwood Shola
Longwood Shola is an isolated tropical evergreen forest located 3 Kms from Kothagiri town. It is one of the most amusing wooden dense forests in Kothagiri. It is primarily inhabited by flying fox, Indian bison and many more wild life species that are rare to find. The place is very peaceful and full of serenity. It is a great place for nature lovers and bird watchers as the forest houses different variety of bird species as well.Untouched by the urbanization alike other regions in Kothagiri or Nilgiri district the originality of the forest is what attracts the tourists across the world.
Kodanad View Point
Around 18 Kms from Kothagiri is a view point known as Kodanad View point. Relatively unknown to outsiders, it is one of the smaller towns of the Nilgiris. The climate of the place is relatively even better than Ooty. With scintilating 220 degree views, beautiful and green tea estates, tall and dense pine forests and pleasant weather to enjoy, it is one of the most scenic spots of the Nilgiris. You can enjoy the lovely hills and mountains views from this spot.
Nehru Park
About 3 Kms away from Kothagiri town, is a private park that specializes in roses. An Ooty tour must include this place and is a must visit in the months of March to June. Situated on Coonoor road it has a big complex that houses a Gandhi Maidanam which is the public playground, a temple of the Kotas, the flood shelter used in normal times for indoor games and congregation centre. Its unparalleled picturesque beauty is a visual treat for eyes that must atop your list of places to visit in Nilgiris.