Ooty, also known as Udhagamandalam, is a hill station located in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is situated in the Western Ghats’ mountain range and is known for its picturesque landscapes, cool climate and scenic beauty. The town is situated at an altitude of 2,240 metres above sea level and is a popular tourist destination in South India. Tea gardens are one of the popular tourist places in Ooty and are known for their large-scale tea production. The town is also famous for its botanical gardens, which are home to various plants and flowers. Places near Ooty have many lakes, dams and waterfalls, which offer a variety of outdoor activities, such as boating and hiking.
Ooty is also famous for its colonial architecture, with many of the buildings in the town dating back to the 19th century. Sightseeing in Ooty is quite popular amongst travelers. The town is also home to the famous Ooty Lake, a popular spot for boating and picnicking. There are several Ooty view point that are surely not to be missed.
Best Time to Visit Ooty
The months of April to June and September to November are ideal for visiting places in Ooty. During these months, the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear, offering the perfect conditions to enjoy the town's scenic beauty. April to June is considered the summer season, and the temperature ranges from 15-25°C, making it perfect for sightseeing in Ooty. The temperature during the days is pleasant and calm for outdoor activities like trekking, and the nights are chilly.
September to November is considered the post-monsoon season, and the weather is cool and pleasant. The temperature ranges from 15-20°C, an ideal time for pursuing outdoor activities and sightseeing in Ooty. Lush green landscapes surround the town, and the weather is perfect for exploring the town. It is worth noting that the monsoon season, which runs from June to September, can cause landslides and heavy rain, disrupting travel and outdoor activities. One can check out the best place to visit in Ooty and plan a great visit there.
How to Commute Within the City of Ooty
To reach tourist places within Ooty, one can use the following commuting options.
1. Auto Rickshaws
Auto rickshaws are a popular and convenient mode of transportation for sightseeing in Ooty, and they are available throughout the city. They are a good option for short distances, and the fare is usually negotiated with the driver. There are several Ooty famous places that are worth visiting.
2. Buses
The Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) operates several bus routes within the city of Ooty, and they are a cheap and convenient way to get around. The buses are frequent and cover most of the city.
3. Taxis
Taxis are also available in Ooty and are a good option for longer distances or for those who prefer more comfort. Taxis can be rented hourly or for a full day, and the fare is usually negotiated with the driver.
4. Bicycles and Motorbikes
Bicycles and motorbikes can be rented in Ooty and are an excellent way to explore the city and nearby areas at your own pace.
5. Walking
Ooty is a small town. There are many tourist places Ooty of interest are within walking distance of each other, so walking is a great way to explore the town and enjoy the scenery.
One can readily check out different visiting places in Ooty and have a great time there. You can select any best place in Ooty and have a great time.
How To Reach Ooty
There are several options for visiting places in Ooty. Check some of them below.
1. By Air
The nearest airport to Ooty is Coimbatore International Airport, about 96 km away. From there, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Ooty.
2. By Train
Ooty has a railway station, which is well-connected to major cities in South India. Some major trains that stop at Ooty are the Nilgiri Express and the Blue Mountain Express.
3. By Bus
Ooty is well connected by road and several state-run and private buses connect Ooty to major cities in South India. The Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) operates several bus routes to and from Ooty.
4. By Car
Ooty is well connected by road, which is a good option for those who prefer to travel by car. It takes about 4-5 hours from Coimbatore to reach Ooty by car.
With so many options available, it is easy to visit Ooty’s famous places.
Popular Tourist Places in Ooty
There are several visiting places in Ooty that should not be missed. Moreover, there are several places near Ooty that we have covered too. They are listed below:
1. Upper Bhavani Lake
Upper Bhavani Lake is a man-made lake located near Ooty, in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is amongst Ooty's famous places. It is situated in the Nilgiris district, at an altitude of 2,286 metres above sea level, and is a popular tourist destination. The lake is fed by several streams and is surrounded by beautiful hills and lush green forests. The lake is also home to a wide variety of birds and animals, making it a popular destination for bird watching and wildlife photography. This is also amongst the best places in Ooty.
2. Emerald Lake
The Emerald Lake was constructed in 1820 in the Nilgiris district as a part of the Pykara Hydro Electric Project to serve as a water source for the nearby towns and villages. Beautiful landscapes, tea gardens, and forests surround this Ooty viewpoint. The Emerald Lake is a popular spot for boating and fishing, and it's amongst the great places in Ooty to relax and enjoy the scenery.
3. St Stephan’s Church
St. Stephen's Church is a historic Anglican church located in Ooty, in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The British built the church in the 19th century during the colonial period, one of the oldest churches in Ooty. The church is built in the Gothic style and has a steeple and a bell tower. The church is known for its beautiful stained-glass windows and intricate carvings.
The best time to visit St Stephen's Church is during the morning when it is less crowded, and the light is perfect for photography.
4. Pykara Lake
Pykara Lake is a picturesque lake located near Ooty, in the Nilgiris district, at an altitude of 1,923 meters above sea level. The lake is surrounded by beautiful scenery and lush green forests. The Pykara River, a major tributary of the Bhavani River, originates from the Pykara falls and flows through the Pykara lake. The best time to visit Pykara lake is between October and January when the weather is pleasant, and the scenery is at its best. It is also one of the best Ooty view points.
5. Ooty Botanical Garden
The botanical garden is said to be the best place in Ooty. The gardens were established in 1847 by the British during the colonial period and are considered one of India's most beautiful botanical gardens. The gardens are home to more than 1,000 plants and flowers, including exotic and rare species worldwide.
Some of the popular places near Ooty include the Italian Garden, known for its beautiful fountains and statues, and the Fern House, home to a wide variety of ferns and other tropical plants.
6. Pykara Falls
The Pykara falls offer an excellent opportunity for trekking and hiking. The falls are also a popular spot for picnics and fishing. Visitors can also take a boat ride on Pykara lake to reach the falls. They are advised to wear comfortable shoes and carry a raincoat as the path leading to the falls can be slippery and damp.
7. Rose Garden
The Rose Garden is one of India's most extensive rose gardens and features a wide variety of roses, including hybrid tea roses, floribunda roses, and shrub roses. The garden also features various other plants and flowers, including annuals, perennials, and medicinal plants. The garden is divided into several sections, including the hybrid tea rose section, the floribunda rose section, the shrub rose section and the mini rose section.
Other Popular Places in Ooty
1. Doddabetta Peak
The Doddabetta peak offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the Ooty valley, the tea plantations, and the neighboring towns. The peak is surrounded by dense forests and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna.
2. Nilgiri Mountains
The Nilgiri Mountains, also known as the Blue Mountains, are a mountain range located in the Western Ghats of southern India. The range is part of the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's eight ‘hottest hotspots’ of biological diversity. The Nilgiri Mountains are the highest in the southern part of India and are the source of several major rivers, such as the Cauvery, the Bhavani and the Moyar. It is the best place in Ooty for nature lovers.
Conclusion
Ooty is truly an oasis in the Ridge area, providing a beautiful natural setting and a variety of fun places to eat and drink. From local bars to international cuisine, the dining options in Ooty encompass it all. When you need a break from relaxing by the lake or hiking through the woods, do visit tourist places Ooty or any Ooty view point and swing by one of these great eating and drinking establishments.
FAQs
Are two days enough to explore Ooty’s famous places?
Two days are not enough to explore the tourist places in Ooty, as they cover a vast area. The above-mentioned are the mainstream areas. Ooty has so much more to it.
What are some famous places in Ooty?
Ooty is filled with beautiful sceneries, and the Ooty Botanical Gardens, Nilgiri mountains, and Pykara falls are some famous places to visit in the city.
What is the best place to visit in Ooty?
For wildlife lovers, the best place in Ooty would be the Nilgiri mountains. For flora lovers, the best place would be the rose garden. The church and rivers would be the best places for people who like a calm environment. Moreover, there are several other places to visit in Ooty, which should not be missed.