20 Best Tourist Places To Visit In Ooty

August 13, 2024

For urban families burrowed in the never-ending struggle of routine, the planning of a vacation in the mountains can be music to the ears. If the harsh winters of Northern India are too much for you, then Ooty as a tourist destination can be ideal for you! 

Oozing with natural beauty, the best places to visit in Ooty offer a much-needed break from the never-ending grind. Tucked away in the Nilgiris, the unique topography of Ooty promises numerous memories to travellers. The lush tea gardens, verdant vistas, and tranquil ambience allow you to spend a few memorable days in the lap of nature. 

Best Places to Visit in Ooty

Whether seeking a weekend escape or the finest wedding destinations in India, Ooty can be your versatile destination. For adventure seekers, the Pykara Dam and Wenlock Downs offer many relaxing adventure activities like hiking or boating. You can sit at various vantage points and meadows, sipping your favourite beverage while pondering life. Exploring the rose garden feels like you are reliving a scene from your favourite fairy tale, bringing you closer to your partner. In essence, Ooty offers an enchanting experience to honeymooners, backpackers, and family vacationers alike. 

Looking for a quick escape to Ooty? Take the Tamil Nadu Tour Packages from Trip Planners India to make your excursion memorable. 

Explore The List of Places To Visit In Ooty

Officially called Ootacamund, the little hill town of Ooty is loved by families, solo travellers, couples, and even Bollywood directors. Wondering why? To satiate your curiosity, we have compiled together an Ooty tourist places list with images so that you gain comprehensive knowledge about the place before reaching your destination. 

1. Ooty Lake

Ooty Lake is One of The Best Places to Visit in Ooty

Originally constructed artificially for fishing, the Ooty Lake has gained immense popularity among tourists. Known for its scenic locations and famous summer festival, this is one of the main tourist places in Ooty. Spend some quality time here with your loved ones while boating in the cerulean water of the lake, or take a rental bike to wander around one of the best places to visit in Ooty. 

  • Location: The Nilgiris
  • Timings: 09:00 AM to 06:30 PM
  • Charges: Rs. 10 for Indians, Rs. 560 for foreigners

2. Doddabetta Peak

Doddabetta Peak is One of The Best Places to Visit in Ooty

Looking to try your limbs at exploring the challenging terrains of Ooty? You are in for a treat, as Doddabetta Peak is one of the best places to visit in Ooty. The telescope house is the main highlight of the area, from where you can look over the charming flora and fauna of this place. The area's beauty increases in folds after the rains, making it one of the best places to visit in August in India

  • Location: Ooty-Kotagiri Road in the Nilgiris District of Tamil Nadu, India
  • Timings: 9:00 AM - 6:30 PM
  • Charges: Rs 6 per person

3. Botanical Gardens

Botanical Gardens is One of The Best Places to Visit in Ooty

If you are looking for places to visit in India during the summer, then the Botanical Gardens of Ooty is a plant lover's paradise. The climate is cool and pleasant around this time, and the garden hosts the Ooty Flower Show, which marks the onset of festivities in Nilgiris. To feast your eyes on the exquisite flower sculptures or explore other attractions like toy train rides and a children's fairy castle, this is one of the best tourist places to visit in Ooty. 

  • Location: Vannarepettai
  • Timings: 07:00 AM to 06:30 PM
  • Charges: Rs. 30 per person  ( Extra Rs. 50 For Camera)

4. Rose Garden

Rose Garden is One of The Best Places to Visit in Ooty

The government rose garden is one of the best places to visit in Ooty for people looking for romantic escapades. The symphony of colours and fragrances makes it one of the most romantic places in the world, where you will feel like you have stepped into a fairytale. Stroll hand in hand in this garden and capture some beautiful moments amidst the vibrant blooms to cherish later. 

Include this destination in your Honeymoon packages in India and plan for a post-wedding photoshoot in this garden with the help of local photographers. If you are in these parts, you can visit the Elk Hill Murugan Temple dedicated to Lord Murugan, which is one of the famous temples in South India

  • Location: Rose Garden, Davisdale, Bombay Castle, Ooty, Tamil Nadu 643001
  • Timings: 7 AM–6:30 PM
  • Charges: INR 40 for adults and INR 20 for children

5. Nilgiri Mountain Railway Tea Gardens

Tea Garden is One of The Best Places to Visit in Ooty

To experience the vintage-themed train meandering up the track, taking you through the stunning hills and valleys, book a ticket to the Nilgiri Mountain Railway to explore one of the best places to visit in Ooty. Sit back, relax, and ponder over the majesty of nature on this toy train ride while basking in the beauty of one of the finest places to visit in Ooty in 2 days.

  • Location: The one-way journey starts from Mettupalayam 
  • Timings: 7:10 AM, and from Ooty at 3 PM
  • Charges: The ticket, costing INR 205, can be booked from the IRCTC website.

6. Pykara Lake, Waterfalls, and Dam

Pykara Lake is One of The Best Places to Visit in Ooty

One of the must-explore places to visit in Ooty in 2 days package, enjoy the tranquillity of Pykara. Travellers indulge in a boat ride in the crystal clear waters of the lake while learning about the legends of this area from the oarsmen. Head to the cascading waterfall and dam at dusk to experience a beautiful sunset at one of the best places to go in Ooty. 

  • Location: Pykara village in the Nilgiri district of Tamil Nadu, India
  • Timings: 8:30 AM and 5:30 PM
  • Charges:  10 per person

7. St. Stephen’s Church

The serene atmosphere and sacred ambience of St. Stephen’s Church will heal you spiritually. Soak yourself in the impeccable architectural beauty of the best tourist places to visit in Ooty. This landmark is a window into the long history of the queen of hill stations. The building is decorated with beautiful stained-glass windows and antique artefacts. It is a jewel in the crown of the queen of hills and one of the famous places in Ooty. 

  • Location: Club Road, Ooty.
  • Timings: Open on all days except Sunday. Mass timings from 10:00 AM to 01:00 PM and from 03:00 PM to 05:00 PM
  • Charges: No charges Applicable

8. Emerald Lake

Emerald Lake is One of The Best Places to Visit in Ooty

As beautiful as its name, the lake is surrounded by the mighty peaks and jade hillocks of tea plantations, making it one of the best places to visit in Ooty. Yet to be discovered by most travellers, the under-explored landscape is nothing short of a scene from a fairy tale. It is a perfect location to enjoy a picnic, making it one of the finest places to visit in Ooty with family. 

  • Location: Emerald Village
  • Timings: 9 AM to 6 PM
  • Charges: No entry fee.

9. Wenlock Downs

Wenlock Downs is One of The Best Places to Visit in Ooty

Wenlock Downs is a must-see place in Ooty, where lush green grass stretches endlessly and doesn't seem to end no matter how much you walk. Once a renowned hunting ground, it has transformed into a renowned filming location. You can have a picnic in the meadows or wander around on horseback. This is one of the most mesmerizing places to visit during monsoon in India, especially on cloudy days when people feel like they are walking in the clouds. 

  • Location: 16 km from Ooty.
  • Timings: 09:00 AM to 06:30 PM 
  • Charges: No charges Applicable

10. Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary

Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary is One of The Best Places to Visit in Ooty

To explore the best of the wilder side of Tamil Nadu, Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the must-visit places in Ooty. As one of the most picturesque and sought-after sanctuaries, nature thrives here, and the majestic beasts of the jungle roam freely. Take a safari down the forests or pitch your tent during daybreak to bask in the natural beauty of one of the must-watch places in Ooty. 

  • Location: It’s a 3 km journey from Gudalur; you can go via the NH- 67.
  • Timings: 06:00 AM – 06:00 PM
  • Charges: Rs.30/person. Additional charges for camera and safari.

11. Sim's Park

Sim's Park is One of The Best Places to Visit in Ooty

You must put Sim's Park in your Ooty visit places list. This unusual park cum botanical garden was created more than a century ago. Native trees and shrubs co-habitat with various imported foliage, attracting researchers and avid plant lovers. If you are looking for the best season to go Ooty, it is definitely during the summer, as the annual flower and fruit show in Sim’s Park is in May. Alternatively, it can be one of the best honeymoon places in India in December, as the weather is pleasant, allowing you to make the most of your trip. 

  • Location: Sims Park, Coonoor, Tamil Nadu 643101
  • Timings: 7 AM–6 PM
  • Charges: INR 30 for adults and INR 15 for children

12. Government Museum

Government Museum is One of The Best Places to Visit in Ooty

Although Ooty is known for its natural beauty, it also houses some of the popular historical places in India. The Government Museum in Ooty houses a remarkable collection of different tribal objects. Displaying the unique collection of art, crafts, sculptures, and items of the local tribes, it is one of the best places to visit in India with family.  Be sure to visit this museum if you are interested in learning about the history of the hill station. 

  • Location: Near Arts College, Stone House Area, Stone House, Ooty, Tamil Nadu 643002
  • Timings: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
  • Charges: Free

13. Dolphin’s Nose

The unquestionably beautiful Dolphin's Nose is one of the best places to visit in October in India to experience nature in its raw form. A scenic drive along the winding ghat roads will take you to Dolphin’s Nose. This mesmerizing viewpoint offers an enthralling view of the blue mountains and tea estates on its slopes. Let your eyes wander freely along the marvellous view of one of the best places in Ooty to visit with the help of the telescope from the vantage point. 

  • Location: Coonoor, Tamil Nadu.
  • Timings: Visit during the day to avoid fog blocking the view.
  • Charges: No charges Applicable

14. Glenmorgan

Glenmorgan is One of The Best Places to Visit in Ooty

Glenmorgan is a beautiful village adorned with age-old tea estates and lakes. As one of the Best Places to Visit in India Before You Turn 30 , this hamlet welcomes you with its picturesque landscapes and aromatic tea plantations. To explore the best places to see in Ooty, you can go trekking or take the ropeway around these parts and look around the Pykara powerhouse at Singara. 

  • Location: Nilgiris, India 
  • Timings: Accessible throughout the day
  • Charges: NA

15. Lamb’s Rock

Lamb’s Rock is One of The Best Places to Visit in Ooty

Lamb's Rock is probably one of the best places to visit in Ooty if you plan a quick picnic amidst the blue hills. Comprising views beyond compare, the Hulical ravine and the mesmerizing Coimbatore plains attract tourists from all over the country. The valleys around this place breathe back to life after the monsoons, and the skies are usually clear, making it one of the finest places to visit in September in India

  • Location: Burliyar, Tamil Nadu 643103
  • Timings: 9 AM–5:30 PM
  • Charges: INR 30 for adults and INR 10 for children

16. Kalhatti Falls

Kalhatti Falls is One of The Best Places to Visit in Ooty

The Kalhatti Falls, situated amidst the undulating Nilgiris, are well-known for its 36 hairpin bends. It is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in India, cascading from the Sigur plateau. This route connects Ooty to Masinagudi, where you can enjoy a hike to the viewpoint. From there, you can ascend 150 steps to reach the foot of the waterfalls that attract birds during dawn and dusk. Dotted with paddy fields near the fall, offering a unique experience to city dwellers, this is best places to visit in Ooty. 

  • Location: Ooty-Mysore Road
  • Timings: 06:00 AM to 10:00 PM
  • Charges: No Entry Fees

17. Ketti Valley View

Ketti Valley View is One of The Best Places to Visit in Ooty

As one of the popular Ooty tourist places to visit, Ketti Valley looks like an endless green ocean surrounding the place. As they head to this region, a picturesque view of multiple hamlets awaits travellers. Known as the Switzerland of South India due to its panoramic views, this is one of the best places to visit in March in India

  • Location: Ooty-Coonoor Road
  • Timings: Everyday at Anytime
  • Charges: Rs. 5/person

18. Coonoor

Coonoor is One of The Best Places to Visit in Ooty

Looking for near Ooty tourist places? Seek the best of nature at Coonoor! With its mesmerizing viewpoints, rolling hills, and luxuriant greenery, Coonoor can be your perfect getaway spot. Add this place to your list of places to visit in Ooty for 3 days to stroll along the misty tea plantations and click some amazing photographs. As one of the top places to visit in February in India, Coonoor offers an idyllic winter charm appropriate for relaxation and rejuvenation. 

  • Location: Nilgiris, India 
  • Timings: NA
  • Charges: NA

19. Ooty Chocolate Factory

Ooty Chocolate Factory is One of The Best Places to Visit in Ooty

Looking for unique places to visit in Ooty? Indulge your senses in the finest homemade chocolates and experience the essence of the blue mountains at your fingertips! You can witness the chocolate-making process, indulge in some sweet treats, and bring home souvenirs to distribute among your loved ones. So definitely add this store to your Ooty points of interest list. 

  • Location: 218E, N Lake Rd, Kathadimattam, Ooty, Tamil Nadu 643001
  • Timings: 10 AM–9 PM
  • Charges: Variable 

20. Needle Rock Viewpoint

Needle Rock Viewpoint is One of The Best Places to Visit in Ooty

Capture the impeccable vistas during dusk as you traverse around Needle Rock. As one of the popular places to see in Ooty, the site offers unparalleled views of the deep gorges and rolling hills. It is one of the best places to visit in November in India if you want less crowded places. Relax here for a while, indulging yourself in the tranquil surroundings to experience the magic of this viewpoint. 

  • Location: Gudalur
  • Timings: From 08:00 AM – 06:00 PM every day.
  • Charges: No Entry Fee

Best Time To Visit Ooty

Ooty experiences salubrious weather throughout the year. To explore the best places to visit in Ooty comfortably, you must visit the hill station at the right time. However, the ideal time depends on the experience you are looking for. In this section, we bring you a comprehensive overview. 

The best month to visit Ooty oscillates from March to June. The average temperature ranges between 23-35° C; the days are warm, and the evenings are pleasant. The air is also less misty than the monsoons or winters, and the roads are safer. 

Additionally, summer is the best season to visit Ooty as you can participate in many activities on the colourful terrains. Moreover, Summer festivals are also celebrated around this time of the year, offering ample opportunities to experience local culture. Therefore, it is the best time to visit Ooty with family. As the hill station sees many tourists trying to escape the summer heat, the sightseeing places and the hotel get crowded. Be prepared for heavy traffic jams and higher charges during the peak seasons. 

However, visiting the Queen of Hill stations in the offseason can be beneficial if you are looking for holiday or honeymoon destinations in India on a low budget. Visit these parts during the monsoon season to get hefty discounts on accommodation or transportation. 

Ooty can be one of the ideal places to visit in winter in India if you are looking for a pleasant climate paired with less crowded places appropriate for outdoor exploration. The romantic mist during this season makes it an ideal ambience to book the Ooty tour packages for a honeymoon. However, during the winters, be prepared to pack in a couple of extra woollens and sturdy trekking shoes. 

How To Reach Ooty

Many flights, trains, and buses go to one of the best hill stations in India. Come, let's take a look: 

How to reach Ooty by flight

Coimbatore is the nearest railway station at a distance of 100 km from Ooty. It is well-connected to the major cities and has international connections to places like Singapore. On reaching the airport, you can take a cab or bus to Ooty, one of the popular tourist places in Tamil Nadu. 

How to reach Ooty by train

Coimbatore and Tirupur are the two nearest railway stations connecting Ooty to Mettupalayam. On reaching Mettupalayam, you can board the toy train to reach your destination while enjoying a scenic ride. 

How to reach Ooty by bus

The most adventurous way to reach Ooty hill station is by boarding a bus. You will pass the heavily forested winding roads with many sharp hairpin bends. The Tamil Nadu route is well-maintained and offers a smooth journey. Although all the routes are toll roads, the tolls are quite normal. 

Here is a list of the most frequently searched routes to Ooty

Route Name

Distance

Time

Coimbatore to Ooty

84.9 km

2 hours 46 mins

Bangalore to Ooty

274 km

6 hours 15 mins

Hyderabad to Ooty

847 km

13 hours 40 mins

Chennai to Ooty

558 km

9 hours 27 mins

Coorg to Ooty

224 km

5 hours 20 mins

Mumbai to Ooty

1,169 km

18 hours 39 mins

Pune to Ooty

1,025 km

16 hours 39 mins

Delhi to Ooty

2,445 km

One day, 13 hours

Kolkata to Ooty

2,180 km

1 day, 11 hours

Goa to Ooty

749 km

13 hours 14 mins

Ahmedabad to Ooty

1,682 km

1 day 2 hours

Ernakulam to Ooty

292 km

6 hours 41 mins

Chandigarh to Ooty

2,673 km

1 day 16 hours

Varanasi to Ooty

2,098 km

1 day 12 hours

Jaipur to Ooty

2,193 km

1 day 12 hours

Amritsar to Ooty

2,877 km

1 day 19 hours

Jodhpur to Ooty

2,134 km

1 day, 9 hours

Alleppey to Ooty

346 km

7 hours 51 mins

Agra to Ooty

2,201 km

1 day, 10 hours

By taking the comprehensive tour packages in India from Trip Planners India, you can skip the hassle of booking your transportation as we do on your behalf. 

Book Ooty Tour Packages With The Help of Trip Planners India

By booking a customizable package from the best trip planners in India, you can discover the magic of a well-planned holiday. 

Whether you are looking for peaceful exploration or adrenaline-spiking activities in the challenging bungee jumping places in India, we can make your excursion memorable with our carefully curated itineraries. From advising you about the best time to visit to arranging your accommodations, we will look after it all. 

As catering to your needs is our top priority, we have kept our packages flexible. So book an experience with us, and let us take you to some of the finest Ooty sightseeing places you will remember for years.

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