Located amidst the stunning Nilgiri Hills of the verdant Western Ghats, Ooty is one of the most revered hill stations in the country. The picturesque hill station is perched at 2240 m and experiences an excellent subtle climate all year round. However, its climate is not the only reason why travellers from across the world lock to Ooty. The hill town is packed with amazing things to do and see. It is also home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, scenic landscapes and other exciting excursions that are unlike any other country.
The hill station has fantastic weather all year round, but the summer months from March to June are considered the best time to experience the amazing things to do in Ooty, as well as indulge in the adventure activities available here. If you plan a trip to this amazing hill station of Tamil Nadu soon, add these best things to do in Ooty to your itinerary.
7 Best Things To Do In Ooty
1. Dolphin’s Nose
One of the best things to see in Ooty, Dolphin’s Nose, is an excellent viewpoint located 1550 m above sea level. True to its name, the peak of this gigantic rock resembles a dolphin’s nose and offers its patrons a mesmerising view of the surrounding canyons on either side of it. Dolphin’s nose also provides a picturesque view of the renowned Catherine Falls, located some thousand meters below the rock. The way to the location is an interesting and memorable one filled with hairpin bends and lush green tea plantations.
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: INR 15/-
Also Read: Best Hill Stations To Explore
2. Ooty Lake
Spread over an area of 65 acres, Ooty Lake is a beautiful tourist destination that lets you unwind. The stunning water body is surrounded by the lush greenery of the Nilgiri Hills, and one can also see several streams that merge into the lake as they cascade down the hills. The lake is also home to several exotic birds and makes for the perfect backdrop for people who enjoy photography. Taking a boat ride on Ooty Lake is one of the best things to do in Ooty for couples and families alike, and a visit to this natural wonder will leave you relaxed and refreshed.
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM
- Entry Fee: INR 10/-
3. Joyride in Nilgiri Mountains
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005, the Nilgiri Mountain Rail, also known as Toy Train, is one of the unique things to do in Ooty. The century-old attraction travels 46 km in 5 hours and traverses through various tunnels, steep curves, lush green valleys and artsy bridges. As expected, the views from the Toy Train, which travels from Mettupalayam to Ooty, are picturesque and should not be missed.
- Entry Fee: First Class: INR 205, Second Class: INR 30 & Unreserved Category: INR 15
4. Dodabetta Peak
Located at the height of 8606 feet, Dodabetta Peak is the highest peak of the Nilgiri Hills and hiking to the top is one of the most popular adventure activities in Ooty. Although the peak can be easily reached via road, it is also famous amongst hikers due to its exciting trail through rugged terrain covered with alpines and ferns. The top of the peak offers an astonishing view of the entire Nilgiri range as it is strategically placed between the Eastern and Western Ghats. The top of the mountain also has a telescope area from where you can revel in the glorious views of the Ooty skyline and Bandipur National Park.
- Timings: 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM
- Entry Fee: INR 10/-
5. Tea Museum
A haven for teal lovers, Tea Museum, also known as the Tea Factory, is a must-visit attraction in Ooty. Verdant tea plantations surround the museum, and the fresh tea leaves’ aroma fills the air. You can learn everything about tea, from its evolution to the processes involved in brewing, at the Tea Museum. The museum also has several types of preserved teas on display, and you can buy and try an exceptional variety of teas from the souvenir shop adjacent to the museum.
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: INR 250/-
6. Ooty Rose Garden
Located on the Elk Hill Slopes of Ooty, the Ooty Rose Garden is a must-visit attraction for couples and families. Established in 1995 to commemorate the Centenary Flower Show, Ooty Rose Garden spreads across 4 acres and makes for the perfect picnic spot with its lush greenery. The garden also has a wide variety of roses of different types, shapes and sizes on display. During the summer, the garden hosts a flower show that is truly a sight to behold.
- Timings: 7:30 AM to 6:30 PM
- Entry Fee: INR 15/- for children and INR 30/- for adults
7. Ooty Botanical Gardens
Spreading across a vast area of 55 hectares, Ooty Botanical Gardens is an extraordinary escape into nature. The gardens house more than 650 species of trees and flowers and are divided into five sections, each carrying a speciality of its own. Man-made ponds planted with lilies, spectacularly landscaped lawns, exotic woods, medicinal herbs, and more than 50,000 flowering plants make Ooty Botanical Garden a must-visit destination.
- Timings: 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: INR 15/- for children and INR 30/- for adults
By exploring these fantastic spots, you make the most of your trip to this unique hill station of Ooty!
