5 exciting places to visit in ooty for a relaxing yet fun trip
When looking for a fun, yet relaxing vacation away from the daily chaos of city life, then Ooty is the perfect destination for you! Located in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu, Ooty, or Udhagamandalam, is the hub of all your favorite activities that can be enjoyed within this quaint mountain town. From simple sightseeing to outdoor adventures, Ooty surely never disappoints. Additionally, beautiful hotels in ooty add on to the treat. To help you plan an intriguing and memorable trip, here are some of the most exciting places to visit in Ooty.
Why is Ooty a fun place for a vacation?
Ooty is a fun place for a vacation due to its incredible natural beauty, adventure activities, and rich cultural heritage. It is known as the “Queen of Hill Stations” and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. The hill station offers a wide variety of attractions including stunning landscapes, lush green tea gardens, breathtakingly beautiful waterfalls, and the famous Nilgiri Mountain Railway. Ooty is also home to numerous wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, where visitors can go on safaris and spot some of the rarest and most beautiful animals in the world. Adventure seekers can enjoy thrilling activities like mountain biking, horse riding, trekking, and paragliding. And for those looking for a more relaxed vacation, Ooty also offers plenty of tea gardens, museums, parks, and gardens, as well as a variety of restaurants and shopping options. For accommodations you’ll get plenty of options in luxury, affordable or basic hotels in ooty.
1. Government Botanical Garden
With an array of vibrant species of plants, trees, flowers, and shrubs, the Government Botanical Garden is one of the most picturesque places in the entire city. This sprawling garden sprawls over an area of more than 22 acres, making it the perfect spot to relax and unwind. The garden features interesting attractions such as a fossil tree, rose garden, Italian Garden, and a number of rare species of plants.
Best things to do in Botanical Garden –
- Explore the fern house: The Fern House is another highlight of the garden, where you can explore and admire the variety of ferns and other exotic plants.
- Take a boat ride: The lake in the Botanical Garden is a great spot to take a boat ride and enjoy the beauty of the lake and the surrounding gardens.
- Have a picnic: The garden is also a great spot for a picnic with family and friends. Enjoy your picnic amidst the beauty of nature.
- Go bird watching: The Botanical Garden is a great spot for bird watching. Spot a variety of birds and other wildlife in the garden.
- Go for a nature walk: Take a nature walk through the gardens and explore the variety of trees, plants, and flowers.
- Have a cup of tea: End your visit with a cup of tea at the tea house located in the gardens, enjoying the views.
2. Ooty Lake
Looking for something a bit more adventurous? Head over to the iconic Ooty Lake, where you can enjoy all kinds of activities such as boating, bird watching, and even fishing! Cruising around this artificial lake, you’ll get to witness the breathtaking beauty of the Blue Mountains.
Best things to do –
- Horse Riding: Horse riding is another popular activity at Ooty Lake. The horse rides are available from the same boat house.
- Fishing: Fishing is a great way to enjoy the lake. Fishing rods and bait can be bought from the boat house.
- Pedal Boats: Pedal boats are another great way to enjoy the lake. Pedal boats can be hired from the boat house.
- Cycling: Cycling around the lake is a great way to explore the area. Bicycles can be rented from the boat house.
3. Doddabetta Peak
Enjoying a panoramic view of the lush green mountains in the Nilgiris is an experience you’ll never forget. Doddabetta Peak is the highest point of this mountain range, offering awe-inspiring views all around. However, it is best to plan your trip here in the morning, as the clearing skies enhance the beauty of the already stunning views.
Things to do –
- Trekking: The 6-kilometer trek from Ooty to Doddabetta Peak is one of the most popular trekking routes in the region. The trek is not overly difficult, but it is an exhilarating experience that offers stunning views of the Nilgiris.
- Bird watching: Doddabetta Peak is home to a wide variety of birds, including the Nilgiri Wood Pigeon, the Indian Blackbird, and the Nilgiri Flycatcher. Bird watchers will be delighted by the variety of birds they can spot here.
- Horse Riding: The nearby Pykara Lake and the Doddabetta Peak area also offer horse riding activities.
4. Avalanche Lake
Looking for a one-of-a-kind experience? Make sure to add Avalanche Lake to your itinerary. This gorgeous lake is surrounded by dense shola forests, making it an ideal spot for all kinds of activities such as trekking and boating. The sky reflects on the glistening water to give you an ever-lasting impression of the splendid beauty of nature.
Best things to do –
- Take a Hike: There are several trails around the lake, ranging from easy to difficult. Take a leisurely stroll along the lake shore or challenge yourself to a strenuous hike up to the surrounding hills.
- Enjoy a Picnic: Pack a picnic lunch and find a spot along the lake to relax and enjoy the views.
- Take a Dip: If you’re feeling adventurous, take a dip in the lake. The water is cold and refreshing.
- Visit the Waterfalls: The Falls of Avalanche is a stunning waterfall located just a short hike away from the lake.
5. Government Museum
Education and entertainment don’t always have to be separated. Get the best of both worlds at the Government Museum, where you can learn a lot about the local history and culture of Ooty. Browse through the various exhibits, and enlighten your mind.
Best things to see in the museum –
- Tribal Artifacts: This section of the museum displays various artifacts of the tribal people who used to inhabit the Nilgiri hills. Items such as masks, tools, weapons, and jewelry used by these tribes are on display in the museum.
- Coins and Stamps: The museum also houses an amazing collection of coins and stamps from different periods of India’s history. These coins and stamps are a great source of information about the culture and economy of India through the ages.
- Paintings and Sculptures: The museum has a fine collection of paintings and sculptures from different periods of Indian art. These paintings and sculptures are a great way to get a better understanding of the art and culture of India.
- Victorian Era Furniture: The museum also has a section dedicated to the Victorian era furniture. These pieces of furniture are a great way to get a glimpse of the lifestyle of the British Raj period in India.
- Historical Documents: The museum also houses a collection of important historical documents such as royal decrees, court records, and other such documents. These documents are a great way to understand the history and culture of India.
Ooty is a great destination for anyone looking to enjoy a fun-filled getaway. With its lush greenery, beautiful views, and many exciting activities, it is an ideal spot to spend a few days or even a week. Whether you’re looking to take a romantic stroll through the hills, explore the wildlife, or just relax and take in the beauty of the area, come and experience the beauty of Ooty and make everlasting memories that will stay with you for a lifetime. Those looking for budget friendly hotels in ooty, must check out Treebo Ooty.
