Things To Do In Ooty (Udhagamandalam)

Ooty, rightly called the queen of hill stations, offers scenic views that stay etched in visitor memories for long. Ooty, home to the Toda, Baduga, Kota, Kurumba, and Irula tribes, is welcoming and hospitable to everyone who wishes to see unspoiled natural beauty. No wonder Ooty has been a favourite shoot spot for Bollywood movies.

The weather here is a bit chilly and pleasant round the year. From quaint corners to adventure treks, Ooty has a lot to things to offer. Here are our top picks.

The Toda tribe is among the original inhabitants of Ooty, erstwhile called Udagamandalam. Exploring their settlements and discovering their ways of life is one the most exciting experiences one can seek here. Besides, the Toda Settlements are an absolute visual delight and this is the most picturesque way to explore the hill station for sure. 

The Pine Forests of Ooty stretch all the way till Thalakunda; vast, dense, but inviting. Take a stroll through the misty and sometimes sunny maze of Pine trees here. A great way to spend the day if you are looking for silence and tranquility. 

Echo Rock (or Lamb’s Rock) is another famous tourist attraction in Ooty. It is situated in the reserve forest about 8 km from the Coonoor Bus stand. Rich in flora and surprisingly colorful, this is probably the best place for yelling out your thoughts to the world. 

This artificial L-shaped lake stretched over a 3 km area and surrounded by nature is a perfect getaway during your trip to Ooty. Head to the boat house to rent yourself a paddle or rowing boat and explore the scenic stretch of the lake; a must do for photography enthusiasts.

The Ooty Botanical gardens, laid out in the year 1847, is shortly away from Charing Cross (10 minutes) and half an hour's walk away from the Ooty Lake. The entrance fee is minimal. One can find a wide variety of trees, shrubs as well as conservatories with exotic ferns and flowering plants. It is maintained by the Tamil Nadu Horticulture Department and is spread over an area of about 22 hectares.

This 155-year-old library is a living history. It is one of the most prestigious visages of the Nilgiri Town and is accessible over a temporary monthly membership cost around Rs. 500. This building, mostly neglected by tourists, actually is a heaven for book lovers. It has over 30,000 books and journals, including some from as early as the 19th Century. The library was established way back in 1859! 

Doddabetta Mountain is the highest point in the district standing 8,650-feet (2,637-meters) above sea level. As you make your way towards the summit you will feel the fresh air rich with natural aromas. There are plenty of places to sit and relax. To make the most of your visit, be sure to take in the views from the many telescopes present around.