- Destinations
- Experiences
- Stay
- What's new
- Editor’s Picks
- Responsible Tourism
- CampaignsCampaigns
- Subscribe
The hill station of Ooty is most well-known for its tea plantations, waterfalls, botanical garden, bustling markets, striking lakes and prominent tea factories. Also known as Udhagamandalam, it is well-connected to Mysuru by road and rail, making it a top weekend getaway for residents of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Ooty's picturesque landscapes, diverse terrain and rich cultural experiences provide an immersive experience that is miles away from the busyness of modern life.
Here are five offbeat places in Ooty for travellers to explore beyond the tea gardens and churches of the town.
The Ketti Valley, often referred to as the "Switzerland of South India”, is one of the largest inhabited valleys in the world, yet remains relatively unexplored by tourists. Located just 12 kilometres from Ooty, the valley viewpoint will leave you in awe of the place's natural beauty. Imagine standing in front of mountain peaks covered by fog and quaint little houses spread across the lush, green valley and you will start to get an idea of why people love coming here. Look through the on-site telescope to see a 150-year-old church which is located approximately five kilometres away.
This lake is located about 28 kilometres from Ooty and is one of the most pristine places in the region. Named after a massive landslide that occurred in the 1800s, Avalanche Lake is an untouched habitat that offers enchanting views and a plethora of tourist activities, thus making it a perfect location for adventure junkies. Visitors can enjoy trekking and nature walks through forest trails, fishing and camping near the lake, spotting rare species of birds and wild animals, and reconnecting with the more-than-human world.
The Parsons Valley Reservoir is another hidden gem of Ooty. Located about 20 kilometres from the hill station, the reservoir is a natural habitat for wildlife like panthers, tigers and bison. It is also rich in a variety of plants and trees like pine and sandalwood. The valley acts as the base point for trekking expeditions, both long and short. Check out the Mukurthi Peak, which is located a short distance from the valley, and the scenic beauty of Mukurthi Lake, too. Enjoy the enchanting views of the Nilgiri mountains from the valley, engage in nature photography—especially during sunrise and sunset—and walk around the reservoir.
Emerald Lake is not as famous as the Avalanche Lake but it is a scenic spot nonetheless. Located about 25 kilometres from the main town of Ooty, the lake is part of the Silent Valley National Park and offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by tea plantations, green landscapes and untouched natural beauty. Visitors can take a leisurely walk around the lake, enjoy a peaceful picnic with friends and family, and capture stunning photographs of the surrounding scenery. The water’s deep blue hue, misty backdrop and the absence of large crowds make it the perfect spot for photography and birdwatching.
Pykara Lake is 21 kilometres from Ooty. It is fed by the Pykara River and surrounded by dense forests and shola grasslands. Wenlock Downs, a vast expanse of grassy meadows on the way to Pykara, is a popular picnic location and a favourite filming spot of movie directors. You can go boating on Pykara Lake and embark on a short trek from the site, too. The area offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of Ooty.
