Nestled in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu, Ooty, also known as Udhagamandalam, is a picturesque hill station. With its rolling tea plantations, serene lakes, misty mountains, and colonial charm, Ooty offers a perfect getaway for nature lovers, quiet holiday seekers  and adventure seekers alike. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or an extended vacation, here are some must-do activities to make the most of your time in this enchanting town. Ooty is truly the ‘Queen of the hills’. With an average elevation of 7,349′ above sea level, the views are absolutely breathtaking.  

How to get here & Getting around:

Fly into the nearest airport Coimbatore International Airport (CJB), from which Ooty would be a 2-3 hours drive. Coimbatore is well-connected with the major cities around India. You can also reach Ooty by road from Bangalore in 5-6 hours. 

The drive to and around Ooty can be full of steep twists and turns and its best recommended to get a local and experienced driver. You can sit back, relax and soak in the views. It will be absolutely worth it – so do consider hiring a driver. If you are looking for one, drop us a ping and we can roll some good suggestions over to you. 

Accommodation:

Ooty has a lot of beautiful hotels. We would strongly recommend Willow Hill by Nature Resorts and Stays. The service was awesome and rooms had an amazing ambiance and nature woody vibe to it. Over looking the tea estate and the hills, the views were amazing. It was a boutique hotel with limited rooms and few guests – quite a private bungalow experience. 

Now that you are all sorted with the stay, here’s the top things to do in Ooty: 

1. Don’t miss the Toy Train : Take a Ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway

Time needed to explore  : 2 hours

One of the most iconic experiences in Ooty is a ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This toy train takes you through breathtaking landscapes, including lush forests, steep curves, and picturesque valleys. The slow pace of the train allows you to soak in the beauty of the Nilgiris, making it a journey to remember.

If you are a Bollywood freak or SRK fan, Chaiyya Chaiyya was shot on this route. Why not dance to it on the way? Toy train booking are almost full most of the time, do book the tickets in advance. Locals can suggest ways to get the ticket 😉 if you haven’t booked in advance, don’t panic – ask around – your driver could guide you the best. 

Take a one way ticket to Coonoor, and get your driver to pick you up from there.

2. Eat – Shop – Repeat in Coonoor :

Time needed to explore  : 2-3 hours

When in Coonoor, do some shopping or eat some good food. Our recommendation is La Belle Vie @ 180Mciver. This is where Kapoor & Sons was shot. If you are a Bollywood freak or not, you will love the views and the food there. It’s amazing! Come down to the Coonoor city and shop for local essential oils, spices, handmade chocolates or tea. 

3. Admire the Views from Doddabetta Peak

Time needed to explore  : 2 hours

For panoramic views of the Nilgiri Hills, head to Doddabetta Peak, the highest point in the region at 2,637 meters above sea level. The trek to the summit is rewarding, with lush greenery and cool mountain air accompanying you all the way. A telescope house at the top provides an even closer look at the surrounding landscapes. The view is breathtaking. 

Plus, all along the way there are hot snacks and chai shops, grab some food and sit by the edge of the peak. The little small things that we love in life 🙂 .  

4. Visit Ooty Lake

Time needed to explore  : 1-2 hours

Ooty Lake is a tranquil spot ideal for a leisurely day out. You can rent a paddleboat or a rowboat to explore the serene waters, or simply relax on the banks and enjoy the scenic surroundings. The nearby boathouse offers snacks and souvenirs to complete your visit. You can even take motor boats and go around the lake. It has an arcade and our kids absolutely loved the rides. 

5. Stroll Through Tea Plantations & Visit the Chocolate factory

Time needed to explore  : 1-2 hours

An absolute must do in Ooty! Ooty’s tea estates are a visual and sensory treat. Take a guided tour to learn about tea cultivation and processing while enjoying the fresh aroma of tea leaves. Some estates also offer tea-tasting sessions, giving you the opportunity to savor the region’s finest blends. You could visit Benchmark Tea Factory and chocolate factory to learn more about how it’s made. Ooty has a few free viewing points has well, if you just want to stop and take a quick photo. The piping hot tea from local plantations is a must-try, especially on chilly evenings. Handmade chocolates are a must buy. 

6. Discover Pykara Falls and Lake

Time needed to explore  : 2-3 hours

Located about 20 kilometers from Ooty, Pykara is a serene spot that’s worth a visit. The Pykara River flows through a series of waterfalls before reaching the tranquil Pykara Lake. You can enjoy boating on the lake or simply revel in the natural beauty of the area. For Bollywood freaks, this is where multiple movies were shot including Ajab Prem ki Gazab Kahani.

7. Love for Plants, Roses and Gardens?

Time needed to explore  : 2-3 hours

We would keep this location as optional : The Government Botanical Garden is a haven for plant lovers ONLY . Spread across 55 acres, it boasts a diverse collection of flora, including rare and exotic species. Don’t miss the 20-million-year-old fossilized tree trunk and the vibrant flowerbeds that make for a perfect photo backdrop. It even has a “rudraksh” tree – probably quite rare. 

The Ooty Rose Garden is home to over 20,000 varieties of roses, making it a paradise for flower enthusiasts. The vibrant colors and fragrant blooms create a mesmerizing atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a romantic outing.

8. Go Trekking and Camping

For adventure enthusiasts, Ooty offers numerous trekking trails and camping spots. Popular treks include the trails to Avalanche Lake, Mukurthi National Park, and Parsons Valley. These routes take you through dense forests, sparkling streams, and rolling hills, offering an unforgettable outdoor experience.

9. Go Bollywood

Other the the few spots mentioned above, here are some of the most famous locations Bollywood movies are associated with: 

• Remember the forest in Raaz, Gazab Ka Hai Din from Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak and Main Kya Karoon from Barfi : Pine Forest Ooty
• Kuch kuch hota hai summer camp was partly in Ooty : Wenlock Downs
• Recreate the timeless song Pehla Nasha from Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar : Western Catchment Area

These are just a few, the hill station’s misty mountains, serene lakes, lush greenery, and colonial architecture have made it an awesome backdrop for decades.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, Ooty has something for everyone. With its scenic beauty, pleasant climate, and diverse attractions, this hill station promises an unforgettable experience. So pack your bags, and get ready to explore the “Queen of Hill Stations”—a destination that truly lives up to its name.