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Ooty, also known as Udhagamandalam, is a picturesque hill station located in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, India. It is situated in the Nilgiri Hills and is surrounded by lush green tea gardens, rolling hills, and beautiful valleys. Ooty is a popular tourist destination for both domestic and international travelers. If you’re planning a trip to this beautiful hill station, here are some of the top tourist places to add to your bucket list.
Ooty Lake
Located in the heart of the town, Ooty Lake is a popular spot for tourists. It is an artificial lake constructed in 1824 by John Sullivan, the then Collector of Coimbatore. The lake is surrounded by eucalyptus trees and is perfect for boating.
Doddabetta Peak
Doddabetta Peak is the highest peak in the Nilgiri Hills, standing at a height of 2,637 meters. The peak offers a panoramic view of the entire valley, and on a clear day, you can even see the distant Mysore plateau.
Botanical Garden
The Botanical Garden in Ooty is spread over 55 acres and is home to over 650 species of plants and trees. The garden was established in 1847 and is maintained by the Horticulture Department of the Government of Tamil Nadu.
Pykara Falls
Pykara Falls is a popular tourist spot located about 20 km from Ooty. The falls are formed by the Pykara River and are surrounded by lush green forests. You can take a boat ride in the Pykara Lake, which is located near the falls.
Tea Museum
The Tea Museum in Ooty is a must-visit for tea lovers. The museum is located in a colonial-era bungalow and showcases the history and process of tea-making in the Nilgiri Hills. You can also taste and buy different varieties of tea at the museum’s shop.
Avalanche Lake
Avalanche Lake is located about 28 km from Ooty and is surrounded by dense forests. The lake is known for its scenic beauty and is a popular spot for picnics and trekking.
Rose Garden
The Rose Garden in Ooty is spread over 10 acres and is home to over 20,000 varieties of roses. The garden is located near the Ooty Lake and is a popular spot for nature lovers and photographers.
St. Stephen’s Church
St. Stephen’s Church is a historic church located in the heart of Ooty town. It was built in 1829 and is known for its beautiful stained-glass windows.
Government Museum
The Government Museum in Ooty is located near the Ooty Lake and showcases the history and culture of the Nilgiri Hills. The museum has a collection of tribal artifacts, sculptures, and paintings.
Emerald Lake
Emerald Lake is located about 20 km from Ooty and is surrounded by dense forests. The lake is known for its scenic beauty and is a popular spot for boating and fishing.
In conclusion, Ooty is a beautiful hill station with a lot to offer to tourists. From scenic lakes and waterfalls to historic churches and museums, Ooty has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and head out to Ooty to experience the best of nature and history.
giri raj sharma