The Top 12 Places to Visit Near Ooty: Exploring the Enchanting Neighbourhoods

Ooty, which is one of the best places to visit near Bangalore and Coimbatore, is a picturesque hill station known for its natural beauty and pleasant climate. While Ooty itself is a fantastic destination, there are several enchanting places nearby that are worth exploring. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure enthusiast, or a history buff, these destinations offer something for everyone. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a journey to discover the top 12 places to visit near Ooty that will leave you awe-inspired and create memories for a lifetime.

Best Places to Visit Near Ooty:

1. Coonoor:

Located just 20 kilometres away from Ooty, Coonoor is a charming hill station renowned for its sprawling tea estates, panoramic views, and pleasant climate. The Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, connects Ooty and Coonoor, offering a scenic train journey that showcases the breathtaking beauty of the Western Ghats. Don’t miss a visit to Sim’s Park, a well-maintained botanical garden with a diverse range of flora. The enchanting Catherine Falls and Lamb’s Rock viewpoint are also must-visit attractions in Coonoor.

In case you are travelling to Ooty by car from Coimbatore, you will have to pass by Coonoor on one of the routes. So, if time permits, you can pick some important attractions to explore in Coonoor on your way to Ooty. Coonoor is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit near Ooty. For a convenient and flexible journey, consider getting a Car on Rent in Coimbatore to make the most of your travel experience.

2. Pykara:

Situated approximately 21 kilometres from Ooty, Pykara is a serene village known for its pristine Pykara Lake and Pykara Falls. The boat ride on Pykara Lake is a tranquil experience, surrounded by lush greenery and mist-covered hills. The cascading Pykara Falls, with its gushing waters and picturesque backdrop, is a sight to behold. Nature enthusiasts can also explore the Pykara Dam and take a leisurely walk through the surrounding pine forests.

If you have travelled from Mysore to Ooty, you can include Pykara as one of the best places to visit near Ooty. On your return journey from Ooty, you can cover Pykara, which comes on your way back to Mysore by road.

3. Avalanche:

Avalanche, located about 28 kilometres away from Ooty, is a paradise for nature lovers. The Avalanche Lake, nestled amidst dense forests and rolling hills, is a stunning sight.

You can indulge in activities like boating and fishing in the crystal-clear waters of the lake in this place, which is rated as one of the best places to visit near Ooty. The surrounding landscape offers excellent opportunities for trekking, bird-watching, and camping. The tranquil beauty of Avalanche is sure to leave you mesmerized.

4. Kotagiri:

Kotagiri, the oldest and third-largest hill station in the Nilgiris, is situated around 29 kilometres from Ooty. Known for its pleasant climate and scenic beauty, Kotagiri offers numerous trekking trails that lead you through tea estates, waterfalls, and dense forests.

The Kodanad Viewpoint provides panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and peaks. The Elk Falls and Catherine Falls are two must-visit attractions in Kotagiri that offer a refreshing experience amidst nature’s bounty. When you are travelling by car from Coimbatore to reach Ooty, you can choose one of the two routes. On the way to one of these routes, you can reach Kotagiri.

The good thing about this route as compared to the other route, which is Coimbatore-Coonoor-0oty is that it is comparatively less crowded. So, you can enjoy the scenic beauty of the entire Nilgiri hills when travelling to Kotagiri, which is one of the best places to visit near Ooty. Here, my post on how to reach Ooty might help you plan which route to choose.

5. Mudumalai National Park:

A short drive of about 40 kilometres from Ooty will take you to Mudumalai National Park, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Home to an incredible array of flora and fauna, including tigers, elephants, and peacocks, this national park offers exciting jeep safaris and elephant rides. Exploring the park’s diverse ecosystem and witnessing animals in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience.

When you are travelling to Mysore own your return journey from Ooty, you can cover this national park. This is one of the best places to visit near Ooty when you are spending your 5-day Ooty itinerary. Your kids will love this trip as they can spot many elephants and deer on the route to the sanctuary from Ooty.

6. Masinagudi:

Adjacent to the Mudumalai National Park, Masinagudi is a small town blessed with rich biodiversity. The verdant forests, gushing rivers, and abundant wildlife make it a perfect destination for nature lovers. Take a jungle safari or embark on an adventurous trek to explore the wilderness. The Moyar River, the elephant camp at Theppakadu, and the stunning viewpoints of Masinagudi are some of the highlights of this nature lover’s paradise.

Masinagudi is one of the best places to visit near Ooty. The good part of Masinagudi is its tough terrain. Only experienced drivers find this route easy as you will come across many hairpin bends within a short distance from one another.

7. Doddabetta Peak:

For breathtaking panoramic views of the Nilgiri Hills, a visit to Doddabetta Peak is a must. Situated around 10 kilometres from Ooty, it is the highest peak in the region, standing tall at an altitude of 2,637 meters. The observatory atop the peak provides a stunning vantage point to soak in the beauty of the surrounding valleys, forests, and tea plantations. On a clear day, you can even catch a glimpse of the plains of Coimbatore.

If you are travelling from Mysore to Ooty by road, you can visit this peak as one of the best places to visit near Ooty. You can get to this spot even before you reach Ooty. A visit to this spot is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Ooty as you can get a stunning panoramic view of the Coimbatore city from the topmost point of Ooty. Many people call this peak to be one of the best Ooty tourist places as well.

8. Bellikkal:

Bellikkal, nestled amidst the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, is a serene village located approximately 37 kilometres from Ooty. It is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

The lush green forests and mist-covered mountains create a surreal ambience. You can take leisurely walks along nature trails, explore the Sispara Peak, or simply relax amidst the tranquil surroundings. The rich biodiversity and tranquil charm of Bellikkal make it an ideal offbeat destination and one of the best places to visit near Ooty.

9. Gudalur:

Situated around 50 kilometres from Ooty, Gudalur is a small town that serves as a gateway to three states – Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka. Surrounded by tea and coffee plantations, Gudalur offers a refreshing ambience.

The Gudalur Wildlife Sanctuary, home to various animal species, is also worth exploring. Once you pay your visit to this place, you will accept that Gudalur is one of the best places to visit near Ooty.

10. Needle Rock Viewpoint:

Located in Gudalur, the Needle Rock Viewpoint is an awe-inspiring destination that offers breathtaking views of the Nilgiri Hills. Perched at an elevation of 1,566 meters, the viewpoint provides a panoramic vista of the dense forests, valleys, and tea estates.

The sunset view from this viewpoint is especially captivating, as the sky is painted with vibrant hues. A visit to the Needle Rock Viewpoint is a must for nature enthusiasts and photography enthusiasts alike. When you visit Gudalur, which is one of the best places to visit near Ooty, you can cover this attraction as well.

11. Silent Valley Viewpoint:

Situated around 35 kilometres from Ooty, the Silent Valley Viewpoint is a hidden gem that offers mesmerizing views of the valleys and tea estates below. Surrounded by mist-covered mountains and thick vegetation, this viewpoint provides a tranquil ambience. It is the perfect spot to unwind and soak in the beauty of nature.

As you look for the best places to visit near Ooty, you can include this place in your list of attractions.

12. Kalhatty Waterfalls:

Located about 13 kilometres from Ooty, Kalhatty Waterfalls is a magnificent cascade nestled amidst the Nilgiri Mountains. Surrounded by lush greenery and tall trees, the waterfall is a sight to behold.

The trek to reach the falls is adventurous and offers breathtaking views along the way. The sound of the gushing water and the cool mist in the air create a refreshing and invigorating experience. As you look for one of the refreshing places to visit near Ooty, you can consider visiting this spot.

Conclusion:

Exploring the places near Ooty adds an extra dimension to your trip, allowing you to witness the diverse beauty of the Nilgiri region. From serene hill stations to captivating viewpoints, from enchanting waterfalls to wildlife havens, these destinations offer a range of experiences that cater to every traveller’s preference. Whether you’re seeking tranquillity, adventure, or a closer connection with nature, the top 12 places to visit near Ooty have it all.

So, plan your itinerary wisely and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the mesmerizing landscapes of the Nilgiris. Thanks to the best hotels in Ooty that will ensure a refreshing stay in this hill station. Also, when you are in Ooty do not forget to try dining at one of the famous restaurants in Ooty.