Welcome to the Queen of Hill Stations! You must have known Ooty for its tea plantations and undulating range of green hills. However, the destination is beyond the mountains. The natural blend here offers travellers a combination of hills and lakes in Ooty. With majestic places on the hill station, it is time to explore the charm of the scenes.
Who doesn’t love adventure during a soothing trip? If you too love the thrill, lakes in Ooty might satisfy that thirst. Most of them offer boating facilities thereby, allowing you to fully explore the beauty of lakes.
Whether you love peace or are a fan of adventure, you can find everything here! With a fusion of touristy and underrated lakes, you get to visit the ones that attract you the most. It is fair to say that you can click awe-inspiring pictures that definitely make it to your Instagram. So, book affordable hotels in Ooty for a scenic getaway with your loved ones.
6 Soul-Healing Lakes in Ooty for a Wonderful Time
1. Boat House
Whenever you travel to a place, there’s that one tourist spot that always attracts you the most. For this hill station, that tourist destination is the famous Ooty Lake. Formally known as the Boat House, it is one of the popular lakes in Ooty. The entire area is operated by the Tamil Nadu government, thereby ensuring a hassle-free time around.
The artificial lake is massive enough to make you feel all enthralled! It is a touristy spot, so you are likely to find large crowds. What’s more? Boating is the prime highlight of this place. You can either opt for pedal boats or rowboats, considering the availability. Many tourists love the convenience of boating here. All you need to do is scan a QR code in the booking office right outside the park and book your boat.
The mesmerising view of the Nilgiri Hills is like the cherry on the cake! Apart from this, the lake is surrounded by lush gardens. You can enjoy rides, take romantic strolls, ride on the mini train, and check the local markets around. It is ideal to book affordable hotels near Boat House for a good rest.
2. Pykara Lake
Are you ready for an enthralling time in the blues and greens? If yes, here is your turn to visit the famous Pykara Lake. It is one of the most beautiful lakes in Ooty for experiencing solace. The lake is especially popular for its undisturbed atmosphere! What’s more? You get direct access to lush forests. It is important to note that the lake is formed by the Pykara River. Hence, the flow of water is high during the monsoon season.
Pykara Lake is a popular destination for travellers from all walks of life. As you walk across the lake, you get to see breathtaking views of the landscape. What’s more? You can also witness an idyllic reflection of the sky right on the waters. The lake also features a well-maintained boathouse. You can choose from motorboats or speedboats depending on the level of thrill you love.
The stimulating experience of boating is definitely a lifetime memory. Even Pykara Falls are nearby. So, if adventure kicks your mind, you might as well go for the waterfall trekking. It is important to note that the lake follows eco-tourism initiatives to preserve its natural wonder. So, make sure to book budget-friendly hotels near Pykara waterfalls for a great time.
Now that you are in Ooty, do not forget to check the best shopping places here. After all, you are bound to buy souvenirs for your loved ones.
3. Emerald Lake
Your visit to Ooty remains incomplete without visiting the famous Emerald Lake. It is one of the most breathtaking lakes in Ooty for a great time. You get an opportunity to venture into the wild, all thanks to its location. The lake is situated inside the Silent Valley National Park. No matter if you love nature or adventure, the lake offers both!
The sparkling blue water is sure to soothe you like never before. You must indulge in photography as the surroundings speak highly of the beauty of the Nilgiris. It is the dramatic backdrop which attracts a plethora of tourists. As the water becomes the mirror, all you can see is the open sky and rolling hills. The strategic location of the lake helps you explore tea plantations too.
You can take calming walks and see multiple tea gardens. Watching a sunset with your loved one is indeed one of the most romantic things to do in Ooty. So, get ready to enjoy picnics here. It is best to book affordable hotels near Emerald Lake for a comfortable getaway.
4. Avalanche Lake
Skip all the hyped lakes in Ooty if you love calmness amidst natural beauty. Avalanche Lake is an absolute beauty known for its tranquil surroundings and lush greenery. Located in the Nilgiri mountain ranges, this lake is a soothing destination for couples, families, as well as solo wanderers.
The trail to the lake takes you through soul-healing woods. It is more like walking into a garden that you can only imagine in a fairy tale! As you move ahead, you can witness beautiful tea plantations overlooking the massive lake. The escape from a monotonous life into the greens is exactly what you need.
What’s more? If you love adventure, you can definitely opt for camping here. Be ready with your tents and other equipment to enjoy a lovely camping time with your people. The area also allows fishing during early mornings. As the experiences are more about enjoying the scenery, the place remains less commercialised. It is best to prepare well before arriving. Make sure to book pocket-friendly hotels near Avalanche Lake for an amazing time with your loved ones.
5. Upper Bhavani Lake
Tucked away from the hustle and bustle, Upper Bhavani Lake is a soothing destination! If you love to escape from the chaos, this place might be the right choice for you. The way to reach Upper Bhavani Lake is via a Jeep or a private vehicle. It is important to note that you need to get prior permission from the forest department before venturing into the protected area.
As the journey begins, you get an opportunity to visit gardens and temples on the way. Be ready for a bumpy ride that gives you an adrenaline rush. If you are lucky, you might be able to spot a few animals and birds on your way. After a scenic ride, you finally reach the top. That’s when you can see the majestic Upper Bhavani Lake. The view is heartwarming, making you feel lost in its beauty.
Feeling hungry after exploration? Head to the best restaurants in Ooty for authentic meals and refreshing drinks.
6. Kamaraj Sagar Lake
Who doesn’t love a harmonious time away from the crowds? Kamaraj Sagar Lake is one of the underrated lakes in Ooty for a good travel time. It is also known as Sandynallah Reservoir. What’s more? As the location is peaceful, couples can have a soothing time here.
Whether you love taking strolls or enjoy relaxing, you can do it all here! It is best to carry binoculars as the vicinity is home to multiple migratory birds. You can easily enjoy an eye-appealing sunset with your darling partner. You can definitely choose this location for photography as it is surrounded by thick forests. Lastly, book affordable hotels near Kamaraj Sagar Dam Ooty for a comfortable stay.
How To Reach Ooty?
By Airway
As Ooty is located on the hills, you need to arrive at the Coimbatore International Airport. It is the nearest airport, which is 87.4 km from the hill station. It is well connected to major Indian cities and international destinations as well.
By Railway
If you are travelling by railway, Mettupalayam is the nearest station. It is connected to cities like Coimbatore and Chennai. The station is 51.4 kilometres from Ooty. Similarly, you can also opt for the Nilgiri Mountain Railway (toy train) to the hill station.
By Roadway
You can easily travel via road as the hill station is connected via highways. NH 181 is the Mysore-Ooty road, while NH 209 and NH 275 connect the city of Bangalore. You can also travel via public transport.
Tamil Nadu and Karnataka State buses operate regularly. You can even find many private luxury buses travelling to Ooty. Apart from the above options, you can also choose to travel via cabs or taxis from nearby railway stations or airports.
Things To Remember Before Visiting Lakes in Ooty
- Always check the best time to visit Ooty before planning your holiday in the hill station.
- Carry warm clothes as it can get cold near water bodies.
- Follow the instructions of the operators while boating or opting for any other activity.
- Avoid making loud noise as it disrupts the serene environment.
- Some lakes in Ooty are far from the main hill station. Hence, plan transportation accordingly.
- Carry sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and enough drinking water for the exploration.
- If you find any animals on your way, refrain from feeding them as it disturbs their natural habitat.
- Rains can occur spontaneously. Make sure you always have a rain jacket.
Life Jacket On, Exploration On!
Lakes in Ooty are not mere water bodies; they are an essential part of the hill station’s enriching environment. Imagine getting the opportunity to escape from the buzzing areas and stepping into zones of tranquillity. You can walk around, go boating, hike or simply enjoy a picnic experience with your loved ones. It is your chance to embrace the beauty of the lakes that nestle in the heart of the Nilgiri Hills. After all, they are ready to cast a magic spell of utmost calmness on you!
