Doddabetta is the highest peak in Ooty and offers stunning views of the surrounding forests and hills. Visitors can take a scenic trek to reach the summit or a drive to the top. On a clear day, one can see as far as Mysore and Coimbatore from the peak. The peak also boasts several tea and snack stalls for refreshments.
Ooty Lake is a scenic 65-acre lake surrounded by eucalyptus trees. Boating facilities are available, and the lake also hosts a well-maintained garden and a mini train ride for children. Early morning or late afternoon visits are recommended to avoid crowds.
If visitors have more time, Botanical Gardens (10 minutes from Ooty Lake) is a must-visit spot. It is one of the oldest and most esteemed botanical gardens in India. The Gardens have over 650 species of plants and trees, including a fossilized tree trunk that is over 20 million years old. If time is constrained, visitors may prefer to skip Doddabetta Peak and opt for a visit to the Wax Museum (20 minutes from the town center). The museum hosts over 30 life-sized wax statues of famous personalities such as Mahatma Gandhi, Mother Teresa, and Michael Jackson.