4-Day Ooty Itinerary for Nature Lovers

1. Day 1: Pykara Lake and Waterfalls
   11km (25mins) from Ooty

   Surrounded by lush green forests, Pykara Lake is a serene destination to start your vacation. Take a boat ride, trek to the nearby hills or enjoy the cascading waterfall nearby. You might spot a herd of deer, elephant, etc., grazing nearby. Carry a picnic lunch to enjoy the refreshing scenery.

2. Day 2: Doddabetta Peak and Tea Museum
   16km (37mins) from Pykara Lake

   Doddabetta Peak, the highest point in Tamil Nadu, offers sweeping panoramic views of the Nilgiri Hills. After this, visit the Tea Museum to learn about tea processing and indulge in some tea-tasting. Don't forget to buy some aromatic Nilgiri Tea

3. Day 3: Avalanche Lake and Tiger Hill
   28km (1hr 15mins) from Doddabetta Peak

   Avalanche Lake is a natural reservoir that offers an excellent trekking experience in the Nilgiris. You can spot a variety of flora and fauna on your way. After that, head to Tiger Hill to see some epic views of the sunsets

4. Day 4: Ooty Botanical Gardens and Needle Rock View Point
   27km (48mins) from Avalanche Lake

   Ooty Botanical Gardens is a 55-acre garden that features more than 1,000 species of plants, including indigenous and exotic flowers. Then head to the Needle Rock View Point to see the beautiful panoramic views of the misty valley below. Capture some Golden hour shots here.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Pykara Lake and Waterfalls (2-3 hours, INR 100 per person)
• Doddabetta Peak and Tea Museum (3-4 hours, INR 100 per person)
• Avalanche Lake and Tiger Hill (6-7 hours, INR 150 per person)
• Ooty Botanical Gardens and Needle Rock View Point (4-5 hours, INR 250 per person)
Total Estimated Costs: INR 600 per person

Useful Tips

If you have more time, add a toy train ride to the famous hill station of Coonoor or an eco-tour of the Mudumalai National Park.

If you have less time, skip the tea museum and head directly to Doddabetta Peak after Pykara Lake.