The Ooty Botanical Garden, established in 1847, is a lush paradise of rare flowers, shrubs, and trees. Covering an area of 22 hectares, the garden is a perfect place to unwind and spend time with nature and its vibrant hues. The garden is divided into several sections, each housing a unique flora, from ferns, orchids to medicinal plants. There are giant fossilized trees, an Italian garden, and a fern house. Don't miss the Toda hill, a special section housing the traditional houses of the Toda tribes
The Doddabetta Peak, the highest peak of Nilgiri Hills, offers breathtaking views of the entire Ooty region. The drive to the peak is a little bumpy, but the view from the top is worth it. You can spot the Catherine Waterfall, the St. Catherine Church, and the Rangaswami Pillar from the top. Mean temperature in the winter stays around 5 degree Celsius, so don't forget to pack warm clothing.
The Avalanche Lake is a picturesque and secluded lake, which can only be visited with prior permission from the forest authorities. Surrounded by lush green mountains, the lake is a great place to admire nature. There are several trekking trails around the lake as well, so if you're up for some adventure with your nature dose, it's worth the effort.
The Pykara Lake and Falls are a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. The lake is surrounded by hills and greenery and is a serene spot for a picnic. You can also enjoy a boat ride on the lake. The Pykara Falls are a short distance from the lake, where the Pykara River cascades down the mountains. The falls are at their mightiest during monsoon season and are a sight to behold.
If you have more time, check out the Sim's Park, Government Rose Garden, or take the heritage steam train, Niligiri Mountain Railway, to Coonoor. If you have less time, you can exclude Avalanche Lake, or shorten the duration at each attraction. Note that most attractions in Ooty close by 5 PM, so plan accordingly. Don't forget to carry warm clothing as it can get chilly in the evenings.