Ooty lake is a perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon stroll, admire the peaceful surroundings and enjoy a boat ride in the pristine waters. The lake was artificially constructed by John Sullivan, the then Collector of Coimbatore, in 1824. You can take a pedal boat or rowboat to take a closer look at the beautiful surroundings. Make sure you visit the Deer Park adjacent to the lake. Closed on Tuesdays.
Doddabetta Peak is the highest point in the district, standing tall at 2,623 meters. The breathtaking views from the top are a must-see for anyone visiting Ooty. On a clear day, you can spot far-off areas of Coimbatore and the Mysore Plateau. There's also a telescope house on the peak which gives a panoramic view of the valley. The view is especially beautiful during sunset. Closed on Fridays.
The Government Botanical Garden is a must-visit place in Ooty. The garden has a variety of plants, including rare species of plants, trees, shrubs, and ferns. It also has a beautiful fossil tree trunk that is believed to be 20 million years old. A perfect picnic spot and a photographer's delight, the garden is also a famous filming location. You can easily spend a few hours here admiring the flora and the fauna. Closed on Tuesdays.
If you have more time, you can visit the Rose Garden or the Pykara Waterfalls. If you have less time, you can skip Doddabetta Peak and opt for a visit to the Tea Museum instead. Make sure to dress in layers as the weather is unpredictable in Ooty.