Doddabetta Peak is the highest point in the Nilgiri Mountains, standing tall at 2,637 meters. You can get a panoramic view of the valley and the surrounding hills from the observatory tower built on the peak. The ride to the top of the peak is an experience in itself, with stunning scenery and fresh mountain air. Beware of the monkeys on the way.
The Government Botanical Garden is a picturesque garden spanning across 22 hectares. It is home to numerous varieties of ferns, shrubs, trees, and bonsai plants, some of which are over a hundred years old. The garden has a beautifully maintained layout with sections dedicated to various plant species.
Ooty Lake, formed by the damming of the mountain streams flowing down Ooty valley, is a serene and peaceful spot in the hustle-bustle of the city. You can rent a boat or go on a horseback ride around the lake. There are also a couple of water sports activities available like water skiing and paddle boating.
The Thread Garden is a unique collection of artificial flowers made from threads. Each flower is handmade and bears an uncanny resemblance to the real ones. It is a perfect place for those who enjoy art and craft. You can buy some of the flowers as souvenirs to take back home.
St. Stephen's Church is one of the oldest churches in the Nilgiri region. It was built in 1829 and boasts of a beautiful architecture with stained glass windows. The church is peaceful and exudes a sense of calm. You should visit it to admire its beauty and history.
The Doddabetta Tea Factory and Museum is a place to learn about the tea-making process and see it in action. It covers the history of tea in the region and the process of cultivation, plucking, withering, rolling, oxidizing, drying, and sorting. At the end of the tour, you can taste some fresh tea and purchase some to take home.
If you have more time, you can visit the following places: Pykara Waterfall, Rose Garden, or Avalanche Lake. If you have less time, you can skip the tea factory or spend less time at the other places. Wear comfortable shoes and clothes in layers as the temperature can fluctuate. Carry enough water and snacks. Beware of the monkeys at Doddabetta Peak and Ooty Lake.