Ooty Botanical Garden is a perfect place to start your relaxing vacation. The lush green garden is spread over 55 acres, and you can find a wide variety of exotic trees and plants. Take a gentle stroll and enjoy the fragrant smells of the flowers and see beautiful fountains. There is a small entry fee and the garden has varying hours, so be sure to check their website ahead of time.
Thread Garden is an attraction you don't want to miss, especially if you enjoy handicrafts. It displays a massive collection of artificial flowers and plants. The flowers and leaves are made from fine silk threads and there are over 150 types of flowers on display. You can also purchase handmade souvenirs as a memory of your trip. The Thread Garden is closed on Mondays.
If you're looking to view the scenery from a higher altitude, **Doddabetta Peak** is the place to go. It is the highest peak in Ooty and located on the eastern edges of the Nilgiri Hills. You can take a taxi or car ride to the top. Once there, you can enjoy a bird's eye view of Ooty and the surrounding regions. On a clear day, the view can stretch up to Mysore!
In the morning, you can visit the mesmerizing **Avalanche Lake**. The lake is a stunning sight, surrounded by high mountains and a dense forest. It is an ideal spot for those looking to disconnect and enjoy a peaceful environment. You can enjoy a picnic or take a boat ride to soak in the beautiful views. It's open only for a few hours in the morning so check ahead of time.
For a less crowded option, you can visit **Emerald Lake**. It’s a serene place located on the upper plateau region of Ooty. It is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the tranquility of nature. You can take a light trek around the lake or try fishing if you're in the mood. There are no shops nearby, so it's recommended to carry some food and water if you plan to spend most of the day there.
If you want to explore more, you can add a visit to the Wax World Museum and the Tea Factory as well. Both are easily accessible by taxi ride. You can also add a trekking experience through the Nilgiri Hills with a local trekking group. For those who want to extend their stay, there are great options of resorts and homestays available on the outskirts of Ooty. If you're short on time, you can skip the Thread Garden as there are more exciting places to see.