The Ooty Botanical Gardens is a beautiful place to start your nature trip in Ooty. Located near Ooty Lake, it is home to more than 650 species of plants. You can have a peaceful walk down the lush gardens while breathing in fresh air and appreciating nature's beauty. The garden also has a fossil of a tree trunk that is believed to be around 20 million years old.
Avalanche Lake is a stunning place surrounded by the Nilgiris mountains, located near the Avalanche village. The area is known for its beautiful landscape that includes a stunning waterfall, tea plantation, and valleys. You can have a picnic by the lakeside while enjoying the serene environment. It is also a popular spot for trout fishing.
Kalhatty Waterfalls is a picturesque waterfall located in the Nilgiris Biosphere Reserve. The water falls from an altitude of about 40 meters, leaving behind a cold and misty atmosphere. You can take a peaceful trek through the reserve while spotting exotic species of birds and animals. The waterfall is also a popular picnic spot for locals, but note that swimming isn't allowed.
If you have more time, you can add a visit to Doddabetta Peak, the highest mountain in the Nilgiri Hills. For an additional nature experience, consider a visit to Mudumalai National Park. If you have less time, consider starting with Avalanche Lake and skipping Ooty Botanical Gardens, as it is a more popular tourist destination than the other two locations.