Ooty Botanical Gardens are a must-visit for nature lovers. Spread over 55 acres, these gardens are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. May is a great time to visit as the flowers will be in full bloom. You can take a leisurely stroll through the gardens and enjoy the natural beauty around you. Don't miss the fossil tree that is believed to be over 20 million years old. There is also a Toda tribal hut on display, giving you a glimpse into the lives of the local tribes.
Located at an altitude of 8,650 feet, Doddabetta Peak is the highest point in the Nilgiri Hills. The view from the top is breathtaking and you can see the entire Ooty valley spread out before you. On a clear day, you can even see the Mysore plateau. There is a telescope house at the peak where you can get a closer look at the surrounding landscape. Make sure to carry warm clothes and comfortable shoes as it can get chilly and the climb to the top can be steep.
Avalanche Lake is a picturesque spot that is perfect for a relaxing day out in nature. Surrounded by forests and rolling hills, it is a great place for a picnic or a leisurely walk. You can also go fishing or take a boat ride on the lake. The journey to the lake is just as beautiful as the destination, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
The Government Rose Garden is the largest rose garden in India, with over 20,000 varieties of roses. May is the peak season for roses, so you can expect to see the garden in full bloom. The garden is spread over 10 acres and also has a wide variety of other flowers and plants. You can take a leisurely walk through the garden and enjoy the fragrances and colors. There is also a small nursery where you can purchase plants and seeds to take back home.
If you have more time, you can also visit other popular attractions in Ooty such as Ooty Lake, Pykara Lake, and Emerald Lake. If you have less time, you can skip Avalanche Lake and spend more time at the other attractions. Make sure to carry warm clothing and comfortable shoes as the weather can be unpredictable. It's also a good idea to carry your own food and water as there may not be many options available near some of the attractions.