7 Beautiful Sightseeing Spots In Ooty

South India boasts some incredible natural wonders! From lush green valleys to cascading waterfalls, and from enchanting tea gardens to picturesque hill stations, the southern peninsula is adorned with breathtaking landscapes and panoramic vistas that beckon travelers time and time again. The charming Nilgiri Mountains, also known as the Blue Hills, enhance the region's beauty, completing the scenic canvas of this magnificent natural masterpiece! These hills are home to some of South India's most picturesque hill stations, which have been favorite vacation spots for many travelers over the years.

One such stunning hill station nestled in the Nilgiri Mountains is Ooty, a beloved holiday destination for tourists for many years now! Affectionately referred to as the 'Queen of the Blue Hills', Ooty served as a summer retreat during the British colonial period due to its favorable climate and breathtaking views of the verdant landscape. Even today, Ooty remains an ideal summer vacation destination, where the symphony of pristine nature creates a soothing melody for all to enjoy! Whether it's summer or any other time of the year, this hill station casts its spell on travelers with its dreamy landscapes. The heavenly views, verdant green mountains, flowing rivers, tranquil waterfalls, sparkling lakes, sprawling tea estates, and perfectly manicured gardens are just some of the highlights that make Ooty a renowned destination.

# Doddabetta Peak

Doddabetta, which literally translates to 'Big Hill' or 'Large Mountain' in Kannada, is the highest peak of the Nilgiri mountain ranges, soaring to an impressive height of 2637 meters (8650 feet) above sea level. One of the top attractions in Ooty, Doddabetta Peak offers breathtaking views of the Chamundi Hills and panoramic vistas of the surrounding natural scenery. The mountain is adorned with abundant Shola trees, providing a habitat for exotic flora and fauna. The area surrounding Doddabetta Peak is part of a protected nature reserve, home to a diverse variety of wildlife.

The summit is a popular destination for trekkers and mountain climbers, drawn by the exquisite hiking trails and mesmerizing trekking experiences it offers. For those who prefer not to trek, the summit is accessible by vehicles, allowing visitors to easily reach the mountain top and enjoy the lush nature that surrounds them. Located just 9 kilometers from the city center, Doddabetta Peak is undoubtedly one of the best tourist attractions in Ooty and a must-visit destination to include in your Ooty tour package.

# Government Botanical Gardens

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Ooty is the Government Botanical Gardens, which is an essential part of every Ooty tour package, including Ooty honeymoon packages, family tour packages, and travel packages. Spread across 55 acres of land, this exquisite and meticulously manicured garden is situated on the slopes of Doddabetta Peak. At an altitude of about 2500 meters above sea level, the garden enjoys a favorable climate, allowing a wide variety of trees, plants, shrubs, herbs, ferns, flowers, and even orchids to thrive.

The gardens are divided into five main sections: the Lower Garden, New Garden, Italian Garden (established by Italian prisoners during World War I), Conservatory, and Nurseries. The garden is home to many rare species of trees, including the Cork tree (the only one of its kind in India), Paperbark tree, Monkey Puzzle tree (so named because even monkeys fail to climb it), Kikuyu Grass, and a rare fossilized tree trunk dating back almost 20 million years.

With such incredible natural wonders, it's no wonder that the inclusion of the botanical gardens makes any list of Ooty tourist places inviting and appealing!

# Rose Garden

Perched on the slopes of Elk Hill, the Ooty Rose Garden is an absolute must-see and one of the premier attractions in Ooty. Spanning across approximately 10 acres, the garden is meticulously laid out in a series of curved terraces and is lovingly maintained by the Horticultural Department of Tamil Nadu. The region's delightful climate ensures that the garden boasts a wide variety of roses, shrubs, and plants, providing the perfect conditions for the roses to thrive and bloom abundantly.

The pleasant and cool climate, coupled with optimal rainfall, are significant factors contributing to the growth and blossoming of exotic varieties such as the Black Rose, Miniature Rose, Hybrid Tea Rose, Green Rose, Floribunda, Yakimour, and many more. The Rose Garden is a stunning display of nature in every conceivable color, making it one of the most romantic tourist spots in Ooty, often included in Ooty honeymoon packages. With over 20,000 varieties of roses, the garden is easily one of the largest of its kind in the country!

# Ooty Lake

A favorite destination for Bollywood and tourists alike, Ooty Lake is among the most popular Ooty sightseeing spots. This man-made lake was constructed by John Sullivan, the then Collector of Coimbatore, in 1824. Today, Ooty Lake stands as one of the prime attractions in Ooty, featuring several amenities such as the Boat House, Mini Train, Amusement Park, and Garden, all developed around the lake by the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC).

Surrounded by lush greenery, abundant Eucalyptus trees, and the stunning backdrop of the Nilgiri Hills, Ooty Lake is an ideal destination for boating and picnics. Couples can enjoy quality time together as they indulge in various boating activities such as paddle boats, row boats, and motor boats on the serene waters of the lake. Much like the romantic song sequences in Bollywood movies that often feature Ooty Lake as their backdrop, real-life couples can create their own love stories amidst the picturesque setting of this lake.

Including Ooty Lake in your Ooty honeymoon package offers couples an unforgettable scenic experience, making it one of the highlights of the best Ooty tour packages!

# Stephen’s Church

An intriguing gem among all Ooty tourist attractions, St. Stephen’s Church is a destination worth exploring! This church, one of the most captivating and architecturally stunning places to visit in Ooty, dates back to the 19th century when it was constructed by the British Government (initially for British residents only). It is considered one of the oldest churches in the Nilgiris district.

St. Stephen’s Church is renowned for its splendid Gothic architecture, skillful use of wooden materials in construction, exquisite stained glass windows, and the grand painting of the ‘Last Supper’ adorning its western wall. An interesting historical tidbit about the church is that its main massive beam and timber were sourced from Tipu Sultan’s Palace on the island of Srirangapatna after the British defeated the Sultan.

With such a fascinating history and its ethereal beauty, charm, and elegance, St. Stephen’s Church remains one of the most renowned colonial structures in the country. A visit to this house of worship, offering a place of peaceful contemplation, is a must during your Ooty holiday. Be sure to include St. Stephen’s Church as an essential part of your Ooty holiday package.

# Dolphin’s Nose

Located just an hour away from Ooty is the picturesque hill station of Coonoor. Due to its proximity, many visitors opt to make a day trip to Coonoor from Ooty, returning on the same day. However, tourists also have the option to extend their stay in this heavenly destination and fully enjoy the numerous delights it has to offer. One such incredible tourist spot, rivalling many attractions in Ooty, is Dolphin’s Nose.

Dolphin’s Nose is a marvelous viewpoint nestled in the Nilgiri Hills, approximately 10 km away from Coonoor. True to its name, this viewpoint resembles the shape of a dolphin’s nose. From this amazing vantage point, visitors can revel in sprawling beautiful valleys, mesmerizing landscapes of the Nilgiris, and a breathtaking view of the Catherine Falls as the Coonoor stream meets the Kotagiri stream.

The journey to Dolphin’s Nose Viewpoint is equally scenic, with thrilling hairpin turns and rolling tea plantations along the way. Therefore, make sure to include Coonoor and Dolphin’s Nose in your Ooty travel package for an incredible holiday experience!

# Sim’s Park

Experience natural beauty at its finest! Coonoor is home to another stunning gem of nature, Sim’s Park, a captivating blend of a unique nature park and an exquisite botanical garden. This park is not only one of Coonoor's most renowned tourist attractions but also features prominently on the list of top sightseeing places in Ooty.

Spanning an area of 12 hectares, this well-maintained and meticulously manicured park is home to over 1000 different varieties of plants, trees, shrubs, creepers, and herbs. Colorful flowers and lush lawns adorn beautiful terraces, while rockeries, rare trees, wide footpaths, ornamental flowerbeds, and other enchanting garden landscapes enhance the park's beauty.

Take a leisurely stroll along the many walkways, admire the breathtaking natural beauty of the surroundings, and capture the picturesque scenery with ample photographs to cherish for a lifetime. Named after J.D. Sim, who initiated its development in 1874 along with Major Murray, Sim’s Park remains one of the most visited tourist spots in Coonoor and a major point of interest in Ooty.

Don't wait any longer! Make sure to include this enchanting tourist spot in your Ooty tour package for an unforgettable experience!