At Nilgiri Hills, Ooty and Coonoor are among the best tourist spots in Tamil Nadu, offering an irresistible blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Whether you’re hunting for hidden tourist spots in Ooty, marveling at lush Coonoor tea estate viewpoints, or seeking famous places in Ooty and Coonoor, this guide covers it all!
Top Best Places to Visit in Ooty
1. Ooty Lake – A Top 10 Tourist Place in Ooty
- Why Visit: Enjoy serene boat rides surrounded by eucalyptus trees and tranquil waters.
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹10; boating charges extra.
- Nearby Attractions: Thread Garden, Thunder World.
This spot is one of the most famous tourist places in Ooty and a must-visit for families.
2. Government Botanical Garden – A Major Tourist Spot in Ooty
- Why Visit: A haven for nature lovers featuring a 20-million-year-old fossilized tree and vibrant flowers.
- Timings: 7:00 AM – 6:30 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹30 (adults), ₹15 (children).
- Nearby Attractions: Rose Garden.
This is a top-rated Ooty tourist place for botany enthusiasts.
3. Karnataka Horticulture Park – A Blooming Wonderland in Ooty
- Why Visit: Spread across lush green landscapes, this park offers a stunning display of ornamental plants, flowers, and well-maintained gardens. It’s a perfect spot for a peaceful walk amidst nature.
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹20 (adults), ₹10 (children).
- Nearby Attractions: Rose Garden, Government Botanical Garden.
Known for its serene environment, it’s a hidden tourist place in Ooty that deserves attention.
4. Doddabetta Peak – Touch the Skies at Ooty’s Famous Tourist Spot
- Why Visit: The highest peak in the Nilgiris offering panoramic views.
- Timings: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹10.
- Nearby Attractions: Tea Factory and Museum.
Ranked among the top 10 tourist places in Ooty, this is a must-visit.
5. Rose Garden – One of Ooty’s Most Famous Tourist Places
- Why Visit: Explore over 20,000 varieties of roses in this sprawling garden.
- Timings: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹30 (adults), ₹15 (children).
This garden is a top-rated tourist spot in Ooty and a floral paradise.
6. Pykara Lake and Falls – Tranquil Yet Rare Place to Visit in Ooty
- Why Visit: Boating amidst serene landscapes and waterfalls make this place unforgettable.
- Timings: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free; boating charges apply.
- Nearby Attractions: Pine Forest.
Tourist Places in Ooty and Coonoor with Map
Hidden Tourist Spots in Ooty and Rare Places to Visit
7. Glenmorgan – A Secret Tourist Place in Ooty
- Why Visit: Experience peaceful tea estates, a serene lake, and a winch ride to a hydroelectric station.
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Entry Fee: Free; permission needed for winch rides.
This is one of the rare places to visit in Ooty, perfect for nature lovers.
8. Avalanche Lake – Hidden Tourist Spot in Ooty
- Why Visit: A hidden gem known for camping, fishing, and untouched beauty.
- Timings: Open all day.
- Entry Fee: Free.
Ranked among the hidden places in Ooty, it’s a trekker’s delight.
9. Pine Forest – A Scenic Hidden Spot in Ooty
- Why Visit: Dense pines create a magical setting for photoshoots and relaxation.
- Timings: Open all day.
- Entry Fee: Free.
This is a hidden tourist place in Ooty perfect for photography lovers.
Best Tourist Spots in Coonoor
10. Sim’s Park – A Famous Tourist Spot in Coonoor
- Why Visit: Enjoy exotic flora and tranquil boating in this serene garden.
- Timings: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹30 (adults), ₹15 (children).
- Nearby Attractions: Dolphin’s Nose.
This is a top tourist attraction in Coonoor.
11. Dolphin’s Nose – A Scenic Spot in Coonoor
- Why Visit: Breathtaking views of the Nilgiri Hills and Catherine Falls.
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free.
A famous viewpoint in Coonoor for all nature enthusiasts.
12. Catherine Falls – One of the Best Places to Visit in Coonoor
- Why Visit: A double-cascaded waterfall situated amidst greenery.
- Timings: Open all day.
- Entry Fee: Free.
Don’t miss this famous tourist spot in Coonoor.
Hidden Places in Coonoor
13. Rallia Dam – A Rare Place to Visit in Coonoor
- Why Visit: A peaceful retreat surrounded by lush forests, perfect for trekking.
- Timings: Open all day.
- Entry Fee: Free.
14. Highfield Tea Estate – A Top Tourist Spot in Coonoor
- Why Visit: Discover tea-making processes amidst rolling plantations.
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free.
This Coonoor tea estate viewpoint offers an immersive experience.
Nearby Tourist Attractions in Ooty and Coonoor
15. Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary – A Famous Tourist Place Near Ooty
- Why Visit: Explore jeep safaris and wildlife spotting, including tigers and elephants.
- Timings: 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM; 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹30 per person; safari extra.
16. Nilgiri Mountain Railway – A Famous Place in Ooty
- Why Visit: A UNESCO World Heritage site offering scenic train journeys.
- Ticket Price: ₹15–₹250.
This is one of the best attractions in Ooty and a must for families.
Ooty & Coonoor Visitor Reviews
✅ Positive Reviews
“Scenic views, cool weather — Ooty never disappoints”
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
We visited Ooty in April, and it was perfect. The Botanical Garden was vibrant, the Toy Train ride to Coonoor was magical, and Doddabetta Peak offered clear panoramic views. Loved the colonial charm and tea estates everywhere!
✅ Hidden Tip: Book Toy Train tickets on IRCTC in advance, they sell out quickly.
“Coonoor is calmer and greener than Ooty”
⭐⭐⭐⭐
While Ooty was great, Coonoor was the real gem. Fewer crowds, better views at Lamb’s Rock and Dolphin’s Nose, and excellent homestays. Had the best Nilgiri tea right at the source!
✅ Hidden Tip: For sunrise views, try Sim’s Park in the early morning, fewer tourists, amazing photo spots.
“Ideal for family vacations and couples alike”
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Clean, cold, scenic. The Rose Garden was well-kept, and boating at Ooty Lake was fun for the kids. Our stay near Avalanche Lake was so peaceful, it’s a must-visit hidden spot.
✅ Hidden Tip: Stay a night in Avalanche or Emerald instead of just day-tripping from Ooty.
⚠️ Negative Reviews
“Ooty is overcrowded in peak season”
⭐⭐⭐
Traffic jams and tourist rush were too much in May. Boating queues were long, and finding parking was a nightmare near Ooty Lake.
⚠️ Tip: Visit in February or early March for fewer tourists and great weather.
“Some hidden spots are poorly maintained”
⭐⭐
Pykara waterfalls and Pine Forest were a bit littered when we went. Need better upkeep and awareness among tourists.
⚠️ Tip: Avoid weekends or take a guide for cleaner, quieter access routes.
“Coonoor closes early”
⭐⭐
Shops and food outlets in Coonoor closed by 8 PM. Hard to find dinner unless you’re at a resort or booked place.
⚠️ Tip: Carry snacks and have dinner by 7 PM if staying in Coonoor.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the must-visit places in Ooty?
Ooty Botanical Gardens
Ooty Lake – boating and cycling
Doddabetta Peak – highest point in the Nilgiris
Rose Garden – seasonal blooms
St. Stephen’s Church – colonial architecture
Pine Forest – for peaceful photo walks
2. What are the hidden/unexplored places in Ooty?
Avalanche Lake – pristine and uncrowded
Emerald Lake – perfect for offbeat nature lovers
Ketti Valley Viewpoint – less crowded than Doddabetta
Mukurthi National Park – with permission, great for wildlife lovers
Shooting Spot – scenic meadows near Pine Forest
3. Top tourist attractions in Coonoor?
Sim’s Park – unique botanical specimens
Lamb’s Rock – misty mountain cliffs
Dolphin’s Nose Viewpoint – dramatic canyon views
Tea Garden Walks – explore local plantations
Heritage Train (Ooty to Coonoor) – UNESCO route through tunnels and bridges
4. How to reach Ooty and Coonoor?
🚗 By Road
From Coimbatore: 85 km (3 hours)
From Bangalore: 275 km (6–7 hours)
From Mysore: 125 km (4 hours)
🚆 By Train
Mettupalayam to Ooty via Nilgiri Toy Train
Udhagamandalam is the Ooty railway station
✈️ By Air
Nearest airport: Coimbatore International Airport (90 km)
5. What is the best time to visit Ooty & Coonoor?
April to June: Pleasant weather and school vacation time (but crowded)
October to March: Cool, foggy mornings and fewer tourists, best for photographers
Avoid July–August due to heavy rainfall
6. Is Ooty suitable for family trips and honeymoons?
Yes! From parks, lakes, and trekking spots to heritage train rides and romantic viewpoints, it’s ideal for both families and couples.
7. Are Toy Train tickets easy to get?
No, book online via IRCTC (preferably 1–2 weeks ahead). Choose first-class for wider windows and better views. Booking opens 30 days in advance.
8. What are the best food options in Ooty & Coonoor?
🍽️ Local Must-Tries:
Ooty homemade chocolates
Nilgiri chicken curry
Varkey – a local crunchy snack
Tea samplers from local estates
Popular Places:
Earl’s Secret (Ooty – colonial bungalow dining)
Place to Bee (Ooty – Italian)
Cafe Diem (Coonoor – organic café)
9. Are there good shopping areas?
🛍️ Best Places:
Charring Cross Market (Ooty) – spices, woolens, chocolates
Main Bazaar (Coonoor) – handmade soaps, tea, eucalyptus oil
Tibetan Market (Ooty) – curios, jackets, prayer wheels
10. Are permits required for any attractions?
Yes. For Avalanche Forest, Upper Bhavani, and Mukurthi National Park, permits are required. They are issued at the Forest Department or via local eco-tourism counters.
11. What are nearby places you can explore from Ooty?
Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary – 2 hours
Masinagudi – for jungle stays
Kotagiri – peaceful tea gardens and waterfalls
Bandipur National Park – connect from Ooty via Gudalur
Ooty and Coonoor, with their stunning landscapes, rich heritage, and hidden treasures, offer an experience that captivates travelers of all kinds. Whether you’re soaking in the serene beauty of Ooty’s top tourist places, uncovering hidden spots in Coonoor, or taking a nostalgic ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, every moment is an unforgettable memory in the making.
So, let the fresh mountain air rejuvenate your soul, the misty views leave you awestruck, and the warm hospitality of the Nilgiris make you feel at home. Pack your bags, grab your travel map, and get ready for a journey through some of the best places to visit in Ooty and Coonoor. Adventure, relaxation, and beauty await you—your perfect getaway is just a trip away! 🌄🌿
