There are many stunning lakes in and around Ooty, the exploration of which promises an enthralling vacation. From the green landscapes surrounding Avalanche Lake and the endless beauty of Emerald Lake to the popularity of Ooty Lake and the calmness of Upper Bhavani Lake, every lake has its own charm. Visiting popular and offbeat lakes in Ooty should be on the bucket list of every nature lover.
Ootacamund, or Udagamandalam, is popularly known as Ooty. There are many places to visit, food to try, and comfortable stays in Ooty. Tourists love to explore various sightseeing places, including lakes in Ooty. The hill station has magnificent water bodies, where you can spend hours looking at clear skies, shimmering water, and rolling hills. Offering a perfect getaway, lakes in Ooty promise a refreshing time, where you can enjoy boating, fishing, strolling, and other activities in the lap of nature. Here are the best lakes in Ooty that are worth visiting:
What are the Popular Lakes in Ooty?
- Avalanche Lake
- Emerald Lake
- Ooty Lake
- Upper Bhavani Lake
- Pykara Lake
Avalanche Lake
Avalanche Lake is a famous lake in Ooty, comfortably located at a distance of 26 kilometres from the hill station. It is frequented by tourists to admire natureтАЩs beauty, away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The lake has a captivating view of a glistening waterfall surrounded by mighty mountains in the Nilgiri district of Tamil Nadu. It is interesting to know that Avalanche Lake in Ooty was formed due to a massive landslide in the early 1800s. The natural lake formation is under a wildlife sanctuary, which is home to diverse flora and fauna, such as sambhar deer, tigers, leopards, and sloth bears.
How to Reach: Avalanche Lake is a short drive away from Ooty. You can hire a private taxi or hop on a bus from the Ooty bus stand to reach here.
What are the things to do? Avalanche Lake in Ooty is the perfect place for trout fishing, boating, and camping. This hidden gem in Nilgiri calls for a peaceful escape in natureтАЩs arms. It is ideal for stargazing in Ooty. You can also try trekking near the lake to feel the adrenaline rush.
What is the Timing to Visit the Avalanche Lake? The visiting hours for Avalanche Lake is between 8 AM to 6 PM, daily.
Emerald Lake
Emerald Lake is a serene lake in Ooty which enchants tourists by the dozens. It is an easy drive away from Ooty and part of the Silent Valley National Park. Crystal-clear water, tranquil surroundings, and sky-high mountains put you in an instant mellow mood. It has a mesmerising backdrop of jade tea plantations, making it a perfect spot to witness a scenic sunrise.
Many birdwatchers visit Emerald Lake in Ooty to see a wide variety of native birds. If you are looking for a less-crowded place in the hill station, head to this lake to spend some relaxing time away from the maddening crowd. This place is a shining star of Ooty tourism.
How to Reach: The only way to reach the Emerald Lake in Ooty is to take a cab from Ooty City Centre. It is approximately a 40-minute scenic ride on Woodcock Road and Lake Road to reach the destination.
What are the things to do? You can visit this lake in Ooty for boating, trekking, fishing, and bird watching. If you are travelling with friends and family, carry your picnic basket to spend some leisure time admiring nature at its finest.
What is the Timing to Visit Emerald Lake? 6 AM to 5 PM
Ooty Lake
Ooty Lake, also known as the Ooty Boat House, is an artificial lake built by John Sullivan in 1824. It is dotted with slender eucalyptus trees and lush greenery, making Ooty Lake a viewpoint from which to enjoy the view of surrounding nature. It covers an expansive area of 65 acres, which was previously used for fishing. Today, it is a popular tourist park, which boasts a garden, a mirror house, and a mini train. Boating is a major water activity in Ooty Lake. You can ride on a paddle boat, motor boat, or rowing boat to enjoy boating in Ooty Lake. You can enquire about the boating charges and entry fee for Ooty Lake at the entrance of the amusement park.
How to Reach: Ooty Lake is situated at a distance of 2 km from the city centre. Frequent public and private transport facilities are available to reach this place.
What are the top things to do? You can try various sports, such as cycling, boat riding, and horse riding. It is a perfect place for spending time with kids and family.
What is the Timing to Visit Ooty Lake: The timing of the Boat House Ooty Lake is from 9 AM to 6 PM. It is open all days of the week.
Upper Bhavani Lake
You must include a visit to the Upper Bhavani Lake in the Ooty package to explore this divine destination. This is actually a reservoir formed by a dam on the Bhavani River. It is an ideal destination for adventure enthusiasts wanting to enjoy a short trek. You need to trek through the dense forest to reach this lake.
It is important to note that permission from the local forest department is mandatory to visit this lake in Ooty. The picturesque journey allows you to explore the rich flora and fauna of Mukurthy National Park. Upon visiting the Upper Bhavani Lake, you must go to the Bhavani Amma Temple to pay homage to the almighty. The lake is famous for its breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, creating picture-perfect scenery. You can spend countless hours soaking in natureтАЩs goodness and fresh forest air.
How to Reach: You need to drive a couple of kilometres downhill from Ooty to reach this pristine destination. Upon reaching the forest, you need to hop on a forest department vehicle (bus safari), which takes you to the Upper Bhavani Lake.
What are the top things to do? You can spend your time hiking along natural trails, wildlife watching, and clicking scenic pictures at the Upper Bhavani Lake.
What is the Timing to Visit Upper Bhavani Lake: The visiting hours are between 10 AM and 3 PM. It is open all days of the week. To reach this dam, you need to arrive at the forest office gate in the morning and buy a ticket for the bus safari.
Pykara Lake
Pykara Lake is a calm lake in Ooty. It is situated in the Nilgiris hills of Tamil Nadu and is formed by the backwaters of Pykara Dam. The destination offers enticing views of meadows, mountains, and river water that centre your thoughts and bring you closer to nature. This water body is great for boating in Ooty. Families, backpackers, and couples visit this lake in Ooty to enjoy the view of rolling hills, the Pykara waterfall, and the cool breeze. The borders of the waterfall and dam are lined with giant pine trees with a soothing fragrance.
How to Reach: This lake is located at a distance of 24 km from Ooty. You can take a state-run bus or private taxi from Ooty to visit Pykara Lake and waterfall.
What are the top things to do? You can go for a picnic and boating in Pykara Lake. The rocky terrain in the vicinity serves as an easy hiking trail for adventure seekers.
What is the Timing to Visit Pykara Lake? The time to visit Pykara Lake is 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM daily.
The glassy lakes in Ooty offer serene views and a perfect escape from a busy life. These lakes are situated in and around the hill station, allowing you to explore varied landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and dense forests. Various recreational activities near lakes enable you to try different water activities to make the most of your time.
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