Things to do in Ooty
Discover the best attractions and experiences Ooty has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore the heritage of Ooty through its enduring landmarks and colonial-era architecture.
Nilgiri Mountain Railway
A historic narrow-gauge railway that winds through the Nilgiris, offering scenic journeys from Mettupalayam to Ooty.
Ooty Clock Tower
A timeless landmark in the town center, commemorating the arrival of the railways and British-era design.
St. Stephen's Church
One of the oldest churches in the Nilgiris, built by the British in the 19th century.
Museums
Delve into the region's history and culture with these curated museums.
Government Museum, Ooty
Nilgiris District Museum with displays on archaeology, anthropology and natural history.
Wax World Museum
A wax statue museum showcasing Indian and international personalities and scenes.
Tea Museum, Ooty
Explore the history of Nilgiri tea with exhibits and a small on-site tea factory.
Religious Monuments
Visit places of faith that reflect the Nilgiris' spiritual diversity and architecture.
Holy Trinity Church, Ooty
A colonial-era church known for its classic architecture and peaceful interior.
St. Mary's Church, Ooty
A historic church reflecting the town's Christian heritage.
Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Ooty
A local church serving the Catholic community with a serene setting.
National & Theme Parks
The surrounding hills and protected areas offer wildlife, scenery and nature trails.
Mudumalai National Park
A wildlife sanctuary on the edge of the Nilgiris, home to elephants, tigers and diverse flora.
Mukurthi National Park
A high-altitude park known for its alpine landscapes and endemic wildlife.
Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve
Part of a UNESCO-recognized network protecting the Nilgiris' forests and wildlife.
Neighborhoods
Get to know the character of Ooty by strolling through its notable districts and streets.
Charing Cross
A bustling hub at the heart of town, a great starting point for walks and markets.
Ooty Main Bazaar
Vibrant market area where you can shop for spices, tea and souvenirs.
Fern Hill
A scenic hillside neighborhood with pretty streets and views over the valley.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy these budget-friendly experiences that capture Ooty’s hill-station charm.
Walk along Ooty Lake promenade
Stroll by the water and take in the tranquil surroundings.
Viewpoints at Doddabetta Peak
Access the summit area for sweeping vistas of the Nilgiris.
Explore Fern Hill and town streets
Discover quiet lanes and scenic overlooks without an entry fee.
Gastronomy
Taste the Nilgiris' flavors, from tea to regional snacks and breakfast favorites.
Nilgiri Tea Estate tour & tasting
Learn how tea is grown and processed, ending with a fragrant cuppa.
South Indian breakfast at a local cafe
Savor idli, dosa and filter coffee in a hill-town setting.
Nilgiri chocolates & snacks tasting
Sample locally produced chocolates and traditional snacks.
Nightlife
Even in a quiet hill station, there are cozy spots for evening vibes.
Hotel lounges with live music
Relax with soft music and themed evenings at select hotels.
Cafes with evening ambiance
Chill out with light music and tea-based drinks after dark.
Night markets along Ooty Main Bazaar
Browse late into the evening for snacks and souvenirs.
Entertainment
Classic attractions and hands-on experiences suited for all ages.
Wax World Museum
Wax figures and themed dioramas offer playful, photo-worthy scenes.
Thread Garden
Intricately crafted thread sculptures and miniature landscapes.
Nilgiri Mountain Railway ride
A scenic railway journey that doubles as a moving museum of engineering.
Sports
Outdoor activities to get your heart racing amid tea-covered hills.
Boating on Ooty Lake
Relax with a gentle boat ride on the calm lake waters.
Trekking to Doddabetta Peak
Easy to moderate treks with panoramic valley views.
Pykara Falls visit & short hike
A scenic waterfall area with short nature trails nearby.
Off the Track
For those seeking lesser-known routes and experiences away from the crowds.
Tea estate walking trails around Coonoor & Kotagiri
Quiet plantation paths with fresh tea-scented air.
Hidden viewpoints along Nilgiris roads
Discover secluded overlooks with fewer visitors.
Mukkurthi National Park backcountry trails
Rugged trails offering solitude and wildlife encounters.