The misty hill station of Ooty is a popular tourist destination in South India. Offering a tranquil stay amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Nilgiris, Ooty also has a lot of exciting places tucked away in its amazing landscape.
The enchanting lakes in Ooty are a must-visit for nature lovers. The spectacular scenery of these naturally beautiful water bodies is undoubtedly a visual treat. Visiting the lakes in Ooty will leave you feeling rejuvenated and refreshed.
Among the famous lakes in Ooty is Emerald Lake with its unrivaled green landscape, Pykara Lake with uninterrupted stunning views away from the city’s bustle, and the serene Avalanche Lake. There are several other picturesque lakes in Ooty where you can spend a day with family and friends. These are also great spots to enjoy activities such as water sports, boating, fishing, and lakeside camping in Ooty.
Here is a list of the best lakes in Ooty to help you plan an action-packed day while relaxing in the lap of nature:
Ooty Lake
The pride of Queen of Hills, Ooty Lake is a sparkling lake nestled amidst Eucalyptus grooves. Artificially constructed in 1823 over an area of 65 acres, the lake provides enchanting views for nature lovers and photographers. The astounding views of the Ooty Lake can also be enjoyed from the Nilgiri Mountain Railway as it runs along one of its banks.
A boathouse is also operated by Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC) near Ooty Lake. They offer amazing water activities for tourists such as paddle boating, row boating, and motor boating. It attracts a lot of visitors to the lake. The management also organizes boat races and boat pageantry at the lake every summer. You can witness or participate in these competitions during the month of May.
The lake can be visited on all days from 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM. You can explore the beauty of the lake and even visit the nearby amusement park and garden for a picnic. Refreshments and local food are available at the TTDC canteen. Kids can also enjoy pony rides near the boathouse.
Avalanche Lake
Avalanche Lake is one of the most alluring lakes in Ooty. It is a prominent tourist spot and the serenity of the lake attracts those seeking respite amidst nature. Though named Avalanche Lake, it was actually formed in 1823 by a huge landslide. The beauty of the lake is enhanced by the rolling terrain blanketed by blooming flowers including the magnolias, orchids, and rhododendrons.
There are several resorts located by the peaceful Avalanche Lake, however, you can also camp by the lakeside. The clear skies and pristine air offer the best setting to spend a night watching the twinkling stars. Adventure activities such as rafting across the lake, fishing, and trekking can be enjoyed at the lake.
The Avalanche Lake can be visited from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM throughout the year. However, the best time to visit it is during and after monsoons. The greenery and flowers will be in full bloom during this time of the year offering a mesmerizing backdrop for your vacation clicks.
Emerald Lake
Emerald lake is one of the best spots to witness sunrise and sunset in Ooty. Located in the Silent Valley National Park, it is renowned for the emerald color of its waters. Nature photographers can capture their best shots of the sparkling waters of the lake during the twilight.
The mesmerizing scenery of Emerald Lake is enhanced by the backdrop of the Nilgiri slopes. You can spend a day frolicking in the luxuriant meadows or trekking through the dense forests of the surroundings.
The pristine location is also home to a wide variety of animals and avian species. Bird watching is a popular tourist activity at Emerald Lake. It is also the ideal spot for studying aerial and aquatic indigenous birds.
The lake can be accessed from 8:30 AM to 6 PM. Adventure lovers can enjoy mountain biking and fishing at the lake. You can enjoy the scenic beauty of the surroundings as you relax with your family and friends.
Pykara Lake
Pykara Lake is a perfect getaway in Ooty for nature lovers, couples, and honeymooners. This lake is actually the backwaters of a hydroelectric power project and dam. Owing to its astounding beauty, the lake is also popular among locals and tourists alike.
Pykara is among the most picturesque lakes in Ooty, surrounded by lush green Shola forests. The unparalleled scenic beauty of the lake leaves visitors spellbound. However, they also have the option to visit the gushing Pykara Waterfalls located in close vicinity of the lake.
Tamil Nadu Tourism Development runs a boathouse and restaurant near Pykara Lake. You can enjoy paddle boating and speed boating in the lake from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM. The restaurant serves amazing local food which tastes best as you enjoy the enthralling views of the lake.
Kamaraj Sagar
Kamaraj Sagar or Sandynalla Reservoir is among the most beautiful lakes in Ooty. Located at the foot of Wenlock Downs, the lake is popular for its natural beauty. The serene blue waters and lush green slopes make it an amazing spot to spend time with family and friends.
Kamaraj Sagar Lake is a perfect destination for newlyweds wishing to make their honeymoon memorable, nature lovers seeking respite in the serene atmosphere, and photographers intending to capture the striking natural beauty.
Sprawling over 400 acres near the Kamaraj Sagar dam, the lake spans 6 kilometers and is fed by rainwater. The serene waters and lush green slopes make up for an ideal picnic area with opportunities to enjoy nature at its finest.
Abounding with a variety of animals and birds, the region offers nature lovers the chance to spot wildlife in their natural habitat. You can enjoy looking at peacocks, kingfishers, storks, cranes, sunbirds, and herons. Animals such as wild boars, barking deer, Indian bison, and leopards live in the region.
Upper Bhavani Lake
One of the most pristine lakes in Ooty, Upper Bhavani Lake is less known to tourists. It is an interesting spot for nature lovers. Seated high up above the avalanche area, the lake can be visited only after permission from the forest department.
Upon reaching the Avalanche Forest check post you can take the eco-tour vehicles and local guides. The government also offers Safari Bus and adventure lovers can experience the thrill of hiking and walking through the dense forests to reach the lake in Mukurthi National Park.
You will come across the Cauliflower Sholas and Lakkidi on the way to Upper Bhavani Reservoir. Seek blessings of Thalai Bhavani at the Bhavani Amman Temple. Amidst the fog, you can witness the rolling tea gardens and hill slopes with blooming flowers. The verdant landscape around the lake adds to its charm.
The lake can be visited only from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. You can spot regional animals and birds on the way to this hidden gem. Giant squirrels, peacocks, sambhars, Nilgiri langurs, deer, wild dogs, and leopards are the commonly spotted creatures.
Bellikkal Lake
The Bellikkal Lake in the picturesque hill station of Ooty enthralls people with its beautiful settings and unspoiled ambiance. It is a habitat for many different types of wild animals. Visitors come here to see wildlife such as elephants, tigers, bears, bison, and deer which are specific to the region.
There's no better way to relax in the lap of nature than visiting the Bellikkal Lake in Ooty. Blessed with plenty of excellent viewing points, the lake offers the perfect backdrop of the Western Ghats for stunning pictures of your vacations.
The lake is accessible for tourists from sunrise to sunset. Adventure seekers can enjoy fun activities like mountain biking, trekking, boating, and fishing at the lake. Bird watchers can enjoy watching mourning doves, crow pheasants, bulbuls, and woodpeckers. You can also enjoy an authentic Ayurvedic massage and other body treatments offered to soothe your nerves and rejuvenate you from within.
