Things to Do in Ooty — A Relaxed 2-Day Itinerary

Two days in Ooty is enough to see the highlights without rushing. Here's a simple, relaxed itinerary — plus where to stay so you're not fighting traffic every morning.

Day 1 — Ooty town and the lake

• Government Botanical Gardens — start early; lovely lawns and glasshouses.
• Ooty Lake — boating and a gentle stroll.
• Rose Garden — one of India's largest, best when in bloom.
• Nilgiri Mountain Railway (toy train) — a UNESCO-listed ride; see our Ooty toy train booking guide (it sells out).
• Evening: the local market, homemade chocolate and fresh Nilgiri tea.

Day 2 — Peaks, tea and Coonoor

• Doddabetta Peak — the highest point in the Nilgiris (about 10 km), big views on a clear day.
• Tea estates & tea museum — see how Nilgiri tea is made.
• Coonoor — about 19 km away; Sim's Park and the Dolphin's Nose viewpoint.
• Pykara Lake and Falls — if you have time, a scenic drive out of town.

Where to stay

Base yourself just outside the town for a calmer trip. Fern Ville is a tea-estate holiday home about 8 km from Ooty with cottages and a luxury studio — an easy drive to everything above, but quiet at night. See where to stay in Ooty away from the crowds.

Quick tips

• Carry warm clothes — even summer evenings are cool.
• Book the toy train early; it sells out.
• Start each day early to beat the crowds.