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Situated in the Nilgiri Hills, Ooty, previously known as Udhagamandalam, is a lovely hill resort famed for its stunning scenery and comfortable atmosphere, offering a variety of things to do in Ooty. Ooty is an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventurers, offering many experiences that may be explored in as little as two days. Everyone may enjoy touring beautiful tea estates and quiet lakes and riding the famed Nilgiri Mountain Railway. This article will highlight the top ten activities to help you maximise your two-day journey in this gorgeous hill station, assuring you an unforgettable experience.
14 Best Things To Do In Ooty In 2 Days
Discover the best things to do in Ooty during your two-day vacation, from stunning vistas to quiet lakes, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty.
1. Explore The Botanical Gardens
The Botanical Gardens of Ooty, founded in 1847, is a must-see for nature lovers and photographers, showcasing some of the best things to see in Ooty. The park spans 55 acres and contains over 1,000 plant species, including rare orchids, vivid floral plants, and towering trees. The well-kept grounds and colourful flower beds create a beautiful setting perfect for relaxing walks and picnics. One of the attractions is the fossilised tree trunk, which is thought to be roughly 20 million years old. Visitors may also take a peaceful walk along meandering pathways, breathe in the pure mountain air, and photograph the beauty of nature at every turn.
Entry Fee: ₹30 (adults), ₹15 (children)
Timings: 7 AM – 7 PM
Location: Botanical Gardens, Vannarapettai, Ooty, Tamil Nadu 643001
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Ooty
2. Visit Ooty Lake
Photo: Amalshaji27 / Wikimedia Commons
Ooty Lake, a renowned tourist destination in Ooty, is an artificial lake developed in the nineteenth century that encompasses around 65 acres. Lush gardens surround it and provide a pleasant respite from the city. Visitors may go paddle boating, row boating, or strolling along the gorgeous promenade. The region is bordered with eucalyptus trees and offers stunning views of the hills, making it a perfect location for photography. The lake is ideal for unwinding and admiring nature’s beauty while engaging in various outdoor sports.
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Location: Ooty Lake, Ooty, Tamil Nadu 643001
3. Take A Ride On The Nilgiri Mountain Railway
Photo: Savmasca / Wikimedia Commons
Riding the Nilgiri Mountain Railway is a must-do in Ooty. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed toy train travels 46 km between Mettupalayam and Ooty, lasting around 5 hours. From historic wooden carriages, passengers may enjoy breathtaking views of verdant woods, rolling hills, and tea plantations. As the train climbs, passengers may enjoy the calm mountain wind and take magnificent shots of the scenery. This one-of-a-kind excursion is ideal for anybody interested in the Nilgiri region’s natural splendour.
Entry Fee: ₹50 – ₹1,000 (depending on class)
Timings: 7:10 AM – 6 PM (varies by schedule)
Location: Nilgiri Mountain Railway Station, Mettupalayam, Tamil Nadu 641301
Suggested Read: Offbeat Places In Ooty
4. Admire The Views From Doddabetta Peak
Photo: Fruiticos / Wikimedia Commons
Doddabetta Peak, the highest point in the Nilgiri Hills at 2,637 metres, provides breathtaking panoramic views barely ten km from Ooty. It is a popular tourist destination due to its ease of access by road. A short trek to the summit, especially on clear days, provides stunning views of the verdant valleys and neighbouring hills. Visitors may also tour the telescope house for a better perspective. Doddabetta Peak’s pure mountain air and calm setting make it a perfect spot for photography and relaxation.
Entry Fee: ₹10 (adults), ₹5 (children)
Doddabetta Peak Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM
Location: Doddabetta Peak, Ooty, Tamil Nadu 643001
5. Explore The Tea Estates
Photo: Krishna Chaitanya Velaga / Wikimedia Commons
Exploring the tea farms of Ooty is a pleasant experience that immerses tourists in the region’s vibrant tea culture. The lush green estates, with their carefully groomed rows of tea bushes, provide an idyllic setting for a stroll. From picking the leaves to the final packaging, several estates offer guided tours that walk you through the tea-making process. Visiting a tea factory lets you see the complicated equipment in operation and learn about several tea kinds, including the well-known Nilgiri tea. Remember to drink freshly brewed tea while taking in the peaceful surroundings.
Entry Fee: N/A (some factories may charge for tours)
Suggested Read: Spots For Trekking In Ooty
6. Visit The Ooty Rose Garden
The Ooty Rose Garden is a colourful and fascinating place, making it one of the best things to see in Ooty for flower lovers and photographers alike. It covers 10 acres and has approximately 20,000 rose types, including hybrids, miniatures, and indigenous species. Established in 1995, the garden is expertly maintained, with beautifully organised flower beds that bloom in various colours throughout the year. Visitors may stroll through the garden and enjoy the roses’ pleasant aroma and striking beauty while taking great images. The garden also has a peaceful ambience for leisure, making it a perfect place to rest among nature’s brilliant colours.
Entry Fee: ₹30 (adults), ₹10 (children)
Timings: 6:30 AM – 7 PM
Location: Ooty Rose Garden, North Lake Road, Ooty, Tamil Nadu 643001
7. Explore The Ooty Tribal Research Center
Photo: Pratheepps / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Ooty Tribal Research Centre, located on the outskirts of Ooty, provides an intriguing peek into the rich cultural legacy of the Nilgiri Hills’ indigenous tribes. Established to promote and preserve tribal culture, the centre houses an extraordinary collection of artefacts and traditional crafts. It displays the lives, customs, and history of the indigenous tribes, including the Todas and Kothas. Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibits to learn about traditional customs. The quiet ambience and gorgeous surroundings add to the experience, making it a wonderful trip for individuals interested in anthropology and cultural discovery.
Timings: 9 AM – 5:30 PM (Monday to Friday)
Location: Ooty Tribal Research Center, Ooty, Tamil Nadu 643001
Suggested Read: Nilgiri Biosphere Nature Park
8. Enjoy A Walk Through Pine Forests
Photo: Schwoaze / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
A walk through Ooty’s lovely pine trees is one of the most peaceful things to do in Ooty, ideal for nature lovers and adventurers. The tall, thin pine trees provide a peaceful canopy that filters sunlight and casts magnificent shadows on the forest floor. As you walk along the twisting pathways, the fresh, aromatic air and calming sounds of nature surround you, giving you a calm respite from daily life’s rush and bustle. The trees are also great for photography, with breathtaking vistas of the surrounding hills and valleys. Whether you choose a stroll or a strenuous climb, the pine trees provide a soothing trip.
Timings: 24*7
Location: Pine Forests, near Ooty, Tamil Nadu 643001
9. Visit The Wax World Museum
Photo: Laura Paredis / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The Wax World Museum in Ooty is a unique sight and one of the intriguing things to do in Ooty, featuring lifelike wax figures of historical personalities, celebrities, and cultural icons Established in 2009, the museum houses over 100 painstakingly constructed statues, each with detailed details that make them appear surprisingly lifelike. Visitors may meander through several parts, which include exhibits honouring Indian presidents, Bollywood stars, and even worldwide celebrities. The museum’s engaging arrangement provides excellent picture possibilities with the figurines. Furthermore, the informational plaques give insights into each character’s life and accomplishments, providing an educational encounter.
Entry Fee: ₹200 (adults), ₹100 (children)
Timings: 9:30 AM – 7 PM
Location: Wax World Museum, Near Lake Park, Ooty, Tamil Nadu 643001
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Ooty At Night To Experience The Vintage Charm
10. Visit Pykara Falls
Photo: Ashwin Kumar / Wikimedia Commons
Pykara Falls is one of the most scenic spots you’ll come across while exploring Ooty. The water flows down in lovely steps from the Mukurthi hills, making it a peaceful stop on your trip. It’s a must among the tourist places in Ooty for 2 days, especially if you’re visiting during the monsoon. The nearby Pykara Dam and Reservoir, just 2 km away, is also worth seeing. While the falls look tempting, swimming isn’t safe due to shallow water and sharp rocks. It’s a great pick when listing things to do in Ooty in July or planning out things to see in Ooty in 2 days.
Location: Pykara, Sholur, Tamil Nadu, India
Timings: 8:30 AM – 5 PM
11. Enjoy Boating In Pykara Lake
Photo: Shanmugamp7 / Wikimedia Commons
Boating at Pykara Lake is a peaceful yet exciting experience, set among green forests and quiet hills. It’s one of those Ooty tourist places where couples, families, and solo travellers can all enjoy the calm water and lovely surroundings. From short motorboat rides to thrilling speedboat trips, there’s something for everyone. A small cafe nearby adds to the charm. When listing the best things to do in Ooty in 2 days, this is a must. It’s among the top places to visit in Ooty for couples.
Location: Pykara, Ooty, Nilgiris District, Tamil Nadu 643237
Timings: 10 AM – 5:30 PM
Suggested Read: Adventure Sports In Ooty
12. Explore Toda Hamlet
Photo: SeethaG / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Just a short 5.6 km drive from town, this quiet little hamlet offers a refreshing escape from the busy tourist spots. It’s home to the Toda people, one of the oldest tribal communities in the Western Ghats. Known for their unique lifestyle centred around cattle herding, the Todas live in small, windowless huts shaped like half-barrels. Visiting this village is a great way to explore the cultural side of the hills, perfect for those planning what to do in Ooty in 2 days. This hidden gem deserves a spot in your Ooty travel guide, especially if you’re searching for lesser-known places to visit in Ooty in April.
Location: Ooty, Tamil Nadu, India
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
13. Experience The Ooty Honey & Bee Museum
Photo: Manoj K / Wikimedia Commons
Tucked away on Sargan Villa Club Road, the Honey & Bee Museum is one of the more interesting places to explore in Ooty. Unlike the usual hill station sights, this spot offers a different experience altogether. Visitors can learn about the life of bees, how they produce honey, and their role in nature. The displays are simple but engaging, making it worth a visit. This Ooty museum adds a touch of learning to your trip while still keeping it enjoyable.
Location: Club Road, Ooty – 643001
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Ooty Within 100 Kms
14. Savour The Flavours Of Ooty’s Cuisine
Photo: Aniket Suryavanshi / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
A great way to experience Ooty’s culture is by trying its local food, shaped by Tamil, Badaga, and colonial influences. Warm dishes like ragi puttu, akki roti, and mutton kurma are full of flavour and perfect for the hill station’s chilly weather. The highlight is the rare Badaga cuisine, made with local greens, millets, and meat. Whether at a heritage stay or a cosy home kitchen, the meals are hearty, traditional, and truly reflect the spirit of the Nilgiris.
Average Cost: ₹300 – 700 per person
Where To Try: Earl’s Secret, Adayar Ananda Bhavan, Hotel Junior Kuppanna, Hotel Nahar’s Sidewalk Cafe
Finally, Ooty offers a variety of things to do in Ooty to suit any traveller’s preferences, ranging from gorgeous vistas to cultural attractions. Whether visiting the verdant tea gardens or taking a relaxing boat ride on Ooty Lake, this picturesque hill resort will leave you with unforgettable memories. Visit TripXL for personalised travel packages and professional suggestions to help you make the most of your vacation in Ooty!
Cover Photo: KundanRA / Wikimedia Commons
