Ooty Lake (Timings, Entry Fee, Boating, Location & History)

Ooty Lake is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Ooty. Surrounded by picturesque hills and lush greenery, this man-made lake is an ideal spot for a relaxing day out with friends and family. Offering a range of activities such as boating, cycling, and photography, Ooty Lake is a must-visit on your Ooty itinerary.

History of Ooty Lake

Ooty Lake was constructed in 1824 by John Sullivan, the then-Collector of Coimbatore, to provide irrigation to the local agricultural lands. Over the years, the lake has become a popular tourist destination due to its serene beauty and the introduction of boating facilities by the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation.

Location of Ooty Lake

Address: North Lake Road, Ooty, Tamil Nadu, 643001
Distance: Located just 1-2 km from Ooty bus stand, Ooty Lake is centrally located in the town, making it easily accessible.
How to Reach: You can reach Ooty Lake by car, auto-rickshaw, or on foot if you’re near the Ooty bus stand. Taxis and buses from other parts of the town also frequently stop near the lake.

Timings of Ooty Lake

Ooty Lake is open every day of the week, with boating and other activities operating within the following timings:

Entry Fee for Ooty Lake

The entry fee for Ooty Lake is minimal and affordable for all types of visitors:

• Entry Fee: ₹10 per person
• Boating Charges: Vary depending on the type of boat (pedal or motor).
  • Pedal Boats: ₹180 for 2-seater (30 minutes), ₹220 for 4-seater (30 minutes)
  • Motor Boats: ₹450 for an 8-seater (20 minutes)
• Cycling Charges: ₹20 per cycle for 30 minutes

Activities at Ooty Lake

1. Boating: The highlight of Ooty Lake is its boating facility. You can choose from a variety of options like pedal boats, rowboats, and motorboats. The tranquil waters and surrounding greenery make boating a memorable experience.
2. Cycling: You can rent bicycles and ride around the lake, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful scenery.
3. Photography: With stunning views of the Nilgiri hills, Ooty Lake offers fantastic photo opportunities for nature lovers and photographers alike.
4. Horse Riding: Near the entrance of Ooty Lake, tourists can opt for horse rides along the lake’s perimeter.

Best Time to Visit Ooty Lake

The best time to visit Ooty Lake is during the summer months from March to June when the weather is pleasant and perfect for outdoor activities. If you prefer cooler weather, you can also visit during the winter months of October to February. Monsoon season (July to September) is not ideal due to heavy rainfall.

Other Attractions Near Ooty Lake

Several other tourist attractions are located near Ooty Lake:

1. Thread Garden: Situated near Ooty Lake, this unique garden displays beautiful flowers and plants made entirely from thread.
2. Ooty Boat House: Adjacent to the lake, the boat house is a popular spot for tourists to book boating tickets.
3. Children’s Park: Families with children can enjoy a day at the children’s park located close to Ooty Lake.

Things to Remember While Visiting Ooty Lake

• Boating is a safe and enjoyable activity, but always wear life jackets for safety.
• Carry a water bottle and light snacks, as the area can get crowded during peak hours.
• The lake area has basic facilities such as toilets and food stalls nearby.
• Be mindful of your belongings, as it’s a busy tourist spot.
• Dress in comfortable clothing and carry a light jacket as the weather can be unpredictable.

How to Reach Ooty Lake

Ooty Lake is easily accessible due to its proximity to the town center. Here are a few ways to reach Ooty Lake:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Coimbatore International Airport, around 90 km from Ooty. From the airport, you can take a bus or taxi to Ooty.
• By Train: Ooty has a small railway station that connects it to nearby cities via the Nilgiri Mountain Railway. Alternatively, you can take a train to Mettupalayam, which is about 40 km away, and then a taxi or bus to Ooty.
• By Road: Ooty is well connected by road to major cities like Coimbatore, Mysore, and Bangalore. Regular buses and taxis are available to Ooty from these cities.

Conclusion

Ooty Lake is not just a beautiful spot to relax but also offers various recreational activities for tourists of all ages. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure enthusiast, or someone looking for a peaceful getaway, Ooty Lake is an ideal destination in the heart of Ooty. Make sure to add it to your travel list on your next visit to this scenic hill station!