Doddabetta Peak
Doddabetta Peak is the highest peak in the Nilgiri Hills, standing at 2,637 meters (8,652 feet) above sea level, and is located about 9 km from Ooty town in Tamil Nadu. The name “Doddabetta” means “Big Mountain” in Kannada. It is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills, valleys, and tea plantations, making it a popular destination for tourists, nature lovers, and photographers. The peak is accessible via a well-paved road, and a short trek from the parking area leads to the observatory tower, where visitors can enjoy a 360-degree view of the Nilgiris. The area around Doddabetta is rich in flora and fauna, including shola forests, rhododendrons, and various endemic bird species, which makes it a favorite spot for trekking and bird-watching. Visitors often combine a trip to Doddabetta with nearby attractions such as Ooty Lake, Botanical Gardens, and Tea Estates.
Nilgiri Mountain Railway
Nilgiri Mountain Railway (NMR) is one of the most iconic and scenic mountain railways in India, connecting Mettupalayam to Udhagamandalam (Ooty) through the picturesque Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu. Built by the British in 1908, this historic railway line is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its outstanding engineering and breathtaking beauty. The train covers a distance of about 46 kilometers, passing through 16 tunnels, 250 bridges, and 208 curves, offering passengers spectacular views of tea gardens, misty valleys, and waterfalls. The line is unique because it uses the rack and pinion system, which helps the train climb steep gradients, making it one of the steepest railway tracks in Asia. The blue-and-cream-colored train, often called the “Toy Train of Ooty”, runs at a slow pace, allowing travelers to enjoy the natural beauty and cool climate of the Nilgiris. Managed by the Southern Railway, the NMR remains a favorite among tourists for its nostalgic charm and old-world experience.
Botanical Garden
Government Botanical Garden, Ooty is one of the most beautiful and well-maintained gardens in India, located on the lower slopes of the Doddabetta Peak in Udhagamandalam (Ooty), Tamil Nadu. Established in 1848 by the British architect William Graham McIvor, the garden covers around 55 acres and is managed by the Tamil Nadu Horticulture Department. It is home to over 650 species of plants and trees, including rare orchids, ferns, and exotic shrubs from around the world. One of its major attractions is the fossilized tree trunk that is over 20 million years old, and the beautifully designed Italian-style garden layout. The garden is divided into several sections, such as the Lower Garden, New Garden, Conservatory, Nurseries, and Italian Garden, each with its own charm. During the Ooty Summer Festival in May, the garden hosts the famous Flower Show, which draws thousands of visitors with vibrant floral displays and competitions. Its scenic beauty, fresh mountain air, and well-manicured lawns make it a favorite destination for tourists and nature lovers alike.
Ooty Lake
Ooty Lake is one of the most famous and picturesque attractions in Ooty (Udhagamandalam), located about 2 km from the town center. It was artificially constructed in 1824 by John Sullivan, the then Collector of Coimbatore, for irrigation and fishing purposes. Surrounded by lush eucalyptus trees and green hills, the lake stretches over 65 acres and offers a peaceful escape in the heart of the Nilgiris. Today, it serves as a popular tourist destination known for its boating facilities, including pedal, row, and motor boats managed by the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC). The scenic beauty of the lake, coupled with nearby attractions like the Boat House, Mini Garden, and Toy Train, makes it a must-visit spot for families and travelers. The annual Summer Festival held in May adds extra charm with flower shows, boat races, and cultural programs.
Emerald Heights College for Women
Emerald Heights College for Women, located at Finger Post in Ooty (Udhagamandalam), The Nilgiris District of Tamil Nadu, was founded in 1969 to address the educational needs of women—especially those from economically disadvantaged and tribal communities—in the hilly region of the Nilgiris. The college is affiliated with Bharathiar University and has been reaccredited with a B++ grade by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC). Its motto — “Shine In Use” — reflects its commitment to empowering women through value-based education. The campus offers undergraduate, postgraduate and research programmes in arts, science and commerce: for example, BA in English Literature or History, BSc in Mathematics, Zoology, BCA/IT/Computer Technology, and MCom/MA/MSc in selected disciplines. With facilities such as a girls’ hostel, IT infrastructure, library, laboratories, sports amenities and a health centre, the college provides a conducive environment for holistic development. Managed by the Nilgiri Education Society under dynamic leadership, Emerald Heights continues to focus on accessibility, affordability and social upliftment for women in the region.
Government Arts College,
The Government Arts College, Ooty—established in 1955 and situated on Stone House Hill, Ooty in the Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu—is a long-standing institution offering undergraduate, postgraduate and research programmes in arts and science. The campus sits amidst heritage buildings (including the historic “Stone House”) and offers a serene hill-station learning environment. The college is affiliated with Bharathiar University and serves students from varied backgrounds, emphasising academic rigour, research potential and regional upliftment. With its central location in Ooty and comprehensive programme offerings, the college plays a key role in higher education access for the hill region of The Nilgiris.
Breeks Memorial School
Breeks Memorial School in Ooty (Udhagamandalam) is one of the most historic educational institutions in the Nilgiris district, having been established in 1874 and originally built in honour of James Wilkinson Breeks, the first Commissioner (District Collector) of the Nilgiris. The school’s iconic red-brick heritage building, constructed in 1886, stands as a distinct landmark in Ooty and reflects British-era architectural style.Over the years, the institution transitioned from serving mainly European, Eurasian and local students to becoming a co-educational day school affiliated with the Tamil Nadu State Board, delivering education from Grades 1 through 12.The motto of the school is “Ad Rem” (Latin for “To the Point”), and it emphasises academic rigour, discipline, traditions and a well-rounded development of students.Having celebrated its 150-year anniversary in 2025 with alumni reunions and heritage events, the school continues to hold a prominent place in the educational and social fabric of the region.
JSS Public School
JSS Public School, Ooty is one of the premier educational institutions in the Nilgiris, established under the JSS Mahavidyapeetha, Mysuru — a renowned trust known for its contribution to quality education across India. Located in the scenic surroundings of Theetukal, Fernhill Post, the school offers a calm and pollution-free environment ideal for learning. Affiliated with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), New Delhi, JSS Public School provides classes from Kindergarten to Grade XII, focusing on both academic excellence and holistic development. The school is well-equipped with modern classrooms, science and computer laboratories, a library, sports facilities, and co-curricular programs that encourage creativity and leadership. It also emphasizes moral education and discipline, following the motto “Work is Worship.” The dedicated faculty ensures that every child receives personalized attention and guidance. With its rich heritage, safe environment, and consistent academic performance, JSS Public School, Ooty, continues to be one of the most respected institutions in the hill station, nurturing future leaders in a serene setting.
The Lawrence School
The Lawrence School, Lovedale is a prestigious co-educational residential boarding school located near Ooty (Udhagamandalam) in Tamil Nadu, nestled high in the Nilgiris at Lovedale. Established in 1858 during British rule, the school was originally founded to provide education for children of British soldiers and has since grown into one of India’s eminent boarding schools. Set on a sprawling estate of around 700–750 acres of forested hill terrain, the campus features magnificent heritage architecture including a Gothic-style clock tower and extensive sports and residential facilities. Affiliated with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), the school offers education from Class V through Class XII, providing a blend of strong academics, co-curricular activities and a full boarding environment. The institution is also committed to sustainability—certified as a Platinum IGBC Green Campus—and emphasizes holistic development, community values and the school motto “Never Give In”. With its unique hillside setting, rich tradition, and diverse student body drawn from across India (and abroad), The Lawrence School, Lovedale remains a sought-after choice for families seeking a full boarding school experience in the Nilgiris.
The Eye Foundation hospital
The Eye Foundation in Ooty is a highly regarded specialist eye-care centre located at the Elk Hill Road junction on Coonoor Road, nestled in the hill-station surroundings of Ooty (Udhagamandalam) in Tamil Nadu. It offers comprehensive ophthalmology services — ranging from routine eye check-ups and optical services to advanced surgeries such as cataract removal, LASIK/refractive treatments, glaucoma and retina care. With a modern facility and experienced eye-care professionals, the centre brings the benefit of top-level vision care to the Nilgiris district, which is particularly valuable given the relative remoteness of this region. Its accessible location, combined with a trusted brand name, makes it a strong choice for both local residents and visitors requiring eye treatment. Address:
Vijaya Hospital
Vijaya Hospital in Ooty is a well-established private multi-specialty hospital located on Ettines Road (also spelled “Ettins Road”) in the heart of the town of Ooty, The Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu. The facility caters to a broad range of medical and surgical services, making it a familiar name among both local residents and visitors needing healthcare in the hill station. Its position behind Alankar Theatre, Ettines Road, makes it fairly accessible from the central market and transport hubs of Ooty. The hospital’s importance is underscored by its listing in district-public utility records and its appearance in local healthcare directories. It offers general medicine, surgery, obstetrics/gynecology and other specialties, covering routine and some advanced treatments. With its longstanding presence in the community, Vijaya Hospital is considered a reliable option for healthcare in the region, offering continuity of care in an area where medical facilities may be more limited than major cities. Address:
S M Hospital
S M Hospital, Ooty is a well-known private multi-specialty hospital located on Coonoor Road near Charring Cross, one of the most accessible areas in the town. It serves as a trusted healthcare center for both local residents and tourists visiting the Nilgiris. The hospital offers a wide range of medical services, including general medicine, cardiology, gynecology, orthopedics, pediatrics, and surgical care. With modern facilities and experienced doctors, S M Hospital provides reliable and affordable healthcare in a clean and comfortable environment. Its convenient location along the main road makes it easy to reach during emergencies, and it is often recommended for immediate medical attention in Ooty. The hospital also provides diagnostic and pharmacy services, ensuring complete treatment under one roof. Known for its patient-centered care and friendly staff, S M Hospital continues to play an important role in improving healthcare access in the hill station.
Government Medical College & Hospital, Nilgiris (Ooty)
Government Medical College & Hospital, The Nilgiris (Ooty) is a modern medical institution established by the Government of Tamil Nadu to provide quality medical education and advanced healthcare to the people of the Nilgiris district. Located in Indu Nagar, along Mysore Road in Ooty, this institution began its academic operations in 2021 and is affiliated with The Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University, Chennai. The college offers 150 MBBS seats each year and is approved by the National Medical Commission (NMC). The sprawling campus covers about 40 acres and includes well-equipped classrooms, laboratories, hostels, and staff quarters. The attached government hospital has around 650 to 700 beds, offering a wide range of medical and surgical services to residents of Ooty and nearby hill areas. With advanced diagnostic facilities like MRI and CT scans, modern ICUs, and specialized wards for tribal communities, the hospital plays a vital role in improving public health services in this hilly region. The institution not only focuses on academics but also ensures that affordable healthcare reaches remote populations in the Nilgiris.
BS Hospital
BS Hospital, Ooty is a well-known multispecialty healthcare center located on Ettines Road in the Race Course area of Ooty. Established in 2012, the hospital has grown into one of the most trusted medical institutions in the Nilgiris district. It offers a wide range of medical and surgical services, including cardiology, orthopedics, general surgery, gynecology, pediatrics, and critical care. BS Hospital is equipped with advanced facilities such as an intensive care unit (ICU), emergency care services, diagnostic laboratories, and modern operation theaters. The hospital is also recognized for introducing interventional cardiology services in the region, providing quality heart care to local residents and tourists. With a team of experienced doctors and staff, the hospital focuses on delivering compassionate and affordable healthcare. It is empaneled under government health schemes like Ayushman Bharat for cashless treatment. The clean environment, professional service, and accessible location make BS Hospital a reliable choice for both locals and visitors in Ooty seeking quality medical attention.
Munishwaran Temple
The Munishwaran Temple in Ooty stands as a humble yet well-regarded shrine nestled in the Pudumund area of Ooty, tucked away from the major tourist tracts. Dedicated to the deity Munishwaran (a form of the guardian-sage deity often worshipped in Tamil Nadu), it is frequented by local devotees who come seeking blessings for protection and well-being. Its location on Sheddon Road makes it easily accessible from the heart of Ooty, while still retaining a sense of calm and local flavour away from the major hill-station crowd. The temple’s modest architecture and traditional aura lend a vibrancy of faith and ritual rather than grandiosity. You will find regular daily poojas (ritual worship) and likely small gatherings rather than large festivals, making it an ideal stop for those looking for a quieter spiritual experience in Ooty. The surroundings—hills, greenery and the general hill-station cooling breeze—add to the meditative ambience. It’s often overlooked by visitors focused on sightseeing, making it a more “local” religious experience. For a visitor, it offers a change of pace: rather than large crowds, there is space to observe ritual, hear chanting, and reflect. The temple reminds one that even in a tourist-heavy locale like Ooty, local faith traditions hold strong and provide meaningful stops for those inclined. If you have a few moments in your schedule, popping in here gives you a slice of the everyday devotional rhythm of the hill station.
Sai Baba Temple
Nestled amidst the serene hills of Ooty (Udhagamandalam) in Tamil Nadu, the Shri Sai Mandir at Fernhill offers a peaceful haven for devotees of Shirdi Sai Baba. Located in the quiet Fernhill neighbourhood (postcode 643001), the temple serves as a local centre of worship, providing space for daily prayers, quiet reflection and community gatherings. Though modest in scale compared to major pilgrimage temples, its charm lies in the hill-station setting — cool climate, lush greenery and the sense of getting away from the bustle of town. Visitors often appreciate its calm atmosphere and accessibility from Ooty’s main market or bus-stand areas. While exact darshan timings and a dedicated phone number for this location are not prominently listed online, it is known from temple-directories as the Sai Mandir, Fernhill, Ooty For the best experience, consider arriving early morning when the surroundings are still quiet — a nice contrast to the usual tourist rush in Ooty.
Venkateswara Perumal Temple
The Arulmigu Venkatesa Perumal Temple at Mondipalayam is a revered shrine in the Avinashi taluk of Tiruppur district, Tamil Nadu, dedicated to Lord Venkatesa (an incarnation of Vishnu) who is worshipped here in a self-manifested (swayambhu) form. The temple occupies a serene rural setting yet draws devotees from across the region seeking peace, blessings for prosperity and the fulfilment of wishes. Its architecture features classic Dravidian style mandapams and prakarams, with the main deity facing eastwards, creating a meditative ambiance for visitors. 1 Important rituals like the Thirukalyana Utsavam (divine wedding) are celebrated with fervour, underscoring the belief that worship here brings inner calm and prosperity. Whether you come in the crisp early morning air or in the quiet evening hours, the temple offers a sublime combination of devotion, tradition and spiritual recharge — making it well worth a stop when you are in that part of Tamil Nadu.
Elk Hill Murugan Temple
The Elk Hill Murugan Temple in Ooty is a serene and sacred temple dedicated to Lord Murugan, the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is situated atop Elk Hill, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the Nilgiri hills and the lush greenery surrounding Ooty. The temple’s architecture resembles the famous Palani Murugan Temple in Tamil Nadu, with a majestic statue of Lord Murugan standing tall and visible from a distance. Devotees climb the steps or drive up the hill to seek the blessings of Lord Murugan. The temple is especially crowded during the Thaipusam Festival, which is celebrated with grand rituals and cultural programs. The calm environment, cool breeze, and divine chants create a deeply spiritual experience. Many devotees also visit the nearby idols of Lord Ganesha, Lord Shiva, and Goddess Parvati within the temple complex. The Elk Hill Murugan Temple not only offers religious solace but also a scenic escape for tourists and devotees alike.
Mariamman Temple
The Mariamman Temple in Ooty is a famous and ancient shrine dedicated to Goddess Mariamman, who is worshipped as the goddess of rain and fertility. Located near the bustling Ooty market, the temple stands as a symbol of faith and devotion for both locals and visitors. Its colorful Dravidian-style architecture, adorned with intricate sculptures, attracts devotees throughout the year. The temple becomes especially vibrant during the annual Mariamman Festival, celebrated in March or April, when rituals like fire-walking and milk-pot carrying are performed with great devotion. During this time, the entire area is beautifully decorated with flowers and lights, creating a divine atmosphere. Many people visit to pray for health, prosperity, and timely rains. The chants and traditional music during the ceremonies add to the temple’s spiritual charm. Surrounded by the scenic beauty of Ooty, the temple offers a peaceful and divine experience. It remains one of the most revered religious sites in the Nilgiris.