Must-Visit Tourist Places near Ooty
Ooty is one of the most popular travel destinations in South India. For wanderlusts, who have already soaked in the natural splendours of Ooty and now desire to taste the scenic grandeur of the neighbouring areas, there is a pile of locations nestled around the ‘Queen of Hills’. Ooty is located in the northwestern part of Tamil Nadu. This region is bordered by the southern side of Karnataka and the eastern side of Kerala. Summing up these locations, they form a spectacular domain of nature’s bounty. Read on to discover some of the best iconic destinations of South India, perfect to unwind yourself amidst nature.
Imbibe the Nature’s Allure with These Destinations
Mysore - The magnificent city of Mysore overflows with specimens of history and architecture. A Mysore tour is very commonly combined with Ooty. Mysuru is a city that beautifully showcases cultural richness and remains a favorite destination for travelers. The city truly comes alive during the vibrant Dasara celebrations in October, drawing visitors from across the globe. Iconic attractions like the grand Mysore Palace and the renowned Mysore Zoo are must-visit spots. Don’t forget to explore local shops and take home the exquisite Mysore silk sarees as a memorable keepsake from your trip.
Bandipur National Park - If planning to visit one of the beautiful wildlife destinations in Karnataka, simply plan for Bandipur National Park without a second thought. Home to a notable population of endangered species like leopards, elephants, tigers and gaurs, Bandipur used to be the hunting ground of maharajas in ancient times. Today, it is known to be an important part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Being surfaced as a successful conservation region, bus and canter safaris are operated by the forest department, to take tourists deep inside the forest to explore the wildlife at its best, without disturbing or harming them.
Coimbatore - Coimbatore, nestled along the banks of the Noyyal River, is famously referred to as the Manchester of South India. This bustling city offers numerous attractions, making it an ideal spot for a holiday. For those seeking cooler vibes, a visit to Ooty is highly recommended. Religious travelers will find a number of temples in Coimbatore, including the renowned Perur Patteeswara Swamy Temple, the Marudhamalai Temple dedicated to Lord Muruga, Arulmigu Aranganatha Swamy Thirukoil, Arulmigu Poondi Velliangiriandavar Thirukoil, and the Arulmigu Eachanari Vinayagar Temple. Additionally, the striking Adiyogi statue has recently emerged as a popular landmark, attracting visitors from far and wide.
Kodaikanal - Often called the “Princess of Hills,” Kodaikanal was once a summer retreat for colonial rulers. With its lush green hills, cascading waterfalls, serene lakes, and unspoiled countryside, Kodaikanal offers countless reasons to captivate visitors. Activities like boating, cycling, horse riding, and trekking are among the most popular experiences here. A unique highlight of Kodaikanal is the rare Kurinji flower, which blooms once every 12 years, offering a spectacular sight to behold. Must-visit attractions in the region include Berijam Lake, Guna Lake, Coaker’s Walk, and the iconic Kodaikanal Lake.
Wayanad - Nestled within the majestic Western Ghats, Wayanad is a renowned destination that captivates all types of travellers with its lush green landscapes and pleasant weather. The Wayanad hills are seamlessly connected to Mudumalai in Tamil Nadu and Bandipur in Karnataka, creating an expansive natural habitat for wildlife to roam freely. The misty surroundings of Wayanad provide ample opportunities for trekking, plantation visits, and wildlife exploration. Popular attractions in the region include Meenmutty Waterfalls, Chembra Peak, Edakkal Caves, Banasura Sagar Dam, Soochipara Falls, Lakkidi Viewpoint, and Kuruva Island, among others.
