What makes Ooty, the Queen of Hills, one of India’s most sought-after travel destinations? Honestly, I wouldn’t know where to start if someone asked me the same thing. Because Ooty has practically everything a tourist might want. Ooty provides everything to its guests, in contrast to most other well-known tourist locations whether it’s the beautiful scenery, historical landmarks, or sites of religious significance. It is the place to go if you’re organising a cheap and fun vacation with friends or family. Following that, here is a list of free things to do in Ooty that you absolutely must do while visiting the hill station.
5 Free Things You Must Do In Ooty
1. Head To Pykara Waterfalls & Get In Touch With Nature
Pykara falls about 21 km from Ooty, is a stunning waterfall getaway that will impress even the most difficult people. Pykara Falls comprises two independent waterfalls ranging from 55 to 61 metres.
CT Tips:
- Put on shoes that have good traction.
- Even in the summer, bring appropriate clothing because the evenings by the falls may get rather chilly.
- Avoid going to falls during the rainy season since the water level could unexpectedly surge and catch you off guard.
When to visit: Morning till evening
2. Appreciate The Beauty Of Avalanche Lake
Avalanche Lake, one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Nilgiris region, is located around 20 miles from Ooty. Avalanche Lake is surrounded by magnificent scenery with blooming wildflowers, magnolias, and orchids, making the area a favourite of those who enjoy the outdoors and is one of the most cherished free things to do in Ooty.
CT Tips:
- Bring your camera along to document the area’s natural splendour.
- Only swim if you are an expert swimmer.
When to visit: Morning till evening
3. Visit The Stone House
John Sullivan constructed Ooty’s first bungalow, known by the tribals as the Kal Bungalow or Stone House, in 1822. In addition to being the oldest bungalow in Ooty, the bungalow is notable for having been built on property that was purchased from the Toda people for one rupee per acre. Impressed? Currently, the Government Arts College, Ooty principal resides in the heritage building on a formal basis.
CT Tips:
- Avoid leaving behind trash. Bring a bag to put all the trash in.
- You can only see the building from the outside, so avoid barging inside, whether on purpose or accidentally.
When to visit: N/A
4. Tour St. Stephen’s Cathedral
St. Stephen’s Church, one of the first churches in the Nilgiri district, was built in 1829 on the directive of Madras Governor Stephen Rumbold Lushington. One of the church’s noteworthy characteristics is that the large beam and timber used in its construction came from Tipu Sultan’s palace.
CT Tips:
- Respect the church, its procedures, and its norms.
- Dress professionally. Find out whether there is a dress code at the church.
- Watch those around you to gain a better understanding of things.
When to visit: 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
5. Visit Mariamman Temple & Show Devotion
The Mariamman temple is close to Ooty Market and is devoted to Mariamman, the local rain deity. The Mariamman Temple Festival, which honours the goddesses each year in April, attracts thousands of followers from all around the nation — another celebration that is similar to Rath Yatra in Puri. Processions with the idols of many goddesses are performed throughout the 28-day celebration in February. If you want to get lost in divinity while enjoying free things to do in Ooty do visit and immerse in the sanctity of the goddess.
CT Tips:
- If you hate crowds, avoid going to the temple during the celebration.
- Some followers will walk barefoot on burning coal to demonstrate their devotion to the goddess. All we can advise is don’t get carried away.
When to visit: from 6 am until 8 pm
You no longer need to be at your Ooty hotel since you now know everything you can do here for free. Go outside and explore as much as you can without paying any money!
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva