What to do and see in Ooty (Udhagamandalam), Tamil Nadu: The Best Nature & Wildlife Areas

Reviewed By travels00001 - Nagpur, India

A two hour forest safari organised by the forest department, gives you an opportunity to see places which were earlier out of bounds. Our tour to this place started with uncertainty. Google maps was showing the place closed on Monday, and only day left with us in Ooty was a Monday.We called the telephone number available on the forest department web site. and we were greeted by a very polite person from the forest department, who informed us that they are open on all days. Forest safari can be taken in 26 seater mini bus at a cost of Rs. 150 each or an 8 seater jeep for Rs. 2000. The safari stops at 3 scenic places enroute. 1. Cauliflower shola forest 2. Bhavani temple (origin of River bhavani) , there is a small waterfall here as well. 3. Lakkidi view point , here you can watch the back waters of Upper Bhavani lake. We couldn't see much of wildlife , except for a handful of monkeys. But entire place was very beautiful, will the Upper Bhavani lake being the best. From ooty you have to travel about 21 kms to avalanche eco tourism spot. Here you need get the names registered at the ticket window. They will call you as soon as a vehicle is available. You may expect a waiting time of 1-2 hrs. Better to reach early. You may use this time to enjoy the Avalanche lake and the forest. Each trip takes 2 hours.