Ooty is a beloved hill station, no doubt. But what if we told you that the charm doesn’t end there? The Nilgiris are surrounded by hidden gems that can completely transform your trip. Whether you crave nature, culture, or a cozy mountain escape, these places to visit near Ooty promise unforgettable experiences.
Let’s take a ride through the best weekend destinations that are just a short trip away from Ooty.
Bangalore isn’t just about tech. It is a vibrant city where culture, nightlife, and gardens coexist. It makes for a great base before heading to hill stations or for exploring city attractions.
Distance from Ooty: 270 km
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Things to Do: Visit breweries, gardens, art galleries
Famous Tourist Attractions: Lalbagh, Cubbon Park, Bangalore Palace
A quiet and offbeat destination, Bellikkal is perfect for travelers seeking solitude. This small village near Ooty is surrounded by dense forests and wildlife.
Distance from Ooty: 15 km
Best Time to Visit: All year round
Things to Do: Bird watching, nature walks, mountain biking
Famous Tourist Attractions: Bison Valley, Nilgiri Wildlife
With its green hills, waterfalls, and tribal culture, Wayanad is one of the most stunning tourist places nearby Ooty Tamil Nadu. It’s a paradise for trekkers and photographers.
Distance from Ooty: 110 km
Best Time to Visit: October to May
Things to Do: Trek to Chembra Peak, explore Edakkal Caves, safari in Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
Famous Tourist Attractions: Soochipara Falls, Pookode Lake
Bandipur National Park is one of India’s best-protected sanctuaries. A must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts looking for places to see near Ooty, it offers thrilling jungle safaris.
Distance from Ooty: 50 km
Best Time to Visit: October to June
Things to Do: Jeep safari, bird watching, photography
Famous Tourist Attractions: Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta, Bandipur Safari Lodge
Right next to Bandipur, Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary is another great option for wildlife lovers. This is one of the most visited Weekend Destinations Near Ooty, Tamil Nadu.
Distance from Ooty: 41 km
Best Time to Visit: October to May
Things to Do: Elephant safari, visit Theppakadu Elephant Camp
Famous Tourist Attractions: Moyar River, Mudumalai Forest Reserve
The oldest hill station in the Nilgiris, Kotagiri is less commercial but incredibly scenic. Think tea gardens, trekking trails, and a peaceful vibe.
Distance from Ooty: 30 km
Best Time to Visit: December to May
Things to Do: Visit Catherine Falls, trekking to Rangaswamy Peak
Famous Tourist Attractions: Elk Falls, Longwood Shola
Kabini is a serene riverside retreat that’s home to elephants, leopards, and even black panthers. A great wildlife getaway among places to visit near Ooty.
Distance from Ooty: 125 km
Best Time to Visit: November to April
Things to Do: Jungle safari, boat ride on Kabini River
Famous Tourist Attractions: Nagarhole National Park, Kabini Backwaters
Munnar’s rolling tea plantations and misty valleys give serious Ooty vibes – but with its own charm. It’s a romantic destination and among the best places to visit near Ooty for couples.
Distance from Ooty: 245 km
Best Time to Visit: September to March
Things to Do: Tea garden walks, boating, trekking
Famous Tourist Attractions: Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam
Mysore is where history, culture, and architecture meet. Perfect for a royal day trip or short weekend break from Ooty.
Highlights:
Distance from Ooty: 125 km
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Things to Do: Palace tours, shopping in Devaraja Market
Famous Tourist Attractions: Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hill, St. Philomena’s Church
If you are looking for a cultural explosion, head to Thrissur. Known as Kerala’s cultural capital, it’s not too far from Ooty and ideal for a vibrant experience.
Highlights:
Distance from Ooty: 160 km
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Things to Do: Temple visits, watch Kathakali performances
Famous Tourist Attractions: Vadakkunnathan Temple, Athirappilly Waterfalls
This dreamy hill station is dotted with lakes, waterfalls, and pine forests. It’s one of the ooty nearby places that’s perfect for honeymooners.
Distance from Ooty: 250 km
Best Time to Visit: April to June, September to October
Things to Do: Boating, cycling, forest walks
Famous Tourist Attractions: Coaker’s Walk, Bryant Park, Kodaikanal Lake
Yercaud is a lesser-known gem in the Eastern Ghats. With cool weather and scenic viewpoints, it’s a peaceful retreat from busy city life and a perfect addition to attractions near Ooty.
Distance from Ooty: 240 km
Best Time to Visit: October to June
Things to Do: Boating in Emerald Lake, trekking, visit the botanical garden
Famous Tourist Attractions: Lady’s Seat, Pagoda Point, Shevaroy Temple, Killiyur Falls
Coonoor is like Ooty’s calm cousin. Tucked away in the Nilgiris, this peaceful hill station is filled with tea gardens, colonial-style homes, and misty valleys. If you're tired of the crowd in Ooty, Coonoor will wrap you in tranquility.
Distance from Ooty: 21 km
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Things to Do: Ride the toy train, visit Sim's Park, trek to Dolphin’s Nose
Famous Tourist Attractions: Lamb’s Rock, Law’s Falls, Tea Gardens
Nicknamed the “Scotland of India,” Coorg is known for its lush coffee plantations, waterfalls, and misty hills. This is one of the best nearby places in ooty for couples and nature lovers.
Distance from Ooty: 236 km
Best Time to Visit: September to March
Things to Do: Coffee plantation tours, trekking, river rafting
Famous Tourist Attractions: Abbey Falls, Raja’s Seat, Madikeri Fort
Ooty is charming, but the beauty of South India doesn't stop there. With so many serene hill stations, wildlife parks, and cultural hubs around, you're truly spoiled for choice. These places to visit near Ooty are ideal whether you want adventure, peace, or history. Opting for an Ooty tour packages can make your journey even more seamless, helping you discover the best of the region with ease.
So pack your bags and explore these hidden treasures that are just a short ride away.