Pykara waterfalls is located 20 kms away from ooty town on the Ooty-Mysore highway.The entrance ticket to this falls is RS 30 per person and one needs to trek down through well laid steps to witness the falls.  This is around a 10-15 mins trek. There are separate charges to carry a video camera and professional photo camera to the falls. 

The falls drops down into two sections with a height of 55 m and 61 m through multiple layers on the rocky bed providing a unique beauty to the stream. The main entrance to the fall is around 400 meters away from the highway and is around a 10-15 min walk.   This waterfall is open on all days of the week from morning 8:30 am to 5:30 pm. This waterfall amidst the dense forest and is a treat to watch when in full flow. It is one of the visit places of must for couples and nature lovers as part of their ooty trip. During the rainy season, the waterfall is in full bloom. 

Experience the majestic beauty of Pykara Falls as we capture its breathtaking splendor.But that’s not all! We had the pleasure of staying in a charming 150-year-old homestay, a hidden gem in Ooty that we highly recommend for anyone visiting this beautiful hill station. The historic charm and hospitality of this homestay made our stay truly unforgettable.To top it all off, we celebrated our 8th-year anniversary in the evening, adding a special touch to this memorable trip.

Watch as we share our anniversary celebration in the heart of nature’s paradise.All nature lovers who fancy overlooking the vast landscapes of the Nilgiri hills along with enjoying the jaw-dropping sights, the best place for you to have a great time would be the Pine Tree Forests in Ooty. This picturesque location has so much to offer for tourists of all ages and one of the magical wonders is its scenic canvas of tall and magnificent trees. It is a famous shooting spot in Ooty. The soaring pines, breathtaking views and a pleasant atmosphere makes it a perfect base for filming various movies. You can also witness the stunning vicinities of this forest in a Tamil song, Dheena.

Pine forest entry fee

5 per person

30 for Still Camera

Also called Wenlock Downs, 9th Mile Ooty is a scenic tourist spot, 15 km away from Ooty. The location boasts of vast meadows sprawling out to, what seems like infinity. 

Once upon a time, it acted as a hunting ground for the British and the Europeans. But now, 9th Mile is one of the most spectacular tourist spots in Ooty. The place also appeared in many Indian movies like Deewana, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, Raja Hindustani and others. And the locals, thus, nicknamed 9th Mile as Shooting Medu.

Pine forest entry fee

10 per person

30 for Still Camera

Kamarajar Dam:

Another top “must see” place; in the never ending list of such places in Ooty is Kamraj Sagar dam. Also known as the Sandynallah Reservoir, it is a favorite for the tourists and a wonderful picnic spot.

There are many different varieties of fish in the reservoir. But mainly found types of fish are the trouts.

Pykara Waterfalls:

Originating in the Mukurthi peak, Pykara River and the waterfalls the river produces is one of the most beautiful and majestic sights that you will get to see in Ooty. Located 20 kms away from Ooty in the Ooty-Mysore road.

The surroundings of the Pykara are famous for the Toda settlements and these are one of the very few placements where you find the Todas in their natural habitat. It is advisable to take some warm clothes with you even during summer as it can get pretty chilly during the evenings.

Pykara Boat House :

A few hundred meters north of the lake, the river tumbles down the rocks to form the famed Pykara Falls. The Boat Club (or Boat House, as popularly called) in the vicinity, adds to the charm of this little panoramic tourist complex among the hills.

This Pykara Lake Boat House, apart from housing a small cafeteria, has several motorboats ranging from 8-seaters to 15-seaters. If you’re looking for a thrilling ride instead, you can take the small speedboats.

How much is a taxi from Ooty to Pykara?

Many travelers from nearby cities like Mysore flock to Ooty for a weekend getaway or a longer retreat. If you’re looking to explore this charming destination, here’s everything you need to know about traveling from Mysore to Ooty, including taxi fares, travel durations, nighttime travel, and the best routes.

How Much is a Taxi from Ooty to Pykara?

If you’re considering taking a taxi from Ooty to Pykara, the fare typically ranges from ₹1,000 to ₹1,500 for a round trip. The Price can vary based on the type of vehicle, the Ooty Cab services you choose, and any additional stops you might want to make along the way. It’s advisable to negotiate the fare before starting your journey or check online cab services for a more precise estimate.

How Long is the Journey from Mysore to Ooty?

The journey from Mysore to Ooty is approximately 125 kilometers and generally takes about 3 to 4 hours by road, depending on traffic and road conditions. The route comprises well-maintained highways and winding roads, especially as you ascend the hills towards Ooty. The scenic views during this journey are a highlight, offering travelers the chance to enjoy the beauty of the countryside and plantations.

Can We Travel to Ooty from Mysore at Night?

While it is technically possible to travel from Mysore to Ooty at night, it is not recommended due to several factors. The winding roads leading to Ooty can be challenging to navigate in low visibility conditions, and wildlife crossings can pose additional risks. Moreover, services like taxis and public transport may be limited during the nighttime. For safety and comfort, it’s advisable to travel during the day when road conditions and visibility are better.

Which Route is Better, Mysore to Ooty?

Travelers often have two main routes to choose from when making the journey from Mysore to Ooty:

1. Mysore – Nanjanagudu – Gundlupet – Bandipur – Ooty: This is the most commonly used route, stretching about 125 kilometers. This highway is well-maintained and offers beautiful views of the forests and wildlife of Bandipur National Park, making it a scenic journey. Travelers can spot deer, elephants, and various bird species along the way.
2. Mysore – HD Kote – Nanjangud – Ooty: This alternative route is slightly longer and takes you through more rural landscapes, offering a different experience of Karnataka’s countryside. While it may not be as direct, those looking for a less traveled path may find this route appealing.

Both routes are beautiful in their own right, but the first route via Bandipur is often preferred for its accessibility and splendid vistas.

Conclusion

Traveling from Mysore to Ooty is an enriching experience, and understanding the taxi fares, duration, nighttime travel considerations, and routes will ensure a smooth journey. Whether you’re taking a taxi to explore Pykara or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere of Ooty, prepare for a delightful adventure filled with nature, picturesque landscapes, and the calming charm of the hills. Always prioritize safety, especially if you are considering nighttime travel or venturing onto less familiar routes. Happy travels!