Waterfalls always look glorious; watching cascading water plunging into a natural pond while cutting rocks is always pleasurable. If it’s surrounded by the blossom of green tea and coffee plantations then the beauty can’t be described in words. And Ooty is one of the destinations where you can see waterfalls amidst tea plantations. With lush greenery, steep rocky terrain, and crystal clear water cascading down the rocks, the waterfalls in Ooty are a sight to behold. In this guide, we will take you on a journey through the best waterfalls in Ooty, where you can witness nature’s glory in all its splendor.
Waterfalls In Ooty
1. Kalhatti Falls
Cascading down from a height of 120 feet, Kalhatti Falls is the most stunning waterfall in Nilgiri. Due to the height, the waterfall is visible from far away and getting close to the fall with cool misty air will refresh your senses and make you feel alive. You can take a dip in the pool at the bottom of the falls, which is safe for swimming during the monsoon season.
It is one of the most secluded waterfalls located near Ooty. Away from the crowd, this waterfall is perfect for those who seeking respite from daily stress. The rich biodiversity including black panther, sambar deer, wild dogs and different variety of birds makes it a perfect place for nature lovers. Adventure buffs can enjoy trekking, hiking, wild buffalos and bathing under the water of falls. You can also go deep into the forest to explore the unknown but don’t go deep and be aware of the wild animals.
- Distance from Ooty – 12 KM
- Best time to visit – Monsoon (July to September)
- How to reach – To reach the waterfall you need to take 2-mile trek from Kalahatti village. The waterfall is visible from the main road itself. You’ve to climb down around 150 steps to reach the bottom of the falls. The path is isolated and not advisable to take after sunset.
2. Catherine Falls
Catherine is a two-tiered waterfall falling from a height of 250 feet. Surrounded by the lush green natural beauty and tea estates, it is the most renowned waterfall near Ooty. It is an ideal place to enjoy the amazing views and serene atmosphere for those who want to get lost in the magic of nature.
It provides stunning views of the nearby region including Mettupalayam plains, dense Shola forests and tea gardens so don’t forget to bring your camera. There you can easily spend 3 to 4 hours exploring the hidden beauty.
If you’re an adventure lover like me then take a trek to reach the top of the waterfall which is a moderate trek. The picturesque views from the top are worth taking trail.
- Location – Mettupalayam Road, Kotagiri, Tamil Nadu
- Distance from Ooty – 39 KM
- How to reach – You can easily get a public or private vehicle to reach the point from where you need to trek to the top of the falls.
3. Kolakambai Falls, Kolakambai
Falling from a height of 400 feet from Kolakambai Hills, Kolakambai Falls is the highest waterfall in Nilgiri Hill. With its amazing height, the unbroken cascading water of the falls is like a dream for every waterfall lover.
The best part of the waterfall is its way to reach which traverses through the variety of local flora and fauna. Trekking, hiking and biking through the wild area with unseen wildlife would be a thrilling experience for adventure lovers.
- Location – Near Kolacamby
- Distance from Ooty – 30 KM
- Best time to visit – June to October
4. Pykara Falls
Situated in Pykara village, Pykara Falls is the best place to enjoy the stunning views and peaceful boat rides in Pykara Lake. The waterfall is originated from the Pykara River which flows through the town and considered sacred among locals. It has 2 parts one falling from a height of 55 meters and the other 61 meters high.
The surrounding Toda settlements make this place more interesting as it is one of the few places where you can see the Todas in their natural habitat.
- Distance from Ooty – 21 KM
- Things to do – Boating, trekking, horse riding and nature walking.
- Best time to visit – June to September
- How to reach – Pykara Falls is located on the Ooty-Mysore road around 21 KM from Ooty. You can take a government or private vehicle to reach to the parking point of the falls. From the parking point either you can trek or take a battery vehicle on a shared basis to reach the falls.
5. Law’s Falls
Situated amidst the Coonoor forest range and lush green natural beauty on the Coonoor-Mettupalayam road, Law’s Falls is one of the best waterfalls in Ooty. This 30 feet fall looks beautiful especially in monsoon or post-monsoon season when the water is in full flow. Unlike other waterfalls, it is the least explored fall so you can expect peace and serenity around the falls. There you can easily spend hours with the soothing sound of water and the chirping of birds.
- Distance from Ooty – 26 KM
- Best time to visit – Monsoon (June to September)
6. Halasana Falls
Cascading down from a height of 150 feet, Halasana Falls is situated on privately owned property, Kollamuby Estate. The intensity of the water is so high that a natural pond has formed at the base. The mesmerizing beauty of the falls along with the surrounding blue mountains of Nilgiris makes it the most beautiful waterfalls in Ooty. The view of the surrounding region from the top of the falls is picturesque enough to force tourists to bring out their cameras.
- Location – Dindigul, Ooty
- Distance from Ooty bus stand – 14 KM
- Best time to visit – Monsoon
7. Elk Falls
Have you wondered about a waterfall amidst the peaceful valley with blossoms of green tea and coffee plantations? If your answer is yes then you should include Elk Waterfall in your Ooty Itinerary. Nestled amidst the echoing valley of Kookal, Elk Falls is famous for its celestial charm and natural beauty. And if you’re here during monsoon then don’t forget to relish one of the tastiest varieties of oranges.
To reach the waterfall you need to take a hike amidst the Badaga habitations, a picturesque woodland region of tea and coffee plantation which feels like a fantasy world.
- Distance from Ooty – 30 KM
- Location – Kookal Valley, Uyilatty Village
- Ideal time to visit – June to September (Monsoon season)
8. Katary Falls
The third-highest falls in the Nilgiri & the site of India’s first hydroelectric power project, Katary Falls plunged down from a height of 180 feet. At the bottom of the fall, there is a nature-made pond that attracts tourists visiting Ooty. The surrounding scenic beauty with its massive dam makes it a perfect picnic spot near Ooty.
Katary Falls looks mesmerizing especially during the rainy season when the water drops with full force from the massive height. Watching thundering water from that much height with lush green natural beauty would be one of the best experiences of your Ooty trip.
- Distance from Ooty – 14 KM
- Location – Adikaratti Village
- Best time to visit – June to September
From the height of Kolakambai Falls to the unique region of Elk Falls, each waterfall has its own unique charm and offers a memorable experience to visitors. So, pack your bags, head to Ooty and get ready to be mesmerized by the stunning beauty of these majestic waterfalls.
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