19 Hill Stations Near Ooty Known For Their Natural And Cultural Beauty In 2024!

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The dreamy Ooty is a heartthrob to almost everyone. The serene ambiance and the pleasant weather make Ooty one of the most happening places in South-India. People from across the world come here to catch a glimpse of this pretty hill-station. If you are looking to escape into the woods and let yourself loose in the wildest of nature, then, Ooty is the place. Known as the “Tea Destination of South-India,” this place is whimsical. The sprawling tea gardens, the tiny apples, and some home-made chocolates, everything in Ooty are beautiful.

Also, Ooty has been one of the most chosen destinations by a lot of riders. The curvaceous road of Ooty kindles and ignites the spirit of every biking enthusiast. There are a lot of things that one can do when they are in Ooty. Amongst everything, exploring the nearby hill-stations is one of the best and the most becoming things that you must try when you are in Ooty. So, are you ready to take a visual tour of some of the best hill stations near Ooty? Come on, then!

Top 19 Hill Stations Near Ooty

Here is a list of top hill stations close to Ooty that offer the best of mother nature. Once you are done roaming around the most beautiful hill down South, make sure you add these nearby ones in your bucket list!

Kodaikanal – Queen Of The Hills
Coonoor – Land Of Eucalyptus
Yercaud – With Rich Flora And Fauna
Coorg – Scotland Of South India
Kalpetta – Home To Paddy Fields
Wayanad – Best Spice Gardens
Kotagiri – Residence Of Kota Tribes
Biligiri Rangan Betta – Fine Blend Of Eastern & Western Ghats
Valparai – The Dense Jungles
Mudumalai – Land Of The Wild
Bellikkal – A Hidden Jewel
Yelagiri – The Stunning Orchards
Vythiri – The Resort Town
Sirumalai – Stunning Hair Pin Bends
Palani Hills – Plenty Of Crops And Plantations
Kurangani – Most Thrilling One
Munnar – A Pretty Little Hill-Station
Idukki – A Pocket Of Heaven
Palakkad – A Quaint Hill Station

1. Kodaikanal – Queen Of The Hills

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Known as the “Queen of hill-stations” of the South, Kodaikanal fondly known as Kodai is the best hill station near Ooty that you can visit. Famous for its magical mushrooms,there are some of the best tourist spots and attractions in Kodaikanal that are worth exploring. Driving through the pine forests with a piece of soothing music in the background can be quite a fantastic experience when you are traveling to Kodai. The fog and the rays of the sun playing hide and seek is one of the best sights to behold when you are in Kodaikanal.

Places To Stay: Sterling Kodai Valley, Sterling Kodai Lake, JC Residency, Hotel Grand Palace, The Fern Creek
Places To Visit: Green Valley View, Kodaikanal Lake, Bear Shola Falls, Kodaikanal Pine Forest, Moir Point
Distance from Ooty: 251.1 kms
Best time to visit: October to March
Things to do in Kodaikanal

Visit some of the best tourist attractions like the Coaker’s walk, Silent Valley, Kodai lake etc.
Enjoy the best homemade chocolates and binge on fresh vegetables straight from the gardens when you are here.

Must Read:10 Surreal Places To Visit Near Ooty For A Refreshing Getaway

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2. Coonoor – Land Of Eucalyptus

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Located in Tamil Nadu, a lot of people also go to Coonoor from Ooty because this is also at a pretty close distance from here. Coonoor is one of the perfect hill stations close to Ooty for weekend getaways to soak in the beauty of nature. The lush green trees covering the Nilgiri Hills and the aroma from the Eucalyptus can be pretty healing to your mind and body. Riding or driving down to Coonoor can be an ideal thing to do if you want to get a sight of the bewitching beauty. Coonoor is one of the second largest hill-stations in the Nilgiri ranges. With so many things to do in Coonoor, you must plan for a visit to this fantastic place when you are in Ooty.

Places To Stay: Storyteller, HS Holiday Homes Coonoor, The Xanadu, Vasanth Vihar Homestay, The Xanadu Birdsong
Places To Visit: Dolphin’s Nose, Lamb’s Rock, Ketti Valley, Law’s Falls
Distance from Ooty: 20.2 kms
Best time to visit: October to March
Things to do in Coonoor

Trek to the closest peaks and explore the nearby attractions and experience the joy ride in the Nilgiri railways
Take a swim at some of the best waterfalls when you are in Coonoor

3. Yercaud – With Rich Flora And Fauna

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For people in Bangalore, Yercaud has become one of the coolest and the closest hill-stations to escape from the chaotic city life. Basking in the beauty of the green rays of sun amidst the lush green forests can be one of the best things to do when you are in Yercaud. The rich flora and fauna surround the beautiful Shivaroy Hills in Yercaud. With numerous things to do in Yercaud, it sets a perfect ambiance for people to relax and make every moment of their travel worthwhile when they are here.

Places To Stay: Regency Sameera Vellore By GRT Hotels, Benzz Park, Grand Estancia, Radisson Salem
Places To Visit: Deer Park – Biodiversity At Its Best, Pagoda Point – Breathtaking Views, Lady’s Seat – Grand Panoramic Views, Rose Garden – Take A Lovely Stroll
Distance from Ooty: 242.8 kms
Best time to visit: October to February
Things to do in Yercaud

One can go exploring some of the best waterfalls in Yercaud like the Killiyur Falls
One can also choose to go cave exploring when they are here

4. Coorg – Scotland Of South India

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Popularly known as the “Scotland of Karnataka,” Coorg is one of the most beautiful hill-stations with some great activities that can entice the hearts of every kind of traveler. The beauty of Coorg is beyond words, and one has to experience it first-hand to get the authentic feel of this charming place. This place has an immense significance as the river Kaveri. The lifeline of Karnataka takes her birth here. Also, Coorg is known for its brave and courageous people that have contributed a lot towards the freedom movement. This place also boasts of producing the best home-made chocolates as well. There are truly some of the most beautiful places to visit in Coorg that you should not miss out on!

Places To Stay: Serene Woods, Bhagavathy Budget Cottage, Sriniketana Cottage, Maroon Bells Cottage
Places To Visit: Chettalli: Discover Cultural Tourism, Somwarpet: Taste Local Delicacies, Honey Valley: Plunge In The Natural Beauty, Abbey Falls: A Beautiful Destination
Distance from Ooty: 245.9 kms
Best time to visit: October to April
Things to do in Coorg

Experience the best coffee and go spice shopping at the local markets
Visit the Tibet colony and get a glimpse of mini Tibet when you are in Coorg

5. Kalpetta – Home To Paddy Fields

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The scenic view and the beautiful view of the lush green paddy fields make Kalpetta one of the cutest hill-stations to visit when you are in Ooty. This place is pretty close to both Ooty and Wayanad; thus, a lot of travelers can plan their visit to this quaintest town and spend a day or two in the laps of nature. Kalpetta is famous for its ancient temples, and it also happens to be the major trading centers in and around Wayanad. So, Kalpetta must be on your itinerary if you are planning to Ooty.

Places To Stay: LakeRose Wayanad Resort, Petals Resorts Wayanad, Wayanad Wind Resort, Woodrose Resort, Cybele Hill Resort
Places To Visit: Meenmutty Falls – For Trek Lovers, Vaduvanchal – Offers A Tranquil Environ, Banasura Sagar Dam – India’s Largest Dam, Pallikunnu Church – Prominent Pilgrim Centre
Distance from Ooty: 117.3 kms
Best time to visit: October to February
Things to do

Go hiking in some of the most untouched trails
Go and have fun at the Banasura dam swinging away to glory in the garden area

6. Wayanad – Best Spice Gardens

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Known for its panoramic views and the lovely Heart Lake, Wayanad is one of the most sought-after destinations from people across the country. The pleasant weather coupled with thick forests can make this place one of the cosiest of hill-stations. Riding down the curvy roads looking at the gigantic trees forming canopies can transport you to another world altogether. Taking a walk in the best spice gardens of India can be one of the most memorable experiences in Wayanad.

Places To Stay: Kpm Tripenta Hotel, Treebo Trend Casino Hotel, Grand Plaza Suites, The Raviz Calicut, Metro Empires
Places To Visit: Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Banasura Sagar Dam, Edakkal Caves, Neelimala View Point
Distance from Ooty: 109.9 kms
Best time to visit: October to May
Things to do in Wayanad

Explore the oldest Edakkal caves after a few hours of trekking
Take a dip in the fresh waters of the Soochipara waterfalls

7. Kotagiri – Residence Of Kota Tribes

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The oldest hill station in the Nilgiri, Kotagiri, is one of the most popular hill-stations that a lot of travelers visit. It is an abode for the Kota tribes, and the culture of the place has to be experienced first-handed. This place was one of the favorite spots of Englishmen during their reign in India. The massive tea gardens and the coffee plantations can make you go gaga over this place. Also, this place is known as the ‘Mountains of the Kotas” because of the Kota tribe. So, Kotagiri must be on your itinerary when you are traveling to Ooty.

Distance from Ooty: 30.2 kms
Best time to visit: December to May
Things to do

Do not forget to binge on some yummy cakes near Johnstone Circle
Walking in the middle of the tea estates can be one of the best experiences in Kotagiri

8. Biligiri Rangan Betta – Fine Blend Of Eastern & Western Ghats

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Biligiri Rangan Betta, popularly known as the BR hills, is one of the must go to hill-stations when you are in Ooty. The beauty of both the Eastern and the Western Ghats come to life here as BR hills spread across both the hills. Famous for its ancient Ranganatha Swamy temple, this is one of the best hill-stations that offer a perfect view of the surrounding hills. If you want to understand more about the tribes of Karnataka, this is one of the places to visit. The Soliga tribes from Karnataka can still be spotted in BR hills, and knowing them can be an experience in itself.

Distance from Ooty: 144.5 kms
Best time to visit: November to March
Things to do

Birding and watching the lovely sunrise can be some of the best things to do when you are in BR hills
Taking a ride to the Dodda Sampige Mara can also be one of the must-do things when you are here

9. Valparai – The Dense Jungles

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The stunning views of the Nallamudi and Anamalai can be experienced in Valparai. Valparai is yet another famous hill-station that attracts everyone across the country for a visit. The dense jungles and the abundant wildlife in Valparai can take your breath away at first sight. So, if you are in for some tiger and elephant spotting then, this is one of the best places from Ooty you must plan to visit.

Distance from Ooty: 214.5 kms
Best time to visit: September to March
Things to do

There are a lot of scenic viewpoints in Valparai and trekking to these places to catch the sunrise and sunset can be one of the best things to consider
Staying and relaxing at some of the resorts and homestays enjoying the serene ambience of the tea estates can also make your stay wonderful at Valparai.

10. Mudumalai – Land Of The Wild

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Escaping into the wild can come true to every word when you are in Mudumalai which is one of the best hill stations near Ooty. Situated in the heart of the wildest Bandipur Tiger reserve, this place has its charm. It’s not just about the dense jungles, the wide ranges of flora and fauna when you are here. Get ready for some super thrilling experiences when you are in Mudumalai. This place can surprise you without giving a hint when you least expect it. So, as you are driving through these forest ranges, make sure to keep your eyes open to spot the wild animals. Also, do not forget to stop by in silence when you see a herd of elephants crossing the roads.

Distance from Ooty: 45.5 kms
Best time to visit: October to May
Things to do

Spotting wild animals like elephants, wild cats and tigers can be a thrilling experience
Experiencing the nature in wild during the jeep safaris inside the dense jungle can also be one of the must do things when you are in Mudumalai

11. Bellikkal – A Hidden Jewel

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Another one of the quaint, lesser-known hill stations near Ooty, Bellikkal is there to justify your vacation just for ‘leisure time’. For those who are tired of running every single day and just want to go on a break should definitely consider paying a visit to Bellikkal. The most scenic vistas, the calmness in the atmosphere, and the no sounds of blaring horns make this an idyllic respite for the city dwellers. Bellikkal is a small town sitting in the south of Sigur Plateau. The old-world charm that this mountain village has managed to retain is another one of its highlights.

Distance from Ooty: 5 kms
Best time to visit: Throughout the year
Things to do

Enjoy the calmness and serenity that encircles the atmosphere of this mountain village.
Visit the Binson Valley and witness the Indian binsons in their natural habitat.

12. Yelagiri – The Stunning Orchards

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When mountains call, you should answer. But when Yelagiri mountains call, you should have been there yesterday. Sitting in Vellore, Yelagiri is one of the hill stations near Ooty that is a perfect spot for a weekend getaway. The vast rose gardens, the stunning orchards, and the most stunning landscapes blend together to form this beautiful hill station of Yelagiri. A much quieter and an offbeat route, Yelagiri is a town that was once the summer escape for the British reigning this country. It has always been one of the perfect getaways from the bustling city ever since.

Places To Stay: O Nila Resort, Rhythms Lake View Resort , Dolphin Resort, Zeenath Taj Gardens , Clifftop Resort
Places To Visit: Punganoor Lake – For Nature Escape, Nature Park – For Nature Lovers , Nilavoor Lake – For Boating, Moksha Vimochana Temple – For Peace
Distance from Ooty: 347 kms
Best time to visit: November to February
Things to do

Get refreshed and relaxed under the Jalagamparai Falls.
Stroll around the Punganur Lake.

13. Vythiri – The Resort Town

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One of the hill stations near Ooty, Vythiri is famed for being the resort town that has its floors covered in the lines and lines of cottages. From log huts to treehouses, this hill station offers some of the best accommodation options. Vythiri is the town that is home to a total of 18 villages sitting in Wayanad. This town reeks of old-world charm thanks to the unspoiled beauty of nature and the architecture of these cottages. Staying in simple cottages while making use of all the urban amenities and facilities is certainly an experience that makes the entire vacation worth it.

Distance from Ooty: 122 kms
Best time to visit: October to April
Things to do

Witness the wild of South India while taking a safari around the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.
Stroll around and enjoy a picnic near the famous Pookot Lake.

14. Sirumalai – Stunning Hair Pin Bends

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Sitting in Tamil Nadu, Sirumalai is definitely the best hill station near Ooty which showcases the finest example of mountain village life. From being home to an international school to some impeccable dense forests, this town has everything that a town needs. Sirumalai is sitting at an altitude of 1600 meters above sea level and experiences moderate climate all through the year. There are around 18 hairpin bends to and from this hill, which simply adds to the beauty of this hill station. To add to the experience, there are numerous attractions sitting in this town.

Distance from Ooty: 271 kms
Best time to visit: Throughout the year
Things to do

Witness the jaw dropping scenic landscapes from the must-visit stopover on the Observation Tower.
Visit and pay homage to God at the annai Velankanni Church.

15. Palani Hills – Plenty Of Crops And Plantations

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Covering the eastward region of the beautiful Western Ghats in Tamil Nadu, Palani Hills is another one of the famous hills stations near Ooty. The rolling hills of velvety green lands and the deep valleys that blanket dense green jungles are what defines the landscape of the unspoiled Palani Hills. This town can be visited when one is paying a visit to Kodaikanal. One can witness rows and rows of plantations and roots including potatoes, peaches, root crops, beans, and pears. One can also come across cash crops including turmeric, bananas, coffee, citrus fruits, and more.

Distance from Ooty: 256 kms
Best time to visit: Throughout the year
Things to do

Enjoy the tranquility and peace that can be experienced in this town of Kodaikanal.
Pay a visit to to the silver Cascade Falls and get freshened up on your vacation.

16. Kurangani – Most Thrilling One

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One of the best hill stations near Ooty for those who are always on the search for some thrill, Kurangani is famed for camping and other hill activities. Apart from being home to various adventure sports, this hill station is also home to ample of untouched marvels of mother nature. This hill station happens to be a perfect summer getaway for locals and tourists alike. Crisp oxygen, lush green foliage, and not a single loud sound define the brilliant and impressive atmosphere of this town. The streams, deep valleys, and the wildlife never fails to inspire awe.

Distance from Ooty: 317 kms
Best time to visit: Throughout the year
Things to do

Take part in various adventure sports including camping, trekking, and much more.
Stroll along the streams and enjoy a family picnic.

17. Munnar – A Pretty Little Hill-Station

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Settled at a height of 1,600 meters in the famous Western Ghats, Munnar is one of the popular hill stations close to Ooty. It is famous for its expansive tea gardens and craggy peaks which is why it is aptly named as the ‘Kashmir of South India’. Apart from this, Munnar is home to several protected areas that conserves endangered species like Nilgiri Tahr. If you are a nature lover and like to get a view of greenery then this is the best place to visit.

Places To Stay: Talayar Valley Bungalow, Mountain Hut Resorts, Veetee Midtown, Spoony Residency, Matha Regency
Places To Visit: Anamudi Peak, Chinnakanal Waterfalls, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Echo Point, Eravikulam National Park
Distance from Ooty: 241 kms
Best time to visit: September to March
Things to do

Visit Eravikulam National Park and Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary.
Enjoy the views of tea plantations.
Opt for photography and capture the beauty of nature.

18. Idukki – A Pocket Of Heaven

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This is one of the most nature-rich hill stations around Ooty that is mostly covered with dense forest and greenery. Idukki is famous for its tea factories, wildlife sanctuaries, and rubber plantations which is why several tourists head to this district in Kerala. Wrapped with lush peaks, Idukki flourishes within the mountains of Kurathy and Kurava. Moreover, this district promotes ecotourism which has increased the tourist footfall gradually.

Places To Stay: Best Mist Home Stay, Meadows Pride Homestay, Olivia Homestay, John’s Villa Homestay, Green Spot Homestay
Distance from Ooty: 290 kms
Best time to visit: October – February
Things to do

Go for ecotours
Mountain trekking

19. Palakkad – A Quaint Hill Station

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Another one on the list of hill stations near Ooty is Palakkad that boasts of its tranquil vistas and beautiful backwaters. Nestled in the mountain ranges of Western Ghats, Palakkad got its name from pala trees that dominated the area earlier. There are many tourist attractions that grab the attention of travelers like Tipu Sulthan’s Fort, Silent Valley National Park, Dhoni Waterfalls, and Palakkad Fort.

Places To Stay: Kapilavasthu Hotel, Hotel Indraprastha, Hotel Jyothis Regency, Hotel Srivatsa RegencyFour N Square Residency
Places To Visit: Palakkad Fort – To Revisit History, Kollengode Palace – For European Experience, Meenkara Dam – An Idyllic Picnic Spot, Siruvani Dam – Local’s Favorite
Distance from Ooty: 139 kms
Best time to visit: November – March
Things to do

Explore the wildlife of Palakkad.
Go shopping in the local markets.
Watch the paddy fields.

Further Read: 18 Pristine Beaches Near Coimbatore Which One Must Definitely Visit When They Are In Tamil Nadu

Well, these are some of the best hill stations near Ooty that should be explored by every traveler. Traveling to Ooty and coming back without going to any of these places would surely be sinful. So, if you are planning for a trip to Ooty, do keep these places on the mind too. Happy exploring!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Hill Stations Near Ooty

Are all these hill-stations easily accessible?

Most of the hill-stations are well-connected with roadways while some of them are best enjoyed if you drive down because of the roads.

Are these hill-stations safe for solo travelers?

It might be safe, however, but generally, people prefer going to these places in large groups and as couples.

Is Ooty safe for solo travelers?

Yes, Ooty is pretty safe for solo travelers.

Are there accommodations at all these places?

All these places are popular hill-statins. Hence, there is no shortage of accommodations in any of these places.

Do we have luxury resorts at these hill-stations?

Yes, most of these hill-stations have luxury accommodation options as well. Since they are well-known and famous hill-stations, you would not have any problems in finding accommodation.

Are there facilities for private transport in these places?

Yes, there are autos and taxis available in plenty at all these hill-stations.

What are the best things to be bought from Ooty?

Sweaters, Carrots, Tea, and home-made chocolates are pretty famous in Ooty.