Pykara LakeLocation: Pykara, about 20 km from Ooty, Tamil NaduPrice: Entry Free; Boating charges ₹200–₹900 depending on boat typeTiming: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PMBest Time to Visit: September to MayThe Pykara Lake, located at an approximate distance of 20 km from Ooty, is a beautiful site surrounded by lush pine trees, rolling green hills, and, of course, no one can miss the awe-inspiring view of the Nilgiri hills behind it. Since the river is named in honour of an important sacred river, the Pykara Lake, formed out of it, is considered to have been founded by the Toda, and since then it has been attracting vacationers due to its tranquil waters. At Pykara Lake, Ooty, one can enjoy boating, where you have the facility of both a motorboat ride and a fast boat ride, very famous. This is a very pleasurable affair, as you sit in a boat in the waters of the lake, you are filled with the cool mountain breeze passing through you, as you look around and observe the breathtaking views of trees and valleys nearby. Come and spend some time with a boat ride on this lake, and let the mountain breeze relieve your senses. The reflections of pine trees in the clear waters with a blue sky are ideal for many photographic opportunities for nature lovers. Sunrises and sunsets create a mystical scene as misty mountains engulf the terrain and sunlight filters in to create heavenly landscapes. Higher grounds not too far from here also offer stunning views of the Nilgiris. A few steps from the Pykara Lake, you also have the famous Pykara Falls, cascading through rough cliffs down into a lush, green jungle via a river. Since they both lie in proximity, visiting these two places in Ooty makes for a comprehensive, full-day trip. In the vicinity, a large array of bird species, butterflies and plants adds value and interest to the region.
