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Avalanche Lake in Ooty

Ooty Vs Kodaikanal: Which is Better? (2024)

Among the best-known tourist destinations in Tamil Nadu are Ooty and Kodaikanal. Visitors seeking an escape from the searing summer heat go to these hills stations each year for a refreshing break. Hilltowns are popular with tourists and newlyweds because of the variety of attractions and laid-back atmosphere they provide. As a result, when it comes to picking between Ooty vs. Kodaikanal- Which is better, the debate goes on and on.

Location of Ooty and Kodaikanal

Ooty is situated in the Western Ghats, a mountain range in the Nilgiris range of the Himalayas.

The Palani Hills, which form part of the Eastern Ghats, are home to Kodaikanal. Although they are located on different ends of the country, the two towns experience the same weather.

How to Reach Ooty and Kodaikanal?

It’s important that you evaluate the distance and travel time while determining whether to go to Ooty or Kodaikanal for your vacation. Coimbatore is the closest airport and train station to Ooty. Coimbatore to Ooty buses run often. One train from Chennai goes to Metupallayam, which is situated at the base of the Nilgiri Mountains, and there is only one way to get there. Trains run from Chennai to Mettupalayam, where passengers may transfer to the Heritage train or take a bus to Ooty. From Coimbatore and Metupallayam, you may take a taxi to Ooty.

Madurai is the closest airport to Kodaikanal. The mountain’s foothills are served by the nearby railway station of Kodaikanal Road. The hill station can only be reached by taxi from here. There are other buses that go to Kodaikanal from many towns in Tamilnadu.

What To See and Do In Ooty and Kodaikanal?

After knowing the distance between your starting point of the journey to Ooty and Kodaikanal, the next thing you’ll think about is what you can see and do there. The Botanical Garden, Ooty Lake, Pykara, Avalanche, Emerald Lake, and Doddabetta are all popular tourist attractions in Ooty. Coonoor, Kotagiri, and Mudumalai may all be reached in three to four days. The Nilgiri Mountains are home to all of these destinations. If you have a limited amount of time, you may choose the places you wish to see. In comparison to Ooty, Kodaikanal has less tourist attractions. Attractions in town include the town’s centre lake, which draws a lot of visitors. In addition to Bryant Park, pillar rock, the Kurinjiandavar Temple, Silver Cascade, and Kukal Cave, there are other more notable attractions in Kodaikanal.

The Ideal Time to Go to Ooty and Kodaikanal

Between March and May, and September and October are the finest times to visit Ooty. You may visit Kodaikanal between March and September if you desire.

How Long Should I Plan My Trip?

Kodaikanal can be explored in about two days. 2 to 5 days is the range for Ooty. Ooty’s principal attractions may be seen in two days. Coonoor, Kotagiri, or Mudumalai may all be visited in the remaining time, depending on the number of days you have available.

Average Budget For The Trip to Ooty and Kodaikanal

Planning a trip involves many considerations, and one of the most important of them is your budget. Ooty is often more expensive than Kodaikanal on average. If you’re going during peak season, you’ll pay more than if you’re going off-season.

Budget hotels and resorts are available in Ooty and Kodaikanal. Accommodations, sightseeing, and pick-up and drop-off are all included in these packages. Consider booking a trip package if you have never been to Ooty or Kodaikanal before to save both time and money.

Best Things To Do In Ooty and Kodaikanal

Both Kodaikanal and Ooty provide awe-inspiring experiences that will leave you with a lifetime of memories. Similarly, although choosing between Kodaikanal and Ooty may be a difficult decision for couples, you can’t return from either location without having had the time of your life.

Things to do in Ooty

1. Lake Avalanche Ooty

The Avalanche Lake in Ooty is a heaven for couples who like hiking, fishing, and rafting. It is located around 29 kilometres from the city centre of Ooty. Avalanche Lake’s terrain is adorned with rhododendrons, orchids, and other beautiful flora.

2. Mountain Railway to Nilgiri

The Nilgiri Mountain Railway, which has been in service since 1908, is Ooty’s most renowned historic train, still powered by steam. If you’re looking for a train trip that will take you past lush pine woods, towering Eucalyptus trees, and dangerous turns, this one is for you.

Things to do in Kodaikanal

1. Dolphin’s Nose Hike

Trekking to Dolphin’s Nose in Kodaikanal is one of the most exciting things to do in the area. The cliff of Dolphin Nose is a breathtaking sight to see as you journey through the lush woodlands and well indicated pathways.

2. Take A Walk Down Coakers Walk

One kilometre of Coakers Walk provides amazing views of the city, mountains, and valleys. Enjoy the designated pedestrian path for cycling and the Telescopic house for panoramic views of Kodaikanal.

Pros of Ooty

There are a plethora of possibilities for public transportation

  • Many tourist spots to visit – Lakes, View Points, Waterfalls, Boat Rides and Horse Riding are a few of the attractions in Ooty.
  • Coonoor, Bandipur, Glenmorgan, and Kotagiri are just a few of the surrounding attractions.
  • More than enough lodging options are available. Ooty makes it simple to discover a place to stay, even if you need a place to stay right away.

Cons of Ooty

  • With an overabundance of commercialism, Nature takes a back seat.
  • There are too many visitors. Ooty may not be the best option if you’re searching for a peaceful vacation away from the hordes of visitors.
  • The cost of lodging is on the high end.

Pros of Kodaikanal

  • Less pollution due to better weather.
  • A more authentic, ‘closer to nature,’ and less marketed experience.
  • Compared to Ooty, hotel rates and taxi charges are cheaper.

Cons of Kodaikanal

  • In and around Kodaikanal, there aren’t many things to view. Boating on the lake or hiking to the lookout spots is the only options for visitors.
  • There are fewer hotels and guesthouses to choose from. If you’re going to be here on a weekend, be sure you reserve your room in advance.
  • There are few options for public transportation.

Conclusion

Ooty vs. Kodaikanal- Which is better is a debate that will never end. Compared to Kodaikanal, Ooty is more commercial. Despite this, Kodaikanal may not offer as many attractions and activities as So, think about what you want to accomplish on your vacation and figure out how much money you have to spend before making a decision on where to go.

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