Pykara Lake and Boat House Ooty
A tranquil escape in Ooty, featuring a serene lake with boating amidst lush green forests and rolling hills.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Pykara Lake and Boat House Ooty
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil escape in Ooty, featuring a serene lake with boating amidst lush green forests and rolling hills.
"Pykara Lake is a gem tucked away in the Nilgiris, making for a peaceful retreat from the usual hustle."
🚶 Walk to the Boat House
Enjoy a pleasant walk from the entrance to the boat house; it's a beautiful part of the experience.
💰 Group Boating is Budget-Friendly
Going in a group makes boating more affordable. Solo or small group rides can be pricier.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Serene Boat Ride
Pykara Lake
Glide across the calm waters surrounded by lush green shola forests and rolling hills. A truly peaceful escape.
Scenic Drive
Road to Pykara Lake
The journey itself is a treat, with winding roads through pine forests and tea plantations.
Pykara Falls
Near Pykara Lake
Witness the beauty of the Pykara River as it cascades down, adding to the natural charm of the area.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Timing is Key
Getting There & Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶 Walk to the Boat House
Enjoy a pleasant walk from the entrance to the boat house; it's a beautiful part of the experience.
💰 Group Boating is Budget-Friendly
Going in a group makes boating more affordable. Solo or small group rides can be pricier.
☕ Snacks Available
Food stalls offer tea, coffee, corn, bajji, and ice cream.
🚗 Safe Driving on Hills
Be cautious on hilly roads; switch off AC on inclines and avoid excessive clutch use.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶 Walk to the Boat House
Enjoy a pleasant walk from the entrance to the boat house; it's a beautiful part of the experience.
💰 Group Boating is Budget-Friendly
Going in a group makes boating more affordable. Solo or small group rides can be pricier.
☕ Snacks Available
Food stalls offer tea, coffee, corn, bajji, and ice cream.
🚗 Safe Driving on Hills
Be cautious on hilly roads; switch off AC on inclines and avoid excessive clutch use.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The lush greenery and serene lake offer fantastic photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the serene beauty of Pykara Lake and the enjoyable boating experience, often highlighting the picturesque surroundings and the peaceful atmosphere. The scenic drive to the lake is also frequently praised. Some find the boating costs a bit high for smaller groups, and the area can get crowded during peak times.
"Boating is available and it's good natural scenery. Different boats available. Water depth is 90 feet. If luck we can see animals. While traveling to the destination in hills up and down
1. Switch off AC
2. Ensure you don't increase the rpm so much out of control
3. The clutch smells bad if there is too much of clutch driving
4. If the engine heats up too much, switch off the engine immediately
5. Watch the dashboard regularly for any indications
6. Before halting the car ensure it is idle for some time so that the exhaust fan runs completely and remove the heat inside the engine
7. Give way for fast going vehicles
8. Follow the rule not to overtake when vehicles are in front of you waiting in the traffic
9. If your car is automatic then ensure it is not running in first gear itself with more rpm
10. Driving aesthetics should be followed"
Ameer Mohideen
"Nice place very vibrant with only motor boats and birds sound. But going in a group is budget friendly. Otherwise you will end spending more here if two or three took a boat. I would highly recommend walk from entrance to the boat house. It is a very nice place you'll enjoy if you walk through this place"
Gowrisankar Arthanary
"Pykara Lake is a gem tucked away in the Nilgiris, about 20–22 km from Ooty town, and makes for a peaceful retreat from the usual hustle. The drive itself is scenic: winding roads through pine and shola forests, tea plantations on either side, and often mist weaving through the trees. The air feels fresh and cool, especially in early morning or late afternoon."
Dharmik Sarvaiya
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Pykara Lake and Boat House is located about 20-22 km from Ooty town. You can hire a taxi or take a local bus. The drive itself is scenic, passing through pine forests and tea plantations.
The drive involves winding roads through hilly terrain. It's recommended to drive cautiously, especially if you're not accustomed to mountain roads.
Yes, parking is available at the lake, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Many travelers opt for taxis for convenience and flexibility, especially if visiting other spots. Buses are also an option for budget travelers.
Drivers should be mindful of the steep inclines and descents. It's advised to use lower gears, avoid excessive clutch use, and ensure the engine doesn't overheat.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The boat house is typically open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It's always a good idea to check for any seasonal changes.
Boating prices vary by boat type and duration. A speed boat for 2-3 people costs around ₹1150 for 10 minutes, while 8 or 10-seater boats are around ₹1150-₹1350 for 20 minutes.
Yes, you can choose from speedboats and larger motorboats that accommodate 8 or 10 people. 
While there isn't a specific entry fee mentioned for the lake itself, charges apply for boating activities.
Tickets are usually purchased on-site at the boat house. It's advisable to arrive a bit early, especially on busy days, to secure your preferred slot.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main activity is boating on the serene lake. You can also enjoy the natural scenery, walk around the area, and visit the nearby Pykara Falls.
It can get crowded on weekends and holidays. Visiting on weekdays or during off-peak hours offers a more peaceful experience.
The lake is surrounded by lush green shola forests and rolling hills, offering picturesque and tranquil views.
Basic facilities like food stalls offering snacks and restrooms are available. Parking is also provided.
Yes, the boat rides are generally relaxing and enjoyable for families. The calm atmosphere and natural beauty are appealing to all ages.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire area offers great photo opportunities, from the lake itself during a boat ride to the surrounding forests and the drive leading up to it.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide softer light and a more serene atmosphere, ideal for capturing the beauty of the lake and its surroundings.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation before flying a drone.
While there aren't designated viewpoints, the entire stretch along the lake and the drive offers stunning vistas.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the expansive landscapes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🌿 Nature Lovers & Photographers
🚗 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Pykara Boating Experience
+1 The cost for a speed boat (2-3 people) is around ₹1150 for 10 minutes, while 8 or 10-seater boats are priced similarly for a longer duration. Many travelers find the boating here to be a highlight, appreciating the calm waters and the surrounding natural beauty. Redditors often recommend taking a walk from the entrance to the boat house, describing it as a very nice place that enhances the overall enjoyment.
Scenic Drive and Surroundings
Travelers are advised to drive cautiously on these hilly, winding roads.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit