Rising from the Mukurti peak to the north of Ooty, the Pykara River gives birth to fine waterfalls and the large Pykara Boat House in Lake. While going towards the Lake is pleasant, boating inside is no less enjoyable.
The dam and power plant were built on the Pykara Lake River, nestled amidst lush green Shola forests.
A few hundred meters north of the Lake, the river falls from the rocks and forms the famous Pykara Falls. The nearby Boat Club (or boathouse, as it is popularly known) adds to the charm of this small, sprawling tourist complex nestled amidst the hills.
This Pykara Lake Boat House and a small restaurant have several motorboats ranging from 8-seater to 15-seater. If you are searching for a thrilling ride instead, you can take small speed boats.
The surrounding greens, the dense forests on the shore and the pines in the backdrop all create the atmosphere for you to climb on the decks.
At Pykara Lake boathouse and Falls Ooty, you have everything you need to enjoy a day out with your friends/family or a secluded nature walk.
Whether you are a nature lover, photographer or newly married couple, you should not miss this attraction near Ooty.
Relax and read what you can do besides enjoying the scenic beauty of Lake. Pykara Boathouse’s timings are 08:30 am to 05:30 pm.
Things to do at Pykara Boat House:
Here is a list of activities you can do at Lake.
1. Boat Riding at Lake:
Organised by the State Government, Motor and speed boats are available for rent at Pykara Lake Boat House, Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation. Large motorboats allow you to sail on the Lake for 20-30 minutes. Climb on the plane and admire the beauty of the surroundings as the captain spins around. On the other hand, small speedboats are for a 10-minute adventure on the water.
2. Hiking to Pykara Falls:
Pykara Falls is located at a distance of about 1.5-2 km from the Lake. Water, instead of falling from a height, flows over the rocks. There are two high waterfalls, one 55 meters (180 feet) high and the other 61 meters (200 feet). Put on your sports shoes and walk up the stairs. Chirping birds and a cool breeze accompany you as you walk down the trail from Lake to Pykara Falls. A battery car service that pays for the waterfall is also available if you need it.
3. Enjoying a Boat House Club:
Those who do not like hiking or are ready to go into the water can enjoy their time at the small cafeteria. Walk around, take photos and sip coffee while looking at the boats. You can quickly buy snacks, tea and coffee there. These activities are available at Lake, which is far from the city. Noise and surroundings can reduce any stress at the moment.
Best time to visit Pykara Lake:
Although the best time to visit Lake Pykara is during the year, the Lake’s water level is low during the summer months.
Also, it was awkward to visit this place during those times of scorching sun.
The best time to visit Lake is from October to March. The weather is pleasant, and the Falls are in full swing.
Get there early to avoid congestion or waiting time. Boating or hiking is more comfortable in the evenings, though.
Pykara Boat House Timings:
Here are the Pykara Boat House timings:
| Day | Timings |
| Monday | 8:30 am – 5:30 pm |
| Tuesday | 8:30 am – 5:30 pm |
| Wednesday | 8:30 am – 5:30 pm |
| Thursday | 8:30 am – 5:30 pm |
| Friday | 8:30 am – 5:30 pm |
| Saturday | 8:30 am – 5:30 pm |
| Sunday | 8:30 am – 5:30 pm |
Entrance fee and times:
- Lake Pykara in Ooty varies depending on the weather conditions, but you can visit it any day.
- Standard opening and closing hours are 8:30 am and 5:30 pm, and the entrance fee is ₹ 10 each.
- Boating times on Lake Pykara are between 10:00 am and 5:30 pm daily, and boating charges are charged per boat instead of the number of people.
- Current rates for a 20-minute motorboat ride are INR 770 + tax for an 8-seater motorbike, INR 890+ tax for a 10-seater motorbike and INR 1240+ tax for a 15-seater motorbike.
- A 10-minute ride on a speedboat costs 800 (plus tax) for two people. A child under the age of 5 may be additionally allowed.
- A battery car operating from the lake entrance to Falls costs 20 per person.
Things to keep in mind:
Here are a few things to make your visit to Lake memorable –
- A visit to Pykara Lake involves a walk, so wear comfortable shoes.
- If you do not travel in a group, be prepared to talk to others about sharing boating charges.
- Take care of your belongings and take care of the monkeys.
Nearby places to visit:
There are many other attractions around Boat House that you can visit on your Ooty tour. Here is a list of must-visit places nearby:
1. 6th Mile Ooty:
As the name suggests, this tourist spot is located 6 miles after the road from Ooty to Pykara. The place is famous for its scenic beauty and film shooting. You can also see the habitats and lifestyles of the Toda tribes.
2. 9th Mile Ooty:
Also known as Wenlock Downs, this beautiful place is 9 miles from Ooty on the Pykara Road. It is a vast expanse of lush green meadows that provide a view of the mountain slopes surrounding Ooty.
3. Ooty Botanical Garden:
Located on the lower slopes of Doddabetta, this beautiful park is in Ooty, 24 km from Lake Pykara.
The garden had spread over an area of 55 acres. The garden is divided into different sections and has a variety of exotic flowering shrubs and trees.
4. Tea Estate View Point:
Located on the way to Doddabetta, this tea point is 30 km from Lake Pykara for tea estates around Ooty.
You can view the growing tea plantations and experience the tea production process at a nearby factory.
5. Ooty Toy Train:
Officially known as the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, it is a beautiful 46 km long train journey between Ooty and Mettupalayam.
The 5-hour ride will be remembered for a lifetime, with stunning valley views, taking you through many tunnels, arches and bridges.
Online booking:
For an online booking of the Pykara boat house, click here.
Pykara Lake / Boat Club Ooty Address:
Pykara, Ooty,
Tamil Nadu, 643237, India
Contact: +917818005000
How to reach Pykara Lake from Ooty?
By Air:
Coimbatore is the nearest airport, which is 109 Km away.
By Road:
The direct bus is available from Coimbatore, Chennai and other major cities to Ooty.
By Train:
Coimbatore is the nearest railway station, which is 111 Km away.