Pykara Waterfall is a beautiful waterfall located in Ooty, Tamil Nadu, India. It is formed by the Pykara River on downstream of the Pykara Dam. It is situated on the Ooty – Mysore road, about 23 kilometers from Ooty bus stand. It is one of the best waterfalls near Bangalore, and among the most popular places to visit in Ooty. Visit during Ooty Local Sightseeing by cab
Location of Pykara Waterfall
Pykara Waterfall is located at a distance of 2 kilometers from Pykara Lake, which is another attraction in the area. The waterfall is surrounded by dense forest and green hills, creating a serene and scenic atmosphere. The waterfall drops down into two sections with a height of 61 meters and 55 meters through multiple layers on the rocky bed, providing a unique beauty to the stream.
Timing / Entry Fees Pykara Waterfall
Pykara Waterfall is open from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm on all days of the week. The entry fee is Rs. 5 per person. The camera fee is Rs. 20 and the video camera fee is Rs. 50.
How to Reach Pykara Waterfall
Pykara Waterfall can be reached by road from Ooty or Mysore. You can take a bus, taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach the spot. You can also hire a private vehicle or a bike for more convenience. You will have to walk for about 10 minutes on a well-laid path from the parking location to reach the waterfall viewpoint.
Things to Do / Must See Pykara Waterfall
Pykara Waterfall offers a spectacular view of the water flow and the surrounding landscape. You can enjoy the scenic beauty, the cool breeze and the soothing sound of the waterfall. You can also spot some birds and monkeys on the way. You can also visit the nearby attractions such as Pykara Lake, Pykara Dam, Wenlock Downs and Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Pykara Lake: This is a natural lake formed by the backwaters of Pykara Dam. It is a popular destination for boating, fishing and photography. You can also enjoy some snacks and beverages at the lake side.
- Pykara Dam: This is a hydroelectric dam built on the Pykara River. It is one of the oldest power plants in South India and provides electricity to Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.
- Wenlock Downs: This is a vast grassland area that offers a panoramic view of the Nilgiri Hills and valleys. It is also known as 9th Mile Shooting Point as it was used as a shooting location for many movies.
- Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary: This is a wildlife reserve that is home to many animals and birds such as elephants, tigers, leopards, deer, peacocks, etc. You can enjoy safari rides, elephant rides and nature walks here.
Significance of Pykara Waterfall
Pykara Waterfall is a place of natural and cultural significance. It is named after Pykara, which is a sacred river for the Todas, an indigenous tribe of Ooty. The river originates from Mukurthi Peak and flows through many sacred places of the Todas before joining Bhavani River. The waterfall is also a source of hydroelectric power for Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.
FAQ’s
Q: What is the best time to visit Pykara Waterfall?
A: The best time to visit Pykara Waterfall is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and clear. You can also visit during the monsoon season from June to September when the waterfall is in full bloom.
Q: What are the facilities available at Pykara Waterfall?
A: There are basic facilities available at the Waterfall such as parking, toilets, drinking water, etc. There are also some shops and stalls that sell snacks, beverages, souvenirs, etc.
Q: What are some tips for visiting Pykara Waterfall?
A: Some tips for visiting the Waterfall are:
Wear comfortable shoes and clothes as you will have to walk to reach the spot.
Carry water, snacks and a camera to capture the views.
Be careful while walking on the edge of the rock as it is very steep and slippery.
Do not litter or feed the animals at the place.
Respect the local culture and environment.
Conclusion
Pykara Waterfall is a majestic waterfall in Ooty that offers a stunning view of the water flow and the surrounding landscape. It is a place of natural and cultural significance that attracts many tourists and nature lovers. It is a perfect place for a picnic, a trek or a photography session. If you are looking for a refreshing and relaxing getaway in Ooty, Pykara Waterfall is a must-visit destination.
