Pykara Waterfalls/ Boat Club Ooty

Originating in the Mukurthi peak, Pykara River and the waterfalls the river produces as it negotiates the curves and heights of the mountains is one of the most beautiful and majestic sights that you will get to see in Ooty. Located 20 kms away from Ooty in the Ooty-Mysore road, the lake has been developed into a thoroughly enjoyable picnic spot by the addition of a boat house and restaurant.

The dam and power house built across the river also ensureshydro electricity to the population. Declared a heritage site, the Pykara lake is one of those "must see" sights in Ooty. As the river flows down the mountains it forms two majestic waterfalls the first one fifty five meters in height and the second one even higher at sixty one meters. To bask in the summer sun by the side of the lake or go boating in the lake are the favorite pastimes of people who visit there.

The surroundings of the Pykara are famous for the Toda settlements and these are one of the very few placements where you find the Todas in their natural habitat. It is advisable to take some warm clothes with you even during summer as it can get pretty chilly during the evenings. It is preferable to stay away from the lake and falls during the monsoon. Especially, the falls are very unpredictable during the monsoons as the level of water might rise suddenly without any forewarning and can result in catastrophe for any tourist caught unawares.