One-Day Tour Plan to Pykara Lake and Mudumalai from Ooty
Ooty, often called the “Queen of Hill Stations,” is not just about misty landscapes and colonial charm. The region around Ooty is equally enchanting and perfect for a one-day adventure packed with natural beauty and wildlife. If you're short on time but eager for a day in nature, a one-day tour covering Pykara Lake and Mudumalai National Park is just the escape you need. This compact itinerary allows you to explore serene lakeside views and rich wildlife habitats in a single day. Pykara Lake offers scenic beauty, and the evening safari in Mudumalai provides a chance to spot elephants, deer, and maybe even a tiger if you’re lucky.
To make the most of your day, proper planning and a strict time schedule are crucial. Safari timings are fixed at Mudumalai and are not adjusted to individual preferences. So, it’s essential to follow the timeline.
Start Your Day Early and Stick to a Schedule
Timing is everything when planning a day trip that involves a safari. Begin your day early, ideally by 8:00 or 9:00 AM, from Ooty. This gives you enough time to explore Pykara Lake at a relaxed pace and still reach Mudumalai well before your safari slot. Keep in mind that the safari entry process includes checking permits, verifying identity, and sometimes even short queues. Since safari rides at Mudumalai follow a strict schedule, any delays in the morning could cost you your evening adventure.
Part 1: Ooty to Pykara Lake - 23 km (Approx. 45 Minutes)
Located just 23 km from Ooty, Pykara Lake is the first scenic stop of your day trip. You’ll reach Pykara Lake in approximately 45 minutes, making it a perfect mid-morning destination. Pykara Lake, surrounded by the lush pine forests and fog-shrouded hills of the Nilgiris, provides tranquil scenery and a charming ambiance. Just 2 km from the Pykara waterfalls, its calm blue waters and boating facilities make it a peaceful escape, ideal for families, nature lovers, and couples visiting Ooty. Spend about an hour at the lake. After soaking in the tranquility of Pykara, get ready for the next part of your journey - a thrilling wildlife experience in Mudumalai.
Part 2: Transfer to Mudumalai National Park - 34 km (Approx. 1 Hour 15 Minutes)
After enjoying the calm of Pykara, head towards Mudumalai National Park, which lies 34 km away and takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to reach. The journey is incredibly scenic, as you drive through winding ghat roads, dense forests, and tea plantations. Keep your eyes peeled - you might even spot some wild animals crossing the road, especially as you get closer to the park.
Mudumalai is a habitat for elephants, gaurs, deer, langurs, leopards, and several bird species. Once you arrive, head straight to the safari booking office or check-in point, as you’ll need time to complete the verification process before the ride begins. Make sure you’ve already done your Mudumalai online safari booking to avoid last-minute disappointments. Walk-ins may not guarantee a spot, especially during weekends or holidays.
• Evening Jeep Safari – 5:00 PM to 6:10 PM
The evening jeep safari at Mudumalai runs from 5:00 PM to 6:10 PM and is the most awaited part of this one-day itinerary. The safari lasts for just over an hour but delivers a wholesome wilderness experience. Trained guides and drivers accompany you, sharing insights about the terrain and wildlife behaviour. You might see elephants in herds, spotted deer grazing in open meadows, or peacocks dancing in the distance. If you're lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of a sloth bear or a tiger moving stealthily through the undergrowth.
Part 3: Wrap Up and Head Back to Ooty
After the safari ends around 6:15 PM, you can begin your return journey to Ooty. The drive back takes about 2 hours, depending on visibility and traffic. Although the day will be long, the blend of peaceful lake views and the thrill of a forest safari makes it completely worthwhile.