Pykara Lake
Pykara Lake is a popular tourist destination in the state of Tamil Nadu, India. It is situated near the town of Ooty (Udhagamandalam), which is a well-known hill station in the Nilgiri Hills. Pykara Lake is part of the Pykara River and is surrounded by lush greenery and hills, making it a picturesque location.
Boat rides on Pykara Lake:
Boat rides on Pykara Lake are a popular activity for tourists visiting the region. Visitors can enjoy the serene and picturesque surroundings while taking a boat ride on the lake. There are different types of boats available for rides on Pykara Lake, including rowboats and motorboats.
The choice of boat may depend on your preference and the services provided at the lake. The boat ride offers stunning views of the lake, surrounded by hills, forests, and sometimes wildlife. It’s a peaceful and tranquil experience, allowing visitors to connect with nature.
The duration of boat rides may vary, and you can typically choose from different packages based on the duration of the ride. Some rides may be shorter, providing a quick tour of the lake, while others may be longer, allowing you to explore more of the surroundings. Some boat rides may be accompanied by a guide who provides information about the lake, its surroundings, and any interesting facts about the flora and fauna.
There is usually a fee associated with boat rides. The fee may vary depending on factors such as the type of boat, duration of the ride, and whether it’s a rowboat or a motorboat. The lake provides diverse boating options, including motorboats with varying capacities. Prices for motorboats start at ₹770 + Tax for an 8-seater boat (20 min) and go up to ₹1240 + Tax for a 15-seater boat (20 min). Additionally, a 2-seater speedboat ride is available for ₹800 + Tax (10 min).
Wildlife around Pykara Lake:
The Pykara Lake area, situated in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu, India, is known for its rich biodiversity and is home to various forms of wildlife.
The surrounding forests are known to be inhabited by wild elephants. Visitors may occasionally spot these majestic animals, especially in the early mornings or late evenings.
Different species of deer, such as sambar deer and spotted deer, are often found in the forests around Pykara. These graceful animals can sometimes be seen grazing in the open areas. The Indian bison, or gaur, is the largest species of wild cattle and can be found in the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, where Pykara is located.
The region is rich in birdlife, with various species of birds inhabiting the forests and the lake area. Birdwatchers may spot species such as the Nilgiri flycatcher, Malabar grey hornbill, and many others. Other smaller mammals, such as langurs, macaques, and various reptiles, may also be present in the surrounding forests.
Pine Forest in Pykara Lake:
The Pykara Lake area in the Nilgiri Hills is indeed surrounded by pine forests, adding to the scenic beauty of the region. The pine forests enhance the overall natural ambiance of Pykara, creating a picturesque landscape that visitors often find captivating.
Pine trees, with their tall and straight trunks, contribute to the serene atmosphere of the area. Walking through or around the pine forests can be a refreshing experience, especially with the scent of pine needles in the air. The combination of the lake, hills, and pine trees makes Pykara a popular destination for nature lovers and those seeking a tranquil escape.
Visiting Hours of Pykara Lake:
The lake welcomes visitors daily between 8:30 AM and 5:30 PM. Admission costs ₹10 per person, and a battery car ride from the lake entrance to Pykara Falls is available for ₹20 per person.
How to reach Pykara Lake:
By Air:
The Nearest Airport is Coimbatore International Airport (approx. 88 kilometers from Ooty)From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use other local transportation to reach Ooty.
By Train:
- Nearest Railway Station: Udagamandalam (Ooty) Railway Station.
- Ooty is connected by a narrow-gauge railway line. However, the nearest major railway station is Mettupalayam Railway Station.
- From Mettupalayam, you can take the Nilgiri Mountain Railway (toy train) or a taxi to Ooty.
By Road:
Ooty is well-connected by road. You can reach Ooty by bus, car, or taxi from various nearby cities.
- Once in Ooty, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Pykara Lake.
- From Ooty, take the Ooty-Pykara-Gudalur Road and Follow the road signs leading to Pykara Lake.