Ooty
Ooty Lake is a beautiful 2.5-km artificial lake built in 1825 by John Sullivan, the founder of Ooty, and boating on it surrounded by fragrant eucalyptus groves and rolling Nilgiri hills is one of the most classic and leisurely things to do in Ooty for families. The lake's annual Boating Festival in May draws rowing and motor-boat racing enthusiasts from across Tamil Nadu.
Avoid the midday peak — evenings after 3 PM are quieter and the light on the lake is far more atmospheric for photographs.