Emerald Lake, nestled in Silent Valley, is one of the most picturesque places to visit in Ooty. It is situated at a negotiable distance of just 25 km from the main town and can be reached in just around 30 minutes. It is a serene and scenic site which is nothing short of pure rhapsody. For its unworldly beauty, it is considered as one of the most stunning picnic spots in Ooty and is visited by a number of tourists on an everyday basis. A day trip to the Emerald Lake is highly recommended since it offers an unforgettable escapade into a charming and soulful site.
True to its name, the lake is emerald in looks. Its tinge of greenery is also owing to its cluster of green mountains which surround it. Their green reflection on the water takes its level of hypnotism to new heights. As a picnic spot, it is gaining popularity with each passing year. Most Ooty packages include a day trip to the Emerald Lake for giving tourists a peek into its poetic beauty. Young and old alike love this place not just because of its tranquility but also because of the heart-rending flora and fauna which reside here.
Some eye-catching birds build their nests in this region. It is an open landscaped area which is the address of many colorful and mellifluous birds. The place is no less than a paradise for photographers. The place has postcard perfect beauty and even an amateur photographer can easily get some special snapshots.
The lake also has an interesting collection of fishes some of which are rare and exclusive to Ooty. Angling, as an activity, is also gaining popularity amongst tourists of all ages.
Ooty packages also give you a chance to explore the region on foot and trek around. The area around the lake has spectacular tea gardens which are verdant and alluring. One can also buy tea products to take them home as souvenirs or to savor their delights later on back in the hotel rooms.
Emerald Lake can be visited anytime during the day. But most people recommend the sunrise or the sunset time when the entire sky lights up in the golden hues of the sun and its replica on the water is bewitching. However, visiting the lake on any other hour would be equally fascinating.
At the backyard of the lake, you get to nestle at the Red Hill Nature Resort which offers good accommodation arrangements for visitors and travelers.
Overall, things you can do at the Emerald Lake include:
- Bird watching
- Fishing or angling
- Photography
- Sunrise or sunset watching
- Trekking
- Strolling by the tea gardens
- Purchasing/shopping for tea products
For such multifarious activities, the Emerald Lake is certainly amongst the most beautiful places to visit in Ooty.
Martin Wynn
