River Pykara originates from Mukurthi peak, which has many Toda settlements. This river is the largest and it is revered by the Toda tribes. The river tumbles down the hills and creates two waterfalls of 55 meters and 61 meters known as Pykara falls. When it reaches the plateau, it spreads to an expanse.
As this river is the only source of water to the district a dam is built across it and a hydro electric plant has been installed there. The backwaters of the dam in the valley form a beautiful lake. Pykara lake and waterfalls are situated 20 Km from Ooty on the Ooty-Mysore road. The lake depth is 170 feet at its deepest point. The Mukurthi peak can be seen from the lake looking proudly at her child’s beauty.
There is a boat house where different types of boats can be hired to explore the lake. The expanse of the lake is overwhelming and the boat ride is very pleasant with protected shola forest, red hilly mud banks, grassy meadows and small coves formed by the twisting of the water flow, which complements the sparkling lake. The fact that many wild animals come to the lake to quench their thirst is enough to keep you alert to be the first to spot an animal.
The Pykara lake is best enjoyed during the months of summer and autumn. The other nearby places that one can visit are Wenlock Downs (9th mile and 5th mile), Mukurthi peak, Lamb’s Rock.
Place Statistics:
Type of Place: Lake
Situated: Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Distance: 20 Km from Ooty
Transport: Well connected by bumpy road, government buses ply to Pykara Lake
Facilities: Rest Room, Restaurant and Boat house available and all are maintained by Tamil Nadu Tourism Department. Forest rest house is maintained by the forest department
