Pykara Lake & Speedboats
"Pristine Reservoir Boating 21 km Northwest of Ooty"
Essential Visitor Facts
Verified field facts by local Nilgiri resident for 20261.5 – 2 Hours
09:30 AM – 05:30 PM
₹10 entry fee, ₹900–₹1,500 speedboat, ₹850–₹1,200 motorboat
₹20 two-wheeler, ₹50 car
21 km (40 mins drive)
40 km (1 hour 20 mins drive)
09:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Moderate to High
What is Pykara Lake & Speedboats?
Pykara Lake is a pristine, high-altitude reservoir formed by the Pykara River dam. Surrounded by shola forest hills and pine slopes, the TTDC Pykara Boat House offers high-speed motorboats and 8-seater family boats cruising through calm turquoise waters.
Historical & Cultural Significance
The Pykara River is considered sacred by the indigenous Toda people. In 1932, Pykara became home to the Nilgiris' first hydroelectric power station project.
Location & Coordinates
11.5275°N, 76.5982°EPykara Lake & Speedboats
Nilgiri Biosphere District, Tamil Nadu, India
What to See & Special Experiences
High-speed 2-seater motorboat rides across reservoir bays
8-seater family motorboat cruises
TTDC lakeside restaurant overlooking water views
Shola forest slopes surrounding pristine reservoir water
How to Reach & Transport Options
Drive 21 km from Ooty along NH 181 (Gudalur Highway). Turn right at the Pykara Lake entrance archway.
TNSTC Gudalur/Mysore buses from Ooty Bus Stand stop at Pykara gate
Parking Guide & Avoiding Peak Crowds
Large TTDC parking area available at the main gate. 300-meter paved walk down to the boat house pier.
Visit during 09:30 AM – 11:30 AM. Parking lots fill up quickly after 11:00 AM on weekend dates.
What to Carry Checklist
Itineraries Featuring Pykara Lake & Speedboats
Follow our resident-vetted, geographically grouped travel blueprints:
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Frequently Asked Questions About Pykara Lake & Speedboats
Q. Is swimming permitted in Pykara Lake?
No, swimming is strictly prohibited due to deep underwater currents and reservoir depths.