About Pykara Falls
Pykara Falls is a scenic waterfall on the Pykara River in Pykara village, The Nilgiris district, Tamil Nadu, about 19 km from Ooty. Formed where the river drops over rocky ledges, it comprises two sections with a combined height of around 55 metres. Surrounded by shola forests and grasslands, it is part of the Pykara hydroelectric system and is visited for its natural setting, views, and proximity to Pykara Lake and Dam.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a forested river valley setting where the Pykara River flows over rocky steps to form cascades. The falls are viewed from fenced viewpoints and approach paths surrounded by shola forest and grasslands. The area includes Pykara Lake and Dam upstream with a boathouse for boating. The site is primarily for sightseeing and photography, with natural scenery, sound of falling water, and opportunities to explore the lake, dam area and nearby viewpoints.
Key highlights
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Two-tiered cascade on the Pykara River with approximately 55 metres total drop
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Scenic setting amid shola forests and Nilgiri grasslands
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Adjacent Pykara Lake and Pykara Dam with boating facilities
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Part of one of South India's oldest hydroelectric projects
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Viewpoints and short forest trails for photography and sightseeing
History of Pykara Falls
Pykara is associated with the Pykara Hydroelectric Power Plant, commissioned in 1932 as one of the earliest hydroelectric projects in South India. The Pykara Dam and reservoir were developed to harness the Pykara River for power generation, contributing to electrification in the Nilgiris and Tamil Nadu.
Culture & Context
The Pykara River is regarded as sacred by the Toda tribal community native to the Nilgiris, and the surrounding landscape reflects the traditional pastoral and cultural heritage of the Nilgiri Biosphere.
Route
| By air | Nearest airport is Coimbatore International Airport, about 85-90 km away, with onward road journey to Ooty and Pykara |
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