About Karnataka Siri Horticulture Garden, Ooty
Karnataka Siri Horticulture Garden is a large, landscaped garden set on the slopes of Fern Hill in Ooty. Developed by the Karnataka Horticulture Department, it was created to promote inter-state cooperation through tourism and has quickly become a favourite for families, couples and nature lovers.
Spread over about 38 acres, the garden is divided into sections like Rose Garden, Italian Garden, Tea Garden, Maze Garden, Sunken Garden and Topiary Garden. With thousands of flowering plants in pots, manicured lawns, hedge mazes and viewpoints, it’s a relaxed, uncrowded alternative to some of the busier gardens in town.
38-acre landscaped garden Maze & Topiary sections Tea & Rose gardens Great photo spots
Karnataka Siri Horticulture Garden Photo Gallery
Timings, Entry Fee & Visit Duration
| Item | Details |
|---|
| Opening Hours | Garden is usually open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM on all days (weekday and weekend). Timings may vary slightly in some seasons. |
| Entry Ticket | Adults: ₹30 per person
Children: ₹15 per person (approx. 6–12 years)
Very small children may be allowed free as per the ticket counter rules. |
| Camera Charges | Still / mobile camera: about ₹50
Video camera: about ₹100
For professional photoshoots and filming, separate higher charges apply as per latest guidelines. |
| Suggested Visit Time | Plan for around 1–2.5 hours to walk through the different sections, enjoy the viewpoints and relax on the lawns. |
Note: Entry & camera fees are based on the latest available information and can change during weekends, holidays or special events. Always follow the rates displayed at the garden entrance.
How to Reach Karnataka Siri Horticulture Garden
- By Cab: Ask for “Karnataka Siri Horticulture Garden, Fern Hill”. It is about 3 km from Ooty Bus Stand / Railway Station.
- By Auto / Taxi: Autos from the bus stand easily bring you here; usually combined with Ooty Lake / Boat House and nearby gardens.
- With Sightseeing Package: Often added as a relaxed garden stop in Ooty city tour cab itineraries.
- Parking: There is parking space near the entrance; follow local staff instructions, especially on busy weekends.
Garden Sections, Facilities & Experience
- Explore themed areas like the Italian Garden, Tea Garden, Rose Garden, Maze Garden, Sunken Garden and Topiary Garden, each designed with different layouts and plantings.
- Enjoy widespread lawns, paved walkways and flower beds – good for relaxed strolls, family photos and quiet sitting spots.
- Look out for orchid and herb sections, plus avenues with trees like maple that add variety to the landscape.
- Basic facilities and seating areas are available; carry a water bottle and light snacks but avoid littering inside the garden.
Best Time & Season Guide
| Season | Weather | Best For | Tip |
|---|
| Dec–Feb | Cool to cold | Fresh winter blooms & clear air | Carry a light jacket – mornings and evenings can be chilly. |
| Mar–May | Pleasant | Peak family trips | Arrive in the morning to enjoy the garden before it gets crowded. |
| Jun–Sep | Mist & light showers | Misty garden views | Some paths may be damp or slippery; wear shoes with good grip. |
| Oct–Nov | Cool & pleasant | Balanced weather | Good time to combine with Rose Garden, Botanical Garden & Ooty Lake in one full-day plan. |
The garden can be visited year-round, but clear winter and post-monsoon days often give the best colour and views.
Karnataka Siri Horticulture Garden Highlights
- Maze Garden: Outdoor hedge maze built with trimmed cypress plants – fun for kids and adults to walk through.
- Topiary Garden: Bushes and shrubs shaped like animals and figures, great for creative photos.
- Tea & Rose Sections: Areas dedicated to tea plants and rose varieties, showcasing Nilgiris’ garden heritage.
- 50,000+ Potted Plants: Large collection of flowers in pots spread across slopes and terraces, adding colour throughout the year.
Layout, section names and exhibits may be upgraded over time; check the site map near the entrance for the latest route and features.
Tickets, Camera & Photoshoot Information (Reference)
| Item | Approx. Details |
|---|
| Entry Tickets | Approx. ₹30 per adult and ₹15 per child as per current garden tariff. |
| Camera Use | Still / mobile camera: about ₹50
Video camera: about ₹100
Confirm latest camera rules at the ticket counter before entry. |
| Photoshoot / Drone / Film | Professional photoshoots, drone and film shooting may attract separate higher charges and require prior permission from authorities. |
| Safety & Rules | Follow garden rules, do not pluck flowers or step on lawns not meant for walking, and supervise children on slopes and near water features. |
Details above are indicative; always go by the latest tariff board and instructions displayed at Karnataka Siri Horticulture Garden.
Accessibility & Walk Effort
- The garden is spread over slopes and levels with steps and inclined paths – mild to moderate walk effort.
- Some viewpoints and maze sections may not be ideal for visitors with mobility challenges; stick to the main paths and lawns.
- Benches and resting spots are available at intervals – take breaks and enjoy the views.
- Comfortable footwear is recommended as you’ll likely walk for at least an hour inside the garden.
Map & Distance
Karnataka Siri Horticulture Garden, Fern Hill — about 3 km from Ooty Bus Stand / Railway Station.
Karnataka Siri Horticulture Garden – FAQs
What is special about Karnataka Siri Horticulture Garden?
It is a 38-acre landscaped garden at Fern Hill developed by the Karnataka Horticulture Department. With sections like maze garden, tea garden, Italian garden, rose garden, sunken garden and topiary areas, it offers a spacious, less-crowded green experience compared to some central town gardens.
What are the timings and entry fee?
The garden generally opens from around 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM on all days. Current tickets are about ₹30 per adult and ₹15 per child, with extra charges for cameras. Always check the latest tariff board at the entrance before planning.
How long should I plan for a visit?
Most visitors spend between 1 to 2.5 hours walking through the different sections, taking photos and relaxing on the lawns. You can also combine this visit with Ooty Lake and nearby gardens in the same half-day.
Is the garden suitable for kids and elders?
Yes, it is generally family-friendly. Kids enjoy the maze and open lawns, while elders appreciate the quiet surroundings and seating areas. However, some slopes and steps may be tiring for people with mobility issues, so choose gentler paths and take breaks.
Private Cab Packages (1–5 Days)
Doorstep pickup, curated Ooty sightseeing (Fern Hill, Karnataka Siri Horticulture Garden, Ooty Lake, Thread Garden, Thunder World, gardens, tea factory, Doddabetta), trusted local drivers, GST bill & flexible timings.
