About Ooty Tea Factory & Tea Museum
The Ooty Tea Factory & Tea Museum is one of the most popular stops on the Ooty–Doddabetta Road. It combines a working tea factory with a simple museum that narrates the story of Nilgiri tea. Visitors walk along a viewing gallery and watch different stages of tea processing below.
Inside the museum, displays and models explain the origin of tea, types of leaves, traditional processing methods and the rise of Nilgiri plantations. Most guests end the visit at the tea tasting counter and chocolate shop, where you can sample hot tea and buy packed tea, homemade chocolates and souvenirs.
Working Tea Factory Tea Museum Displays Tea Tasting Counter Tea & Chocolate Shop
Ooty Tea Factory & Museum Photo Gallery
Timings, Entry Fee & Visit Duration
| Item | Details |
|---|
| Opening Hours | Daily, approx. 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (ticket counter usually closes by 5:30 PM). |
| Entry Fee | Approx. ₹30–₹50 per person (adults); child or group concessions as per current board. |
| Factory & Museum | Entry ticket generally covers the viewing gallery and tea museum area. |
| Camera | Separate charge may apply for still or video cameras in certain sections. |
| Average Visit Time | 45–60 minutes, including museum, viewing gallery and shopping. |
Note: Fees and timings may change; please follow the latest information displayed at the entrance.
How to Reach Ooty Tea Factory & Tea Museum
- By Cab: Located on the Ooty–Doddabetta Road, a short drive from Ooty town. Ask for “Tea Factory & Museum on Doddabetta Road”.
- By Auto / Taxi: Autos from Ooty Bus Stand or Charring Cross can drop you at the factory and wait for you (extra charges apply).
- With Sightseeing Package: Usually included in Ooty local sightseeing itineraries along with Doddabetta, Botanical Garden and Lake.
Parking & Facilities
- Paid parking area available near the factory complex; space may be tight during weekends and holidays.
- Multiple levels with stairs and corridors connecting the viewing gallery, museum and shops.
- Basic washroom facilities available; cleanliness and availability can vary with crowd.
- Tea shop and homemade chocolate counters at the exit for shopping.
Best Time & Tips for Visiting
- Best months: Can be visited year-round; indoor sections are less affected by rain.
- Best time of day: Late morning or afternoon; early evenings can be crowded with group tours.
- Expect a strong aroma of tea leaves inside the factory area; those sensitive to strong smells may prefer shorter visits.
- Wear comfortable footwear; there are several steps and slightly inclined walkways.
- Weekends, long weekends and school vacations can get busy—plan a weekday visit if you prefer thinner crowds.
Weather & Season Guide for Ooty Tea Factory
| Season | Weather | Best For | Tip |
|---|
| Dec–Feb | Cool to cold | Clear views on the drive | Carry a warm layer; outside viewpoints can feel chilly. |
| Mar–May | Pleasant | Comfortable factory & museum visit | Good time for families and groups; expect more crowds. |
| Jun–Sep | Mist and rain | Indoor-friendly stop | Roads can be wet; walk carefully on steps and ramps. |
| Oct–Nov | Post-monsoon | Fresh scenery on Ooty–Doddabetta Road | Combine with tea estate viewpoints around the Ooty–Doddabetta route. |
Even during rain or fog, the factory and museum remain a convenient indoor attraction on the Ooty–Doddabetta Road stretch.
Factory & Museum Highlights
- Viewing Gallery: See different stages of tea processing like withering, rolling, drying and sorting from a safe overhead gallery.
- Museum Panels: Displays explain the history of tea, origin stories and development of Nilgiri tea estates.
- Tea Tasting: Taste a hot cup of Nilgiri tea at the outlet; flavoured and speciality teas are often available.
- Chocolate & Souvenir Shop: Buy packets of tea, homemade chocolates and small souvenirs to take back home.
Exact exhibits, tasting options and shop items may change over time depending on the operator.
Parking & Entry Charges (Reference)
| Item | Approx. Charge |
|---|
| Entry Ticket (Adult) | ₹ 30 – ₹ 50 |
| Entry Ticket (Child) | As per displayed concession |
| Car / SUV Parking | ₹ 20 – ₹ 40 (approx.) |
These values are indicative only. Please refer to the current tariff board at the Ooty Tea Factory & Museum entrance.
Accessibility & Walk Effort
- Multiple stairs and level changes between parking, ticket counter, factory gallery, museum and shop.
- Not fully wheelchair friendly; those with mobility issues may find some sections difficult.
- Seniors can walk at a slower pace and take breaks along the way; railing support is available on most stairs.
- Carry water and avoid rushing through the tour—take your time reading the panels and watching the machines.
Map & Distance
Ooty Tea Factory & Tea Museum is located on the Ooty–Doddabetta Road, around 4 km from Ooty Bus Stand.
Ooty Tea Factory & Tea Museum – FAQs
What can I see inside the Ooty Tea Factory & Tea Museum?
You can see the working tea factory from a viewing gallery, learn about the history of tea and Nilgiri plantations through displays, and end with tea tasting and shopping at the outlet.
What are the timings and entry fees?
The Tea Factory & Tea Museum is generally open from about 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with ticket sales closing a little earlier. Entry fee is usually in the range of ₹30–₹50 per person, as per the current tariff board.
Is it suitable for kids and families?
Yes, families often visit the Tea Factory & Museum. Kids enjoy watching the machines and tasting tea or chocolates. Parents should supervise children closely on stairs and near railings.
Can we buy tea and chocolates there?
Yes. There is an in-house shop where you can buy different varieties of Nilgiri tea, flavoured tea and homemade chocolates, along with small souvenirs.
Private Cab Packages (1–5 Days)
Doorstep pickup, curated sightseeing (Tea Factory, Doddabetta, Tea Park, Pykara, Coonoor), trusted local drivers, GST bill & flexible timings.
