Parsons Valley & Dam, Ooty - Timings, Boating, Best Time to Visit

At a distance of 9 km from Wenlock Downs and 15 km from Ooty Railway Station, Parson Valley & Dam is situated in Ooty Hill Station in the Nilgiris district of Tamilnadu. It is one of the best places to visit in Ooty for nature lovers.

Parsons Valley is a reserved forest area and a part of Mukurthi National Park. The valley was named after Parson, a British engineer who happened to discover this valley way back in 1862 and was instrumental in developing it into one of the most beautiful sites near Ooty from where numerous trekking routes commence. The valley is a flawless nature setting with flowing streams, little waterfalls, and pine trees of Pandiar slopes, overwhelming forested regions and some uncommon creatures among them. The valley and its encompassing give a pleasant perspective of the Nilgiri Mountains.

Parsons Valley Dam is a Hydel Reservoir constructed by the Tamil Nadu Government in this region. Placed within the panoramic Parson's Valley at an altitude of 2,196 m and covering a massive area of 202 hectares, this reservoir serves the purpose of being the primary source of water supply to the nearby towns, villages and including the defense establishments that are set up in Wellington. The view of the valley around the reservoir is worth traveling for.

The Parson's Valley Reservoir and forest area also acts as a natural habitat for numerous wildlife such as water birds that breed and feed in the water including panthers and tigers and several others, hence, be extremely cautious stay within your designated path and not to get too adventurous as unwarranted situation may call for unforeseen calamities. Bison are a common sight in these parts; however, it is recommended and imperative not to intimidate them.

Parson's Valley is also placed at a short trekking distance from the scenic Mukurthi Peak from where you can enjoy unforgettable views of the region and also enjoy the sights of the artificial Mukurthi Lake situated nearby. This Valley also forms an apt base for short treks or long trekking expeditions to different sites allowing for many to scout the heights and unexplored virgin forest areas that are hidden within the majestic Western Ghats of the Nilgiris. Visitors need permission from the Forest Department to visit Parson's Valley as it is a reserved forest. The place is in the Ooty Mysore road and can be entered either from the Ooty direction or the Mysore direction. Ooty direction is the more preferred and safer.
Timings: 10 AM - 5 PM

Entry: Free