New Travel Restrictions in Ooty and Kodaikanal: What Tourists Need to Know
Ooty and KodaikanalStarting today, the Madras High Court's new regulations on tourist vehicles entering Ooty and Kodaikanal have come into effect. These restrictions aim to control the heavy influx of vehicles during the peak tourist season, which lasts until June. While the move is intended to protect the fragile hill station ecosystems, it has also sparked protests from local businesses.
Vehicle Entry Limits: Ooty and Kodaikanal
- Ooty (The Nilgiris District)
- Weekdays: 6,000 vehicles allowed per day
- Weekends & Holidays: 8,000 vehicles allowed per day
- Kodaikanal (Dindigul District)
- Weekdays: 4,000 vehicles allowed per day
- Weekends & Holidays: 6,000 vehicles allowed per day
Important Note: Local vehicles (those registered in the Nilgiris and Dindigul districts) are exempt from these restrictions.
Top 5 Ooty Tour Packages
| Package | Duration | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|
| 2 Day Quick Tour of Ooty - Book Now | 2D/1N | ₹ 7900 |
| Best of Ooty & Coonoor in 3 Days - Book Now | 3D/2N | ₹ 10800 |
| Ooty - Coonoor Leisure Tour - Book Now | 4D/3N | ₹ 14700 |
| Ooty - Mysore - Coorg 5 Days - Book Now | 5D/4N | ₹ 18200 |
| Best of Ooty & Kodaikanal from Coimbatore - Book Now | 5D/4N | ₹ 18100 |
How Will the Restrictions Be Enforced?
To streamline the process, authorities are setting up a boom barrier at the Kallar checkpost near Mettupalayam—the main entry point to Ooty. Here, officials will verify e-passes and collect green tax from incoming tourist vehicles. Once the automated system is fully operational, manual checks will reduce, potentially easing long queues at the checkpoint.
Read More: How to Get an E-Pass for Ooty and Kodaikanal?
Why the Restrictions?
The Supreme Court recently dismissed a plea by hoteliers challenging these limits, stating that unchecked tourist movement could harm the region's delicate environment. The court’s decision underscores the need for sustainable tourism to preserve Ooty and Kodaikanal’s natural beauty.
Protests by Local Businesses
Not everyone is happy with the new rules. The Nilgiris District Traders Association has called for a complete shutdown on April 2 (Wednesday) in protest. Hotels, resorts, lodges, and commercial establishments will remain closed, and tourist vehicles—including autos—will stay off the roads.
The traders argue that the restrictions will hurt their livelihoods, especially after two difficult years of pandemic-related losses. However, environmentalists support the move, citing traffic congestion, pollution, and ecological damage caused by excessive tourism.
Read More: Ooty Flower Show 2025, Date, Time, Tickets
Other Key Updates for Tourists
1. Temporary Ban on Film Shoots in Ooty’s Major Gardens
To ensure smooth tourist movement, film shootings have been banned until May in Ooty’s eight prominent gardens, including:
- SIMS Park
- Government Rose Garden
- Government Botanical Garden
2. Upcoming Flower, Vegetable, and Spice Shows
From May 3, Ooty and Kotagiri will host their famous vegetable, flower, and spice shows—a major attraction for visitors. If you're planning to attend, it's best to book your tickets and e-passes in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.
Smart Travel Tips for Tourists
- If you want to avoid the e-pass process altogether, consider:
- TNSTC (Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation) buses
- Trains (The Nilgiri Mountain Railway offers a scenic ride!)
Some tourists are also parking their vehicles outside restricted zones and using shuttle services to reach Ooty.
Many of Ooty’s charming spots are walking-friendly. If you enjoy strolls, include these in your itinerary:
- Ooty Lake
- Doddabetta Peak (short trek)
- Pykara Falls (nearby scenic walk)
3. Plan Ahead for the Ooty Flower Show
The Ooty Flower Show is a must-see, but tickets sell out fast. Book online in advance along with your e-pass to secure your visit.
Read More: Ooty Merchants Protest E-Pass Restrictions, Call for Hartal
While the new restrictions may require some extra planning, they are crucial for preserving the pristine beauty of Ooty and Kodaikanal. By opting for public transport, walking tours, and early bookings, tourists can still enjoy a hassle-free experience.
For locals and businesses, the debate continues between economic survival and environmental sustainability. As travelers, the best we can do is respect the rules, support local economies responsibly, and leave no trace behind.
So, if you’re heading to these hill stations soon, plan wisely, travel light, and soak in the breathtaking views—responsibly!