OOTY: Tourist arrivals at the Ooty Boat House declined in 2025 compared to 2024, with officials citing restrictions such as the e-pass regulation as a possible reason for the drop.

According to official data, 19,66,631 tourists visited the Ooty Boat House in 2025, lower than the 23,16,662 visitors recorded in 2024. Officials said tourist footfall, which had recovered after the COVID-19 period from 2023, showed a decline last year.

The Ooty Boat House, a major tourist attraction in the Nilgiris district headquarters, functions under the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC). Boating facilities are available at Ooty Lake from 9 am to 6 pm.

The facility operates 33 motor boats, 17 row boats and 105 pedal boats. During boat rides, tourists can view dense greenery around the lake, spotted deer at the deer park and spot-billed ducks resting along the banks.

The boat house complex also includes a mini train and other recreational facilities operated through private agencies. On the far side of the lake are the Honeymoon Boat House and a children’s park, while some visitors opt for horse rides after boating.

Tourist inflow to Ooty peaks during the summer months of April and May, when around 10 lakh visitors arrive. Many tourists also visit the century-old Government Botanical Garden.

Officials said the number of visitors had increased significantly in 2023, when 23,91,460 tourists visited the Boat House, but added that measures such as the e-pass system may have contributed to the reduced footfall in 2025.